Abstract: A body joint support device capable of abutting against at least one body joint and accommodating in configuration both to the bending and non-bending states of the body joint includes a covering structure, a control device, and at least one electrode pad unit and/or inflatable airbag. The covering structure can be worn to the body joint, the electrode pad unit is provided on the inner surface of the covering structure, and the control device is provided on the outer surface of the covering structure. The control device can transmit current to the electrode pad unit so that the electrode pad unit outputs current to stimulate and/or heat muscles. When a body joint moves, the force produced by the covering structure can press the electrode pad unit tightly against the skin at the body joint, so that the electrode pad unit does not become loose due to frequent body joint movement.

Abstract: A compression appliance includes a textile-based wrap, an electronic assembly, and wiring comprising a single wire looped through the length of the wrap. The wiring comprises shape changing materials that are used to apply controllable intermittent sequential compression or constriction pressure to a body portion of a person when the compression appliance is wrapped around the body portion. The appliance can incorporate a pre-tensioning element that applies a known initial tension to the shape changing material prior to activation of a compression cycle. The wire can be then actuated according to a compression protocol to sequentially contract and release the wire. The proposed wiring and component configuration will need access to lower power and a reduced volume of hardware as compared to conventional compression appliances.

Abstract: A device (e.g., an article of athletic gear) comprising a post-molded expandable component, which is a part of the device that is configured to be expanded or has been expanded after being molded. This may allow the post-molded expandable component to have enhanced characteristics (e.g., be more shock-absorbent, lighter, etc.), to be cost-effectively manufactured (e.g., by using less material and/or making it in various sizes), and/or to be customized for a user (e.g., by custom-fitting it to the user).

Abstract: A taping method that follows a specific set of rules based on anatomical and physiological patterns in humans. This taping method causes a change in skeletal muscle tone in the human body when tape is directly applied to the skin of the human body over the targeted muscles. This taping method will inhibit the muscle tone in the affected motor units that are underneath the tape applied in a specific inhibition method. This taping method will elicit the muscle tone in the affected motor units that are surrounded by the tape applied in a specific elicitation method. There are three different types of elicitation method patterns based on muscle size or groups of muscles, secondarily to the length tension relationship required for a muscle contraction. There is only one type of inhibition method.

Abstract: A strap attachment for attaching a strap to a frame member in an orthopedic device including a retainer; a cable connected to the retainer having at least one segment arranged to be adjustably connected to a frame of a device; a connector securable to an end portion of the at least one segment of the cable, the connector arranged to engage the frame.

Abstract: The invention comprises an elastomeric athletic or orthopedic brace, support for a joint complex and is a network of interlinking elastomeric bands that extend radially from a hub member to support a joint in tension but provide for controlled hinging about an axis defined through the hub member. In particular, the brace is provided for an ankle.

Abstract: A method of splinting limbs of a patient by a single person and an elongated splint device, for use in the method. The splint device has a first track member and second and third elongated riding members movably held and positioned on the first track member. The riding members are freely movable on the first track member along a single longitudinal axis to obtain a proper length for splinting and a releasable locking mechanism is included to maintain the selected length. Two or more adjustable belt elements are removably connected to the riding member and serve to affix the splint device to a patient in a proper splinting position.

Abstract: A joint device of an orthosis or prosthesis or for an orthosis or prosthesis with an upper part, a lower part, a joint that comprises a joint axis, about which the upper part is mounted such that it can be swivelled relative to the lower part, and an actuator, which is designed to influence a swivelling of the upper part relative to the lower part. The actuator is mounted at an upper part fixing point on the upper part and at a lower part fixing point on the lower part. At least two joints are arranged between the upper part fixing point and the lower part fixing point, wherein the joints enable a swivelling of the actuator relative to the upper part fixing point and the lower part fixing point, and the joints each form at least one joint axis, at least one of which is not oriented parallel to the joint axis.

