SHIRTS AND SHORTS HAVING ELASTIC AND NON-STRETCH PORTIONS AND BANDS TO PROVIDE HIP AND POSTURE SUPPORT

Abstract

One aspect of the invention may be characterized as a shirt configured to counteract detrimental upper body movement. The shirt has a base layer, a plurality of inelastic bands, and a load distribution portion. The plurality of inelastic bands are coupled to the base layer, and include a first cross-connecting band, a second cross-connecting band, a third cross-connecting band, and a fourth cross-connecting band. The load distribution portion is also coupled to the base layer, and anchors ends of the first, second, third, and fourth cross-connecting bands. Further, the first, second, third, and fourth cross-connecting bands and the load distribution portion are configured to limit internal rotation and anterior tilting of the scapula when the shirt is worn by a user.

Description

CLAIM OF PRIORITY UNDER 35 U.S.C. §119

The present application for patent is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/328,104 filed on Jul. 10, 2014, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/731,830 filed on Dec. 31, 2012, which claims priority to Provisional Application No. 61/582,042, filed Dec. 30, 2011, each entitled “SHIRTS AND SHORTS HAVING ELASTIC AND NON-STRETCH PORTIONS AND BANDS TO PROVIDE HIP AND POSTURE SUPPORT”, and assigned to the assignee hereof and hereby expressly incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates generally to injury prevention and recovery. In particular, but not by way of limitation, the present disclosure relates to systems, methods and apparatus for garments that supports static and dynamic body alignment to prevent or compensate for weakening, fatigued or injured muscles.

BACKGROUND

The sport of running is a popular fitness activity, with an estimated 30 million Americans classified as recreational runners (Austin, 2002). The overall incidence of lower extremity injuries in runners that run ≧5 km per training day or race has been found to range between 19.4% and 79.3% (van Gent et al., 2007). The predominant joint injured is the knee (7.2% to 50.0%) followed by the ankle (3.9% to 16.6%) and hip (3.3% to 11.5%). Overuse injuries are the majority of all musculoskeletal running injuries stemming from training errors, anatomical or biomechanical factors (Hreljac et al., 2000; James et al., 1978; Macera et al., 1989).

Core stability has been defined as the lumbo-pelvic hip muscle strength and endurance yielding a coordinated activation of muscles and maintenance of alignment throughout the kinetic chain (Fredericson et al. (2005); Kibler et al. (2006); Leetun et al. (2004); Willson et al. (2005)). The stance phase of running is a closed kinetic chain activity requiring proximal stability to balance and support the weight of the upper body. When core instability exists, due to strength and/or endurance deficits, the body may not be optimally aligned to absorb and produce large ground reaction forces, which in turn could place the runner at an increased risk for lower extremity injury (Ferber et al., 2002; Marti et al., 1988). Frontal plane pelvic drop is one sign of core instability that could be identified as a weak link in the kinetic chain. Pelvic drop in the frontal plane, termed ‘Trendelenburg gait,’ is visualized when there is a downward obliquity from the hip of the stance leg towards the opposite hip during its swing phase. It should be understood that the term “kinetic chain” or “kinetic chain of joints” are terms borrowed from engineering, and are used in reference to a combination of successively arranged joints in which the terminal segment may move freely, such as when throwing a ball, or when the terminal joint is fixed, such as when performing a push-up.

Core instability as demonstrated by frontal plane pelvic drop is due to strength and endurance issues of the gluteus medius muscle (Mann et al., 1986). The gluteus medius is one of the strongest lower extremity muscles (Ward, Eng, Smallwood, & Lieber, 2009) and is made up of three parts of nearly equal volume with three distinct muscle fiber directions and separate innervations (Dostal, Soderberg, & Andrews, 1986; Gottschalk, Kourosh, & Leveau, 1989). This muscle originates on the dorsal ilium below the iliac crest and inserts at the top outside surfaces of the greater trochanter. Based on its anatomical location, cross sectional area and architecture, the gluteus medius muscle is critical to the functions of the lower back (Nelson-Wong, Gregory, Winter, & Callaghan, 2008), hip (Bolgla & Uhl, 2005; Delp et al., 1999), knee (Boling, Bolgla, Mattacola, Uhl, & Hosey, 2006; Mascal, Landel, & Powers, 2003; Nakagawa et al., 2008) and the ankle. Hence, core instability due to gluteus medius muscle weakness will lead to abnormal spinal and lower extremity kinematics during running.

The gait adaptations due to a weak or fatigued gluteus medius muscle during running and the anatomical areas at risk of structural overload are summarized in Table 1 (Bolgla & Uhl, 2005; Boling, Bolgla, Mattacola, Uhl, & Hosey, 2006; Cichanowski et al., 2007; Fredericson et al., 2000; Ireland et al., 2003; Leetun et al., 2004; Mascal, Landel, & Powers, 2003; Nakagawa et al., 2008; Nelson-Wong, Gregory, Winter, & Callaghan, 2008; Niemuth et al., 2005; Presswood et al., 2008; Reiman et al., 2009; Souza et al., 2009). Individual running techniques may demonstrate combinations of the adaptations below but clearly not simultaneous medial and lateral knee drift. Further, the gait adaptations may also occur during walking visualized as a waddling motion or a limp.

The following listing shows gait adaptations due to a weak gluteus medius muscle during running. A Trendelenburg gait is associated with a risk of structural overload in the lumbar spine, sacroiliac joint (SU), and greater trochanter bursa, as well as an insertion of muscle on the greater trochanter, and overactivity of the piriformis and tensor fascia lata (TFL). Medial knee drift (valgus position of tibiofemoral joint) is associated with structural overload in the lateral tibiofemoral compartment (via compression), patellofemoral joint, patella tendon and fat pad, pes anserinus, iliotibial band (ITB), and anterior cruciate ligament strain (ACL). Lateral knee drift (varus position of tibiofemoral joint) is associated with structural overload in the medial tibiofemoral compartment (via compression), ITB, posterolateral knee soft tissues (via tension), and popliteus. A same sided shift of trunk (lateral flexion of trunk) is associated with structural overload in the lumbar spine (increased disc and facet joint compression), and SIJ (increased shear).

The most commonly diagnosed lower limb soft tissue injuries caused by distance running are iliotibial band syndrome, tibial stress syndrome, patellofemoral pain syndrome, Achilles tendonitis and plantar fasciitis (Yeung & Yeung 2001). From the table above, a common adaptation from weakness of the gluteus medius muscle during the stance phase of running occurs when the femur excessively adducts or internally rotates. These motions increases the tension on the iliotibial band (Taunton et al., 2002) and cause abnormal patellofemoral contact stress (Souza & Powers, 2009). Continuing down the kinetic chain, internal rotation of the femur also allows the knee to fall into a valgus position and promotes the tibia to rotate internally relative to the foot and increases the weight transfer to the medial aspect of the foot. These motions increase the risk of any condition relating to excessive and/or prolonged pronation of the foot such as tibial stress syndrome and Achilles tendonitis (Lundberg et al., 1989). Further, the combination motions of ankle pronation and knee valgus are implicated as the primary mechanism of non-contact ACL injury in sports where running is an integral component (Souza & Powers, 2009).

