Abstract: A device for treating conditions associated with excessive pronation of the subtalar joint of a human foot, including a substantially T-shaped strap member having an elongate leg section and a head section substantially transverse to the leg section. The head section is configured so as to be positionable to substantially wrap around a toe of the human foot, such as the big toe.

Abstract: Ready-to-use bandage self-adhesively coated on one side, for relieving, stabilizing and functionally restricting the ligament and muscle structures of the knee joint, comprising 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).

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.

Abstract: An extension indicator is provided for determining a predetermined extension applied to an extensibly deformable article such as medical bandage used in compression therapy. The indicator includes first (420) and second (430) co-operating members, each adapted to be secured to an extensibly deformable article (440). One of the members is more extensible than the other and each member (420, 430) bears visual indicia (450, 460, 470) which upon extension of the more extensible member, are adapted to align with each other to indicate a predetermined extension of the more extensible member.

Abstract: A compression bandage system is disclosed comprising an inner skin facing layer and an elastic outer layer. The inner layer comprises a first ply of foam and a second ply of an absorbent nonwoven web. Both the inner and outer layers are sufficiently elongated so as to be capable of being wound about a patient's limb. Preferably, the foam comprises an ester based polyurethane. The nonwoven web preferably comprises carded fibers, especially cotton fibers, which are needle punched to the foam at less than 500 needles per inch, more preferably at less than 200 needles per inch, and most preferably at less than 100 needles per inch.

Abstract: A system and process for training the user regarding undesired rotation of body joints. The system and process uses an elongated flexion strip that includes an adhesive layer. The flexion strip is attached on the skin of the user surrounding the body joint. The flexion strip is situated so that if the user attempts to rotate the body joint to an undesired position, the skin is pulled to cause mild discomfort to the user. This provides negative reinforcement to the user to train the user not to move that body joint in an undesired range of motion. This system and process can be used not only to treat disorders or injuries but for training for performance activities as well.

Abstract: A multilayer compression support sleeve construction. The laminate material includes a thin polyurethane film coated on both surfaces with an adhesive. A stretchable elastomeric polymer material is bonded to each of the adhesive surfaces. A substantial portion of one of the elastomeric polymer surfaces is coated with a discontinuous layer of silicone microdots. The microdots are applied by gravure roll printing to project a uniform distance above the elastomeric polymer surface to form small tacky dots. The laminate material is fabricated into a sleeve with the material oriented so that the microdot coated face is adjacent the skin of the wearer. Microdots may be applied in a predetermined pattern in order to impart enhanced compression to certain areas of the support sleeve. The resulting support sleeve retains its breathability while presenting a nonslip inner surface which prevents migration of the garment on the skin of the wearer during exercise.

Abstract: An improved strap has a base end portion, a second end portion and a main portion which is disposed between the base and the second end portions of the strap. A first side of the strap has a layer formed of foam. A second side of the strap has a layer formed of fabric. The second side of a base end portion of the strap has a layer formed of foam. The layer formed of foam on the first side of the strap is placed in engagement with skin on a body of a patient. The base end portion of the strap is retained against movement relative to the body of the patient by wrapping the strap around a portion of the body of the patient and positioning a portion of the layer formed of foam and disposed on the first side of the strap in engagement with foam disposed on the second side of the base end portion of the strap. A second end portion of the strap is connected with the fabric layer on the second side of the strap at a location between the end portions of the strap.

Abstract: A two-ply bandage for treatment of skin while providing orthopedic support having a first layer of gel for contacting the skin and a second layer of an elastic and supportive loop portion of a hook and loop fastener. The product is economically manufactured in the form of long rolls or as a sheet and is easily cut to any desired shape.

Abstract: An elongate medical bandaging product for being dispensed in lengths suitable for a given medical use, including an elongate sleeve of a predetermined length formed of a moisture-impervious material and sealable to prevent entry of moisture, and an elongate medical material having substantially the same predetermined length as the elongate sleeve and positioned within the sleeve in substantially moisture-free conditions and sealed therein against moisture until use.

Abstract: An elastic waistband comprises at least a main portion (A) made of an elastic fabric, a first end portion (B) in the form of two triangle-shaped tails (B1, B2) joined together to said main portion (A) and having at their free ends with Velcro® fasteners (V1, V2) and a second end portion (C) having anchoring felt pads (P) for the Velcro® Fasteners (V1, V2). The elastic main portion (A) is composed of a first central portion (A1) of a fabric (1) of greater elasticity than the elasticity of a fabric (2) of two side portions (A2, A3), joined together along transverse sewing lines (A1-2), A1-3). Transverse stiffening inserts (S1, S2, S3, S4) are disposed in correspondence of the transverse sewing lines joining together the first central portion (A1), the side portions (A2, A3) and the first and second end portions (B, C).

