For A Particular Body Portion Patents (Class 602/61)
  • Patent number: 6508776
    Abstract: The present invention provides a composite material for use in making orthopedic elastic braces for supporting a body part by compression. The composite material includes center (110), inner (120), and outer layers (130). The center layer having on one side a plurality of grooves (100) that intersect each other to define a grid pattern functioning as passageways along the width and length of the layer to promote heat and moisture dissipation for the body part being supported. A plurality of cuts (150) extending through the entire depth of the center layer and distributed across the surface area of the layer, while retaining sufficient elasticity and density to provide adequate compression support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Assignee: La Pointique International Ltd.
    Inventors: Jackson Chiang, Jonathon Chuang
  • Patent number: 6506175
    Abstract: An orthopedic bandage includes a length of unbroken loop fabric to which a layer of thermoplastic breathable elastomeric foam is intimately adhered. The bandage has integral or attachable parts of different widths that are closed around an anatomical part using tabs that engage the fabric where desired, in a hook-and-pile fastener arrangement. Narrower strap-like parts and wider pad-like parts which can have specific shapes, wrap around the body with minimal bunching or folding which allow a user to apply desired amount of concentrated and general pressure around the particular areas of the body. In addition, the wide and narrow straps are effective to engage tapering anatomical parts such as the base of the hand and wrist or the ankle and foot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Inventor: Samuel A. Goldstein
  • Publication number: 20030009120
    Abstract: The device for prevention of the abnormal joint rotation is comprised of an appendage securing section and a torso securing section. The appendage securing section is constructed and arranged to secure to the appendage having the abnormal joint rotation. The torso securing section is constructed and arranged to secure to the torso of the patient and to apply correcting pressure directed upon the appendage securing section, wherein the correcting pressure exerted by the torso securing section upon the appendage securing section counters the direction of the abnormal joint rotation. The torso securing section has means for coupling to the appendage securing section. In a single unit embodiment, the appendage securing section and the torso securing section are joined to form a wrap. Different methods of application of the wrap to patient's body could be used for prevention of either the external or internal rotation of the hip by providing directed pressure upon a leg suffering from the abnormal hip rotation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2002
    Publication date: January 9, 2003
    Inventor: Doris MacAllister
  • Publication number: 20020147422
    Abstract: A custom-moldable patellar support product for improved patella tracking in the femoral groove and relief of associated patella femoral pain syndrome, and including an outer container formed of moisture-impervious material and an initially-moldable, patellar support positioned in the container in substantially moisture-free conditions and sealed therein against entry of moisture until use. The support includes a substrate and a reactive system impregnated into or coated onto the substrate. The system remains stable when maintained in substantially moisture-free conditions and hardens upon exposure to moisture to form a rigid, self supporting structure. A flexible protective pad is positioned on one side of the substrate along its length to provide a cushioning barrier between the substrate and the skin of a patient when the patella support is in use. An outer cover covers the substrate on the side opposite the protective pad.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2001
    Publication date: October 10, 2002
    Inventors: Thomas D. Darcey, Kevin John O'Neill
  • Patent number: 6454735
    Abstract: A bandage for a torso of a patient comprises a sheet part having a sheet member piece which for covering of a patient's torso, a neck fastening member for fastening the upper edge of the sheet part to a neck of the patient, an underarm fastening member to fasten the middle part of the sheet part to a body trunk part of the patient, and a waist fastening member to fasten the lower edge of the sheet part to a waist of the patient. The sheet part includes a abdomen covering part in a two substantially -equal-sided trapezoidal shape. The base is shorter than the top. The upper abdomen covering part is a rectangular shape in which the top of the lower abdomen covering part is the bottom side. The chest covering part is a two-substantially equal-sided trapezoid shape in which the top side of the upper abdomen covering part is the base and the top is shorter than the base. The neck covering part is a substantially rectangular shape in which the top of the chest covering part is the bottom side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Assignee: Shunkichi Serizawa
    Inventor: Shinichi Hamada
  • Publication number: 20020123711
    Abstract: An anatomically configured tubular body or ribbon of woven or knitted elastomeric yarn having concentrated pressure support means at one or more areas along said device for pressure support of an ankle, elbow, knee or wrist (hereinafter also “articulating appendage”). The device of this invention can include an anatomically configured tubular composite, comprising an essentially uniform sleeve of elastomeric yarn and a pressure concentrating means corresponding to one or more areas of said articulating appendage (hereafter also “pressure points”), so as to focus or concentrate pressure support at said pressure points. The device thus provides for both ease of attachment to the appendage and of application of differential (increased or focused) pressures to a pressure point of the affected appendage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2001