Poor lumbo-pelvic posture due to abnormal sagittal plane or frontal plane pelvic rotations leads to compensation in the thoracic spinal posture and subsequent shoulder dyskinesis (Borstad, 2006; Greenfield et al., 1995). Poor thoracic posture relates to an increased forward curve of the thoracic region of the spine (kyphosis) and produces a ‘hunching’ or ‘hump back’ appearance and a rounding of the shoulders. The rounding of the upper back and shoulders cause the head and neck to tilt downward thus to look straight ahead requires the head to be lifted upward and forward. This forward head posture causes several clinical symptoms and also the continuation of many clinical issues including headaches, pain between the shoulder blades, upper back pain, neck pain, numbness and tingling of the fingers and shoulder pain. Pain originating from the shoulder could also radiate into the neck, head, arm, or chest.

Excessive rounding of the shoulders disrupts the upper kinetic chain during arm raising movements and causes a sequence of abnormal kinematic events of the scapula, clavicle and humerus. First, this thoracic kyphosis causes abnormal three-dimensional scapular kinematics including abnormal scapular protraction, internal rotation, downward rotation and anterior tilting. These abnormal motions produce shoulder pain and glenohumeral joint movement dysfunction common to many debilitating conditions discussed below. The most frequently occurring problems include shoulder impingement and associated rotator cuff disease or tendinopathy, which can progress to rotator cuff tears as well as glenohumeral joint instability and adhesive capsulitis. A very high proportion of these shoulder complaints are related to occupational or athletic activities that involve frequent use of the arm at, or above shoulder level.

The following provides a summary of scapular kinematics when raising the arm in healthy and pathological states (modified from Ludewig and Reynolds, 2009). The muscle group associated with primary scapular motion has an upward rotation when healthy. When impingement or rotator cuff disease and/or glenohumeral joint instability are present, the muscle group exhibits less upward rotation. When adhesive capsulitis is present, the group exhibits greater upward rotation. The muscle group associated with secondary scapular motion exhibits a posterior tilting when healthy. When impingement or rotator cuff disease are present, less posterior tilting is exhibited. No consistent evidence for motion alteration has been found in the cases of glenohumeral joint instability and adhesive capsulitis. The muscle group associated with accessory scapular motion exhibits internal and external rotation when healthy. The muscle group exhibits greater internal rotation when impingement or rotator cuff disease and/or glenohumeral joint instability are present; however a consistent response has not been shown in the case of adhesive capsulitis. When all of the muscle groups are in a healthy state, the shoulder range of motion and subacromial space are maximized. Impingement or rotator cuff disease is contributory to subacromial or internal impingement, while glenohumeral joint instability is contributory to less inferior and anterior joint instability. Adhesive capsulitis results in compensation to minimize a loss in the functional range of motion.

Thoracic kyphosis and abnormal scapular kinematics changes the resting length and sensory capacity of 17 muscles that attach to the scapula: serratus anterior, supraspinatus, subscapularis, trapezius, teres major, teres minor, triceps (long head), biceps brachii, rhomboid major, rhomboid minor, coracobrachialis, omohyoid, latissimus dorsi, deltoid, levator scapulae, infraspinatus and pectoralis minor. The tension within these 17 muscles produce a balance of forces across the scapula. A positional change of the scapula will cause a lengthening and a shortening of opposing muscles attached to the scapula that disrupts this muscular balance leading to a reduction of the force generating capacity of muscles and limiting the functional stability and mobility of the shoulder. Further, each muscle has sensory receptors that inform the central nervous system of the length and tension state of the muscle as well as the position of a joint or bone. The quality of this sensory information is reduced with abnormal scapular motion and either causes or compounds movement compensations and clinical symptoms of the glenohumeral joint.

The scapula and the muscles attaching to the scapula are also a part of the fascial networks of the body. Fascia, in general, is a connective tissue that encases muscles (and organs) and attaches them to the skeletal system. Muscles (latin: myo) and their connective tissue form functional myofascial lines of the body which ultimately construct the kinetic chain. The scapula is an important intersection of several myofascial tracks, or continuities of myofascial units that integrate the axial skeleton (arms and legs) with the trunk. Fascia is a material that can deform and retain its length when it is either shortened or lengthened hence abnormal scapular positions influence the myofasical tracks of the entire body that influence postural function and movement based problems.

Last, the upper arm, or humerus, articulates with the scapula at the glenohumeral joint and abnormal scapular kinematics from poor shoulder posture causes the humerus to shift down and rotate inwards toward the center of the body. The scapula also articulates with the clavicle at the acromioclavicular joint hence abnormal scapular and humeral kinematics causes abnormal clavicular kinematics, namely clavicular protraction, and increases force transmission of the proximal portion of the clavicle on the first rib at the sternoclavicular joint. The increased force transmission at this joint in combination with thoracic kyphosis limits the ability of the ribs to expand during respiration and the respiratory muscles to properly function thus reducing lung volume and blood oxygenation.

Collectively, core strength imbalances may be associated with or predispose an individual to injury. Successful preventative strategies include modifying training schedules or external body support (i.e., patellar knee brace, footwear, lumbar brace) (Yeung & Yeung, 2009). However, it has been shown that appropriate muscular balance exercises enhance the joint range of motion. As just one example, gluteus medius muscle strengthening exercises reduces the magnitude of frontal plane pelvic drop (Presswood et al., 2008), improves performance (Lephart et al., 2007) and reduces clinical symptoms in the soft tissues of the hip (Bolgla & Uhl, 2005), knee (Boling, Bolgla, Mattacola, Uhl, & Hosey, 2006; Mascal, Landel, & Powers, 2003; Nakagawa et al., 2008) and lumbar area (Nelson-Wong, Gregory, Winter, & Callaghan, 2008). Further, strength and kinematic improvements in the lumbar area are related to improvements in the thoracic area and leads to beneficial changes in shoulder and respiratory function.

In an attempt to prevent and/or heal injuries, taping has been classically employed. More recently, other compression products, such as the clothing described in European Patent 0834264, granted to Wacoal Corp. on Jun. 4, 2003, have also been introduced to simulate taping in a more convenient manner. In both cases, the approach is to hold or squeeze a joint or muscle into a certain position. Most therapists believe that a particular taping pattern will either enhance or inhibit the activation of the muscle; however, only inhibition has been shown in the research. As a result, atrophy or weakening of the muscle may be a concern.

Relatedly, compression products, such as those described in European Patent 0834264, aim to support the shoulder or glenohumeral joint. To do so, these compression products use bands on the shoulder in an attempt to anchor the scapula or shoulder blade at the top middle position, to counteract the shoulder rotating downwards. However, this configuration does not function as the arm reaches shoulder height, such as when throwing or other overhead movements. The configuration disclosed in European Patent 0834264 also tends to lead to internal rotation and anterior tilting of the scapula.

Conversely, shoulder and knee braces, orthotics, heel wedges and other orthopedic products have been introduced to redirect forces applied to the body and reduce pain and other clinical symptoms. Various braces are known that can mitigate some of the above challenges. However, braces tend to be uncomfortable, heavy, and aesthetically displeasing, especially when worn for long periods of time (e.g., a full day on the ski slopes). As a result, braces are often not worn for as long as they could be and thus their beneficial effects are not fully felt. Further, braces are used to immobilize or compensate for a change in joint stability or angular position caused by muscular weakness or injury and are thought to promote atrophy of the muscles surrounding the joint leading to secondary clinical problems.

