Abstract: In device for placing a toe of a patient's foot in traction may broadly include a shoe portion (e.g., a sole, counter, and strap(s)); a toe attachment apparatus (e.g., a Chinese finger trap) having a cable extending therefrom; a pulley, with the cable wrapped about the pulley; and an apparatus (e.g., a ratchet, an actuator, and the like) configured to apply tension to the cable to create traction in the toe. A second actuator may adjust lateral positioning of the pulley relative to the shoe portion to set a desired angle of adduction for the traction provided to the toe by the cable. A meter may be coupled to the cable to indicate an amount of tension provided thereto. Another actuator may adjust elevational positioning of the pulley relative to the shoe portion to set a desired angle of dorsiflexion for the traction provided to the toe by the cable.

Abstract: A footwear includes a shoe sole, a shoe upper member coupled on the shoe sole, and a toe guider device which includes first and second spacers. Bottom ends of the first and second toe spacers are retained by the shoe sole while top ends of the first and second toe spacers are retained by the shoe upper. The first toe spacer is retained for being worn between first and second toes of a wearer. The second toe spacer is retained for being worn between second and third toes of the wearer.

Abstract: Provided is an device for stabilizing the center of gravity and/or correcting distortion of the body simply through wearing of the appliance on a toe and conducting normal activities. The following invention is provided by the present invention. A cylindrical correction device that corrects distortion of the body, wherein: the correction device has inward-facing triangular-prism-shaped protrusions on the inner circumference; the triangles are inclined in one direction with respect to the circumference; and the correction device comprises a cylindrical elastic material having a diameter of 7-20 mm, a width of 5-10 mm, a thickness of 1-3 mm, and a hardness of 4-6.

Abstract: An assembly for mounting a prosthetic nail for a human or animal digit. The assembly includes at least one transdermal anchor with an interior portion and an exterior portion. The interior portion may be positioned within tissue of the digit, and the exterior portion may extend outside the tissue of the digit. In another aspect, an exterior base may be positioned on a nail bed of the digit, and the exterior base may be coupled to the exterior portion of the transdermal anchor. The base may include a mount for removably a prosthetic nail to the base.

Abstract: Disclosed is a digit wrapping assembly configured to wrap and compress digits in a foot or hand. A method of using the digit wrapping assembly may include, in a positioning state of the digit wrapping assembly, the first digit being vertically offset from the second and third digits, and in a securing state of the digit wrapping assembly, the first, second, and third digits being substantially vertically aligned with one another. The digit wrapping assembly may be configured to compress at least two, three, or four digits.

Abstract: An ankle-strengthening device includes a stretchable band including a first portion and a second portion. A tubular portion has a proximal end and distal end. The tubular portion is fixed between the first portion of the stretchable band and the second portion of the stretchable band. The proximal end of the tubular portion has at an opening configured to receive a toe of a user. A fastener portion has a first attachment point and a second attachment point, such that, when fixed on the lower leg of the user, the first attachment point of the fastener is configured to connect with the first portion of the stretchable band, and the second attachment point of the fastener portion is configured to connect with the second portion of the stretchable band, thereby creating resistance to the user through dorsiflexion and/or pronation upon application of the device by the user.

Abstract: This document presents a footwear article that covers the foot and ankle of the wearer. The footwear object protects the wearer's feet and ankle while improving blood circulation, and supporting the toes, arches, and ankles of the wearer. The footwear object is manufactured of layered fabrics that are knitted and/or woven from both man-made and natural fibers. The footwear object has portions providing compression, padding, and grip to provide support and prevent injury to the wearer's feet and ankles.

Abstract: Described is an exercise tool. More particularly, it is a therapy and exercise tool specifically devised as a foot-therapy and toe-aligning device to align, separate, and stretch toes. The foot-therapy and toe-aligning device comprises a frame with a plurality of posts connected with the frame. The device is formed of an elastic material such that a user may place at least one of the plurality of posts between a user's toes and pull the post to stretch and elongate the post between the toes. Upon release, the elastic material of the post causes the post to attempt to return to its original shape, thereby causing it to expand out and conform its shape to fit snugly against the user's toes. Additionally, the elastic material allows the toe posts to be positioned and maintained at numerous locations between the user's toes for customizable positioning between the toes.