Abstract: Disclosed is a shoulder brace for immobilization of the arm and shoulder joint in neutral abduction/adduction. Methods of using the brace and methods of treating shoulder injuries are similarly provided.

Abstract: An inflatable therapy band with pocket comprises a circular band configured to removably be secured about a head. The band comprises four pockets for an ice pack and four inflatable air bladders. The pocket for the ice packets and air bladders alternate about the length of the band. An air pump is provided on the band which is in pneumatic communication with the air bladders.

Abstract: A medical apparatus having a bar, the bar having a slot extending laterally along the bar; and a plurality of hooks, wherein the bar is an arch bar that is configured to be attached to a mandible or a maxilla. Such medical apparatuses may also have a plurality of arch bar fasteners, wherein each arch bar fastener is a bone screw having a threaded shaft and a compound head, the compound head having a threaded bore configured to receive a set screw. The medical apparatus may be used in methods to fixate a maxillary or mandibulary arch, or to aid in reducing a fracture of the mandible or maxilla.

Abstract: A medical apparatus including a bar with a first attachment loop, a second attachment and a plurality of hooks, wherein the medical apparatus is an arch bar.

Abstract: A flexible energy absorbing system comprising a material coated, impregnated and/or combined with a strain rate sensitive substance is disclosed. It is formed so as to define repeating adjacent cells, each cell having a re-entrant geometry such that, upon impact, the material locally densifies at the impact site.

Abstract: A shoulder brace device includes: a torso band, an arm band, and a brace mechanism, such that the brace mechanism is configured to connect to the torso band and the arm band; wherein the brace mechanism includes a ball joint assembly, such that the shoulder brace device enables free range of movement; wherein the brace mechanism can be locked in place or tightened for reduced range of movement.

Abstract: A rear-entry ankle brace includes an elastomeric component defining an inside elbow channel configured to span an ankle joint. A channel opening extends the length of the elastomeric component for direct insertion on top of a leg. One or more leg straps are used to adjustably tension first and second rear edges of the channel opening toward one another and secure the brace to the lower leg. Two foot straps are used to adjustably tension first and second bottom edges of the channel opening toward one another and secure the brace to the mid-foot. The foot straps overlap on the bottom to define a plantar surface of the brace and cross over each other on the topside of the elastomeric component and are secured to a leg strap. A pair of stabilizing stirrups optionally are included on the inside surfaces of the elastomeric component and receive the malleoli.

Abstract: A device for correcting a forward head posture includes a front support configured to support a jaw of a user, a rear support configured to support a rear side of a cervical spine of the user, and an adjuster configured to adjust a distance between the front support and the rear support. As the adjuster is adjusted or operated, a lower jaw joint of the jaw of the user moves backward in a horizontal direction.

Abstract: An adjustable toe plate for an adjustable boot brace adapted to aid in stretching and supporting inflamed tissues and/or an inflamed plantar fascia within a person's foot while healing. The adjustable toe plate includes a toe plate adjustment mechanism to adjust the angle of the toe plate with respect to its foot portion, such that a person can adjust the position and angle of their toes during the healing process.

Abstract: A three-dimensional data creation method in a client device includes: creating three-dimensional data of a surrounding area of the client device using sensor information that is obtained through a sensor equipped in the client device and indicates a surrounding condition of the client device; estimating a self-location of the client device using the three-dimensional data created; and transmitting the sensor information obtained to a server or an other client device.

Abstract: A lightweight inflatable vest is provided with embedded listening devices. Once inflated, the vest enables a physician to hear amplified lung sounds and heart beats and rhythms of a patient wearing the vest, via connection to a smart phone application, through a patient portal, or the like. By using the device on a patient, a physician is provided with an accurate way to perform a respiratory and heart health assessment of the patient during a telehealth visit.