There is therefore a need in the art for physiological support mechanisms that are lightweight, comfortable, and fashionable and that facilitate functional movement and muscular function of the kinetic chain. There is also a need in the art for a device that provides directional forces and a concurrent sensory inflow to the central nervous system to facilitate scapular stability by reducing scapular internal rotation and anterior tilting while allowing maximum range of motion and power generation of the upper kinetic chain. There is also a need in the art for physiological support mechanisms that provide optimal support of the seventeen muscles that attach to the scapula and the myofascial tracks that link posture, mobility and stability.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Exemplary embodiments of the present invention that are shown in the drawings are summarized below. These and other embodiments are more fully described in the Detailed Description section. It is to be understood, however, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the forms described in this Summary of the Invention or in the Detailed Description. One skilled in the art can recognize that there are numerous modifications, equivalents and alternative constructions that fall within the spirit and scope of the invention as expressed in the claims.

One aspect of the invention may be characterized as a shirt configured to counteract detrimental upper body movement. The shirt has a base layer, a plurality of inelastic bands, and a load distribution portion. The plurality of inelastic bands are coupled to the base layer, and include a first cross-connecting band, a second cross-connecting band, a third cross-connecting band, and a fourth cross-connecting band. The load distribution portion is also coupled to the base layer, and anchors ends of the first, second, third, and fourth cross-connecting bands. Further, the first, second, third, and fourth cross-connecting bands and the load distribution portion are configured to limit internal rotation and anterior tilting of the scapula when the shirt is worn by a user.

Another aspect of the invention may be characterized as a method of counteracting detrimental upper body movement. The method comprises donning a shirt and limiting internal rotation and anterior tilting of the scapula. The shirt comprises a base layer, a plurality of inelastic bands coupled to the base layer, and a load distribution portion, and is configured to limit internal rotation and anterior tilting of the scapula when worn by a user.

Another aspect of the invention may be characterized as a method of manufacturing a shirt. The method comprises forming a base layer, securing a plurality of inelastic bands to the base layer, and securing a load distribution portion to the base layer and to at least two of the plurality of inelastic bands. The base layer has a first elasticity, and the plurality of inelastic bands have a second elasticity less than the first elasticity. The load distribution portion anchors at least two of the plurality of inelastic bands to substantially a middle of a back of the shirt, and also has the second elasticity.

Systems and methods are herein disclosed for garments made from multiple materials having different levels of elasticity (stretchiness) so as to provide external tensions in specific directions on the body and thereby reproduce the anatomical function of various muscles in the upper body. The garments can be worn separately or together as top layers, as an underlayer or liner for other garments, or as training/rehabilitation gear.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various objects and advantages and a more complete understanding of the present invention are apparent and more readily appreciated by referring to the following detailed description and to the appended claims when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings:

FIG. 1A illustrates a back of a shirt according to one embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 1B illustrates a front of the shirt of FIG. 1A.

illustrates a front and back of a shirt according to one embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of the shirt illustrated in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3A illustrates a back of a shirt according to another embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 3B illustrates a front of the shirt of FIG. 3A.

FIG. 4 illustrates a back of a garment in the form of shorts according to one embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 5 illustrates a front of the garment of FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 illustrates a side of the garment of FIG. 4.

FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of a garment in the form of shorts according to another embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 8A illustrates a rear view of a garment in the form of a shirt configured to be coupled to a garment in the form of shorts.

FIG. 8B illustrates a rear view of the garment in the form of shorts that the shirt of FIG. 8A is configured to couple to.

FIG. 9 illustrates a front view of shorts according to one embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 10 illustrates a rear view of the shorts of FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 illustrates a side view of the shorts of FIG. 9.

FIG. 12 illustrates a front view of a shirt according to one embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 13 illustrates a rear view of the shirt of FIG. 12.

FIG. 14A illustrates a front view of a shirt according to another embodiment.

FIG. 14B illustrates a rear view of the shirt of FIG. 14A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure relates generally to performance, injury prevention and rehabilitation. In particular, but not by way of limitation, the present disclosure relates to systems, methods and apparatuses for clothing that compensates, facilitates or trains weakening or injured muscles by supporting the three dimensional position of a bone, a joint or a system of joints rather than covering a particular area specific to the location of any one particular muscle. By directing external forces via fabric tensions in a specific path, skeletal alignment is improved and allows the individual to use his or her own muscular mechanisms to produce healthy movements and counteract movement based problems and clinical symptoms.

The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any embodiment described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments.

The embodiments of the present invention incorporating multiple materials and directions of external tensions are form-fit to the body. These embodiments are not to be confused with compression garments that may be similar in appearance yet only provide a singular, circumferential squeezing force to the body. Scientific testing in the Human Dynamics Laboratory at the University of Denver has demonstrated that an embodiment of the present invention illustrated in one or more of FIGS. 9-11 was superior (95% probability) to a compression garment, known in the art and having similar dimensions, at promoting core stability as well as dynamic landing balance. Dynamic landing balance is a specific functional effect of enhanced core stability.

The gluteus medius muscle links the entire lower extremity with the entire upper extremity and influences the function of the muscular, skeletal and respiratory systems. Therefore external support provided to the gluteus medius muscle during running and/or activities of daily life augmented with postural support of the upper extremity would have a global effect of enhancing dynamic and static postures with a wide range of preventative and/or rehabilitative implications.

FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate a back and front of a shirt, respectively, according to one embodiment of this disclosure. FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of the shirt showing a left half of the front and back of the shirt. In particular, the shirt includes two types of material (or fabric), one being a 4-way stretch material, which makes up most of the shirt (or an entire layer of the shirt), and a second, being a non-stretch material. A non-stretch material is one that is less-elastic than the 4-way stretch material. The non-stretch material extends in a first band down 112 from a neck 106 of the shirt towards a front corner 114 of the non-stretch material where the first band 112 connects with a second band 110. The second band 110 extends from a front of a shoulder 104 to the front corner 114. The second band 110 does not cross over the shoulder 104 to the back. Rather a fourth band 111 extends down from a back of the shoulder 104 to a back corner 118 of the non-stretch material. A third band 116 extends down from the neck 106 to the back corner 118 where it connects with the fourth band 111. The back also includes a rear load distribution ring 120 connected to the third band 116 via a first cross-connecting band 121 and connected to a side and lower portion of the torso of the shirt via a second cross-connecting band 122.

While various bands have been described separately, it should be noted that the first and second bands 112, 110 can be a single continuous piece of material in some embodiments and the third band 116, fourth band 111, and first cross-connecting band 121 can be a single continuous piece of material. The second cross-connecting band 122 can also be part of this same single continuous piece of material. In another embodiment, the load distribution ring 120 can also be part of this single continuous piece of material. Alternatively, the load distribution ring 120 can be a separate piece of material that one or more bands connect to, or that is attached to the bands where they intersect, connect, or overlap. For instance, the bands could connect to an outer rim or circumference of the load distribution ring 120. The load distribution ring 120 can also take any of a variety of shapes or configuration of shapes and is not limited to a circular shape. For instance, the load distribution ring 120 could be a configuration of two overlapping shapes each of which could take a shape of an octagon.

