Arm Or Hand Patents (Class 128/878)
  • Publication number: 20030121524
    Abstract: An apparatus, and method of use thereof, for storing, transporting and deploying multiple restraint system components is provided. The inventive apparatus consists of two trays composed of flexible materials. The first tray is configured for storing wrist and ankle restraint systems, the second tray, smaller than the first tray, includes a top-mounted compartment for storing a multi-point restraint connection system. The storage compartment of second tray is secured to the tray by releasable connectors, and is at least partially disengaged to receive the various components of the multi-point restraint connection system, and releasably secured thereafter. The connection system is stored in such a manner as to partially display a portion of each system component outside of the storage compartment, with each portion oriented toward its eventual deployment area once the second tray is placed on the structure on which the EDP will be restrained.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2002
    Publication date: July 3, 2003
    Inventor: Bruce Chapman
  • Patent number: 6575167
    Abstract: A protection device for hand held ultrasound needle procedures that can be generally described as a shield attachable to a transducer. The shield protects the hand from needle puncture. The shield can be made from either a flexible or a rigid material which is resistant to needle punctures, by both or either a hand directed needle or a mechanically fired needle. The shield is bent in the shape of an arc. The arc has a first apex at the top of the arc. A second apex is located at the bottom of the arc. A first receiver and a first method of securing an upper end of a transducer, or cable attached thereto, is located at the first apex. A second receiver and a second method of securement is located at the second apex to receive and secure a lower end or head of a transducer to the shield. The device attaches above or over a biopsy guide typically located on the head of a transducer or it attaches directly to the transducer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Inventor: Jeannie S. McFadden
  • Patent number: 6569067
    Abstract: A device, together with a method for its use, for ensuring that a patient's limb is maintained in a steady, predetermined oriented relative to the torso of the patient during an entire exercise routine. The device is versatile and, through particularly adapted to benefit shoulder rehabilitation and strengthening therapy, may potentially also be utilized for many other types of therapy related to any limb. The device comprises a first member for supporting the extremity of the patient, a second member for engaging the torso of the patient, and a third member for connecting the first and second members. In its preferred embodiments, the third member comprises a telescoping shaft, which is adjustable to a plurality of potentially desirable lengths. The second member preferably comprises a tubular structure having an arcuate configuration, being generally “C”-shaped and having a convex side and a concave side, wherein the concave side thereof is adapted to engage the torso of the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Assignee: Balanced Health, Inc.
    Inventor: Darrin E. Madole
  • Patent number: 6553997
    Abstract: This device for the training of a human body extremity in the practice of a specific physical activity, is comprised of a concave mould that, made up of at least a rolled piece of light and substantially rigid material, the first part is shaped on the inside which is adjusted and substantially wraps around the extremity and its joint to a limb. This being the part where the immobilisation is kept held to the optimally correct position for a piece of equipment for the exercising of the type of action in the specific physical activity, and a second part that is adjusted and substantially wraps the part of the member next to the joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Assignee: G I G Gestio I Assessorament Esporttu S.C.P.
    Inventor: Elias Galobardes Illas
  • Patent number: 6547752
    Abstract: A universal hand orthotic device is provided for treating contractures in a patient's left or right hand. The device comprises a bendable metal splint having a central, wrist support region with a hand support region projecting sidewardly from an upper end of the central region. Ears projecting to opposite sides of a lower end of the splint central region are bendable to fit the splint at least partially around a patient's left or right wrist according to intended use of the device. The splint is installed between relatively soft plastic foam pads. The padded splint is received into a padded mitt at least hand regions of which are formed of a smooth, non-irritating fabric. Straps attached to the mitt enable its releasable attachment to a patient's wrist and hand. A plurality of resilient cylinders of increasing diameters detachably attach to a mitt finger-grip region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Soft Wear, Inc.