Abstract: A rear-entry ankle brace includes an elastomeric component defining an inside elbow channel configured to span an ankle joint. A channel opening extends the length of the elastomeric component for direct insertion on top of a leg. One or more leg straps are used to adjustably tension first and second rear edges of the channel opening toward one another and secure the brace to the lower leg. Two foot straps are used to adjustably tension first and second bottom edges of the channel opening toward one another and secure the brace to the mid-foot. The foot straps overlap on the bottom to define a plantar surface of the brace and cross over each other on the topside of the elastomeric component and are secured to a leg strap. A pair of stabilizing stirrups optionally are included on the inside surfaces of the elastomeric component and receive the malleoli.

Abstract: A sling includes a strap assembly, and arm support cushion that includes: an inflatable bladder, valve, and hand-squeezable pump. The bladder has first and second surfaces corresponding to contours of the wearer's torso and arm, respectively. The valve permits air flow into or out from the bladder. The resilient bulb-shaped pump is squeezed to inflate the bladder, through the valve being in fluid communication with a hose, providing greater reach of the hand pump for each of the wearer's left/right hands. Alternatively, the bladder has first and second valves positioned on first and second sides of the bladder permitting left/right-handed use of the pump. The bladder's interior includes high-inflation foam to suck air therein to increase a rate of inflation of the bladder from a deflated condition. Decoupling of the resilient pump permits repetitive squeezing as exercise by the user. and/or blowing of air onto the wearer's arm.

Abstract: A spinal orthosis includes a rear panel, and first and second belt members securing to the rear panel. The first and second belt members each define a first end secured to a first side of the rear panel and a second end having a foldable portion adapted to fold over a first surface of the first and second belt members and secure to the first surface to reduce a length of the first and second belt members. First and second front closures are secured to the second ends of the first and second belt members, respectively, and arranged for removably securing to one another to form a continuously circumferential loop with the rear panel and the first and second belt members. A kit or method may be provided for sizing the belt members with a sizing device for forming a predetermined distance between the first and second belt members.

Abstract: An orthosis, and components thereof, that may be used as a shoulder brace for immobilization of the arm and shoulder joint may comprise components that may allow for abduction, internal/external rotation and allow for flexion and extension simultaneously. Methods of using the brace and methods of using the brace and treating shoulder injuries are similarly provided.

Abstract: The arm brace supports the arm weight. The arm brace has a soft elastic arm pad that partially surrounds and protects the forearm. The arm pad is secured to a platform that is supported by a brace structure that is secured to the waist and the thigh of the patient. The weight of the arm can be supported by the hips. The brace is releasably coupled to a side of a patient's torso and thigh with belts. The brace provides rotational stability that immobilizes the arm regardless of the position of the patient. The brace has a hinge adjacent to the hip that allows the brace to immobilize the forearm while the patent dynamically moves during activities including: standing, walking, sitting, and lying down. The hand extends out from the brace so the user can perform activities such as eating, typing, and grasping.

Abstract: Devices and methods for treating carpal tunnel syndrome or DeQuervain's syndrome. The device may include a resting portion for receiving a user's forearm, first and second contact portions configured to contact the user's forearm, and a stretching mechanism configured to apply opposing forces to the first contact portion and the second contact portion to stretch the user's underlying tissue. The first contact portion may be configured to apply a compressive force to the user's forearm at a first location. The second contact portion may be configured to apply a compressive force to the user's forearm at a second location different than the first location.

Abstract: An orthodontic appliance may include an archwire and multiple orthodontic brackets. The archwire may fit within a human mouth and contain multiple male connectors. Each orthodontic bracket may have a configuration that facilitates attaching the orthodontic bracket to a single tooth. Each orthodontic bracket may allow one of the male connectors to be locked into the orthodontic bracket with a snapping action. The male connector may be unable to slide with respect to the orthodontic bracket after being locked in the orthodontic bracket. A manual unlocking action may allow the male connector to disengage from the orthodontic bracket.

