Shoulder Patents (Class 2/45)
  • Patent number: 11452317
    Abstract: A therapeutic posture correcting bra and method of manufacture thereof in the posture re-balance, shoulder and spine muscle rebalance, posture correction, occupation risk prevention, anti-aging, and athletic enhancement space. A bra that is uniquely designed, manufactured and fabric woven for proprioceptive posture rebalance, correction and athletic enhancement that allows for breathability, functionality, range of motion, and fashionability. The therapeutic posture correcting bra is uniquely designed and narrows the distance between shoulder blades from proprioceptive muscle retraction at least 5 mm secondarily providing shoulder and spine muscle activation and relaxation for improved physical wellness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2022
    Assignee: IFGCURE HOLDINGS, LLC.
    Inventor: Stephen H. Liu
  • Patent number: 11202933
    Abstract: In at least one embodiment a resistance training harness is provided having a first upper loop having a front portion and a rear portion, a second upper loop having a front portion and a rear portion, at least one front connector, the first end of the at least one front connector adjoining at least one first upper loop and the second upper loop; a transverse belt component adjoining the second end of the at least one front connector, the first end of the transverse belt component and second end of the transverse belt component having attachment means, a first lower loop having a front portion and a rear portion, a second lower loop having a front portion and a rear portion, and at least one resilient cord adapted to engage with the resistance training harness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2021
    Inventor: Michelle Desrosiers
  • Patent number: 10721975
    Abstract: A therapeutic posture correcting bra and method of manufacture thereof in the posture re-balance, shoulder and spine muscle rebalance, posture correction, occupation risk prevention, anti-aging, and athletic enhancement space. A bra that is uniquely designed, manufactured and fabric woven for proprioceptive posture rebalance, correction and athletic enhancement that allows for breathability, functionality, range of motion, and fashionability. The therapeutic posture correcting bra is uniquely designed and narrows the distance between shoulder blades from proprioceptive muscle retraction at least 5 mm secondarily providing shoulder and spine muscle activation and relaxation for improved physical wellness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2020
    Assignee: IFGCure Holding, LLC
    Inventor: Stephen H. Liu
  • Patent number: 10383426
    Abstract: An exemplary embodiment includes a load distribution system including an outer shell configured to attach to a belt on a user's waist. The outer shell at least partially supports a load adjacent to the user's back. The outer shell also includes a height adjustment system operable by the user to select a desired height and a buffer system protecting the user from shocks associated with the load moving a distance in congruence with a cadence of the user's movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2019
    Assignee: NATIONAL MOLDING LLC
    Inventors: James Rittenhouse, Derek Mir
  • Patent number: 10052546
    Abstract: Embodiments described herein relate to shoulder protection devices that are configured to reduce compression injuries to an athlete's shoulder. Embodiments are configured to limit the axis of rotation of a compression deflection lever coupled to an arch of a shoulder protection device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2018
    Assignee: William A. Kucera
    Inventor: William A. Kucera
  • Patent number: 9009863
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Opedix, LLC
    Inventor: Michael John Decker
  • Patent number: 8869315
    Abstract: A protective athletic garment comprising a protective cap for protecting a body part of the user. The protective cap comprises a shell for overlying the user's body part. The shell comprises a first shell member and a second shell member. The protective cap comprises a liner mounted under the shell for being disposed between the shell and the user's body part. The protective cap also comprises a link interconnecting the first shell member and the second shell member to hold the first shell member and the second shell member together. The link extends along at least part of a periphery of the first shell member and at least part of a periphery of the second shell member such that the first shell member and the second shell member are movable relative to one another in response to movement of the user's body part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Bauer Hockey, Inc.