    Inventors: Marlan J. Holland, John P. Kenney
  • Patent number: 6540710
    Abstract: The novel wrist brace is designed to fixedly link a users hand to a users forearm in a rigid fashion whereby the wrist is held in a relatively neutral position. It is a further intent of this invention to do so without applying pressure to the volar surface of the forearm or to the carpal tunnel area of the wrist.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Inventor: Mark Cruz
  • Patent number: 6539589
    Abstract: A flexible tie comprises a flexible strap having a head portion and an opposing end portion. The head portion of the strap includes first and second slots. A dual-loop restraining device is formed using two straps by inserting the end portion of each strap through the first and second slots in the other strap. In use, the loops are tightened around a prisoner's arms or legs to restrain the prisoner's movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Inventor: Greg Thompson
  • Publication number: 20030056793
    Abstract: A hand, wrist and forearm device for patients during surgery, comprising a pair of mating shells which fit about the patient's hand, and wrist and forearm. Each shell has a generally accurate lateral section wrist and forearm channel and a larger, generally accurate longitudinal section hand enclosure. The two shells are loosely hinged together along one edge, with a mutually mating closure provided along the edge generally opposite the hinges. The interior is preferably lined with removable padding, such as gel packs, visco-elastic material in order to apply light pressure to the hand and stabilize the position of surgical device on the hand. The pressure of the removable padding also provides a light outward pressure to stabilize the two halves of the assembly during use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Publication date: March 27, 2003
    Inventors: Kim A. Atwater, Marian J. Bryant
  • Patent number: 6533741
    Abstract: An articulated upper extremity splint for immobilizing and supporting an injured upper extremity. The splint includes a frame. The frame includes a proximal support section and a distal support section. Interconnecting the confronting ends of the proximal support section and the distal support section is a connector. The connector provides multi-directional movement for the proximal support section and the distal support section, respectively. The proximal support section and the distal support section include respective extensible support rods. The support rods are telescopically received by respective tubes of the proximal support section and the distal support section. The rods are releasably secured to the associate tubes for adjusting, respectively, the length of the proximal support section and the distal support section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Inventors: Roger W. Lee, Paul J. Martin
  • Patent number: 6526981
    Abstract: A multipurpose site guard for use at all peripheral and central venipuncture infusion sites, sensitive areas, and for pediatric and adult patients. The guard is a hollow plastic member with a base and a sidewall curved upwardly and inwardly to form a cover which is form fitted to the infusion site under finger pressure and which can be taped in place. Improvements to this invention include holding the guard in place with a fabric connector and cushioning the guard's base with a soft material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: I.V. House, Inc.
    Inventors: Betty M. Rozier, Lisa M. Vallino
  • Patent number: 6497673
    Abstract: The present invention offers a brace for the treatment of tennis elbow and similar muscular disorders whereby both massage therapy and the continuous application of a fluid, topical lotion is provided. The brace is attached to the arm of a wearer such that a massage ball protruding from one end of the brace is in contact with the affected area of the arm such that as the arm is moved the massage ball exerts massaging pressure on the arm while simultaneously transferring a fluid, topical lotion from a fluid reservoir to the affected area of the arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2002
    Inventor: Roger P. Rogalski
  • Patent number: 6482168
    Abstract: A hand orthosis includes a body having an oblate spheroid shape and an ellipsoidal surface. The hand orthosis is positioned against the palm of a patient's hand for separating a patient's fingers and thumb from contacting each other. A plurality of finger grooves are indented in substantially parallel and spaced apart configuration across the ellipsoidal surface. A first and a second angled groove is positioned on opposed sides of the plurality of finger grooves for placement of either thumb therein. The hand orthosis is fastened within the patient's palm by means for fastening to maintain separation of the fingers and thumb from each other for extended periods of time. A method of utilizing the hand orthosis during a medical treatment procedure is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Inventor: Russell A. Betcher
  • Patent number: 6467487
    Abstract: A device for holding and immobilizing the hand of a patient for wrist and shoulder arthroscopy and/or surgery, the device comprising a threaded upright tower bar for moving up and down in an operating room table, and an horizontal arm for moving back and forth in an upper end of the upright bar, the horizontal arm having a proximal end for operation of the horizontal arm and a distal end for connecting to the patient's fingers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Inventor: Alberto Angel Rios
  • Patent number: 6446474
    Abstract: A key operated restraining device is provided to create a securing loop of adjustable dimension. The device includes a locking head portion, an elongated smooth surfaced strap insertable into the locking head portion to form a securing loop of adjustable dimension, a support block disposed in the interior of the head portion, and a pawl member. Both the support block and the pawl member terminate in a spaced relation to an interior wall surface of the head portion and form a slideway for the strap operation. The pawl member is connected to the locking head by a resilient hinge structure with a spike inserted into or attached to the pawl biasing the pawl member into a locking position wherein the locking structure is operative to lockably engage a smooth strap and a release position wherein the locking structure is disengaged from the strap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Assignee: Secure Concepts, Ltd.