The width of the bands does not have a specific value, although it may be desirable for the second and fourth bands 110, 111 to be tapered—being wider near the corners 114, 118 and narrower toward the top of the shoulder 104. The second and fourth bands 110, 111 can be arranged adjacent to a tip of the shoulder at the acromioclavicular joint. In other words, if an imaginary line passed through the tip of the shoulder at the acromioclavicular joint, perpendicular to a frontal plane of the body, the imaginary line would pass through the tapered end of bands 110, 111 near the top of the shoulder 104. In some embodiments, the tapered end of bands 110, 111 can be offset from the imaginary line passing through the tip of the shoulder at the acromioclavicular joint by up to 500 mm.

The load distribution ring 120 can be arranged centrally on the back and with its center vertically positioned over any of the thoracic spinous processes anatomically located between the bottom of the neck and the middle of the back. FIGS. 1 and 3 depict the load distribution ring 120 to be centered over the spinous process near the 6^th thoracic vertebra. More specifically, however, the load distribution ring 120 is arranged and configured to cause, in conjunction with a first cross-connecting band 121 and/or a second cross-connecting band 122 a compression of the inferior and medial portions of the scapula to optimize shoulder position, and thus shoulder function, while providing an optimal upright posture.

The non-stretch bands in combination with the 4-way stretch material generate forces configured to mimic muscle function in a user's upper back and shoulders thus assist with proper posture. In particular, the first and second bands 112, 110 in conjunction with the third and fourth bands 116, 111 tension the 4-way stretch fabric across the top of the shoulder 104 and function to “capture” the shoulder. The cross connecting bands 121, 122 and the load distribution ring 120 place a rearward force on the “captured” shoulder and creates a retraction of the clavicle and scapula. This rearward force is directed obliquely through the cross connecting bands 121 and redirected via the load distribution ring 120 to the lower cross connecting band 122 and applies a compressive force on the scapula creating scapular external rotation; scapular upward rotation; and posterior tilting of the scapula.

The non-stretch material can include any material having less elasticity than the 4-way stretch material, although in a preferred embodiment it includes material having no or substantially no elasticity or stretchability. The non-stretch material can be a fabric or other material that does not extend when put under human-induced forces. The 4-way stretch material is a fabric or other material that extends in an elastic manner when put under human-induced forces.

FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of the shirt illustrated in FIG. 1. The first band 112 can be seen to extend down from the neck 106 to the front corner 114 where it connects to the second band 110, which extends down from the front of the shoulder 104. The third band 116 also extends down from the neck 106 to the rear corner 118 where it connects to the fourth band 111, which extends down from the rear of the shoulder 104. As seen, the second and fourth bands 110, 111 do not meet, but leave a gap at the top of the shoulder 104.

The corners 114, 118 can be aligned with or substantially with the glenohumeral joint. In other words, an imaginary line passing through the scapula-arm articulation and perpendicular to a frontal plane of the body would pass through the front corner 114 and the rear corner 118.

For simplicity, other portions of the back of the shirt (e.g., the load distribution ring) are not illustrated.

FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate a back and a front of a shirt, respectively, according to another embodiment of this disclosure. The shirt again includes a first band 312 extending from a neck 306 to a front corner 314 where the first band 312 intersects with a second band 310, which extends from a front of a shoulder 304 to the front corner 314. The rear of the shirt also has a third band 316 which extends from the neck 306 to a rear corner 318 where it connects to a fourth non-stretch band 311. The fourth non-stretch band 311 extends from a rear of the shoulder 304 to the rear corner 318. A rear load distribution ring 320 connects to the third non-stretch band 316 via a first cross-connecting band 321. The rear load distribution ring 320 also connects to a second cross-connecting band 322. The second cross-connecting band extends down from the rear load distribution ring 320 and wraps around the torso to the front of the shirt where it connects to a bottom front of the shirt.

In some embodiments, the various bands herein described can be combined into longer continuous bands. For instance, the third band 311, fourth band 316, and the first cross-connecting band 321 can be a single continuous band. This band may even cross underneath or through the rear load distribution ring 320 and wrap around the torso and connect to a bottom front of the shirt. Alternatively, all bands on the rear of the shirt can be unified.

In an embodiment, the load distribution ring 320 can be a separate piece of material that the one or more bands connect to, or that is attached to the bands where they intersect, connect, or overlap. For instance, the bands could connect to an outer rim or circumference of the load distribution ring 320. In another embodiment, the load distribution ring 320 can be made from the same piece of material as the various bands on the back of the shirt. The load distribution ring 320 can also take any of a variety of shapes or configuration of shapes and is not limited to a circular shape. For instance, the load distribution ring 320 could be a configuration of two overlapping shapes each of which could take a shape of an octagon.

FIGS. 4-6 illustrate a back, front, and side of shorts 400, respectively, according to one embodiment of this disclosure. The shorts 400 are configured to counteract frontal plane pelvic drop (where one hip is lower than the other when viewed from the front or rear) and internal rotation of the femur (where the pelvis rotates clockwise above the right hip with or without the right femur rotating counter clockwise when viewed from the top), which both can lead to unnecessary loading of a knee. While some systems and methods in the prior art use shorts or pants to counteract bending of the torso in forward and backward directions (rotation in the sagittal plane), the present disclosure goes a step further by also counteracting frontal plane pelvic drop (rotation in the frontal plane) and internal rotation of the femur (inward rotation of the hips in the transverse plane).

The shorts 400 include three different types of material each having a different elasticity. A base layer 410 can be a 4-way stretch material. Bands of two other elasticities can attach to this base layer 410 such that the shorts 400 are multi-layered. A continuous elastic band 402 can be made from a highly elastic material with a more powerful stretch recovery than the base layer material 410 while a continuous non-stretch band 404 can be made from a non-stretch material.

The continuous non-stretch band 404 can start from the sacrum just below the lower back, traverse down a side of the hip with a slight spiral to the front of the leg just over the midline of the leg. The angle of the continuous non-stretch band 404 is somewhat downward or angled toward a bottom of the shorts. This angle and the lack of elasticity of the continuous non-stretch band 404 counteract any tendency that a user has to lean forward at the waist.

A continuous elastic band 402, affixed to the non-stretch band 404 behind the hip, can wrap around the waist just above the hips and intersect or overlap with itself on a front of the shorts at a load distribution ring 414. The continuous elastic band 402 is a highly elastic material with a more powerful stretch recovery than the base layer material 410 and the non-stretch band 404. The continuous elastic band 402 also extends from the load distribution ring 414 obliquely from the pubis and continues down the side of the hip crossing the continuous non-stretch band 404 and connecting laterally to a bottom side and bottom rear of the shorts.

The continuous elastic band 402 and the continuous non-stretch band 404 both connect to the bottom sides of the shorts 400. These two materials, having substantially different elasticities, in close proximity, create a rotation force in the transverse plane for each hip having an inward rotational direction as indicated by arrows 420. In other words, these two materials create a force that rotates the right hip clockwise and the left hip counterclockwise (in the transverse plane), thus counteracting any tendency of the hips to rotate inward. The close proximity of the continuous elastic band 402 and the continuous non-stretch band 404 on the sides of the hips also acts to counteract any frontal plane pelvic drop. In other words, the arrangement of the bands 402, 404 on the side of the hip helps ensure that the hips remain level (in the frontal plane).