    Inventors: Mathieu Contant, Marco Beauregard, Marie-Claude Généreux, Alexandre Leblanc
  • Patent number: 8834394
    Abstract: In an embodiment, a device for reducing brain and cervical spine injury includes a headpiece sufficiently designed to secure to a user's head, the headpiece having a first attachment member; a support harness sufficiently designed to secure to the user's torso, the support harness having a second attachment member; and a telescoping member having a main tube and a series of progressively smaller diameter tubes nested within each other, wherein the smaller diameter tubes are adapted to extend and compress in a linear plane by the intake and outflow of fluid, wherein the telescoping member has a first engaging member for engaging the first attachment member, and wherein the telescoping member has a second engaging member for engaging the second attachment member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Inventor: Jamshid Ghajar
  • Patent number: 8435201
    Abstract: A method for treating a user's back, a user's neck, or combinations thereof. The method can include the steps of: inserting a traction device into a pouch of a fabric garment; disposing the fabric garment over a user; engaging the traction device with a surface; and applying a pressure to the traction device using the user's back. The traction device can provide a therapeutic pressure to the user's back, to the user's neck, or to combinations thereof. The method can use a customizable traction device having a shearable fraction head and body. The shearable traction head and body can each be cut to a custom size to fit a user. The method can use a removable fabric chair cover disposed over a chair. A user can sit on the chair and apply a pressure to the traction device using the user's back.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Inventors: Jose Gomez, Jr., Victor B. Ramos
  • Patent number: 8382692
    Abstract: A spine and neck support device adapted to support the anatomical structures in the cervical and upper thoracic spine when the user's neck is in flexion. A cushion conforms about the user's anatomical neck structures and rests on the upper chest of the user. The cushion has a chin support area that avoids contacting the user's chin when the user's head is in a neutral position and contacts the user's chin when the user's neck is in flexion. When the user's neck is flexed and the user's chin contacts the chin support area, the cushion unloads and supports the user's neck. At least one and preferably two straps are attached to the cushion and secure it to the user. The top is sloped downwards from back to front to maximize the user's downward field of vision. A groove in the posterior surface of the cushion accommodates the user's trachea/esophagus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Inventor: John Chao
  • Patent number: 8353067
    Abstract: An umpire chest protector for use in a baseball game is disclosed to include a body member, a sternum plate, first left and right side plates, second left and right side plates, two shoulder plates, a shoulder strap assembly and a rear padding system. The rear padding system has an air channel defined therein, saving material, reducing the weight and enhancing wearing comfort. The left and right paddings, upper padding, outer left padding and outer right padding of the rear padding system are detachable, easy on and off and washable, material-saving and capable of dispersing impact force. The sternum plate is attached to one side of each of the shoulder plates and affixed thereto with rivets, and side flaps and bottom flaps of the sternum plate are respectively affixed to the upper portions and lower portions of the first left and right side plates with rivets, providing warp around feel and making the protector still and strong.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: Racer Sporting Goods Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shyan-Wei Chen, Brad Jurga
  • Patent number: 8341770
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a cervical spine protection apparatus one or more composite bands attached to provide restraint of one or more motions of the cervical spine of a wearer. The apparatus is designed to protect a wearer from incurring cervical spinal injuries, and/or to reduce the severity of cervical spine injuries without substantially compromising the normal functional range of motion of the wearer's cervical spine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Drexel University
    Inventors: Sorin Siegler, Mary Milone, Yoganand Ghati
  • Patent number: 8291521
    Abstract: A collar for protecting the neck of a user, useful in particular for motorcycle riders, is envisaged, said collar comprising two half-collars which are pivotably hinged together at one end so as to be rotatable in a substantially horizontal plane and which can be connected together by means of a fastening and release lever, a plate which at the rear extends downwards from the bottom edge of the collar so as to be centred with respect to the spinal column of the user, and a protective shield which extends downwards at the front. The collar is provided with removable padding means where the collar rests on the user's shoulders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Alpinestars Research Srl
    Inventors: Giovanni Mazzarolo, Colin Ballantyne
  • Patent number: 8287478
