Importance

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Abstract

A belt for supporting the back and especially for bracing and supporting the lower spinal column, is often referred to as the 'small' of the back. The lower marginal end of the spinal column, located at the small of the back, appears to be the first part of a person's back which tires or becomes uncomfortable when a person is driving a vehicle for an extended length of time. This back fatigue also occurs when a person is improperly standing or improperly lifting and carrying heavy objects from one to another location. The present invention is for a belt which adjustably reinforces the small of the back in a manner to reduce fatigue and discomfort, such as referred to above. The belt has a relatively small front belt which girdles the stomach and a relatively large rear belt which is superimposed over the small of the back. The rear belt has a centrally located pad which includes a chamber. The chamber is filled with open cell sponge-like material. A valve connects the chamber with the atmosphere, and controls the flow of air into and out of the chamber. When one compresses the rear belt between his body and the back of a seat, air is expelled through the valve and from the chamber. When the compression force is removed from the rear belt, the sponge-like material forces the chamber walls apart, causing air to flow through the valve and into the chamber.

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First Claim