Abstract: A compression device for exerting pressure on an arm, shoulder, and/or trunk of a patient in need thereof (for example, a patient with hyperalgia or recovering from surgery in which the lymphatic system is affected), including an arm compression hose, a shoulder part for exerting pressure on the shoulder and trunk area, and a band-shaped fastening means for positioning the shoulder part and exerting pressure on the shoulder part. The arm compression hose exerts a pressure that decreases from a maximum pressure at the wrist or hand to a minimum pressure near the shoulder end of the arm, where the minimum pressure is approximately 70% of the maximum pressure. One or more lining pockets can be constructed on the inner lining of the compression device, where each lining pocket can hold one or more compression pads to increase tissue pressure in one or more body areas in need thereof. The compression pads each can have a shape that approximately conforms to the shape of the body part to which it is applied.

Abstract: A device is provided for compression of objects such as parts of the body. The device has the form of a band that can be shaped like a sleeve, wrap or garment that is sized to encircle the body part or other compressible object and having a component or components made of an elastic material. Indicia such as tick marks or scales are printed on the device. The stretch of the elastic material as the device is tensioned around the body part causes increased separation of the indicia or movement of a free end of the band with respect to the indicia. A system measures the separation of the indicia and converts it to compression as a function of the circumference of the body part. The system may be a card having edges with measurement scales or the scales may be printed on the device and the displacement of a free end of a band or sub-band of the device with respect to the scales indicates the compression for particular circumferences of the body part.

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.

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.

Abstract: Bandage for the ankle joint, consisting of an elongate strip and of a strap secured on the elongate strip, the first transverse edge of the elongate strip being arranged essentially vertically on the medial side of the ankle joint, the elongate strip being guided round the heel, across the lateral side of the ankle joint, across the back of the foot in the medial-plantar direction and across the sole of the foot in the lateral-plantar direction, the first transverse edge of the elongate strip being secured on the elongate strip itself, and the strap being joined to the second transverse edge, the said strap being guided from the lateral side of the sole of the foot across the back of the foot to the medial side of the ankle joint, round the heel to the lateral side of the ankle joint and across the lateral side of the ankle joint and being secured.

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.

Abstract: A woven fabric comprising warp and weft yarns is characterized in that the warp yarns comprise a plurality of elasticized yarns and twisted inelastic yarns arranged such that the inelastic yarns are in pairs of like twist, with two elastic yarns between. Alternate pairs of inelastic yarn are of opposing direction of twist. Such fabrics may be used for medical bandages such as elasticized adhesive or non-adhesive bandages and support or compression garments such as stockings.

Abstract: A compression sleeve for treating lymphedema is provided. The compression sleeve is comprised of an outer inelastic fabric layer and an inner flexible sheet padding layer. A plurality of tightening straps are laterally disposed in vertical succession along an exterior side of the sleeve to independently apply circumferential pressure along the length of the sleeve. The sleeve is able to apply a consistent gradient pressure from a distal part of the limb to a proximal end of the limb to help squeeze excess lymph from the limb. The inner padding layer is comprised of a high density foam material provided in a thin, continuous surface, flat sheet and has a high degree of firmness capable of evenly distributing the pressure generated by the tightening straps to prevent pockets of swelling within the sleeve. The compression sleeve can be configured for use with both arms and legs.

Abstract: The present invention provides a leg protection garment that is effective for mainly supporting the hamstrings, the muscle of the posterior side of the femoral region among the leg portion.

Abstract: A biomechanical suit comprises a mini-shirt and shorts connected front and rear by suspenders. The shirt starts proximally from the level of cervical three vertebra (C-3) and extends down to the eighth thoracic vertebra (T8) and includes a zipper from T8-C3. Two spaced front suspenders are mounted to the lower edge of the shirt and are adjustably coupled to the shorts. The rear suspenders are attached proximally and distally a predetermined distance bilaterally from the vertebral column. The distal attachment is through a tensiometer which adjusts the tension to correct unusual kyphotic or scoliotic conditions.

Abstract: An elastic textile implement to be tightly worn over an articulation or part of the body to be protected and/or aided in its mechanical action is made in a geometrically flat form foldable to shape, substantially of a single size. The implement is made in the form of a planar made of an elastic fabric comprising an elastomeric yam and substantially non-elastic yarns, conformable around said part or articulation and tautingly fixed thereon by "Velcro" .RTM. fasteners, the fabric comprising at least a third substantially non-elastic yarn of a material selected from the group composed of nylon, polyester and mylar, interwoven with at least a first and a second non-elastic yarns and with said elastomeric yam and forming a dense population of loops (M) projecting for a determined height out of one face of the fabric. "Velcro" .RTM.