    Abstract: A multi-layered orthosis designed to stabilize the human shoulder joint. A base harness includes a shoulder enclosure, an anterior panel, and a posterior panel. An adjustable break separates free ends of the anterior and posterior panels which are distal to the shoulder enclosure. The base harness is applied to a patient by slipping the shoulder enclosure around the affected shoulder. Anterior and posterior straps are passed over the deltoid region of the affected shoulder and secured to the base harness. An additional large strap is placed over the anterior and posterior straps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Inventors: Doak Ostergard, Bryan E. Kilbey
  • Patent number: 8099799
    Abstract: Securing devices secure the position of protective pads on the arms of a user of the protective pads. A first strap and a second strap are placed over the head with the head of the user passing in between the first and second strap. The first and second straps connect to a third strap at a first connection point. At a second connection point opposite from the first connection point a fourth strap connects to the first and second straps. The third and fourth straps each connect to an attachment device. The attachment devices connect to the protective pads of the wearer. Each one of the straps can each be adjustable to accommodate wearers of varying dimensions. The attachment devices can be detachable from the protective pads so that the wearer can utilize the securing device in conjunction with protective pads that the wearer already has.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Inventor: Matthew Hunt
  • Patent number: 7988652
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a pivotal disc is pivotally coupled to a first brace and a second brace. The pivotal disc has a motion-limit member and a positioning member limiting the angle by which the second brace rotates with respect to the first brace with the pivotal disc being the axis and fixing the angle between the first and second braces. The present invention is characterized in that the motion-limit member uses a range-adjust member to push a slide block and determine the range that a block portion of the second brace is blocked by the slide block, and that the positioning member uses a switch knob actuates on end of a positioning rod to engage with or depart from a positioning notch on the pivotal disc, and that the pivotal disc has two limit elements to define the maximum movement range of the first brace and the second brace.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Huntex Corporation
    Inventor: Chia-Chang Chao
  • Publication number: 20110035865
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a posture aid apparatus includes a protective helmet having a shell including a face opening and a crown, a strap bracket coupled to the shell intermediate the face opening and the crown, and at least one strap coupled to the strap bracket. The at least one strap has a first connector adapted to be coupled to a first shoulder pad of a pair of shoulder pads and a second connector adapted to be coupled to a second shoulder pad of the pair of shoulder pads, such that proper posture for contact is promoted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2009
    Publication date: February 17, 2011
    Inventor: Mike Olivarez
  • Patent number: 7833182
    Abstract: A device to support the human back/spine and provide assistance in bending, lifting and standing upright comprises a strap and belt system for attachment to the body and one or more bias/tension member to provide the force necessary to urge the user's back to remain or return to a straight position. When used as intended, the device serves to encourage a healthy body position for lifting, and/or to alleviate or prevent back pain associated with bending or lifting. The bias/tension member preferably comprises at least one tension rod that is adjustably fixed to a waist belt, and slidably received by an upper bracket at or near the shoulder blade region of the back. The length of the preferred two tension rods, in effect, may be adjusted by adjusting how or where the rods are fixed to the waist belt, for example.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Inventor: Phillip K. Hughes
  • Patent number: 7789842
    Abstract: An adjustable sling that can be used to hold a patient's arm, wrist and hand in a multiple positions and eliminate stress to the neck and shoulder. The adjustable sling has a pouch for holding the patient's arm, wrist and hand and the pouch is held at its opposite ends by a pair of straps that are detachably affixed to the pouch. The straps pass over the shoulders of the patient on both sides of the head with free ends extending downwardly over the back of the patient to be affixed to the clothing of the patient much in the manner of suspenders. Both of the straps have length-adjusting devices that allow the length of the straps to be adjusted in accordance with the desired position and angle of the pouch. The free ends may be attached to the belt of the patient at the patient's back with connecting devices that clamp onto the belt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Inventor: Donald Bittar
  • Patent number: 7704121
    Abstract: A one piece maternity support for the relief of discomfort associated with the progressive changes in the human body associated with a normal pregnancy. The support has a body encircling upper band for the support of the lower uterine segment and a lower belt having a pair of tensionable arms that connect to the upper band to support the lumbar region and offer counter rotational force for the anteriorly tilted pelvis. The position of the lower arms is optimized to apply a constant pressure to the muscles above the hip joint providing relief from so-called hip pain associated with many pregnancies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Inventor: Mary Ellen Goodman
  • Patent number: 6979303