Abstract: An orthodontic appliance may include an archwire and multiple orthodontic brackets. The archwire may fit within a human mouth and contain multiple male connectors. Each orthodontic bracket may have a configuration that facilitates attaching the orthodontic bracket to a single tooth. Each orthodontic bracket may allow one of the male connectors to be locked into the orthodontic bracket with a snapping action. The male connector may be unable to slide with respect to the orthodontic bracket after being locked in the orthodontic bracket. A manual unlocking action may allow the male connector to disengage from the orthodontic bracket.

Abstract: A lace tensioning device includes a housing component having an interior region, a first aperture, and a second aperture, and a spool component that is rotatably positionable within the interior region of the housing component. The spool component has a central cylindrical member and a lumen that extends through the central cylindrical portion. The spool component is rotatable within the interior region of the housing component to align one end of the lumen with the first aperture and to align an opposite end of the lumen with the second aperture to enable a lace to be inserted through the first aperture, the lumen, and the second aperture so that opposing ends of the lace are positioned exterior to the housing component. A knot may then be tied in the lace and the lace retracted to couple the lace with the housing component and spool component.

Abstract: A monolateral actuation system of a hip articulation is configured to be connected to an orthosis. The monolateral actuation system comprises a motor device arranged to provide assistive torque at a motor axis; a transmission device is connected to the motor axis and arranged for transferring the assistive torque onto an output axis corresponding to an axis of flexion-extension of the hip articulation and parallel to the motor axis. The transmission device includes a cable and first and second pulleys connected to one another by the cable. The first and second pulleys are arranged to extend relative to one another variably. A fixed frame is provided for connecting to the orthosis onto which the motor device and the transmission device are mounted.

Abstract: Improved customizable orthotic/prosthetic braces and a lightweight modular exoskeleton may aid individuals with lower limb motor impairment, including children. These customizable orthotic/prosthetic braces improve the strength and rigidity of such braces without a weight penalty. A structural frame is embedded between an inner shell and outer shell, which comprise materials that are easily moldable to conform to a user's limb. The lightweight modular exoskeleton system provides six (6) joint actuators, which are designed to be modular, that act as the active joints (e.g. hips, knees, and ankles) of the exoskeleton. Additionally, the exoskeleton may also provide four (4) passive joints for inversion/eversion of the legs and feet. Foot, crutch, and hip assemblies may also be provided for the exoskeleton.

Abstract: Described herein are systems and devices for providing an orthopedic walking brace having a housing and a sole with a curved distal surface. The housing is configured to encompass and immobilize a patient's ankle against flexion. The distal surface of the sole has a posterior region, a mid region, and an anterior region. The posterior region is configured to lie under a heel portion of the patient's foot and has a first anterior-posterior (AP) curvature that increases from a posterior side of the posterior region toward a middle portion of the posterior region and decreases from the middle portion of the posterior region toward the mid region. The mid region is configured to lie under a center portion of the patient's foot. The anterior region is configured to lie under an anterior metatarsal and toe portion of the patient's foot and has a second AP curvature.

Abstract: A system to augment motion via a battery-powered active exoskeleton boot is provided. The system can include a controller and an electric motor that generates torque about an axis of rotation of an ankle joint of the user. The controller can receive sensor data associated with activity of the exoskeleton boot during a first time interval. The controller can determine, based on the sensor data input into a model trained via a machine learning technique associated with one or more users performing one or more physical activities, one or more commands for a second time interval. The controller can transmit the one or more commands generated based on the model to the electric motor to cause the electric motor to generate torque about the axis of rotation of the ankle joint of the user in the second time interval.

Abstract: A medical apparatus including a bar with a first attachment loop, a second attachment and a plurality of hooks, wherein the medical apparatus is an arch bar.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a tourniquet (1) comprising: • a support (2) for surrounding a first portion of a limb, • an elastic sleeve (4) to be held in a stretched position around the support (2), the support (2) preventing contraction of the elastic sleeve (4), • a grip element (8) which is movable relative to the support (2), • a drive element (6) for driving the elastic sleeve (4), when the grip element (8) is moved manually relative to the support (2), from its stretched position around the support to a blood vessel constricting position wherein the elastic sleeve (4) surrounds a second portion of the limb, adjacent to the first portion of the limb but not surrounded by the support (2), in such a way that the elastic sleeve (4) can contract by resilient return, and thus compress the second portion of the limb.

