Abstract: A device for engaging the big toe of a user to provide continuous passive motion to the first metatarsal phalangeal joint includes an electric motor situated within a box-like housing, a piston having a first end coupled to a drive shaft turned by the motor, a toe engaging attachment coupled to a second end of the piston, a rotatable foot support plate to accommodate the shift from right to left foot and vice versa, and a heel cradle for selective foot size adjustment. The rotational motion of the drive shaft is converted into reciprocating and substantially linear motion of the toe engaging attachment causing movement of the big toe by pushing on the plantar aspect upward, thus allowing for dorsi flexion of the joint. The toe engaging attachment is interchangeable depending on the degree of dorsi flexion desired. When the toe is to be put through a limited degree of dorsi flexion, a toe engaging attachment with a spring loaded plunger is used.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
October 31, 1990
Date of Patent:
March 10, 1992
Assignees:
Mark T. Medcalf, Charles A. Kelman
Inventors:
Mark T. Medcalf, Charles A. Kelman, Jeno B. Gutai