    Publication date: September 5, 2002
    Inventor: Joseph Smith
  • Patent number: 6443920
    Abstract: A soft, flexible, low friction enclosing device designed to function as a protective support for the human body when lying in bed or on other horizontal surfaces. A support wrap (10) is made of sturdy, flame-retardant low friction material such as nylon for durability and for ease of moving enclosed patient along the surface of a bed or chair. An inner lining made of soft and pliable composite material such as foam rubber is enveloped by the support wrap (10). Velcro latches (30, 40) at predetermined locations provide means for attachment when the support is closed around the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Inventor: Margarita Clement
  • Publication number: 20020120222
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for supporting a body part utilizes an external splint to form a brace. The splint includes an elongated sheath connected and an elongated support piece placed in the interior of the sheath. The support piece is formed of a stiff material and is shorter that the sheath in length so that it can move relative to the sheath. The support piece is preferably formed of a composite material. One or more splints may be used to form a brace. Here, a mounting piece secures the splint(s) and mounts on the body part. A casing may be used over the brace. Alternatively, the splints can be formed in the casing. The method then involves the steps of supporting the body part with the splint(s) and brace described above.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2001
    Publication date: August 29, 2002
    Inventor: Wayne R. Arden
  • Publication number: 20020115955
    Abstract: A surgical sock for covering a bandaged foot. The sock includes a forefoot region, a foot region, and an ankle region. The forefoot region, the foot region, or a combination of the two has a dimension greater than that of the ankle region in order to accommodate a bandaged foot without undue constriction or excessive wrinkling. The ankle region may have greater elasticity than the other regions so that it expands enough to accept the bandaged foot while retaining enough grasping strength to keep it in place about the ankle. The sock is fabricated with a hydrophobic fiber, a bacteriostatic fabric, or both to aid in moisture wicking, to minimize the chance of post-operative infection, and to minimize overheating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2001
    Publication date: August 22, 2002
    Inventor: Danforth DeSena
  • Publication number: 20020103451
    Abstract: A medical apparatus support system including a pouch assembly for comfortably and effectively supporting a medical device, such as an intravenous supply bag. The pouch assembly including an opening to receive the supply bag in a pocket and a slit to allow egress of a supply tube associated with the supply bag positioned near the lower portion of the pocket, wherein the pouch assembly further includes an extension extending from a position proximal the slit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2001
    Publication date: August 1, 2002
    Inventor: Barbara N. Ekey
  • Publication number: 20020095107
    Abstract: A sleeve for the protection or treatment of fingers, toes or other parts of the body. The sleeve has at least one piece of fabric containing thermoplastic fibers, assembled by welding along its edges to form all or part of the body of the sleeve, and at least one layer of viscoelastic gel arranged on one side of the piece of fabric.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2001
    Publication date: July 18, 2002
    Inventor: Jean-Luc Martin
  • Patent number: 6415795
    Abstract: A protective foot covering for preventing blisters and sores while running or walking. The protective foot covering includes a sleeve being adapted to fit about a foot of a user; and also includes an insert retaining member being securely disposed in the sleeve; and further includes a first padded insert member being securely and removably retained in the sleeve; and also includes a second padded insert member being securely and removably retained in the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2002
    Inventor: Jonathan L. Kew
  • Patent number: 6398749
    Abstract: Disclosed is an elbow support having a C-shaped clasp body with at least one foam compression pad extending into the interior of the body for adjustable compression into the forearm of a wearer. An elongated compression strap is attached to an outer surface of the clasp body and extends around the clasp. The strap has a buckle at one end and a releasable securable device at the other end. The end with the releasable secureable device loops through the buckle and doubles back on itself for releasable attachment. This assists in securing the clasp body on the forearm and providing the adjustable compression. The elbow support is fabricated by an improved method. Pursuant to this method, a clasp body blank is cut from a sheet of thermosetting closed cell foam which is laminated with fabric. The cut clasp body blank is selectively compressed to form a compressed clasp body, from which integrally protrudes at least one compression pad in a substantially uncompressed form.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Assignee: FLA Orthopedics, Inc.