    Inventors: Otavio R. Tabacchi, Thomas D. Liston
  • Patent number: 6435187
    Abstract: Massage and relief bandage device for persons vulnerable to bedsores (decuibitus ulcer), having a bag device of a flexible material, particularly cloth, which is filled with foamed plastic beads. The cloth material is a porous material, permeable to air, and the bag device has a plurality of chambers divided by non-filled parts that extend to the edges of the bandage device. The amount of filling material in the chambers is low to allow displacement of the granular material without particular outside pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Inventors: Kristen Leithe, Vigdis Marie Leithe
  • Publication number: 20020092531
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for restraining a person's limbs are disclosed. The inventive apparatus includes at least one cuff module for application to the person's limbs. An optional interconnect may be provided for each set of cuff modules. Each cuff module includes a flat flexible elongated body with two rigid loops positioned apart from each other on its upper surface, a resilient lining positioned along a portion of the lower surface of the cuff body, the resilient lining being optionally removable, a flat rigid element attached to one end of the cuff body, and a releasable attachment device positioned on portions of the top and bottom surfaces of the cuff body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2002
    Publication date: July 18, 2002
    Inventor: Bruce Chapman
  • Publication number: 20020092530
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for rapidly restraining a person's limbs are disclosed. The inventive apparatus includes a pair of cuff modules, each with two rigid loops positioned on their outer surface, and a cuff interconnect having a flexible elongated body sized and configured to fit through the rigid loops, that is attached to one of the rigid loops on one of the cuff modules, and a releasable attachment device positioned on the interconnect body to releasably attach one end of the interconnect body to a portion of the interconnect body when it is folded upon itself.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2002
    Publication date: July 18, 2002
    Inventor: Bruce Chapman
  • Publication number: 20020077539
    Abstract: A restraining apparatus and method for limiting motion on the macro and micro scale during MRI and CT scans, by providing a custom fit, while also improving patient comfort. The restraining apparatus includes a disposable component, including castable and expandable sleeves used to fix the patient into a coil. The castable sleeve encircles the limb of a patient, and is filled with a quickly casting material. The cast material is patient compatible and preferably designed to augment imaging. The resulting cast is MRI compatible, safe and rapid setting, which will decrease the time to set up a patient for scanning, thereby further improving MRI productivity. The expandable sleeve encircles the castable sleeve and is inflatable such that the expandable sleeve conforms to the inner dimensions of a particular MRI coil, CT scanner, or other imaging device. Alternatively, the apparatus includes a castable sleeve for casting around a flex/wrap or surface coil.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2000
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventors: Berndt P. Schmit, Mark Keeton, Ben Babusis
  • Patent number: 6405731
    Abstract: A ventilative joint guard is composed of a neoprene outer portion (10) and an elastic fiber textile inner portion (20). The joint guard provides a physical heating treatment, however, variation in the texture of the elastic fiber textile of the inner portion (20) makes the joint guard have excellent ventilation and makes users still feel comfortable after having worn the joint guard for a period of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2002
    Inventor: Pang-Ching Chiang
  • Patent number: 6383157
    Abstract: A wrist-band for preventing and treating carpal tunnel syndrome by allowing limited movements of the wrist of the user according to the bending extension movements. The wrist band includes a multi-layer soft and flexible band which is suitable for being positioned on an a portion between the hand and the forearm corresponding to the carpiulnaris articulation of the user. The band includes five adjacent portions. A first portion is a terminal portion having three rounded sides connected together. A second portion is connected to the first portion and includes a superior rounded side and an inferior rectilinear side. A third portion is connected to the second portion and is suitable for overlapping the first portion. A fourth portion is connected to the third portion and is of a size smaller than the first, second and third portions. The fifth portion is a terminal tongue-shaped portion having a fastener thereon so as to secure the wrist band around the wrist of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Inventors: Stefano Massi, Gabriele Massi
  • Patent number: 6360747