The load distribution ring 414 can be arranged at the intersection or overlap point of the two portions of the continuous elastic band 402 to increase the stiffness of the continuous elastic band 402. As the continuous elastic band 402 is stretched during leg and hip movement, the load distribution ring 414 can assist the continuous elastic band 402 in applying pressure to the soft tissues of the lower abdominal area and to distribute tension to the non-stretch band 404 on the sides of the hip. The effect is to provide support to dynamic hip and pelvis rotations.

The load distribution ring 414 is illustrated as a pentagon that is asymmetric in two dimensions. However, the load distribution ring 414 can also be symmetric or can take on other shapes such as a circle, oval, square, hexagon, rectangle, parallelogram, triangle, quadrilateral, rhombus, trapezoid, and many others.

The continuous elastic band 402 crosses over a top of the continuous non-elastic band 404 on both sides of the shorts 400. However, in one embodiment, the two bands 402, 404 can intersect such that they do not overlap, but rather are intertwined. By crossing the continuous elastic band 402 over the continuous non-elastic band 404 the non-elastic band 404 acts as a skeleton or support from which the elastic band 402 can generate tension against when extended. The same skeletal or supporting effect is also provided by the load distribution ring 414. The continuous elastic band 402 extends from the load distribution ring 414, whereas without the load distribution ring 414, the continuous elastic band 402 would extend out of a different reference point or out of a distributed set of reference points, thus causing entirely different forces and tensions to be generated by the continuous elastic band 402.

The shorts can maintain their vertical position via a waistband, tie, or other mechanism at the waist, and by a non-slip elastic leg band circumferentially arranged at a bottom of each leg inside the shorts. The non-slip elastic leg band can wrap around an entire circumference of the inside of each leg of the shorts, or can wrap around only a portion of the circumference. In one embodiment, the non-slip elastic leg band can have two portions, each wrapping around substantially a quarter of the inside circumference of each leg and positioned adjacent to an inside and outside of the leg. The shorts 400 can end approximately 2 to 4 inches above the patella (knee cap).

In one embodiment, the tension of the continuous elastic band 402 is adjustable. For instance, a VELCRO strap, D-ring connector, or some other adjustment means can be used to shorten or lengthen the continuous elastic band 402 relative to the load distribution ring 414. In other words, different portions of the continuous elastic band 402 can be connected to the load distribution ring 414 to increase or decrease the tension of the continuous elastic band 402 just as a belt is shortened or lengthened. This adjustment embodiment allows the shorts 400 to accommodate varying user proportions (e.g., different thigh girths or upper leg circumferences). The adjustments also allow customization of the level of support provided by the shorts 400 to the gluteus medius muscle as well as controlling the amount of gluteal shaping.

A portion of the continuous elastic band 402 can be narrower than other portions of the continuous elastic band 402. For instance, as illustrated, a portion of the continuous elastic band 402 crossing the continuous non-stretch band 404 tapers to a point near a lower rear edge of the continuous non-stretch band 404 before widening again as the continuous elastic band 402 extends to a bottom of the shorts 400.

In an alternative embodiment, rather than attaching the elastic and non-elastic bands (or panels) onto the 4-way stretch material to form a multi-layer article of clothing, the bands can be attached to panels of the 4-way stretch material to form a single-layer article of clothing.

The shorts 400 provide external multidirectional support and variable tensions to the body and reproduce the function of the gluteus medius muscle. An abnormal anatomical relationship between the pelvis and the femur is the primary result of a weak and un-supported gluteus medius muscle. This core instability causes a decrement in athletic performance and clinical symptoms in the spine, hip, knee and ankle. The shorts 400 can be form fitting and include bands (or panels) of various elasticity, and be configured to apply tensions to a wearer's anatomy that assist the function of the gluteus medius muscle in maintaining skeletal alignment, reducing dynamic compensatory or abnormal motions of the spine and leg, decreasing or preventing clinical symptoms, enhancing athletic performance, and promoting gluteal shaping.

FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of shorts 700 according to one embodiment of this disclosure. The shorts 700 include a continuous elastic band 702 and a continuous non-elastic band 704. These bands can be connected to or attached over a four-way stretch material 710. The continuous elastic band 702 can overlap a portion of the continuous non-stretch band 704 near a mid portion of a side of the hip. Stitches 712 (or any other means of affixing one material to another) along an edge of the continuous non-stretch band 704 can also be stitched through the continuous elastic band 702 so as to hold at least a portion of the continuous elastic band 702 in place relative to a portion of the continuous non-stretch band 704.

FIG. 8A illustrates a rear view of a shirt that is connectable to shorts as illustrated in FIG. 8B according to one embodiment of this disclosure. The illustrated shirt and shorts can be connected via connecting mechanisms 800 and 801. The connecting mechanism 800 can be located on an underside of the shirt at the bottom of panel 124 near the waistline. The connecting mechanism 800 can attach to the shorts via connecting mechanism 801 located on a non-stretch panel 804 of the shorts. The connecting mechanisms 800, 801 can be snaps, VELCRO, a D-ring connector, or any other mechanism or material that secures the shirt onto the shorts. While illustrated as being located on a rear of the shirt and shorts, the connecting mechanisms can be located at various other locations including the sides and front of the shirt and shorts. In some embodiments, the connecting mechanisms 800, 801 can be located on two or more of the sides, front, and rear of the shirt and shorts. While two connecting mechanisms 800 and two connecting mechanisms 801 are illustrated, there can also be more or less than the illustrated number of connecting mechanisms 800, 801. For instance, each of the shirt and shorts could have a connecting mechanism on the front, sides, and rear.

FIG. 9 illustrates a front view of shorts according to one embodiment of this disclosure. In one embodiment, the shorts 900 are configured to counteract frontal pelvic plane drop and internal rotation of the femur. The shorts 900 can comprise a base layer 901 having a first elasticity. For the purpose of indicating locations of various elements, the base layer 901 can be split into a left leg portion 902 and a right leg portion 904. A plurality of elastic bands (e.g., 906, 908, 910) can be coupled to or atop the base layer 901, forming a second layer, and can be made from a second material often having the same or a similar elasticity to the first material. In some cases, the second material may be the same as the first material or base layer 901.

The shorts 900 may further include a load distribution ring 912 coupled atop the base layer 901 in a front of the shorts 900 proximate to a front waist portion. In other words, the load distribution ring 912 can be adjacent to or overlap a waist portion 914. The load distribution ring 912 can be coupled to ends of two or more of the plurality of elastic bands 906, 908, 910. For instance, and as illustrated, the load distribution ring 912 is coupled to ends of elastic band 906, an end of elastic band 908, and an end of elastic band 910. The load distribution ring 912 can be made from a third material typically having less elasticity than either the base layer 901 or the second material. The third material can be inelastic or a non-stretch material.

An inelastic band 916 can be coupled atop the base layer 901 and atop portions of at least some of the plurality of elastic bands 906, 908, 910. For instance, and as illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11, the inelastic band 916 is coupled atop at least a portion of the elastic band 906 in a rear of the shorts 900 proximate to the waist portion 914. This overlap can stretch from a left to a right side of the shorts 900. In particular, the inelastic band 916 overlaps at least a portion of the elastic band 906 proximal a point on the shorts 900 that is configured to be arranged between a sacrum and lower back of a user wearing the shorts. The inelastic band 916 can be shaped so as to have a top edge parallel to the waist region 914 in a rear and possibly sides of the shorts 900, while a lower edge has a concave shape in the rear. Along the sides and toward the front of the shorts 900 the inelastic band 916 tapers to a strip having a similar width to the elastic bands 906, 908, 910.