    Inventor: Ernest Gerald Slautterback
  • Publication number: 20020062110
    Abstract: A device for non-invasively correcting a human external ear is disclosed. The device comprises a flat fixture with an adhesive for sticking the fixture together with two fold parts on an ear which is folded about a folding line along a zone which is to be corrected with a permanent deformation. The fixture can be fixed on the ear easily and conveniently. In attached state, it is hardly visible, and the patient does not feel the fixture as something unpleasant and irritating to wear. The fixture can advantageously be used for correcting a small child's jug-ear which particularly easily can be given a permanent shape within the first few weeks after birth where the concentration of oestradiol is highest.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2002
    Publication date: May 23, 2002
    Inventor: Michael Miravet Sorribes
  • Publication number: 20020058894
    Abstract: An anchoring system for supporting an arm in a cast including Velcro™ formations on an elongated strap that depends around the neck of the wearer, the formations adjustably interact to support the arm at the appropriate level. Other components having Velcro™ formations can interact with the strap. The strap has releasable buckles or snaps along its length.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2001
    Publication date: May 16, 2002
    Inventor: Daniel J. Robbins
  • Publication number: 20020032485
    Abstract: Protective devices, to protect a body part having a bony portion with a soft tissue layer between the bony portion and an outer skin layer, have an inner surface which conforms to the body part to be protected and are applied to the body part to reduce pressure exhibited at the interface between the bony portion and the soft tissue layer, across the soft tissue and outer skin layers and at the interface between the outer skin layer and a support surface. The protective devices may be made of any material suitable for distributing the weight of the body part over an extended area and volume and may include a mushy material, a hard shell, a hydro absorptive material, and a wound dressing with medication. The body part to be protected includes at least one of the heel, trochanter, knee, sacrum, coccyx, ischium, scapula, elbow, ankle, buttocks and occiput; The protective devices may be secured to the body part directly or via a garment or any other suitable securing means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2001
    Publication date: March 14, 2002
    Inventors: Eric Flam, Oliver Bodine, Henry I. Schanzer
  • Publication number: 20010056252
    Abstract: Ready-to-use bandage self-adhesively coated on one side, for relieving fixing, stabilizing and functionally restricting the ligament and muscle structures of the knee joint, which is characterized in that it comprises a substantially rectangular central part A which is at least partially inelastic in the transverse direction of the bandage and on which there are respectively arranged, directed upwards and downwards seen in the longitudinal direction, two elongate strips B, C, D and E.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 1997
    Publication date: December 27, 2001
    Inventors: STEFAN BODENSCHATZ, PETER HIMMEISBACH
  • Patent number: 6325772
    Abstract: The invention concerns an orthesis, made of flexible material, for immobilizing the thumb base joint, with a wrist strap surrounding the wrist and with a tubular extension piece receiving the thumb. The extension piece contains a sheathlike reinforcement with a transverse cutout located on the inside of the thumb base joint, and has in the region of the thumb base joint, on the outside of the thumb, a transverse slit of a length such that the transverse slit opens when the thumb base joint is bent, the degree of opening being limited by a flap which, bridging the transverse slit, extends from the outer region of the extension piece to the wrist strap and can be secured to the latter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2001
    Assignee: Bauerfeind Orthopadie GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Rainer Scheuermann, Holger Reinhardt, Hans Bruno Bauerfeind
  • Publication number: 20010047145
    Abstract: A support device that provides support to selected regions of a human body, such as the back, hips, upper thighs and groin areas. The support device comprises an undergarment or bodysuit which is adapted to be disposed against the person's body and extends from the thorax just below the chest) down to the upper thighs. A support belt is positioned at the loin, hips, and abdomen areas of a wearer and secured thereto by a detachable attachment. Two opposite lateral portions extend downwardly from the support belt and secured to the upper thighs of the wearer by detachable attachments. The detachable attachments are adjustable so as to allow the tension against the person's body according to the wearer's preferences.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2001
    Publication date: November 29, 2001
    Inventor: Clifford V. Zigmont
  • Publication number: 20010047146