    Abstract: A restraining device for use in securing a prisoner having an upper control strap gripped through a releasable cam buckle and secured to a pair of handcuffs worn by an individual behind his back, the loose end acting as a hand grip. The cam buckle is attached to leg shackles worn on the ankles of the prisoner be means of a lower strap loop of fixed length The length of the upper control strap between the handcuffs and the cam buckle can be adjusted by pulling the control strap through the cam buckle, thus tightening the restraining device relative to the prisoner's wrists and ankles. The overall length can be increased by opening the cam buckle and sliding the buckle along the control strap as desired. A strap lock is located on the loose end of the control strap to be slid to a position against the cam buckle to assure a secure closure thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Inventors: Albert A. Velarde, Rogelio N. Banez
  • Patent number: 6360748
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for assisting a first person in maintaining a safe restraining hold on a second person for extended period of time without danger of positional asphyxiation is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a first resilient pad with a receiving channel for receiving the first person's elbow and bottom flat surface having an extruded area positioned and configured to releasably attach to an additional stabilizing pad underneath so that the position of the apparatus may be optionally elevated above the floor surface. The first person initiates the restraining hold by manipulating the second person into a face-down prone position onto the floor surface, such that the first person is disposed along and above the second person. The first person completes the restraining hold when the first person's weight is distributed between the first person's knees and the first person's elbow such that the first persons elbow is proximal to a corresponding arm of the second person.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Assignee: Handle With Care, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce Chapman
  • Patent number: 6334444
    Abstract: A wrist restraint apparatus includes two straps threaded through an outer sleeve. By grasping the outer sleeve at a thumb-rest with one hand, a user can use his other hand to pull the outer sleeve to the rear, thus tightening the straps around the wrists of a restrained person. The length of the straps can then be secured by rotating the outer sleeve until the locking pin engages the appropriate notch in the locking channel port. To loosen or remove the straps, the outer sleeve is pulled slightly to the rear and rotated so that the locking pin disengages from the locking channel port. Once the device is applied, additional restraints, such as standard handcuffs or ankle cuffs, can be used if necessary to meet custody and control level escort requirements. The device acts as a handle to provide control over the inmate from the rear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2002
    Inventor: Vernon G. Sisco
  • Patent number: 6328706
    Abstract: A wrist support device for allowing limited extension and flexion of the wrist but substantially limiting movement of the wrist in all other directions and further substantially limiting pressure from being placed on the wrist is disclosed. The wrist support device includes a first elongated channel shaped rigid member for aligning with the longitudinal axis of the user's forearm for abutting against the posterior aspect of the forearm and a second small rigid substantially flat member independent from the first member for aligning with the longitudinal axis of the user's forearm and abutting against the anterior aspect of the forearm. The two members are attached together and secured to the user's forearm by a plurality of releasable fastening members, such that when tightened, the wrist support device limits extension and flexion of the wrist and substantially limits pressure being placed on the wrist.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2001
    Inventor: Khamkong Yattavong
  • Patent number: 6322462
    Abstract: An improved elbow brace adapted for teaching baseball throwing with three stays enclosed by cloth and attached with two circumferential cloth straps. Two or more pads 21 sit between the ends of stays and the inner surface of the brace which adjoins the skin when worn. Stitched seams 15 are placed very close to the edges of the primary stays 3 and the third stay 9 to carefully hold them in proper alignment, allowing less than three-eighths of an inch of lateral movement and preferable less than one-eighth of an inch. The span between the primary stays 3 narrows toward the top of the brace 11. The middle stay is stiffer than the other two.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Assignee: Throwright LLC
    Inventor: Timothy J. Kafer
  • Patent number: 6315748
    Abstract: An orthopedic device (10) is provided for the treatment of physical disorders characterized by region(s) of localized, undue compression of body tissue leading to nerve compression and/or damage, such as carpal tunnel syndrome. A carpal tunnel syndrome treatment device (10) in accordance with the invention includes a central, resilient, stretchable tensioning segment (12) with a plurality of relatively less stretchable adhesive straps (14-18) secured to the segment (12). In use, the segment (12) is placed on the back of a patient's hand (20), whereupon the straps (14-18) are pulled and adhered to the patient's palm in a fashion to expand the segment (12). In this orientation, the control segment (12) exerts continuous yielding or tensile forces through the straps (14-18) which in turn reduces carpal tunnel syndrome nerve compression and alleviates symptoms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Inventor: Clyde E. Morgan, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20010034505