Abstract: A hallux valgus sandal for treating at least great toe malpositions, having a sole element with an outsole and a footbed, with a great toe strap section for the lateral positional fixing of the great toe and with a holding strap section, which holds the sandal on the foot when the sandal is worn. The wrap length of the great toe strap section can be changed in such a way that an adjustable corrective force can be exerted on the great toe. A metatarsus strap section is also provided, the wrap length of which can be changed, wherein both strap sections can be coupled to each other such that a metatarsus corrective force acting laterally on the metatarsal bone can be varied to press the metatarsal bone on the foot inner side in the lateral direction towards the foot outer side.

Abstract: A footwear includes a shoe sole, a shoe upper member coupled on the shoe sole, and a toe guider device which includes first and second spacers. Bottom ends of the first and second toe spacers are retained by the shoe sole while top ends of the first and second toe spacers are retained by the shoe upper. The first toe spacer is retained for being worn between first and second toes of a wearer. The second toe spacer is retained for being worn between second and third toes of the wearer.

Abstract: A foot stretching device with simultaneous toe spacing and dorsiflexion capabilities, where the toe-spacing elements are continuously adjustable along flexible guiderails to custom fit individual foot geometry, while the method of applying tension between the ankle and the forefoot via inelastic material to enable dorsiflexion also secures the toe spacing elements to the user's foot through a linkage with the ankle cuff of the device. Exchanging the inelastic material for one which is elastic and stretchable allows plantarflexion exercises to be performed with resistance.

Abstract: Apparatus for monitoring arterial pulse waves includes at least one separator ring receivable on at least one digit of a limb effective to tether a feed tube supplying a measuring device to a digit. Each separator ring is of a compliant material, of a non-interrupted tubular configuration, designed to avoid interference of blood supply to or from the digit to which it is applied, and of sufficient resilience and thickness to enable it to distance each adjacent digit from a digit mounted tubular socket probe so as to prevent contact between the tubular socket probe and adjacent digits, without interference to blood circulation, irrespective of the thickness of the digit on which the separator ring is received.

Abstract: A physical rehabilitation device for the treatment of a medical condition of the foot known as plantar fasciitis includes a splint which is connected to the toe and ankle of a patient. The splint can be used in a method for treating plantar fasciitis known as “dynamic splinting”. This device allows the patient to bend the ankle and thus dynamically change the flexion in the foot of the patient. The device itself is unique, but the method of treatment made possible by this device is also unique.

Abstract: A toe corrector is provided including: a floor part; correction protrusions protruding between each toe from an upper surface of the floor part to correct the toes; a connection part for connecting the upper ends of the correction protrusions so that correction protrusions are put on toes to be fixed; and light emitting units for emitting light by independently generating electricity, which are provided inside the correction protrusions and on the floor part.

Abstract: Low profile, contoured footplates that maintain tension in the plantar fascia without causing undue discomfort to the user are suggested for treatment of plantar fasciitis and other heel pain. The footplates may be ambidextrous and thus used to support either the left and right plantar fascia. The footplates can be used in assemblies for securing the footplate to the wearer's foot, as well as systems for iterative treatment of plantar fasciitis and other heel pain.

Abstract: A device for treatment of plantar fasciitis is provided. The device includes a foot strap, a thigh strap and a resistance band. The foot strap includes an inner surface and an outer surface. The inner surface of the foot strap is sized to secure around a foot of a user in between the ankle and toes. The thigh strap also includes an inner surface and an outer surface. The inner surface of the thigh strap is sized to secure around a thigh of the user. The resistance band includes a first end attached to the foot strap and a second end attached to the thigh strap. To treat the plantar fascia, the user bends their foot downwards and curls the toes against the resistance of the resistance band.

Abstract: A foot drop countering assembly includes a band that is configured to extend around a person's leg below and adjacent to a knee of the leg. A tether has a first end and a second end. The first end is attached to the band. An engagement member is attached to the second end of the tether. The engagement member is configured to engage a person's foot to pull the foot upwardly towards the knee.