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a therapeutic device and related methods for treating arthritis of the knee. The therapeutic device comprises a stretchable band having a predetermined length, a flexible and resilient body installed in the longitudinal middle of the stretchable band with a substantially triangular cross-section whose height is greater at one side of the stretchable band than at the other, such that the higher portion of the flexible and resilient body is applied to the sole at a position nearer to the inner or outer side thereof, and the stretchable band may be used to wrap and fix the ankle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2001
    Publication date: November 29, 2001
    Inventor: Yoshitaka Toda
  • Patent number: 6313370
    Abstract: A device for treating pain in an injured body member includes a wrap having an interior section which can loaded with medicament. The wrap also includes at least one inwardly extending nodule adapted to exert pressure on and compress a specific area of the injured member, having acupressure like effect in producing pain relief. The wrap has adjustable means for fastening the wrap around the body member, thereby enabling the wearer to exert a specific amount of pressure sufficient to dispense medicament from the interior pad and to adjust the pressure on the nodule to achieve the desired results. The combination of restricted movement imparted by the wrap along with the medicament and acupressure, affords the wearer more rapid pain relief than any of the treatments combined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Inventor: Morton Hyson
  • Patent number: 6305031
    Abstract: An appliance for protection against impact and strain injury and comprising an inner flexible web or sleeve (10, 15) adapted to be worn about a part of the body such as the lower leg and to conform closely to the shape thereof, and a series of interconnected outer rigid plates (18) attached to the inner web or sleeve (10, 15) such as to provide impact absorption and distribution whilst permitting relative movement between the plates and maintaining its position in use without restraining the wearer's bodily movement. The device is particularly intended to prevent injuries to sports people.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Assignee: Armadillo Sports Design Limited
    Inventor: Anthony John White
  • Patent number: 6307118
    Abstract: A digit wound dressing for use as a primary wound dressing or as a secondary wound dressing for digits on humans, animals and like applications. As a secondary digit wound dressing, the dressing can be used to hold a variety of different types of primary wound dressing such as sterile cotton gauze pads on top of a digit wound. The wound dressing includes an elongated bidirectional (stretches laterally along it's length) wrap which is adaptable for conforming to various sizes and shapes of digits. The wrap is made of a loose weave material and includes a releasable hook fastener at one end of the wrap. The hook fastener is used for releasable engagement with the loose weave material of the wrap when the wrap is secured around the digit. An outwardly extending ear is integrally formed on one side of the wrap. The ear is used to fold over and cover a tip of the digit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Inventor: Marshall P. Reich
  • Publication number: 20010031939
    Abstract: A sleeve-like medication application system is provided for body extremities such as an arm or leg where a medicament or lotion has been applied for therapeutic treatment. The sleeve is constructed of a material such as latex that conforms to body contours forming a tight covering over the medicated area preventing prescribed medicaments or ointments from oozing out, rubbing off or absorbed by clothing. Expansion bands at each end of the sleeve grip the arm or leg preventing the sleeve from creeping, rolling or becoming loose. The length and opening size of the sleeve may vary depending on the affected area and the physical makeup of the wearer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2001
    Publication date: October 18, 2001
    Inventor: John McTamney
  • Publication number: 20010029346
    Abstract: A binder for application of pressure to the wound area of a patient who has undergone a mastectomy or other type of chest surgery. The binder includes an elasticized main body portion formed from a fabric that is substantially nonelastic, yet breathable, with gathering, elastic stitching therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2001
    Publication date: October 11, 2001
    Inventor: Gail S. Lebovic
  • Patent number: 6296618