    Abstract: A catheter protector designed to be of assistance to patients using a Peripherally insterted central catheter. The catheter is inserted into a vein in the patients arm, usually at the elbow. The catheter has an attached tube which is usually pinched off. The protector can be an elastic tubular sleeve with a zipper or other attachment means at its lower end running longitudinally to a point one-half to three-quarters of the way up the bottom half of the tube. The zipper or attachment is opened, and the sleeve is slipped over the catheter. The attached tube can then be coiled up inside the sleeve and the zipper closed. The device protects the site and tube against pulling and contamination. The zipper or attachement can be opened any time to administer drugs or replace the catheter. The device can optionally contain an inner plastic layer with an optionally inner layer of gauze to further protect the insertion site. The invention can be worn 24 hours a day including wear during bathing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2000
    Publication date: October 25, 2001
    Inventor: Mark Wilke
  • Patent number: 6293918
    Abstract: An adjustable splint which provides for self-locking adjustment in one of a plurality of selectable positions. The splint comprises a first rigid member for supporting a first portion of a limb of a patient and a second rigid member for supporting a second portion of that limb, on opposite sides of a joint. A pivot connects the first and second members. A releasable clasp lies along the limb of the patient, arranged so that fastening the splint to the limb effectively locks the clasp in the selected position. In one embodiment, the clasp comprises a leaf spring attached to the first member. At a free end of the spring, a latch is provided which engages one of a plurality of notches in the second member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2001
    Inventor: Tzu C. Wang
  • Patent number: 6283126
    Abstract: A hand shield for a patient comprising an element of flexible but stiff material adapted to be rolled into an open ended generally fustro-conical shape The element has a wrist wrap at the smaller end thereof. Cooperative releasable fastening means are disposed along the edges of the element and arranged to hold said element in said generally fustro-conical shape. Means are provided for fastening the wrist wrap about the wrist of a patient. An aperture is defined in the element intermediate the ends and sides thereof to permit passage of one or more needles there through to the back of a hand of a patient. The element is sufficiently long so as to extend beyond the fingers of the patient to prevent the fingers from grasping an object beyond the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Inventor: Bertha E. Jessen
  • Patent number: 6276364
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a protective sleeve for a chronically-implanted intravenous (IV) site. The sleeve is made of a prophylactic waterproof material, and is normally worn by a person while showering to prevent moisture from invading the IV site. The sleeve in one embodiment has two elastomeric beads which form a watertight seal between a person's arm and the beads, and the sleeve billows in its mid-section so that it does not snag the catheter. The sleeve in another embodiment has a binding at one end and at least a binding at the other end integrally formed in the sleeve or in another embodiment a plurality of indentations axially spaced on a tapered portion of the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2001
    Inventor: Sheryl A. Warner
  • Patent number: 6273091
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for assisting a first person in maintaining a safe restraining hold on a second person for extended period of time without danger of positional asphyxiation is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a resilient substantially hollow inverted cone with a wide open area top opening for receiving the first person's elbow and a smaller bottom flat surface attached to a perpendicular stabilizing pad of a predetermined thickness configured and positioned to enable the apparatus to rest in a stable position on a floor surface, and is further configured to accept additional pads underneath so that the position of the apparatus may be optionally elevated above the floor surface. A resilient loop for assisting retention of at least the first person's elbow in the cone is attached to two points on opposing outside surfaces of the cone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2001
    Assignee: Handle With Care, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce Chapman
  • Patent number: 6263710