Abstract: A compression device for applying a predetermined compression to a limb including a pliable non-extensible sheet, co-operating fastening parts and a mechanism for indicating changes in compression.

Abstract: A tightening tool 1 including an elastic body 2 in the form of a belt, rope, tube, etc. for forming a tightening loop L adapted to surround a desired part of muscles and tighten it, and locking means 3 for holding the tightening loop L at a desired size. A muscle training method for accelerating enlargement and strengthening of the muscles can be practiced by the tightening tool to temporarily block the flow of blood to the desired part of the muscles.

Abstract: A method of reducing delayed onset muscle soreness in humans, such as the pain resulting from unaccustomed exercise, is disclosed. An affected body portion of the human is covered with a radiation-shielding textile, whether by fashioning a garment from the textile or using a sheet or cover, or fashioning a wrap. The radiation-shielding textile found to be suitable is a cloth woven of yarn consisting of a textile fibre, such as nylon, and from two to thirty-five percent by weight of conductive metal filament, preferably stainless steel.

Abstract: There is disclosed an extensible article comprising an extensible fabric and an indicator for showing when the fabric has reached a predetermined degree of extension, a method for forming such articles and a method of treatment of venous disorders comprising applying said article to an affected site on a patient.

Abstract: An anti-embolism stocking used to inhibit the development of thrombophlebitis. The present invention is directed to a system and method for applying compressive forces to parts of the body to stimulate fluid flow through the parts of the body. In particular the present invention relates to a stocking that is capable of being placed on a portion of the body and then having a stimulus applied thereto to stimulate blood flow within the region of the body upon which the stocking is placed. The stocking includes polymer materials which, when a selected stimulus is applied thereto, causes constriction of the polymer, thereby causing the compressive forces. The stocking may be designed such that the compressive forces may be generated sequentially along the length of the stocking to gradually stimulate fluid flow, such as blood, to and from the preselected body portion.

Abstract: A flexible compression and stabilizing orthotic for providing sensory input and body awareness to a person suffering from a neurological disorder, autism, proprioceptive and sensory deficits, or hypersensitivity is disclosed. The orthotic is made from a multidirectional stretchable spandex material.

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.

Abstract: A method and device for treatment of a varicose vein is provided which includes the step of applying to the skin of a subject superficial to the vein to be treated a device including: (a) an element for securing the device to the leg of a subject superficial to the vein to be treated such as a carrier tape; and (b) a one-way valve element such as a cantilever element biased by a spring for applying a selected amount of pressure to the skin superficial to the vein to be treated in a manner such that blood-flow toward the heart is permitted during peripheral venous pumping but wherein backflow away from the heart as a result of gravity is substantially reduced; and applying sufficient pressure to the skin superficial to the vein to be treated in a manner such that blood-flow toward the heart is permitted during peripheral venous pumping but wherein backflow away from the heart as a result of gravity is substantially reduced.

Abstract: A postoperative garment for protection and improved healing of a wound, injury or disease site comprising a first panel and a second panel, the panels being constructed of a fabric structure comprising a blend of at least one polyester fiber and at least one elastic fiber. The fabric has an elasticity of about 200-220+/-10% in both the warp direction and in the fill direction, the difference between the warp and fill direction elasticity preferably being no more than about 3% to about 5%, a compression modulus of about 1 to about 4, and a breathability measurement of 70-100% moisture loss within 30 minutes and an approximate skin surface temperature reduction of about 4-6.degree. F. within about 3-7 minutes as measured by evaporative cooling, and the panels being attachable to each other along one edge by a closure means, such as mated hook and loop fasteners.

Abstract: A roll of sheet material is disclosed for use in medical and/or athletic wrapping of a body part. The roll includes a hollow, cylindrical, core with a sheet of plastic film wound thereupon. The axial dimensions of the core and film are limited so that the core and the film can be supported in an open hand between the thumb and the middle and ring fingers, and between the index finger and the little finger. The method of wrapping the body part includes wrapping the film from the core around the body part by moving the roll from a first location to a second location with one hand, transferring the roll from that hand to the second hand such that the second hand engages the roll between the thumb and the middle finger at opposite axial ends, continuing wrapping the body part by moving the second hand with the roll partially around the body part back to the first location, at which point the roll is transferred to the first hand.