Abstract: Disclosed is an assembly for in vivo alignment of two or more bones in a living body. The assembly comprises a cannulated sleeve (132) configured to secure in a bore (133) in a first bone, a mesh body (136) having a proximal arm configured to be engaged by the cannulated sleeve, and a distal arm configured to be secured to a portion of a second bone. The assembly further includes a fastener (138) configured to secure the distal arm to the portion of the second bone.

Abstract: A sock assembly for correcting a deformed toe of a foot of a person, including a sock wearable on an at least a part of the foot, a strap connected to the sock and wearable on an at least a part of the foot and wrappable on an at least a part of the deformed toe as the sock it worn on the foot, consequently applying a corrective force on the deformed toe.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to therapeutic footwear such as sandals, conventional shoes, and corrective inserts that may be inserted into conventional shoes. Specifically, the therapeutic footwear may be used for maintaining, correcting, or repositioning the great toe to decrease pressure on the first metatarsal-phalangeal joint or bunion. Additional therapeutic features may include spreading of the wearer's toes, supporting the wearer's arch to control excessive pronation, and providing sustained heel cord stretch at rest, during ambulation, pedicure, and before, during, or after medical treatment.

Abstract: Described is an exercise tool. More particularly, it is a therapy and exercise tool specifically devised as a foot-therapy and toe-aligning device to align, separate, and stretch toes. The foot-therapy and toe-aligning device comprises a frame with a plurality of posts connected with the frame. The device is formed of an elastic material such that a user may place at least one of the plurality of posts between a user's toes and pull the post to stretch and elongate the post between the toes. Upon release, the elastic material of the post causes the post to attempt to return to its original shape, thereby causing it to expand out and conform its shape to fit snugly against the user's toes. Additionally, the elastic material allows the toe posts to be positioned and maintained at numerous locations between the user's toes for customizable positioning between the toes.

Abstract: Described is an exercise tool. More particularly, it is a therapy and exercise tool specifically devised as a foot-therapy and toe-aligning device to align, separate, and stretch toes. The foot-therapy and toe-aligning device comprises a frame with a plurality of posts connected with the frame. The device is formed of an elastic material such that a user may place at least one of the plurality of posts between a user's toes and pull the post to stretch and elongate the post between the toes. Upon release, the elastic material of the post causes the post to attempt to return to its original shape, thereby causing it to expand out and conform its shape to fit snugly against the user's toes. Additionally, the elastic material allows the toe posts to be positioned and maintained at numerous locations between the user's toes for customizable positioning between the toes.

Abstract: An interdigital pad for toes having a larger diameter engaging ring fitted on the big toe, a smaller diameter engaging ring fitted on the fourth toe, a base connecting said engaging rings and positioned on the sole of the foot, a projection fitted between and caught by the second and third toes, said base and two engaging rings forming an arched edge contacting the roots of respective toes, and a thickness of a lower ring of said larger diameter engaging ring and a thickness of the base of the second toe being thicker than a thickness of a portion located from the third to the fifth toes, so a height from the floor surface at a side of the little toe and fourth toe is a higher than at a side of the big toe.

Abstract: A hallux valgus brace has an L-shape with a downward, pry arm portion and a horizontal, lever arm portion. The pry arm portion inserts in the interspace between a wearer's big and second toe. The lever arm portion overlies the second and third knuckles of at least the second through fourth toes of the wearer. An applied force on the lever arm portion translates into a force against the big toe prying it from out and from under the wearer's second toe. The applied force is typically supplied by the wearer's shoe or sandal.

Abstract: An orthopedic device is provided for treatment of Hallux Valgus. The orthopedic device includes a main part (3) in the form of an elastic sleeve, intended to exert a restraining force (F1) locally on the metatarsals (M1, M2, M3, M4, M5), a distal part (5) for encapsulating the big toe, and a connecting band (6) between the main part (3) and the distal part (5), intended to be tensioned in order to exert a lateral force (F2) on the big toe that is directed inwards in relation to the axis ? of the human body. A pad (4) is secured to the inner wall of the device, creating a localized increased thickness, and arranged to be positioned against the first metatarsal of the big toe. The pad acts as an anchor during the application of the lateral force, in different positions of the foot, thus allowing the tensile force on the connecting band (6) to be adjusted. The combined restraining and lateral forces serve to re-align the joint during walking.