Abstract: A system or device, and methods of use thereof, for use with one or more regions of the human body, particularly the lumbar region. The standing adjustment lumbar system comprises a lumbar support member, an adjustable tension member, and a platform member.

Abstract: A multi-layered composite material suitable for use in orthopedics includes a foam core layer bonded between two layers of thermoformable polymer material. The thermoformable material is heat formable within a target temperature range allowing for rapid heating and application to a patient such as in the form of a splint. While within the target temperature range, the composite material includes a dwell time sufficiently long to enable proper fitment and adjustment, yet not overly long requiring extended periods of holding the composite material in place. The composite material is very light yet extremely rigid and easily conformable to patients.

Abstract: Kinesiology tape may include a first layer of fabric with an adhesive on a first side of the first layer of fabric. The kinesiology tape may also include a second layer of fabric that may be coupled to the first layer of fabric. The first layer of fabric and the second layer of fabric may form a receiving portion and a support may be disposed in the receiving portion.

Abstract: The application discloses a conformable support structure for use in fiber composite precursor; a resin impregnated conformable fiber composite precursor, which may surround the support structure, for being manually manipulated and plastically deformed into a desired shape before being cured into a final product having the desired shape; the corresponding final product, which may be an orthosis or other product; and methods of making the final product or orthosis. The support structure is typically plastically deformable by hand to form the desired shape, may be substantially planar and may have various voids to promote controlled plastic deformation of the frame in one or more desired directions. The core may comprise a wire or tube and may include packing or filler material. The precursor includes a fiber layer impregnated with a thermoset resin and includes a compressor around the fiber layer. The fiber layer is supported internally or externally by the conformable support member.

Abstract: A method of treating a patient suffering from pain in the lower limb or a lower limb musculoskeletal disease is provided. The method includes placement of at least two calibrated, differential disturbances or protuberances under the patient's feet.

Abstract: An orthosis includes a footplate having a heel portion, a midfoot portion, and a longitudinal axis extending between the heel and midfoot portions. A first deflection zone is defined along a length of the footplate anterior of the heel portion and through which the footplate is arranged to flex during gait to accommodate dorsiflexion of a foot of a user positioned on the footplate. At least one strut is connected to the heel portion of the footplate and extends upwardly therefrom and a connecting portion connects the at least one strut to the heel portion.

Abstract: An orthotic device including a frame assembly and a support structure. The frame assembly includes at least one frame having a first frame opening and a second frame opening. The support structure assembly includes at least one support structure supported by the at least one frame. The at least one support structure includes a mounting portion; a slide engagement member supported by the mounting portion configured to engage the first frame opening; and, at least one snap engagement member supported by the mounting portion configured to engage the second frame opening. The slide engagement member and the at least one snap engagement member are integrally formed with the mounting portion. In another embodiment the orthotic device includes a latch mechanism including a lever assembly, a draw bar, a chafe, a catch, and a first snap fit ledge.

Abstract: Example embodiments relate to a control method of a motion assistance apparatus including a fixing module attached to a user, a driving module fixed to the fixing module to generate rotation power, a supporting module configured to support a portion of a body of the user and driven by the driving module, a force sensor configured to measure a magnitude of force applied to the fixing module, and a controller configured to control the driving module, the method including generating, by the driving module, a driving torque to drive the supporting module, measuring a direction and a magnitude of force indicated by the force sensor, calculating a compensation torque to minimize the measured magnitude of force, and driving the driving module by adding the compensation torque to the driving torque.