    Abstract: An anti-abduction device for preventing or discouraging the unlawful abduction of a child or person. The anti-abduction device comprises a pair of bracelets with each bracelet being adapted to fit around the arm of a person. More particularly, the bracelets include an interconnecting structure that enables the bracelets to be interconnected. In use the bracelets are disposed about the arms of a child or person. In an abduction threat the child or person places his or her arms around an object. Because the bracelets assume an interconnected mode after the arms have been extended around the object, it follows that the child or person is effectively tied to the object and this will serve to frustrate the abduction attempt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2001
    Assignee: Protective Solutions, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Christopher L. Harris
  • Patent number: 6257240
    Abstract: A combination medical protective guard and self-contained support for providing a painless access to a wound site, medical device or surgical site or protecting the site. The combination is adaptable for conforming to various parts of the anatomy of a human or an animal body and eliminates the use of adhesives. The support includes an elongated bidirectional wrap having hook fasteners at a first end for engaging a portion of a loop like material along a length of a second end of the wrap. The wrap allows for infinite adjustment along its length for either loosening or tightening the wrap when the site guard is received over the wound site or the infusion site. Also, the wrap may include a window opening with sides of the window opening received around a top portion of the protective guard. The window opening is used for viewing the site through the top of the protective guard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Assignee: Tapeless Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Barry F. Shesol
  • Patent number: 6244271
    Abstract: A method of using a grasp-impeding apparatus that prevents newborns from dislodging health care devices such as monitoring lines, I.V./intraarterial lines, chest tubes, endotrachael tubes, feeding tubes, central lines, and catheter tubes. The grasp-impeding apparatus is worn on the infant's hand and impedes the infant's ability to grasp components of the health care devices, and accordingly, pull and remove the health care devices. The apparatus can further be used to provide support to the palm, thereby stabilizing the hand in which the I.V. is introduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2001
    Inventors: Deborah A. Turner, Wayne D. Turner
  • Patent number: 6210352
    Abstract: This limb sleeve is a splashproof sleeve that is donned on the limbs. The sleeve is made from a hydrophobic material which absorbs moisture and perspiration on the skin and also repels moisture from the outside. The sleeve utilizes a unique silicone seal which is able to conform to any contour and is adjustable. One seal is sewn to each end of the protective sleeve to provide a splashproof closure between the limb and sleeve. The longitudinal ends of the sleeve are held in place by a hook and loop fastener. The patient can either wrap the sleeve around the limb and secure the longitudinal ends with the hook and loop fastener or partially fasten the large end of the sleeve and draw the sleeve over the limb until the sleeve fits tightly against the limb. Then the longitudinal joint and lower seal is fastened using the hook and loop fastener. Bathing, weather, and sweating are the primary sources of moisture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2001
    Inventors: Peggy Williams, David Williams
  • Patent number: 6199211
    Abstract: An ergonomic hand, wrist and forearm supporter useful for prevention of injuries caused by repetitive motions while handling implements has a flexible glove body. The palm portion and back portion of the glove body are joined together so as to define a first opening for receiving a forefinger, a second opening for receiving a little finger, and a generally central third opening for simultaneously receiving the middle and index fingers, as well as a fourth opening for receiving a thumb. The palm portion includes a protective padded overlay secured over an area corresponding to a palm's heel area. A plurality of durable protective stays substantially parallel to each other and spaced apart a predetermined distance are transversely secured to the palm portion generally between the palm's heel area and the distal end of the glove body. The stays are capable of flexing for accommodating a hand grabbing an implement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Inventor: Marc Franzolino
  • Patent number: 6186966
    Abstract: An orthopaedic support assembly is formed of a double-knit type fabric material with spaced interwoven layers formed of high strength materials and an open-work matrix of filaments or threads interconnecting the layers. The fabric preferably includes high strength stiff filaments of fiberglass, carbon fibers, or aramids and thermoplastic material to facilitate heat bonding of cut edges. The fabric is impregnated with a water-hardenable material. The support material or product is packaged in a water-vapor impermeable package; and is opened and water is supplied to the fabric when it is applied to the part of the anatomy requiring support. The fabric may be included in a soft goods support including a water distribution network and straps to hold the support in place. The double-knit type material may be variable in thickness and may be three dimensional in its configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Assignee: Royce Medical Co.