Abstract: A digital strapping system comprising an alternatively configurable hallux strap system for positioning and exercising a hallux of a foot, and/or an alternatively configurable osteotomy strap system for positioning and exercising a second and/or third digit of a foot.

Abstract: A ring splint that includes a first loop, a second at least partial loop, an elongated support and optionally a third at least partial loop, the first loop and the second at least partial loops being attached to the elongated support such that the elongated support contacts the ventral surface (e.g., palmar or plantar) of a phalange (e.g., finger or toe) when in position on a phalange.

Abstract: An article of footwear with straps is disclosed. The article includes provisions for releasably securing the straps to a sole structure of the article. End portions of the straps are provided with separable portions that can be individually inserted through apertures in the sole structure. In addition, a thong portion includes separable portions that can be individually inserted through an aperture in the sole structure.

Abstract: A fastener cartridge assembly for an end effector of a surgical instrument can comprise a cartridge body, a deformable tube, and a fastener moveable between an initial position and a fired position. The deformable tube can be longitudinally positioned along a length of the cartridge body. When the fastener is moved to the fired position, the fastener can compress a portion of the deformable tube. The deformable tube can comprise a resilient material such that deformation of the deformable tube generates a restoring force. The deformable tube can comprise a lattice of strands woven together to form a tube wall. Further, the deformable tube can be bioabsorbable and can hold a therapeutic agent. The fastener cartridge assembly can comprise multiple, substantially parallel deformable tubes positioned side-by-side and/or within each other.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to therapeutic footwear such as sandals, conventional shoes, and corrective inserts that may be inserted into conventional shoes. Specifically, the therapeutic footwear may be used for maintaining, correcting, or repositioning the great toe to decrease pressure on the first metatarsal-phalangeal joint or bunion. Additional therapeutic features may include spreading of the wearer's toes, supporting the wearer's arch to control excessive pronation, and providing sustained heel cord stretch at rest, during ambulation, pedicure, and before, during, or after medical treatment.

Abstract: Described is an exercise tool. More particularly, it is a therapy and exercise tool specifically devised as a foot-therapy and toe-aligning device to align, separate, and stretch toes. The foot-therapy and toe-aligning device comprises a frame with a plurality of posts connected with the frame. The device is formed of an elastic material such that a user may place at least one of the plurality of posts between a user's toes and pull the post to stretch and elongate the post between the toes. Upon release, the elastic material of the post causes the post to attempt to return to its original shape, thereby causing it to expand out and conform its shape to fit snugly against the user's toes. Additionally, the elastic material allows the toe posts to be positioned and maintained at numerous locations between the user's toes for customizable positioning between the toes.

Abstract: A convertible interchangeable post assembly for sandals/flip flop footwear. The post assembly allows for a variety of decorative toe post to be selectively available for a sandal toe post flip flop configuration by using an interchangeable toe post assembly that is removably inserted into a fixed receptacle within the sole of the footwear.

Abstract: A hammer toe treatment device to help uncurl a hammer toe and protect the toe including a base pad configured to extend in a neck portion of the between the toe mound and tip of the toe. The base pad including an arcuate top surface extending in the direction of the hammer toe and configured to produce a straightening force against the toe. The pad including a bottom surface generally opposite to the top surface that includes a generally flat surface configured to engage a shoe insole when the shoe is worn. The base pad further including a tubular toe sleeve fixed relative to the base pad and extending forwardly along a sleeve axis from a reward toe opening. The sleeve axis extending at a sleeve angle relative to the bottom surface and the sleeve being shaped to receive the hammer toe and cover a substantial portion of the toe.