Abstract: A support for an area of a body having a hinge joint includes: a flexible, elastically stretchable framework configured to extend across the hinge joint of the area of the body; and a hinge mechanism affixed to the framework. The hinge mechanism includes a strut component and a first arm component connected to the strut component such that the first arm component is rotatable relative to the strut component only about a first pivot axis. A second arm component is connected to the strut component such that the second arm component is rotatable relative to the strut component only about a second pivot axis. The strut component is configured to extend with the framework across the hinge joint such that the first pivot axis is located on a first side of the hinge joint and the second pivot axis is located on a second, opposite side of the hinge joint.

Abstract: A knee brace for use by athletes or others requiring protection and support of the knee. The knee brace protects against abnormal motions of the knee, and provides direct and indirect patella stabilization. A base comprised of elastic material is configured to closely fit around portions of the knee and adjacent leg portions. Direct patella support is provided by upper crossed straps that are permanently fastened to the base and cross the front of the leg above the knee, or by lower crossed straps that are permanently fastened to the base and cross the front of the leg below the knee, or by both upper and lower crossed straps. Additional direct patella support may be provided by a patella opening. One or more generally upright lateral pockets containing semi-rigid stays may also be provided on the sides of the base for lateral support. A popliteal opening may be provided to reduce the possibility of chafing at the rear of the knee.

Abstract: The splint kit provides a sealed splint, bandaging, and a water source for setting the splint. Different kits may be needed depending upon the size of the user to which the splint will be applied. The kits may also vary according to the body part to be set. The size of each splint is based upon the size of the user and the size of the body part(s) to be splinted to eliminate the need for the user to size the splint. The splint is self-contained in its own packaging to maintain the integrity of the splint. The fiberglass/hardening material is encased by a foam material and/or felt to further simplify the process of applying and setting the splint.

Abstract: A knee joint rehabilitation assist device includes a rigid, generally rectangular frame, a heel rest attached across one end of the frame to accommodate a heel of a user, an adjustable knee sling attached at an adjustable distance spaced from the heel rest for accommodating the upper surface of a knee to be rehabilitated, and optionally, an auxiliary thigh strap for controlling pressure applied by the device.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to medical braces having lacing systems for tightening of the medical braces. Some embodiments include multiple components of the lacing system integrated into a single housing piece. For example, multiple reels can be used to tighten different portions of the lacing system, and the multiple reels can be mounted onto a single housing. Also, multiple lace guides can be integrated into, or attached to, a single housing piece.

Abstract: A kit for modeling a patient's neck area and creating a neck brace that is sized specifically for an individual patient. Combinations of components are chosen to build the model according to the actual measurements of the patient. A front and back blank are molded to correspond to the model, typically by heat molding. Once cooled, the blanks are removed from the model and Velcro®, padding, and a Velcro® strap are added to form a custom cervical collar brace. The front and back blanks can be formed on preformed blank molds, or can involve a method of forming blank molds upon which front or back blanks or both can be formed. The method can involve applying a material, such as low density polyethylene, to the blank mold and conforming the material to the mold. The blank can then be cut from the material, typically along an outline or contours.

Abstract: In one example, a rehabilitation device includes a fixed length leg support having first and second spaced-apart, generally parallel elongate members having first and second ends, and a handle is rotatably coupled to the first ends of the elongate members. The rehabilitation device also includes an angularly-adjustable coupler by way of which the handle is rotatably coupled to the elongate members. The angularly-adjustable coupler is operable to implement variations to an angle cooperatively defined by the handle and the fixed length leg support, and the angularly-adjustable coupler includes a locking mechanism operable to releasably lock the handle at various different angular positions relative to the fixed length leg support.

Abstract: The present embodiments disclose an exercise apparatus including at least one rocker board dimensioned to support a user. A plurality of convex rockers are releasably engageable with the at least one rocker board to provide instability during an exercise. A cutout is positioned through the rocker boards to strengthen the intrinsic and extrinsic muscles of the user.