    Abstract: A pre or post-operative surgical compression garment composed of Lycra and cotton including one or more strips of flexible fabric fastener, also used for triage. The flexible fabric fastener comprises a flexible and stretchable polyester and rubber elastic material in which Velcro®-type nylon loops on the male part or hooks on the female part are woven there through. The Velcro®-type hooks or loops will cover alternative portions of the elastic base composing the elements of the flexible fabric fastener. One strip of the flexible fabric fastener is sewn with polyester and rubber thread to the underside of the top flap of the garment. Two evenly spaced parallel strips are sewn on the top of the second flap affording the opportunity for horizontal multi-sizing in one garment and vertical stretch. Each compression garment is supplied with multi-support panels for chest, back, abdomen, and inner and outer leg portions for comfort.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2001
    Inventor: Faith Gaber
  • Patent number: 6287269
    Abstract: A structural element having a crescent-shaped side support with a D-shaped cross-section and a hemisphere at its ends; its sloping-edge shape and the visco-elastic material of which it is made allow it, once it has been arranged laterally to the patella and subjected to adequate medial traction, to adapt to the anatomical shape of the patella. Two belts of inelastic material are structurally integrated with the support at its ends and can be orientated through an arc of 45°, allowing to apply a direct and adjustable traction to the support, thus producing medializing forces on the patella which is functional to correct the different patterns of patellar instability. In order to keep the orthesis in place whilst it is being worn and avoid the loss of alignment with the patella during use, a strip of viscous material has been applied to the upper edge of the internal wall of the invention; the material, when rested on the skin, has a non-slip effect even with intense perspiration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Inventors: Leonardo Osti, Luciano Saveri
  • Patent number: 6270469
    Abstract: The invention is a postoperative binder and method of use. The binder is made of relatively inelastic material that is cut to fit the patient and held in place by a plurality of tails fastened with Velcro® binders. The present invention uses mechanical, rather than elastic, compression. Mechanical loads are carried over the iliac crest, by hooking the tails of the binder over the iliac crest and then bifurcating the tails for attachment to the abdominal portion of the binder. The present invention provides support of lower abdominal tissue, especially near the genitals and in the area of the peritoneum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2001
    Inventor: George E. Mott
  • Patent number: 6267743
    Abstract: Medical bandages which are adapted to the shape of the body part on which they are applied, and which are characterized in that the soft and adaptable material has been thermally deformed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2001
    Assignee: Beiersdorf AG
    Inventors: Stefan Bodenschatz, Thorsten Herzberg, Frank Doheny
  • Publication number: 20010002431
    Abstract: A disposable digit cover structured to be applied to envelop a portion of a human finger or toe, i.e., digit, for aiding in prevention of the spread of communicable diseases and cross-patient contamination from pulse oximeter probes. The cover is a flexible, tubular structure of material impervious to the passage of infectious agents, and having an open end, a closed end and being sufficiently transparent to light to serve as a barrier between a human digit and a pulse oximeter probe. The barrier is first placed over the digit, the medical probe is then clamped on the barrier to pass light into the digit. The readings are taken, the probe is removed, then the barrier is removed and discarded.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2001
    Publication date: May 31, 2001
    Inventor: Mariruth D. Gurley
  • Patent number: 6211426
    Abstract: Bandages for application to the skin of an individual to treat pressure ulcers and other impaired blood circulation problems include a flexible strip having a pair of opposing major planar sides; an adhesive on one of the major sides; and a flexible foam inner member on the one major side of the strip. The foam inner member has a pair of opposing major sides, one being fixed to the strip. At least some of the adhesive on the strip is exposable around the foam member to secure the bandage to an individual. The foam inner member has an outer perimeter extending around and between the major sides of the foam inner member lacking any step extending transversely to the foam inner member and flexible strip sufficiently abruptly to create a discontinuous pressure change along the skin of the individual receiving the bandage and hindering blood flow under the foam inner member. More particularly, the foam members are tapered or undercut to smoothly transition between its two major sides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2001
    Inventor: Leonard S. Abrams
  • Patent number: 6210353