Abstract: The toe wrap is a new, efficient and fashionably designed toe cast that replaces the traditional method of using tape to stabilize and immobilize a broken toe(s), in a fashionable way, and allow users to accessorize with their attire. The toe wrap wraps around or “hugs” the injured toe and its “buddy toe” (neighboring toe(s)). The interior consists of a soft foam cushion for comfort around the toe(s). The exterior consists of a firm and soft Velcro for stabilization, flexibility and adjust-ability that enables the perfect fit around the toes. The toe wrap is similar to a jewelry piece or decorative accessory, and contains various selections of jewels, glitter, quotes and phrases, patterns and colors, and pictures that enhance the appeal, and allows users of both genders to accessorize and match their attire with various designed toe wraps.

Abstract: A foot pain relief device may comprise a pad configured be positioned under at least a portion of the first metatarsophalangeal joint and a portion of the phalange of the hallux. The pad has an upper surface for positioning toward the foot and may include a first portion configured for positioning under the first metatarsophalangeal joint of the foot. The first portion has central and peripheral regions, with a section of the upper surface on the central portion being depressed and a section of the upper surface on the peripheral portion being raised. The pad includes a second portion configured for positioning under the phalange of the hallux when the first portion is positioned under the first metatarsophalangeal joint. A region of the upper surface formed by the second portion is relatively higher than a region of the upper surface of the pad formed by the first portion.

Abstract: An orthopedic device for correcting malpositions of toes comprises a flexible splint extending along the foot's inner side. A corrective force towards the inner side of the foot can be exerted on the big toe by the flexible splint for medializing the big toe. The corrective force is influenced by the spring stiffness of the flexible splint which is configured as a hinged flexible splint flexible in the flexion or extension direction of the toes and has a hinge mechanism that has a pivot axis that corresponds approximately to the hinge axis of the main big toe. The device has a first annular brace that surrounds the mid-foot on the outside and surrounds the flexible splint and a second annular brace which surrounds the big toe and the flexible splint. A gel cushion connects to that side of the second hinged splint facing towards the foot's inner side.

Abstract: A device includes: a cylindrical body formed of an elastic material; and a slit formed along a longitudinal direction of the cylindrical body from one end to an opposite end of the cylindrical body, a distal end of a nail being inserted to be held in the slit. The cylindrical body includes: plural pairs of holding teeth plurally divided in the longitudinal direction of the cylindrical body by dividing grooves formed from the slit along a circumferential direction of the cylindrical body such that the holding teeth of each pair are opposed to each other across the slit to hold the distal end of the nail; and coupling pieces configured to couple adjacent ones of the holding teeth on an opposite side of the slit.

Abstract: An orthotic device having a thin, flexible material defining a plantar wall and lateral, medial and posterior sidewalls. A fastening mechanism releasably secures the lateral and medial sidewalls together. In some embodiments, the plantar wall defines a laterally extending distal trimline positioned distal of the first metatarsal head and proximal of the third, fourth and fifth metatarsal heads when the foot is secured within the orthotic device. In other embodiments, the device includes a heel post having a distal terminal edge with a medial portion extending into the arch proximal to the navicular bone and a lateral portion positioned proximal of the arch. In still other embodiments, an elongate strip of padding material projects inwardly below and proximate the medial malleosus and the lateral malleosus and is positioned to inhibit withdrawal of the calcaneous bone. A method of manufacturing an orthotic device is also disclosed.

Abstract: An injured musculoskeletal structure is mobilized relative to a juxtaposing support structure surface to isolate the injured musculoskeletal structure from forces transferred from adjoining musculoskeletal structures in order to alleviate pain, discomfort, inflammation, and further injury associated with such transferred forces.

Abstract: An apparatus and associated methods for preventing and treating toe curl, a condition where the toes of a patient curl toward the bottom of the foot, are provided. The apparatus provides a pad operable for engaging the bottom of the foot, and a strap that surrounds the foot and pad for applying a flexion force against the foot. The pad engages and supports at least one toe and prevents the toe or toes from curling toward the bottom of the foot. The device can be worn by a patient at night or during the day to treat or prevent toe curl. Additionally, the strap can include an elastic material for providing a tension force required for flexion stretching, and the strap can be attachable at one end to a removable leg band that can be securely and releasably positioned about the leg.

Abstract: Toe cushioning device for protecting a patient's toes. A toe cushion device includes two tubular cushions positioned in a transverse plane on the plantar side of a patient's toes during use. The toe cushion relieves foot or toe pain and conforms to the changing contour of the patient's foot and toes during use.