The inelastic band 916 can further couple to two or more of the plurality of elastic bands 906, 908, 910, for instance the elastic bands 908 and 910 as illustrated. The inelastic band 916 can further intersect a bottom portion, or each leg portion, at a front of the shorts 900. The inelastic band 916 may further traverse down each side of the shorts 900 with a slight spiral to a front of each of the left and right leg portions 920, 918 as seen in FIGS. 9 and 11.

In some cases the inelastic band 916 counteracts a user's tendency to abnormally allow the pelvis to tip forward at the waist. Put another way, the inelastic band 916 provides a structure or skeleton for the shorts 900. In particular, the inelastic band 916 provides regions of the shorts 900 that do not stretch when elastic portions of the shorts 900 are stretched.

The elastic band 906 can be referred to as a lateral elastic band 906 since it wraps around the shorts 906 proximate to the waist portion 914. The lateral elastic band 906 can be discontinuous and have two ends each coupled to a portion of the load distribution ring 912. In the illustrated embodiment, where the load distribution ring 912 has two or more edges, the ends of the lateral elastic band 906 can be coupled to two of the sides of the load distribution ring 912. In some embodiments, the load distribution ring 912 is made from the same material as the inelastic band 916 and has the same elasticity as the inelastic band 916. In other embodiments, the load distribution ring 912 is made from a first material and has a first elasticity while the inelastic band 916 is made from a second material and has a second elasticity or is made from the first material but has a second elasticity.

The elastic band 908 can be referred to as a first diagonal elastic band since it can be arranged diagonally and extend at an angle down and away from the load distribution ring 912 on the right leg portion 902 toward a lower edge of the right leg portion 902. Similarly, the elastic band 910 can be referred to as a second diagonal elastic band since it can be arranged diagonally and extend at an angle down and away from the load distribution ring 912 on the left leg portion 904 toward a lower edge of the left leg portion 902.

In some embodiments, an optional second inelastic band 920 and an optional third inelastic band 918 can each be coupled between the inelastic band 916 and a bottom portion of the shorts 900. The bottom portion of the shorts 900 can include a bottom edge of the shorts 900 or a location proximate the bottom edge. In other words, coupling to the bottom edge portion can include coupling to the bottom edge as well as coupling to a point or region that is above the bottom edge. The optional second inelastic band 920 can be arranged on the left leg portion 904 and the optional third inelastic band 918 can be arranged on the right leg portion 902. In one embodiment, the optional second inelastic band 920 is parallel to the elastic band 910, and the optional third inelastic band 918 is parallel to the elastic band 908. This parallel embodiment is best seen in FIG. 11.

For the purposes of this disclosure, “coupled to”, “secured to” and “arranged atop” can include any process that fixes one component to another. For instance, sewing or stitching two components together is one means of fixing two components together.

The load distribution ring 912 can take on a variety of shapes, such as a disc, oval, pentagon (as illustrated), or any other shape having a plurality of edges, to name a few. Typical shapes have substantially radial symmetry (e.g., circle, equilateral triangle, square). In one embodiment, the load distribution ring 912 can be arranged proximate to the waist portion 914, meaning that the load distribution ring 912 can be arranged proximate to the waist portion 914 or overlapping the waist portion 914.

The base layer 901 can be made from a first material and have a first elasticity, which may be described as elastic. This first material can be similar to or identical to the 4-way stretch material described in earlier figures. The elastic bands 906, 908, 910 can be made from a second material having a second elasticity, which may also be described as elastic. In some cases, the first and second materials are the same, and thus the base layer 901 and the elastic bands 906, 908, 910 can have the same elasticity. However, the addition of the elastic bands 906, 908, 910 atop the base layer 901 can create regions having a different effective elasticity than areas of the base layer 901 that are not covered by or coupled to an elastic band.

The inelastic bands 916, 918, 920 can be made from a third material having a third elasticity, which can be described as inelastic. The third material can be similar to or the same as the non-stretch material discussed in earlier figures. The third elasticity is typically less elastic than the first and second elasticities. For instance, the third material, in an embodiment, does not substantially stretch when tension is placed on the third material via a user's body.

In some embodiments, the shorts 900 can be made from one or more base layer segments. As illustrated, two segments are used—a left leg portion 902 and a right leg portion 904. However, in other embodiments, a single portion can be use to make the entire shorts 900. In other embodiments, multiple panels or regions can be coupled (e.g., via stitching) to form the shorts 900.

Bands can be straight or curved. They can have parallel edges (e.g., same width along the extent of the band) or they can be tapered at portions (e.g., see FIG. 11).

FIG. 12 illustrates a front of a shirt 1200 according to one embodiment of this disclosure, and FIG. 13 illustrates a back of the shirt 1200 according to one embodiment of this disclosure. The shirt 1200 can be configured to counteract detrimental upper body movements when worn by a user. The shirt can include a base layer 1202 and a plurality of inelastic bands coupled atop the base layer 1202. For instance, a rear of the illustrated shirt 1200 includes first, second, third, and fourth inelastic bands 1216, 1212, 1218, 1214 coupled atop the base layer 1202. The illustrated shirt 1200 further includes fifth and sixth inelastic bands 1222, 1220 coupled to a back of the shirt 1200.

The shirt 1200 further includes a load distribution ring 1224 coupled atop a middle of the back of the shirt 1200. The load distribution ring 1224 anchors ends of at least some of the plurality of inelastic bands. For instance, and as illustrated, the load distribution ring 1224 anchors ends of the first, second, third, and fourth inelastic bands 1216, 1212, 1218, 1214. The front of the shirt 1200 includes seventh, eighth, ninth, and tenth inelastic bands 1204, 1208, 1206, 1210.

The shirt 1200 can include shoulder regions, such as right shoulder region 1228 and left shoulder region 1230. The shoulder regions 1228, 1230 can be devoid of inelastic bands. Further, the first and second inelastic bands 1216, 1212 can couple the right shoulder region 1228 and the left shoulder region 1230, respectively, to the load distribution ring 1224. The first and second inelastic bands 1216, 1212 can be arranged at angles extending outward from the load distribution ring 1224 toward their respective shoulder regions 1228, 1230.

The third and fourth inelastic bands 1218, 1214 can be arranged at angles extending outward from the load distribution ring 1224 toward a bottom region of the back of the shirt 1200. The bottom region can include the bottom edge 1232 or any points proximate the bottom edge 1232. As illustrated, the third and fourth inelastic bands 1218, 1214 extend to the edge 1232.

The shirt 1200 can further include a neck or neck region 1226. The fifth and sixth inelastic bands 1222, 1220 can couple the neck region 1226 to the first and second inelastic bands 1216, 1212, respectively. The fifth and sixth inelastic bands 1222, 1220 can extend down and out from the neck region 1226 toward the first and second inelastic bands 1216, 1212. The fourth and fifth inelastic bands 1222, 1220 can couple to the neck region 1226, or can couple to points proximate the neck region 1226, meaning that they are not required to touch the neck region 1226.