    Abstract: A hip brace that dramatically reduces the pain and discomfort associate with hip degeneration. In one embodiment, the hip brace includes a girdle adapted to be wrapped around the user's waist, and a support member including an upper portion connected to the girdle and a lower portion adapted to provide lateral and upward support to the user's buttock. The lower portion is thicker (e.g., at least three times thicker) than said upper portion to facilitate support of the user's buttock. In order to provide additional support, the hip brace can further include a formed spring support connected to the support member. Preferably, the hip brace further includes at least two support straps connecting the lower portion with the girdle. In a preferred embodiment, the support member includes an inflatable member and an inflater connected to the inflatable member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2001
    Inventor: James O. Barnes
  • Patent number: 6165499
    Abstract: A transdermal therapeutic system for the release of active substances to a substrate is characterized by the structure of the system comprising a substrate (1) provided with a separating layer (2), a film layer (3) comprising the active substance, and a protective layer (4) provided with a nonstick finish, the separating layer (2) consisting of a material whose bond to the film layer (3) may be abolished. By means of printing methods, such systems having small application thickness and high flexibility can be manufactured, it being possible to provide a substrate that has been rendered adhesive as an alternative to the substrate/separating layer-complex. A printing method limiting the active substance-containing region to the application site reduces disposal problems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Assignee: LTS Lohmann Therapie-Systeme GmbH
    Inventors: Reinhard v. Kleinsorgen, Britta v. Kleinsorgen
  • Patent number: 6155999
    Abstract: A tendon decompression device for alleviating tendinitis pains, such as tennis elbow. The device is comprised of an adhesive tape base strip which can be adhered to the skin. The base strip has a buckle subassembly at one end and a tensioning strap subassembly at the other end. A tensioning strap passes through an opening in the buckle, permitting the buckle subassembly to be pulled towards the tensioning strap subassembly. Locking means are provided for locking the tensioning strap in place once sufficient tension has been achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Inventor: Margaret D. Bartlett
  • Patent number: 6156000
    Abstract: A limb protective pad fabrication method, which includes the steps of (a) bonding a fabric front panel, a foamed lining panel and a fabric back panel to form a blank pad, (b) cutting the blank pad into a shaped pad subject to a predetermined shaped, (c) injection-molding a shield on the front panel of the shaped pad from a plastic material having a melting point at least 30.degree. C. below the melting point of the material for the front panel of the shaped pad, and (d) edging the border area of the shaped pad by stitches, enabling binding straps to be fastened to the shaped pad when stitching.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Assignee: Racer Sporting Goods Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shyan-Wei Chen, Sen-Shaio Lu
  • Patent number: 6152891
    Abstract: The improved shoulder brace of the present invention includes a support having a cup-shaped central portion adapted to receive and support a human shoulder, a front portion adapted to extend over the chest area of a person wearing the brace, a lower portion depending below the central portion and adapted to encircle and support the upper portion of the arm adjacent the shoulder, and a rear portion adapted to extend over the scapular area adjacent the shoulder. The support can be a single piece of flexible sheet material, with or without padding, and preferably is porous, or can be separate pieces interconnected to form a unitary whole. Preferably, the support is of a porous mesh material or an elastomeric material with spaced openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Inventor: Greg Carlson
  • Patent number: 6149615
    Abstract: An improved occlusive self-adhesive eye patch, and a method of treatment for Amblyopia. A patch may successfully be applied over the left or right eye without restriction of eye movement or function. The patch comprises a non-adherent gauze pad or foam, having an adhesive for securing patch to the face over the eye socket. A slit from the patch's central bottom edge inward toward the center is present to allow for manual manipulation of the adhesive side transversely atop from the slit and adhering it to the non-adhesive side; therefore, the patch may be configured into an concavo-convex or outwardly cupped shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Inventor: Deborah Gallamore
  • Patent number: 6135975
    Abstract: A surgical chest dressing is constructed of a band of stretchable material having a pair of panels of non-stretchable material attached thereto, the non-stretchable panels biasing the side and breast tissue of a patient inwardly toward a sutured incision in the center of a patient's chest to support and substantially immobilize the patient's side and breast tissue and to minimize stress on the sutured incision. The dressing has a flexible and breathable back panel. The dressing provides improved support and comfort.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Assignee: Leading Lady, Inc.