Abstract: A fixation device comprises a first clamping member having an adjustable clamping collar and a first curved support portion attached to the adjustable clamping collar. The first clamping member is adapted to receive a digit. The first curved support portion is adapted to support an inferior surface of a proximal phalanx of the digit. A distal member is adjustably attachable to the first clamping member. The distal member has a second curved support surface adapted to support an inferior surface of a distal phalanx of the digit and a curved distal end adapted to apply a compressive force in a proximal direction to a distal end of the distal phalanx.

Abstract: A cushioning device is capable of conforming to a variety of areas on the human foot. The device includes a thin, transparent, circular body of compliant material and a notch with angled sides and an extended base. The shape and placement of the notch allows the body to fit complex contours.

Abstract: A device and method for treating an ingrown nail condition is provided. The method prevents a phenol solution that is applied during a P & A procedure from coming into contact with the surrounding skin and nail bed. The device is essentially a plastic tube which comes in different lengths and widths and has a specially shaped aperture located at one end. A stick-shaped cotton applicator is inserted through the tube so as to ensure direct application of the phenol solution onto only the nail matrix. As a result, the phenol solution is prevented from coming into contact with the skin and nail bed, thereby reducing post-operative healing time, post-operative infection and post-operative pain.

Abstract: A wrist support worn by a user can diminish or eliminate pain, stress, or discomfort on the wrist and hand regions while lifting various objects of size and weight in a repetitive or non-repetitive manner. The specification describes embodiments of wrist support devices, including a wrist support device that can inhibit wrist extension and flexion, and ulnar and radial deviation, with a support that transfers forces around the wrist muscles and ligaments onto the larger and stronger muscles of the upper and lower arm.

Abstract: A sock assembly for correcting a deformed toe of a foot of a person, comprising a sock wearable on an at least a part of the foot, a strap connected to the sock and wearable on an at least a part of the foot and wrappable on an at least a part of the deformed toe as the sock it worn on the foot, consequently applying a corrective force on the deformed toe.

Abstract: A screw nail correcting apparatus used for treating ingrown nails seen in human feet and/or hands adapts to different nail widths and to the changes that may occur in time on the same nail and practically enables pulling of the nail with an amount of force complying with the requirement. The fact that the apparatus is not a single piece and that it can be mounted separately from both sides of the nail provides ease of use, and the screw mobile part in the middle thereof helps to adjust the tautness according to the requirement of the nail at the concerned moment.

Abstract: In accordance with the invention, briefly stated, a toe brace or support comprises a first sleeve and a second sleeve of elastic material joined at a peripheral edge. The first sleeve fits over the overlapping toe and the second sleeve is stretched under an adjacent toe and positioned onto a third toe for an overlapping toe condition. For an underlapping condition, the first sleeve fits over the underlapping toe and the second sleeve is stretched over an adjacent toe and then positioned onto the third toe. The device utilizes the force provided by having the second sleeve stretched to skip over an adjacent toe onto a third toe. The invention could equally be applied to fingers if desired.

Abstract: An orthotic apparatus positioned on the top of the forefoot that aligns and locks the first metatarsal in a plantarflexed position. A compressible orthotic pad positioned on the forefoot directly over the first metatarsal. When pressure is applied to the orthotic pad, the first metatarsal is forced down, unlocking the first metatarsal phalangeal joint and eliminating functional hallux limitus.

Abstract: Provided is a device for correcting hallux valgus using a shape memory alloy, which can be easily worn and exert a large and adequate correcting force to thereby correct hallux valgus or hallux varus. The device for correcting hallux valgus comprises a correcting plate formed of a shape memory alloy and attachment members for attaching the same, said attachment members each being formed of an elastic fabric bag, wherein said correcting plate is attached, from the inward direction of the hallux, to the foot body and to the hallux body respectively by the first attachment member and the second attachment member, and an opening is formed in the part of the correcting plate being in contact with the first metatarsophangeal joint so that the hallux is corrected by positioning outward using the periphery of the opening as a supporting point.