Abstract: Visual indication of compressive force applied by a compression bandage is provided by forming a continuous pattern of repeated geometric shapes in the bandage strip with indicator yarn. The continuous pattern is formed so that the shape of each geometric design is changed when tension is applied to the bandage and the shape of the deformed pattern is indicative of compression force applied.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a reusable thermal pack that comprises a bag formed of a water-permeable fabric defining a plurality of laterally adjacent compartments, and a superabsorbent polymer disposed in the bag compartments, wherein the polymer forms a gel in the presence of an aqueous solution, and the bag compartments are gel-retainable. The thermal pack of the present invention can be applied as a cold or hot compress for medicinal purposes, and also as an aid for cooling down following exercise. The thermal pack of the present invention, once hydrated in the presence of the aqueous solution, becomes cool and stays cool for several days without refrigeration, and can be made cooler if chilled in the refrigerator or freezer, or warmed if placed in the microwave, if desired.

Abstract: An erection aid for stiffening the male member, which in the position for use is wrapped around the body of the penis and largely covers it, which is in the form of an elastic stiffening band that is stretchable and wherein at least one of the faces of the elastic stiffening band is self-adhesive so that the individual windings of this stiffening band adhere to one another solely by static friction, and so that the bottommost winding of the stiffening band adheres to the skin of the penis by static friction, and which stiffening band further contains rigid reinforcements positioned crosswise to the winding direction and spaced apart from one another.

Abstract: A postoperative garment for protection and improved healing of a wound, injury or disease site comprising a first panel and a second panel, the panels being constructed of a fabric structure comprising a blend of at least one polyester fiber and at least one elastic fiber. The fabric has an elasticity of about 200-220+/-10% in both the warp direction and in the fill direction, the difference between the warp and fill direction elasticity preferably being no more than about 3% to about 5%, a compression modulus of about 1 to about 4, and a breathability measurement of 70-100% moisture loss within 30 minutes and an approximate skin surface temperature reduction of about 4-6.degree. F. within about 3-7 minutes as measured by evaporative cooling, and the panels being attachable to each other along one edge by a closure means, such as mated hook and loop fasteners.

Abstract: A compression bandage according to the present invention includes an expandable band that overlaps a post-operative breast to support and provide secondary compression, and compression flaps each having first and second ends, the first ends being connected to the expandable band adjacent the area to be compressed and the second ends being securable. The compression flaps compress the post-operative breast when longitudinally extended, and maintain the compression when the second ends are fastened. The compression bandage further comprises at least one shoulder support or strap connected to the expandable band to reduce movement of the bandage. The compression bandage can also have an support belt attached to the expandable band for supporting the area to be compressed.

Abstract: A method for providing sensory input and body awareness to a person suffering from a neurological disorder, autism, proprioceptive and sensory deficits, or hypersensitivity is disclosed. In the method, a flexible compression and stabilizing orthotic made from a multidirectional stretchable spandex material is applied to the afflicted person.

Abstract: A breast-supporting band is described to facilitate participation of women in sports with an elastic top edge, an elastic bottom edge, and an elastic middle band wider than the top and bottom edges having two side edges, in which the middle band stretches less than the top and bottom edges. The side edges of the middle band are fastened in front of a woman's chest.

Abstract: A tape is used for the wrapping of ankles or other joints having a inelastic back in tension and a hypo-allergenic elastic for placement to the skin. Examples of the inelastic back can include tapes with metal or carbon fiber backings which essentially have no appreciable elasticity and deformation when applied over the skin at the ankle. In the preferred embodiment of this invention, the inelastic backing of the tape has a Young's modulus of elasticity exceeding 5 and is not subject to substantial elongation as placed over the ankle. Wrapping of the ankle with such tapes utilizing hypo-allergenic adhesives is disclosed with the tape being removable and reusable even by the athlete utilizing the ankle wrapping.

Abstract: A medical corset according to the present invention includes a hip band portion composed of an elastic material for covering both the sacroiliac region and the hip joint region and a pair of femoral region holding portions coupled below the buttock portion of this hip band portion to be fixed on the thighs. When this corset is put on a body, the sacroiliac region and the hip joint region are compressed and protected by the hip band portion and a lame hip due to a trouble of these joints is lightened.

Abstract: A supportive material and exercise device to correct/prevent Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. The supportive material constitutes an elongated member or strap which may be attached to a glove for retaining the hand in a cupping position so as to reform the Carpal Tunnel area of the hand allowing the natural remodeling of the connective tissue support by approximation support and to strengthen muscles therein. The exercise device, which can be worn interchangeably with the strap or glove, is designed to increase strength in the fingers, thumb and hand, thereby reducing the probability of damage to the Carpal Tunnel area and restoring strength to that area.