    Abstract: An arm sling apparatus includes cooperating suspension system and support frame wherein the weight of a user's arm may be transferred from the shoulder to the torso. The arm sling apparatus allows the shoulder to rest and/or heal by temporarily relieving the shoulder of its lifting duties preferably without touching and therefore without stressing or fatiguing the neck or shoulder regions. A suspension system comprising one or more suspending devices engages and supports the arm in conjunction with a rigid, stable support frame from which it is hung. The support frame preferably comprises a stiff, but comfortable, waist belt and a rigid upright support arm adapted to accept the weight applied to the suspension system and center this weight about the hips. The support frame provides sufficient clearance for the shoulder and neck regions so that pressure is not applied to these areas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Inventor: Bernadette Jestrabek-Hart
  • Patent number: 6897167
    Abstract: The thermal foot cover is an article of footwear to be worn when the wearer's foot is subjected to cold temperatures. The thermal foot cover has an upper cover portion attached to a bottom panel to define a cavity for insertion of a wearer's shoe-encased or boot-encased foot or a wearer's foot. The upper cover portion and the bottom panel are made from a material comprising an outer covering, a radiant barrier and a inner covering where the radiant barrier is sandwiched between the outer cover and the inner cover. The radiant barrier is the insulation system of the thermal foot cover, which reflects the wearer's body heat back inside the footwear and keeps the wearer's feet warm. The thermal foot cover is flexible, lightweight and readily washable due to the use of the radiant barrier as the insulation system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Inventor: Dave W. Gordon
  • Patent number: 6877167
    Abstract: A protective guard includes an at least substantially waterproof drape and a collar that extends upwardly from a central opening in the drape and leaves at least a substantial portion of a patient's back and chest exposed for bathing. The drape covers a catheter exit site in or near a patient's neck. In a preferred embodiment, the drape includes first and second arm portions, which cover first and second shoulder and surround at least a portion of an arm extending therefrom. The collar extends upwardly from a central opening in the drape and encircles a patient's neck. A slit in the collar permits the guard to slip past the patient's head. Fasteners disposed on either side of the slit secure the guard to itself at an overlapping seam formed by overlapped portions of the drape. The protective guard is easily fastened and released and can be donned with one hand. It is also reversible so that the slit may be positioned either at the front or the rear of the patient's body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2005
    Assignee: A.B. Korkor Medical Inc.
    Inventor: Adel B. Korkor
  • Patent number: 6691327
    Abstract: A shoulder protective device for protecting the shoulder and arm of the user when carrying heavy objects upon one's shoulder. The shoulder protective device includes a band of material being adapted to be worn about a portion of a user's upper torso and about a shoulder of a user; and also includes a sleeve being attached to the band of material; and further includes a protective assembly being attached to the band of material and including an outer layer of material and an inner layer of material; and further includes a plurality of pads being attached to the band of material and the protective assembly for providing comfort for the user wearing the band of material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventor: John Meyer
  • Publication number: 20030196242
    Abstract: A protective guard includes an at least substantially waterproof drape and a collar that extends upwardly from a central opening in the drape and leaves at least a substantial portion of a patient's back and chest exposed for bathing. The drape covers a catheter exit site in or near a patient's neck. In a preferred embodiment, the drape includes first and second arm portions, which cover first and second shoulder and surround at least a portion of an arm extending therefrom. The collar extends upwardly from a central opening in the drape and encircles a patient's neck. A slit in the collar permits the guard to slip past the patient's head. Fasteners disposed on either side of the slit secure the guard to itself at an overlapping seam formed by overlapped portions of the drape. The protective guard is easily fastened and released and can be donned with one hand. It is also reversible so that the slit may be positioned either at the front or the rear of the patient's body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2003
    Publication date: October 23, 2003
    Applicant: A.B. Korkor Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: Adel B. Korkor
  • Patent number: 6571395
    Abstract: A protective guard includes an at least substantially waterproof drape and a collar that extends upwardly from a central opening in the drape and leaves at least a substantial portion of a patient's back and chest exposed for bathing. The drape covers a catheter exit site in or near a patient's neck. In a preferred embodiment, the drape includes first and second arm portions, which cover first and second shoulder and surround at least a portion of an arm extending therefrom. The collar extends upwardly from a central opening in the drape and encircles a patient's neck. A slit in the collar permits the guard to slip past the patient's neck. Fasteners disposed on either side of the slit secure the guard to itself at an overlapping seam formed by overlapped portions of the drape. The protective guard is easily fastened and released and can be donned with one hand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: A. B. Korkor Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: Adel B. Korkor