    Inventors: Tracy E. Grim, Joseph M. Iglesias, Kelly M. Speakes, Michael Campos, Steven T. Pelote
  • Patent number: 6179800
    Abstract: A splint (17) includes first and second collars (18,19) pivotally supported on a body member (20) and adjustable so as to adjust the internal dimensions of the splint (17). A plurality of spaced resilient pads (21-27) are provided on the internal surfaces of the splint (17) so as to exert pressure on a limb (11) held in the splint (17) while allowing vascular flow. The splint (17) is provided with a support (36) for supporting the extremity of a limb, such as a hand (14) or foot. The support (36) allows some movement of the limb extremity to reduce swelling by promoting vascular flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Assignee: Brunel University
    Inventor: George E. Torrens
  • Patent number: 6165148
    Abstract: A wrist/hand/finger orthosis comprises a pliable splint member elongated in a direction from forearm to fingertips, a cover enclosing the splint member, and a plurality of releasable straps connected to the cover. Proximal to distal, the splint member includes forearm, wrist, hand, and finger portions. A thumb peninsula extends from the hand portion of the splint member, and a circular cut out region is provided adjacent thereto for increasing pivotal freedom of the thumb peninsula. The straps have free ends which attach to respective attachment locations on the cover such that the straps cross over the patient's limb in diagonal or oblique orientation, and the strap attachment locations are preferably color-coded with the straps for ease of use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Assignee: Loretta M. Carr-Stock
    Inventor: Loretta M. Carr-Stock
  • Patent number: 6155263
    Abstract: A protective arm and hand covering for a healthcare patient in a healthcare with healthcare workers which includes warning notices on the external surface thereof to notify a healthcare worker that no healthcare activities are to be conducted with respect to one specific hand and arm of the patient because this patient has a propensity for lymphedema. The hand and arm covering is adapted to completely cover the upper and lower arm area on both sides of the elbow as well as the entire wrist, hand and finger area of the user. The device can include a plurality of markings or indicia on the external surface thereof warning healthcare workers that various activities such as blood pressure, venipuncture and intravenous are not to be performed with respect to that specific arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Inventor: Lois A. Weaver
  • Patent number: 6146346
    Abstract: A shoulder brace consists of a figure "8" strap tensioned between a lower loop anchored around a thigh and a collar or sleeve worn on an opposite upper arm corresponding to an injured shoulder so as to extend the upper loop diagonally across the torso, thereby immobilizing the upper arm to prevent shoulder abduction and external rotation after, for example, shoulder dislocation. The upper and lower loops crossover adjacent the hip, with lower loop snugged under the crotch so as to allow relatively unrestricted movement of the thigh, for example, during exercise. The shoulder brace is thus well adapted for use as a sports brace.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2000
    Inventor: Andrew Godwin
  • Patent number: 6128777
    Abstract: A batter's forearm protector product, including a forearm protector for being custom-formed to the shape of a batter's forearm while flexible and upon hardening providing a rigid, supporting custom fit. The forearm protector product includes an outer container formed of moisture-impervious material. A flexible forearm protector is positioned in the container in substantially moisture-free conditions and sealed therein against entry of moisture until use. The forearm protector includes a substrate and a reactive system impregnated into or coated onto the substrate, the system remaining stable when maintained in substantially moisture-free conditions and hardening upon exposure to moisture to form a rigid, self supporting structure. A flexible protective pad is positioned on one side of the substrate to provide cushioning between the substrate and the batter when the forearm protector is being worn. An outer cover covers the substrate on the side opposite the protective pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Assignee: Parker Athletic Products, LLC
    Inventor: Louis J. Foreman
  • Patent number: 6126621
    Abstract: A cast covering apparatus for effectively and comfortably covering an extremity of the body includes a cover member having a cuff assembly at an open end, an absorbent interior layer, and a plurality of cinch assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Inventor: Santiago Aceves