The load distribution ring 1224 can take on a variety of shapes, such as a disc (as illustrated), oval, pentagon, or any other shape having a plurality of edges. Typical shapes have substantially radial symmetry (e.g., circle, equilateral triangle, square). The load distribution ring 1224 is arranged substantially in a middle of the back of the shirt 1200, meaning that the load distribution ring 1224 can be arranged along a vertical axis that separates a back left from a back right portion of the shirt 1200. Substantially in the middle can also mean that the load distribution ring 1224 is equidistant from the neck 1226 and a bottom edge 1232 of the shirt 1200. However, in other embodiments, the load distribution ring 1224 can be somewhat shifted closer to the neck 1226 or closer to the bottom edge 1232.

The seventh inelastic band 1204 couples to, or proximal to, the right shoulder region 1228 at one end. The other end of the seventh inelastic band 1204 couples to a region between the neck region 1226 and a right armpit. The eighth inelastic band 1208 couples the neck region 1208 to the seventh inelastic band 1204 at an angle. For instance, and as illustrated, an angle between the seventh and eighth inelastic bands 1204, 1208 can be substantially a right angle, although other angles are also possible. As illustrated, an end of the eighth inelastic band 1208 couples to a side of the seventh inelastic band 1204. However, in other embodiments, an end of the seventh band 1204 can couple to a side of the eighth inelastic band 1208. Alternatively, both bands can have an angled end such that the angled ends couple to each other much like edges of a picture frame fit together.

All inelastic bands and the load distribution ring 1224 are secured to or coupled atop the base layer 1202 thus forming a single layer or alternatively a second layer of the shirt 1200. Each inelastic band can have parallel edges, or as illustrated, can have tapered edges wherein the width of one end of a band is greater than a width of the other end.

Turning now to FIGS. 14A-14B, another embodiment of the shirt is discussed. In FIG. 14B, a shirt 1400 having an elastic base layer, and an inelastic load distribution ring or portion 1420, an inelastic first cross-connecting portion 1421, second cross-connecting portion 1422, and third cross-connecting portion 1423 is shown. The shirt 1400 also has an inelastic shoulder flare portion 1451, an inelastic first support connector 1452, a second inelastic support connector 1453, and a third inelastic support connector 1454.

The first, second, and third cross-connecting bands 1421, 1422, 1423 are joined at the load distribution portion 1420, all of which comprise an inelastic material. The load distribution portion 1420 is configured and placed such that, when worn, the load distribution portion 1420 will cause the first cross-connecting portion 1421, the second cross-connecting portion 1422, the first support connector 1452, and the second support connector 1453 to provide a tension at the bottom and inside edges of the scapula, which posteriorly tilts and externally rotates the scapula. Posterior tilting and externally rotating the scapula provides more room for the upper arm to move under the anatomical ‘roof’ of the shoulder for the shoulder to properly function while avoiding soft tissue impingement. Further, this tension, in combination with a force applied by the first cross-connecting band 1421, activates the critically important scapular stabilizing muscles including the serratus anterior and lower trapezius muscles. By ensuring the scapula is in the correct position, the shirt 1400 connects the kinetic chain, wherein forces from pushing on the ground transfer up the body's segments to reach the arm and hand for maximum power. A weak link in this power transfer causes compensations in other muscles, leading to pain and injury. Connecting the first cross-connecting band 1421, the second cross-connecting band 1423, at the load distribution portion 1420 promotes the correct placement of the scapula within the myofascial tracks of the body; whereas the third cross-connecting band 1422, the first support connector 1452 and second support connector 1453 creates a scapular sling that presses on the bottom middle portions of the scapula for the proper kinematic orientation of the scapula—which is a function of the scapular stabilizing muscles, namely the serratus anterior and lower trapezius muscles.

As can be seen in FIG. 4A, the first cross-connecting band 1421 and the shoulder flare portion 1451 may extend over the shoulder, while the second cross-connecting band 1422 and the first support connector 1452 may spiral around a lower portion of the rib cage.

The third support connector 1454 is, as shown, a flared or triangular portion connecting a third cross-connecting band 1423 to a mirror-image band on the opposite side of the body, just under the load distribution portion 1420. This third support connector 1454 is provided to maintain a proper positioning of the cross-connecting bands 1421, 1422, 1423 even when the user has a hunched posture. That is, the third support connector 1454 is provided to apply a supplementary force to the user to prevent the shirt 1400 from moving away from the body (i.e. to maintain a form fit to the skin) and to maintain an appropriate position and functioning of the cross-connecting bands 1421, 1422, 1423.

The shoulder flare portion 1451, which comprises an inelastic portion, is configured to broaden the width of the first cross-connecting band 1421 at the top of the shoulder, specifically, at the top outer portion of the scapula near the acromion process. This provides a wider delivery of tension to and from the front portion of the shirt than would be experienced using the cross-connecting band 1421 alone.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 14B, it should be noted that the second cross-connecting portion 1422 extends from the load distribution portion 1420 to the side of the user, spiraling around a lower portion of the rib cage, while the third cross-connecting portion 1423 extends from the load distribution portion 1420 down to an area of the skin that corresponds to an upper portion of the ilium of the pelvic bone. Configuring the first, second and third cross-connecting bands 1421, 1422, 1423 bands in this manner (that is, applying compression at a line from the lower outside of the low back up and diagonal over to the top of the shoulder) effectively maintains the joints in an optimized kinetic chain.

When the kinetic chain is maintained in an optimal configuration throughout an overhead movement, power transferred from the ground to the hand is maximized. Here, the configuration of the first, second and third cross-connecting bands 1421, 1422, 1423 causes an optimal transfer of power through the kinetic chain from the ground to the contralateral shoulder.

Some embodiments of the shirt 1400 are configured to enhance activation of a muscle if it is abnormally inhibited, and reduce activation of a muscle if it is over activated. More specifically, the shirt 1400 may be configured to provide mechanical and sensory stimulation to guide a joint to an optimal neutral joint position. The optimal neutral joint position is one that minimizes stress to the joint and soft tissues crossing the joint. The mechanical stimulation is to be understood as being a force applied at a location of the user that will guide the affected muscles and/or joint towards and/or into an optimum joint position. Relatedly, a sensory stimulation, which may also be a force, or a force in one location on the body coupled with a lack of a force on another location of the body, that causes the user to self-activate his/her muscles to bring the affected joint into an optimum neutral joint position.

It should also be noted that the embodiments previously discussed do not comprise inelastic portions extending down the arms. Allowing the arms to move freely while properly supporting the position and motion of the scapula provides for optimal function of the glenohumeral joint. By supporting the scapula (i.e. preventing or limiting internal rotation and anterior tilting of the scapula), to which the deltoid and other important muscles are attached, the upper arm, or humerus, is supported in an optimal position for arm movement. In turn, the deltoid muscles are prevented from developing an excessive shearing force and pain/discomfort for the user.