  • Patent number: 6544205
    Abstract: A clavicle bandage having two adjustable-length strips made from non-extensible material, wherein the free ends of the strips form loops about a ring and wherein the other ends of the strips fasten to the ring by a material pocket and are fixed at an angle relative to one another by the material pocket. The ring has a flat, elliptical cross-section and freely rotates within the material pocket. The strips are fixed at an angle from sixth to eighty degrees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Assignee: Beiersdorf AG
    Inventors: Thorsten Herzberg, John Shanahan
  • Patent number: 6523227
    Abstract: A shoulder mounted cord retaining clip including a shoulder pad portion positionable on a shoulder of a user. The shoulder pad portion has a forward end and a rearward end. A forward length of line adjustably extends outwardly of the forward end of the shoulder pad portion for attaching to a segment of the cord of the electrical appliance. A rearward length of line adjustably extends outwardly of the rearward end of the shoulder pad portion for attaching to a segment of the cord of the electrical appliance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Inventor: Lance Goodall
  • Patent number: 6387067
    Abstract: A shoulder support device for facilitating correct posture of the shoulders of a wearer of the device. The shoulder support device comprising an elongate base member having first and second opposed free ends. Each of the first and second opposed free ends having a mating attachment component to facilitate releasable coupling of the first and second opposed free ends with one another. A spine support area is provided along an intermediate portion the elongate base member. A first end of a pair of spaced apart shoulder strap members is secured to the elongate base member, adjacent the spine support area, and the second end of each of the shoulder strap members is secured to the elongate base member spaced from the spine support area such that the second ends of each of the shoulder strap members are located in communication with an arm pit of the wearer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Inventor: Jeanne E. Hebert
  • Patent number: 6295655
    Abstract: A protective guard worn to protect the surface of the shoulders from the pressure caused by straps and load of a bag. The protective guard has a shell made of a durable rigid material, shaped and configured for attaching to the upper and rear surfaces of the shoulders and the lower rear neck surface of the wearer. The shell has an inner surface making contact with the surfaces of the wearer and an outer surface making contact with the bag. A pad means is attached to the inner surface at predetermined regions corresponding to the upper and rear surfaces of the shoulders of the wearer. Located on the outer surface of the shell is a means to prevent slippage of the shoulder straps when placed on the shell. There are several means to prevent slippage of the shoulder straps on the shell. One means is a channel defined by a pair of ridges formed on the outer surface of the shell. In the alternative, the means can be a patch of rubbery material attached at predetermined regions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2001
    Inventor: Joon Hee Johe
  • Patent number: 6202214
    Abstract: A padded shoulder protection device for essentially protecting against micro-trauma to one's shoulder due to carrying objects on the shoulder. The padded shoulder protection device includes a semi-flexible layered and padded member having four projecting portions, a neck-receiving edge, and further includes eight straps and four buckles with four of the straps being attached to respective projecting portions and the remaining four straps being attached either to a padded belt member or to four strap members with each strap member having a respective suspender-like clip attached thereto. The semi-flexible layered and padded member includes a layer of foam material, a layer of plastic material, and a layer of either rubber or leather.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Inventor: Edward A. Light
  • Patent number: 6190340
    Abstract: A harness that fully supports the user's back, shoulders, and arms while working in a seated position. The harness provides support without restricting the user's freedom of movement. It is fully adjustable and conforms to a wide variety of user body types. Finally, it provides a safe, comfortable, and economic means of supporting the user's back, arms, and shoulders, allowing them to work more comfortably and possibly more efficiently.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Assignee: Phillip and Joanne Borell
    Inventor: Jan Borell
  • Patent number: 6161226
    Abstract: A baseball chest protector with shoulder guards extending over both shoulders of the wearer, to which adjustable straps are attached. The shoulder guards extend just slightly outward of the wearer's shoulder, such that the shoulder is protected but the guard does not interfere with the wearer's throwing motion. The chest protector of the present invention should rest on the wearer's shoulders, ensuring that the protector is properly positioned even when the straps are not perfectly adjusted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Assignee: Everything Baseball Limited, Ltd.