  • Patent number: 6101650
    Abstract: An arm board is provided for supporting the arm during a surgical or imaging procedure in a manner that reduces the stress on the nerves and positions the arm in a more natural position for patient comfort, without interfering with the conduct of the surgical or imaging procedure. The arm board includes a main panel for being received under the patient and/or under a pad on the surgical table, and a trough portion for receiving and supporting the patient's forearm just below the height of the surgical table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Inventors: David G. Omdal, Scott J. Savader
  • Patent number: 6099489
    Abstract: Medical arm bandage which surrounds and guides the forearm and the upper arm and shoulder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Assignee: Beiersdorf AG
    Inventors: Thorsten Herzberg, Thorsten Stradt, Andreas Albrod, Harald Votsch, Oliver Reichert, Arthur-Hugh Andrews, Brigitte Rosenbaum
  • Patent number: 6085765
    Abstract: A forearm crutch cushion system that includes an arm cradle cushion assembly and a hand grip cushion assembly. The arm cradle cushion assembly including a rectangular shaped, padded forearm contact section, left and right rectangular top fold-over securing sections formed along a top edge of the padded forearm contact section, left and right rectangular bottom fold-over securing sections formed along a bottom edge of the padded forearm contact section, and rectangular, left and right cradle end cover sections formed respectively in connection with left and right side edges of the padded forearm contact section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Inventor: Joanne D. Sigsworth
  • Patent number: 6076185
    Abstract: The subject matter of the invention is a protective device for the upper arm and forearm of a person, particularly of an athlete, with an upper arm part (3) and a forearm guard (2) in which to ensure the protection of the zone between the upper arm and the forearm without any impediment to the person, the upper arm part (3) and/or the forearm guard (2) possess(es) a tongue-like extension (31, 21).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Assignee: Schramm Sport GmbH, KWON-Kampfsportausstattung
    Inventor: Gunther Schramm
  • Patent number: 6073631
    Abstract: The present invention comprises cuffing means supplied with separately attached or integrally molded extensions, wherein each extension has secured or integrally molded thereto at least one part of an engaging means. It is preferable that the engaging means, when operated as attachments to each extension, comprise a quickly latchable or releasable mechanism or manufactured piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2000
    Inventor: John Wilhelmy
  • Patent number: 6053169
    Abstract: The disclosed medical device having an elongated strap sized to fit around a patient's body area with overlapping opposite under and outer layer strap ends, and with an inside strap face then lying proximate the patient and an opposite outside face. A lever is pivoted relative to the outside face of the under layer strap end and stops are formed at locations along the lever spaced from the lever pivot. The outer layer strap end has openings therein spaced apart along the strap. After wrapping the device loosely around a patient's body area, the lever is fitted through any selected strap opening to establish engagement of a respective stop-opening combination for interlocking the lever and strap together and defining an endless band encircling the patient's body area. The lever can then be pivoted toward the strap outer layer end to reduce the band circumference to a desired size and tightness, and then held relative to the strap in this closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2000
    Inventor: Dermot A. Hunt
  • Patent number: 6006751
    Abstract: A glove assembly (20) adapted to inhibit or prevent carpal tunnel syndrome includes a flexible glove body (22) having a front side (24) and a back side (26) which defines a wrist opening (28) and at least one finger opening (30). The glove assembly (20) further includes a resilient protector (32), secured to the front side (24) of the glove body (22), for preventing the application of pressure to a median nerve. The resilient protector (32) defines a recess (36) extending substantially parallel with both sides (38) of the median nerve. It is also interrupted along its extent thereby imparting greater flexibility and ease of movement to a wearer of the glove assembly (20). A grip is also disclosed which includes a resilient protector interrupted along its extent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Inventor: A. Robert Spitzer