Abstract: A flexible protective support wrap or boot for supporting and protecting the lower leg of a horse, including the fetlock joint, is formed of a panel having a layer of flexible support material, an outer layer of closed loop fabric and an inner layer of woven fabric for contact with the horse's leg. Spaced apart pocket or cup portions are formed in the panel to engage the fetlock joint in overlying relationship to each other when the wrap is secured around the leg. A splint bone protection pad may be secured between and spaced from the side edges and provided with a ridge for locating the pad between the cannon bone and the front deep digital flexor tendon. The entire panel may include a layer of shock absorbing material in addition to the flexible support layer. Multiple spaced apart fastener straps with hook fastener pads are secured to the panel adjacent one side edge for engagement with the loop fabric layer to secure the wrap around the leg in snug fitting relationship.

Abstract: A sterile wound packing material and package therefor is provided, which wound packing is flexible and conformable to deep and/or irregular shaped wounds, is compact and easily dispensed, and which can be stored indefinitely. The wound packing may also be used for absorbing wound exudate and immediately discarded or may be designed to remain in place for extended periods during healing. The wound packing includes a sterile, wound packing of a flexible material capable of absorbing wound exudate, with the flexible material being in the form of a substantially flat, coiled, spirally-cut layer and a package therefor. In certain embodiments of the invention where it is desired that the wound packing remain in place for an extended period, the flexible material is impregnated with a hydrogel, which may be a "wet" hydrogel (i.e., one containing substantial amounts of water) or a dehydrated hydrogel which is substantially devoid of water but becomes hydrated in use.

Abstract: An intravenous securing device and secondary wound dressing for holding intravenous needle tubing and catheter tubing in place in a variety of anatomic locations on the human body. The securing device and secondary wound dressing is used without the need of adhesives. The intravenous securing device and secondary wound dressing consists of an elongated bi-directional wrap stretchable in opposite directions along a length of the wrap. The wrap includes a window opening therethrough which is sufficient in size to allow for visual inspection of the skin entry site of a needle or a catheter without having to remove the wrap. The wrap is washable and reusable. The bi-directional wrap is adaptable for conforming to various parts of the anatomy of a patient and includes releasable hook fasteners at one end of the wrap for securing the wrap around an arm, a hand, a chest, a neck and other parts of the anatomy.

Abstract: An enveloping elastic sock for treating Plantar Fasciitis, wherein the sock has a heel opening and exerts compressive forces along the longitudinal and transverse axes of a patient's foot.

Abstract: A device adapted to be worn by a user to protect an elongated portion of the user's body. The device comprises a support member positionable on a user's body adjacent to the elongated portion of the user's body to be protected. A pair of anatomically linear load-bearing members are included. The load-bearing members are coupled in laterally spaced relationship with respect to the support to define an elongated space therebetween. The load-bearing members and space therebetween are essentially parallel with each other and parallel with the elongated portion of the user's body to be protected. Further included are retention means to maintain the support member in position on the user's body with the space between the load-bearing members overlying the elongated portion of the user's body to be protected.

Abstract: An improved composite material (10) adapted for shaping to assume a desired concavo-convex configuration is provided which includes a generally flat sheet (12) of mesh-type synthetic resin (e.g., polycaprolactone) material with a layer (14) of perforate, resiliently stretchable material secured to one face of the sheet (12) by adhesive (16). The composite (10) can be warmed and used to form a concavo-convex, body part-immobilizing sling (10a). A composite (110) is also provided having a layer (114) with imperforate marginal regions (119) overlapping corresponding edges of a synthetic resin sheet (112); the margins (119) facilitate molding of the composite (110) and allow use of cantilever support legs (130).

Abstract: A method for providing sensory input and body awareness to a person suffering from a neurological disorder, autism, proprioceptive and sensory deficits, or hypersensitivity is disclosed. In the method, a flexible compression and stabilizing orthotic made from a multidirectional stretchable spandex material is applied to the afflicted person.

Abstract: An elasticated bandage has knitted therein a geometrical pattern comprising two components which adopt recognizable configurations when the bandage is extended to corresponding predetermined degrees. Preferably, the two components are alternating large and small rectangles arranged with colinear short edges. When the bandage is stretched, the short sides of the rectangles become lengthened. In each case, a point is reached at which the short and long sides of the rectangle becomes square, and this indicates that a pre-determined tension has been reached.