    Inventors: Thomas Anthony Serewicz, Nicholas Sam Gallucci
  • Patent number: 6106493
    Abstract: A brace for supporting a wearer's shoulder joint during movement is made of elastic material and comprises a torso strap, a shoulder strap, upper and lower stabilizing straps and a vertical support strap. The torso strap is securable around the torso of the wearer generally across the lower end of the rib cage. The shoulder strap is secured at a first end to the torso strap on a side opposite the shoulder to be supported. The shoulder strap extends across the front of the wearer, over and around the shoulder to be supported and across the back of the wearer and is removably securable at a second end to the torso strap along the side opposite the supported shoulder. The shoulder strap is secured to the torso strap under tension to provide the desired support to the shoulder. The upper and lower stabilizing straps cooperate with the shoulder strap to form a shoulder receiving pocket in the shoulder strap and help hold the shoulder strap in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Inventor: Michael David Rozell
  • Patent number: 6101637
    Abstract: The system of this invention describes shoulder pads for workers who need to carry heavy or cumbersome objects safely, comfortably and with ease. It comprises an interchangeable shoulder pad made from a comfortable and wear resistant material with a pair of front and back adjustable straps that connect to a worker's belt, pants or other clothing on the waist of the worker. The interchangeable nature of this pad permits the same pad to be used on the left or right side. The pad is specially contoured for the neck and shoulder and underlined with suade so as not to slip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Inventor: Wilfred E. Lessard
  • 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: 6079055
    Abstract: A protective shoulder pad which is adapted to be worn on either the right or left shoulder of a wearer for supporting a load, and which includes a protective pad having a band forming an underarm loop connected adjacent one side thereof, and a pair of body straps connected adjacent the opposite side of the protective pad with the free ends of the body strap having complementary fastening means for securing the free ends of the body straps in a readily releasable manner so that when worn, one arm of the wearer is slipped through the underarm loop with the body strap being diagonally extended along the back and front of the wearer so that the free ends are secured in a readily releasable manner on the front of the wearer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2000
    Assignee: Ski-Eze Products International, Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth G. Mencel
  • Patent number: 6071175
    Abstract: A device for providing natal support and alleviating pain in a pregnant woman includes a support member, an apron, and a strap, with the strap removably attached to the apron. The strap may be removed after installation and adjustment of the natal support on the pregnant woman. The natal support alleviates pain by providing support to the lower abdomen and distributing the weight of the fetus and enlarged uterus over a large portion of the lower back. Additionally, the strap facilitates installation and proper positioning of the natal support on the human body by holding the apron in place on the back while it is being adjusted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Assignee: CMO, Inc.
    Inventor: Loren F. Working, III
  • Patent number: 6048253
    Abstract: A support apparatus having a main panel constructed of substantially elastic material and dimensioned to be positionable about a portion of the body of a person in supporting relation thereto, such as the protruding region of the abdomen of a pregnant woman; and fasteners operable releasibly to secure the main panel in the supporting relation to provide such support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2000
    Inventor: Marilyn M. Larsen
  • Patent number: 5765224
    Abstract: A torso-shape controlling, lower back supporting garment that comprises a garment having control fabric panel portions adapted to extend in waist shape controlling relation to torso front, back and sides; the control fabric panel portions including zones positioned to be generally rigid at the torso front and back and to yieldably resiliently stretch generally horizontally at the torso sides, whereby support is provided at the lower back, and an hourglass torso shape at the waist is produced; and auxiliary structure extending in proximity to certain of said first control fabric panel portions to enhance the waist shape controlling functioning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1998
    Inventor: Christina Erteszek Johnson
  • Patent number: 5702286
    Abstract: A prenatal cradle (10) or undergarment for use by obese individuals and pregnant women for supporting a baby, surrounding amniotic fluid, and associated matter in a pregnant woman's uterus (12) by redistributing around the hips, torso and lower back downward and forward pressures exerted by the baby without inward movement towards the neck. The prenatal cradle (10) relieves strain on the woman's lower back (22), abdomen (24), and groin area (26). The prenatal cradle (10) includes an adjustable womb band (28) for supporting the uterus (12), and a pair of torso bands (36, 38) for redistributing the uterine weight across the torso. Connecting the womb band (28) to the pair of torso bands (36, 38) is a pair of associated side members (76, 78) which distribute the uterine weight around the trunk of the woman, separating the torso bands (36, 38) and exposing the abdomen (24) to relieve groin pressure without imposing constricting inward pressure on the uterus (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1997
    Inventors: Christine L. Seering, Mona E. Seering
  • Patent number: 5685831
    Abstract: A back brace having interlocking frame members jointed at a first pivotal hinge connection where the two vertically disposed members join the other member. The two vertical members join each other at an adjustable second hinged connection. Above the first hinge connection the upper vertical member may be removed to make the brace appear less conspicuous. Four straps with end hook and loop members allow attachment of the brace to a user's forehead, shoulders and waist.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 11, 1997
    Inventor: John P. Floyd
  • Patent number: 5623729
    Abstract: The chest protector of the present invention consists of an upper guard portion and a lower padding portion, the upper guard portion comprising a right and a left shoulder guard panels, a chest guard panel and a plurality of abdomen guard panels, each being injection molded from engineering plastic and provided with a plurality of holes, so that respective guard panels are connected with one another by means of a plurality of connecting plates and the buttons provided on the connecting plates.When the upper guard portion is assembled into a proper shape and size, the lower padding portion with corresponding shape and size can be selected with the upper guard portion being laid on the lower padding portion, and then having rivets driven into those holes on the guard panels not occupied by the buttons of the connecting plates, so that the upper guard portion is secured to the lower padding portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 29, 1997
    Inventor: Mike C. Chen
  • Patent number: 5571039
    Abstract: This invention pertains to an abdominal support for the extended abdomen of a person who is pregnant or has a large abdomen due to obesity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 5, 1996
    Inventor: Donna M. Ford
  • Patent number: 5564131
    Abstract: A buckle which includes a first member having a nipple around which a second member can rotate in the plane of the buckle. The buckle can advantageously be used to couple a back supporting belt to a shoulder strap of a pair of suspenders or the like. The rotational movement of one buckle member with respect to the other buckle member in the plane of the buckle facilitates adjustment of the shoulder straps to accommodate the various shoulder widths of different wearers. The first and second buckle members are adapted to breakaway or decouple when the buckle is subjected to a load or force greater than a predetermined level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1996
    Assignee: National Molding Corp.