    Inventor: Haidee Johnstone
  • Patent number: 6129695
    Abstract: The present invention provides an athletic brace in which the brace and a protective attachment are secured together as a single, unitary piece without stitching or glue. The protective attachment can have an intricate shape to fit around a moving body part, thereby permitting the therapeutic and protective use of braces that could not be achieved before. The protective attachment is anatomically secured in relation to a selected body part, and may provide control to an unstable joint, decrease stress to an over-worked tendon, provide pain relief to a sore muscle, and pad the area against impact that could cause further damage. An alternative embodiment of the present invention provides for a cushioned protective attachment on the brace to be protected by a protective shell brace.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Inventors: Rick Peters, Dolph Smith, Adam Smith
  • Patent number: 6129694
    Abstract: A method for fastening pads to medical bandages, stockings and the like, wherein the pad is welded by thermal action or by cementing between two support materials of film, fabric, knit material or fleece, of which at least one consists of a thermoplastic material, is shaped substantially to its contour, and is fastened to the bandage by thermal action by means of the thermoplastic material which faces the side of the bandage. Preferably, the pad welded between the two support materials is punched out, cut out or the like according to its contour with an overhanging margin and fastened by means of the latter to the bandage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Assignee: Beiersdorf
    Inventor: Stefan Bodenschatz
  • Patent number: 6093163
    Abstract: A unitary device for the correction of hallux valgus is made of an elastomeric fabric material that includes a large portion that encloses the forefoot cirumferentially, and a smaller portion that encloses the great toe circumferentially. The fabric for constructing the device is cut in such a way that there is a bias towards varus of the great toe. Once the device is applied on the great toe and forefoot, the bias of the cut exerts a varus force on the great toe, thus correcting the valgus deformity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2000
    Inventors: Andrew K. Chong, Catherine S. Chong
  • Patent number: 6093164
    Abstract: A device for the delivery of low amplitude vibration to limbs comprises a flexible sleeve adaptable to fit circumferentially around the limb of a living being; means for mounting the sleeve about the limb; means for generating a low amplitude vibration, carried by said sleeve; and means for transmitting the vibrations to said limb. A method for the treatment of repetitive trauma syndrome comprises affixing a device providing a flexible sleeve circumferentially about the limb affected and transmitting a low amplitude vibration from the device to the limb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2000
    Assignee: William M. Davis
    Inventors: William M. Davis, Mark J. Yanke
  • Patent number: 6080125
    Abstract: The invention is a postoperative binder made of relatively inelastic material that is cut to fit the patient and held in place by Velcro.RTM. binders. The present invention uses mechanical, rather than elastic, compression. Mechanical loads are carried near or on the hip joint, either by physically hooking the binder over the hips or attaching it to an elastic band that rides on or above the patient's hips. The present invention provides mechanical support to lower abdominal tissue, especially near the genitals and in the area of the peritoneum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2000
    Inventor: George E. Mott
  • Patent number: 6051249
    Abstract: A dressing comprising a body facing layer of a thermoplastic adhesive and a carrier film and an absorbent material, the dressing having in itself an outwardly facing convex surface and an inwardly facing concave surface, wherein the dressing comprises a first area facing the wound or skin, the area having essentially three-dimensional geometry and optionally a second area, the first area preferably comprising a hydrocolloid adhesive and a carrier film, and the second area essentially showing adhesive properties and preferably comprising a carrier film and a hydrocolloid adhesive and wherein the adhesive in one or both areas is optionally covered by one or more layers to be removed before use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Assignee: Coloplast A/S
    Inventor: Peter Boman Samuelsen
  • Patent number: 6042558
    Abstract: A patient support for harvesting a saphenous vein utilizing a base member that has an outwardly extending upper element. The upper element includes at least one surface with an edge portion. The edge portion is intended for contacting a portion of the leg and applying pressure to the soft tissue of the leg to provide surgical access to the saphenous vein by shifting the soft tissue relative to a leg bone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Assignee: Orthopedic Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: William Hoyne, Steven R. Lamb