In further embodiments, VELCRO straps, D-ring connectors, or some other adjustment means can be used to shorten or lengthen any of the one or more bands that couple to, or are anchored by, the load distribution ring 912. In other words, different portions of the inelastic band 916 can be connected to the load distribution ring 912 to increase or decrease the tension of the inelastic band 916 just as a belt is shortened or lengthened. Such an embodiment allows the shorts 900 to accommodate varying user proportions (e.g., different thigh girths or upper leg circumferences). The adjustability of any one or more of the bands also allows customization of the level of support provided by the shorts 900 to the gluteus medius muscle as well as control of hip abduction and extension and posterior tipping of the pelvis.

In further embodiments, the various shorts and shirts herein described can be combined into what will be referred to as a one-piece garment. The combination of shorts and a shirt can be made possible via a connecting mechanism such as the connecting mechanisms 800 in FIG. 8A and connecting mechanisms 801 in FIG. 8B. In other embodiments, the shorts and shirt can be manufactured from a single base layer having various inelastic and elastic bands coupled atop the base layer. Alternatively, the shorts and shirt can be manufactured separately and then sewn together at a waist portion 914 of the shorts and a bottom portion of the shirt 1200.

Throughout this disclosure, reference has been made to continuous bands. In some embodiments, these bands need not be continuous. For instance, the continuous elastic band 402 can comprise three different bands that all meet at the load distribution ring 414. The three separate bands can be connected under the load distribution ring 414 or can merely connect to the load distribution ring 414 and otherwise be separated from each other. In further embodiments, VELCRO straps, D-ring connectors, or some other adjustment means can be used to shorten or lengthen any of the one or more bands that couple to, or are anchored by, the load distribution ring 414. In other words, different portions of the continuous elastic band 402 can be connected to the load distribution ring 414 to increase or decrease the tension of the continuous elastic band 402 just as a belt is shortened or lengthened. Such an embodiment allows the shorts 400 to accommodate varying user proportions (e.g., different thigh girths or upper leg circumferences). The adjustability of the three straps also allows customization of the level of support provided by the shorts 400 to the gluteus medius muscle as well as control of hip abduction and extension and posterior tipping of the pelvis.

Furthermore, throughout this disclosure, reference has been made to inelastic bands or portions coupled to a base layer and/or portions having a first elasticity coupled to a base layer having a second layer. It should be understood that the term “coupled to” in this disclosure is meant to include all means of attaching a first section of fabric having a first elasticity to a second section of fabric having a second elasticity, which may or may not be different from the first elasticity. The first and second sections may be sewn, glued, or stitched atop one another, interwoven with one another, or the first section of fabric, which may be an inelastic band, may be continuous with the second section of fabric, which may be a base layer. More specifically, the term “base layer” is merely meant to refer to a non-manipulative portion of the garment, while the terms “band”, “inelastic/less elastic portion”, “load distribution portion”, etc. are merely meant to reference those portions of a garment that are intended to, directly or indirectly, manipulate a wearer's posture, provide sensory feedback and/or support a muscle.

In conclusion, the present invention provides, among other things, a method, system, and apparatus for clothing that replicates or compensates for weakened or exhausted stabilizing muscles by supporting myofascial tracks or skeletal features. Those skilled in the art can readily recognize that numerous variations and substitutions may be made in the invention, its use, and its configuration to achieve substantially the same results as achieved by the embodiments described herein. Accordingly, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown herein but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A shirt configured to counteract detrimental upper body movement, the shirt comprising:

a base layer having a first elasticity;

a plurality of bands coupled to the base layer, the plurality of bands comprising a second elasticity less than the first elasticity, a first cross-connecting band, a second cross-connecting band, a third cross-connecting band, and a fourth cross-connecting band; and

a load distribution portion coupled to the base layer, the load distribution portion anchoring ends of the first, second, third, and fourth cross-connecting bands; wherein

the first, second, third, and fourth cross-connecting bands and the load distribution portion are configured to limit internal rotation and anterior tilting of the scapula when the shirt is worn by a user.

2. The shirt of claim 1, wherein the first cross-connecting band couples the load distribution portion to a right shoulder region of the shirt, and wherein the second cross connecting band couples the load distribution portion to a left shoulder region.

3. The shirt of claim 2, wherein the third cross-connecting band couples the load distribution portion to a right ilium portion of the rear of the shirt, and wherein the fourth cross-connecting band couples the load distribution portion to a left ilium portion of the rear of the shirt.

4. The shirt of claim 3, wherein a fifth one of the plurality of bands couples a neck portion of the shirt to the first cross-connecting band, and wherein a sixth one of the plurality of bands couples the neck portion of the shirt to the second cross-connecting band.

5. The shirt of claim 4, wherein a seventh one of the plurality of bands couples to the shoulder portion of the shirt via a first end of the seventh one of the plurality of bands and to an eighth one of the plurality of bands via a second end of the seventh one of the plurality of bands.

6. The shirt of claim 5, wherein the seventh and eighth ones of the plurality of bands couple to each other at an angle.

7. The shirt of claim 1, wherein the load distribution portion has a disc shape.

8. The shirt of claim 1, wherein the plurality of bands comprises a first shoulder flare portion and a second shoulder flare portion.

9. The shirt of claim 1, wherein the plurality of bands comprises:

a fifth cross-connecting band extending from the load distribution portion to a lower right portion of the rib cage;

a sixth cross-connecting band extending from the load distribution portion to a lower left portion of the rib cage;

a first support connector coupling the first cross-connecting band to the fifth cross-connecting band; and

a second support connector coupling the second cross-connection band to the sixth cross-connecting band.

10. The shirt of claim 1, wherein the plurality of bands comprises a center support connector coupling an upper region of the third cross-connecting band to an upper region of the fourth cross-connecting band.

11. The shirt of claim 10, wherein the center support connector is configured to maintain a form fit of the shirt when worn by a user.

12. The shirt of claim 1, wherein the shirt is configured to provide a mechanical and sensory stimulation to guide a joint to an optimal neutral joint position.

13. The shirt of claim 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of bands is configured to apply a compression force to inferior and medial portions of a user's scapula.

14. The shirt of claim 1, wherein the shirt is not configured to apply a compressive force on lateral portions of the muscles deltoideus of a user.

15. The shirt of claim 1, wherein the shirt is not configured to apply a compressive force on the vertebrae cervicales VII.

16. A method of counteracting detrimental upper body movement, the method comprising:

donning a shirt, the shirt comprising a base layer having a first elasticity, a plurality of bands having a second elasticity less than the first elasticity coupled to the base layer, and a load distribution portion, the shirt configured to limit internal rotation and anterior tilting of the scapula when worn by a user; and

limiting internal rotation and anterior tilting of the scapula.

17. The method of claim 16, comprising:

adjusting the shirt such that the user experiences a compressive force on the inferior and medial portions of the user's scapula.

18. The method of claim 16, comprising:

preventing internal rotation and anterior tilting of the scapula.

19. The method of claim 16, comprising:

applying compression forces on the user such that the user's kinetic chain of joints is maintained in optimum relation to each other, and power is transferred from the ground through the user's body segments to provide maximum power to a user's arm.

20. A method of manufacturing a shirt comprising:

forming a base layer having a first elasticity;

securing a plurality of bands to the base layer, the plurality of bands having a second elasticity less than the first elasticity; and

securing a load distribution portion to the base layer and to at least two of the plurality of inelastic bands, the load distribution portion anchoring the at least two of the plurality of inelastic bands to substantially a middle of a back of the shirt, the load distribution portion having the second elasticity.