    Inventor: Joseph Anscher
  • Patent number: 5537690
    Abstract: A torso-shape controlling, lower back supporting garment comprising a garment having control fabric panel portions adapted to extend in waist shape controlling relation to torso front, back and sides; the control fabric panel portions include zones positioned to provide rigidity at the torso front and back and to yieldably resiliently stretch generally horizontally at the torso sides, whereby support is provided at the lower back, and an hourglass torso shape at the waist is produced. Convexly curved stays are located to transfer tensioning loading to at least two of the generally rigid zones of the panel portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1996
    Inventor: Christina E. Johnson
  • Patent number: 5520620
    Abstract: A shoulder brace is provided with two support members each attached at one of its ends to a belt of adjustable length worn about the torso of the user. The support members extend diagonally upwardly across opposite sides of the body whereby their opposite ends are positioned outwardly and above the user's torso. The support members pass through a sleeve adapted to rest on the shoulder of an arm to be supported by the brace. The respective opposite ends of the support members are joined to a support bar from which an arm-receiving sleeve is suspended. By adjustment of the lengths of the support members and by selective bending of said members, the shoulder brace is adapted to fit different body sizes and to suspend the user's arm in a desired position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1996
    Inventor: Lanny L. Johnson
  • Patent number: 5503621
    Abstract: A body brace for use in the treatment of scoliosis and other spinal abnormalities includes a bottom shell sized and shaped to be fitted around a patient's pelvis, a middle shell sized and shaped to be fitted around the patient's abdomen and a top shell sized and shaped to be fitted around the back and the sides of the patient's rib cage. The top shell is made up of a left segment and a right segment. The middle shell is connected to the bottom shell by first and second lockable swivel mechanisms which provide for lateral, front and back, and rotational movement of the middle shell relative to the bottom shell. The left segment of the top shell is connected to the middle shell by a third lockable swivel mechanism which provides for lateral, front and back, and rotational movement of the left segment of the top shell relative to the middle shell independent of the right segment of the top shell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 2, 1996
    Assignee: Boston Brace International, Inc.
    Inventor: John J. Miller
  • Patent number: 5464137
    Abstract: The apparatus relieves the weight of a garment from a wearer's shoulders and transfers the weight to the wearer's midsection, including the hips. The apparatus comprises a belt adjustable to conform to the wearer's waist, an adjustable length upright attached to the belt and supporting shoulder pads at the ends of a beam extending from the upper end of the upright. The upright is adjusted so that the shoulder pads are close to but not touching the wearer's shoulders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 7, 1995
    Inventor: Hossain A. Shirdavani
  • Patent number: 5451200
    Abstract: A body brace or orthotic device to be worn on the torso of a patient for the correction of spinal abnormalities and comprising a hard outer shell and a soft inner liner semi-permanently attached thereto and adapted for easy removal for cleaning, repair, or replacement, and permitting cutting away of openings at strategic locations wherein pressure on the torso of the patient is not desired, while retaining the soft integrity Of the liner to achieve desired control of pressure sensitive areas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 19, 1995
    Assignee: Spinal Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Salvatore F. LaBella, James F. J. Tierney