  • Patent number: 6033374
    Abstract: The penile traction device includes a preferably reusable or disposable foam pressure dissipation friction pad having a preferably felt-like backing positioned around the penile shaft for dissipating applied force and frictionally holding the device to the shaft. A weight supporting means has a strap that surrounds and transfers force to the pressure dissipation friction pad. The weight support strap receives force from a selective weight means. A resilient and/or shock absorbing connector can be placed between the weight support means and selective weight means. A two-section weight relief means is also connected to the selective weight means. A handle on the relief means allows the patient or attendant to manually lift all or a part of the weight from the weight support means. The two sections of the relief means are adjustable to vary the overall length of the relief means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Inventor: Stanley J. Miller, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6013044
    Abstract: A hand and wrist stabilization device for disposition on the hand and wrist of a user internally of a boxing glove to reduce relative movement of internal hand elements, specifically, the metacarpophalangeal joints, during impact resulting from boxing activities includes a flexible body, a metacarpophalangeal joint force dispersion pad attached to the body, an ulnar wrist stabilization strap, a radial wrist stabilization strap, and a contoured wrist compression strap attached to the body portion and a metacarpophalangeal joint stabilization member attached to the body all act to disperse force on the metacarpophalangeal joints while stabilizing the metacarpophalangeal joints against internal movement caused by impact force transmitted thereto during boxing activities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2000
    Inventor: Joseph J. Estwanik
  • Patent number: 5947916
    Abstract: A fastening arrangement for a limb support device includes a formable jacket having a top side and a bottom side. An injured limb or body part is positioned on the bottom side. The jacket is formed to the desired shape for supporting and protecting the limb. A belt holder having an opening is rigidly secured to the top side. A belt passes through the opening of the holder. A stud is pivotally attached to the belt and extends outward from the upper side of the belt. The stud abuts the holder to anchor the stud against the holder and prevent movement of the stud and belt through the opening of the holder when the belt is pulled in one direction. This maintains a fixed length of the belt from one end of the belt to the anchored stud. The ends of the belt are connected together after the stud is anchored.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Assignee: Plasco, Inc.
    Inventor: John Riedlinger
  • Patent number: 5925008
    Abstract: An orthopedic device, particularly suited for treating mallet deformities, which has a strip of material having a body portion and a first, second, and third strap that are preferably connected to the body portion; and a splint having a first and second end portion. The splint is secured to a top side of the body portion of the strip of material so that when the strip of material is wrapped around an injured appendage, or finger, the first strap engages the first end of the splint and the second strap engages the second end of the splint. The third strap is also wrapped around the injured appendage and provides additional support to the orthopedic device of the present invention. It is also preferred that the splint be bent between the first and second end portions so that the appendage will be held in a hyperextended position once attached to the appendage by the first and second straps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1999
    Inventor: John C. Douglas
  • Patent number: 5916190
    Abstract: A bandage for wrapping an amputee's stump to reduce the potential for swelling and deformation of the stump after amputation. The bandage includes an elongate wrap, at least one strip attached to the wrap and means for releasably fastening the wrap around the stump. The wrap has a length sufficient to wrap around the stump and a resilience sufficient to retain the bandage adjacent an end of the stump when the wrap is stretched around the stump. The strip extends laterally outward from the wrap. The strip has a width generally equal to the diameter of the stump and a length sufficient to wrap around the end of the stump when the wrap is wrapped around the stump adjacent the end of the stump. The strip is sufficiently resilient to compress the stump to reduce the potential for swelling and deformation of the stump when the strip is stretched around the end of the stump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1999
    Inventor: Leonard L. Davis, Jr.