Abstract: Disclosed is a therapeutic stretching apparatus, which in particular provides a user with a system for providing an assist to increase knee extension as well as for maintaining stability of the knee after surgery. This device can not only act as a therapeutic stretching apparatus but also can act as a primary post-op knee brace with locks/limits on hinge to prevent user from further injuring the joint.

Abstract: Various limb manipulation and evaluation devices are provided. The devices generally include three drives, namely a first drive configured to manipulate a first bone relative to a second bone in a first direction, a second drive configured to manipulate the first bone relative to the second bone in a second direction, a third drive configured to manipulate the first bone relative to the second bone in a second direction. The three directions are different relative to each other and in some embodiments represent three distinct axes. The devices are further configured such that at least one of the drives is mutually decoupled relative to at least one other drive, such that operation of the one drive does not affect the position or movement of the another drive. One or multiple of the drives may be decoupled. A corresponding method of operating such decoupled drives is also provided.

Abstract: Various embodiments provide assemblies for manipulating a user's limb with at least one inflatable member. The assemblies comprise a first pliable planar member and a second pliable planar member overlaid atop at least a portion of the first pliable planar member, such that a two ply configuration is provided. The two ply configuration itself comprises at least a distal and a proximal portion and at least one opening configured to accept at least a portion of the user's limb. The first and second pliable planar members combine to define at least one inflatable member, the inflatable member being at least a portion of at least one of the distal and proximal portions, the inflatable member being configured to be selectively inflatable so as to provide at least one inflation force upon the user's limb, such that the joint in the user's limb is manipulated. Associated methods are also provided.

Abstract: An inflatable bladder position a distance from a joint is attached to an external structural support which crosses the joint but does not support it. By inflating the bladder one limb segment is forced towards the external support thereby increasing the ranges of motion of that joint. Further, the inflatable bladder has an instant release valve which, when pressed, will instantly release the pressure within the bladder. The limb is positioned intermediate the bladder and the external structural support for optimal biomechanical efficiency.

Abstract: Various orthotic devices for attachment to and for manipulating a user's limb having a joint are provided. The device generally comprises an inflatable motive bladder containing a first fluid and positioned adjacent a first portion of the user's limb, and a separate therapy pad positioned adjacent a second portion of the user's limb. The motive bladder is inflatable from a lesser inflated mode to a more inflated mode, and further configured to provide a motive force to move the first portion of the user's limb so as to cause a flexion in the joint. The therapy pad includes a treatment material configured to provide thermotherapy for the second portion of the user's limb. In certain embodiments, the second portion is the user's joint. Various methods of using the orthotic devices are also provided.

Abstract: An apparatus for manipulating the joint of a patient is provided. The apparatus comprises an actuator and a linkage. The actuator itself comprises: 1) a cylinder portion defining an interior cavity; and 2) an inflatable bladder member at least partially inside the cavity of the cylinder portion. The linkage is operatively positioned intermediate the actuator and the joint of the patient, the linkage configured to be activated and to flex the joint upon inflation of the bladder. A piston portion may also be provided and configured to move relative to cylinder portion within the cavity in response to inflation of the bladder. A patient connection and manipulation device may also be provided within the apparatus and configured to be attached relative to the patient, attached intermediate the linkage and the patient, and configured to at least partially assist with treatment upon activation of the linkage.

Abstract: An apparatus for evaluating leg movement characteristics of a patient is provided. The apparatus comprises a base assembly configured to at least partially support the patient's torso; and first and second leg support assemblies independently pivotably mounted about a pivot axis relative to the base assembly. Each leg support assembly is configured to at least partially support a portion of a respective one of the first and second legs, independent of the support of the torso. Each of the leg support assemblies also comprises: a first leg support member including a foot rotation assembly configured to at least partially retain and support an associated foot of the patient and to rotate it about an axis of rotation relative to the base assembly; and a second leg support member configured for supporting a portion of the leg at a location proximal relative to the first leg support member.

Abstract: A skincare composition comprising Gorgonian extract as an anti-inflammatory component thereof, said skincare composition being selected from among compositions (I) and (II): (I) an aqueous composition comprising from 35 to 65 wt.% water, from 25 to 45 wt.% surfactant, from 0.01 to 0.2 wt.% retinol and from 0.005 to 0.5 wt.% Gorgonian extract, wherein all weight percentages are based on total weight of the aqueous face wash composition, and all weight percentages of all ingredients in the aqueous face wash composition total to 100 wt. %; and (II) a gel composition comprising from 60 to 90 wt.% water, from 1 to 12 wt.% benzoyl peroxide, and from 0.05 to 1.25 wt.% Gorgonian extract, wherein all weight percentages are based on total weight of the gel composition, and all weight percentages of all ingredients in the gel composition total to 100 wt.%.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are generally related to the manipulation of a joint to provide therapy. More specifically, some embodiments of the present invention use inflatable members and a three point bending concept to cause flexion in a toe joint for the purpose of increasing the range of motion of the toe joint. In one embodiment, a user's foot is placed in a frame with at least one toe atop a toe bar. An inflatable member is positioned atop the user's foot and held in position with a strap attached relative to the frame. As the inflatable member is inflated, the strap increases in tension urging the toe toward the toe bar and causing actuation of the joint at the base of the toe.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for providing range of motion control devices, and particularly relates to an apparatus for providing control of the range of motion of a human shoulder.

Abstract: The present invention provides improved systems and methods for facilitating cuts in an item. In one embodiment, a surgical apparatus is provided that includes a first saw guide having a first base portion with a first bore and a first guide portion comprising a pair of substantially parallel walls spaced apart to guide the surgical saw; a second saw guide pivotably connected to the first saw guide, wherein the second saw guide includes a second base portion with a second bore and a second guide portion comprising a pair of substantially parallel walls spaced apart to guide the surgical saw; and a locking mechanism configured to selectively discourage relative movement between the first saw guide and the second saw guide.

Abstract: An orthotic apparatus for use in providing improved range of motion is provided which allows the amount of stretch to be hydraulically powered and measured by the device, but controlled by the user. Because the apparatus accurately calculates the amount of stretch, the user, together with the user's physician and therapist, can develop a rehabilitation plan based on accurate measurements. Progress is based on tangible results rather than the user's ability to tolerate pain. This knowledge provides the incentive the user needs to work toward and achieve the user's goal.

Abstract: A conveyor for conveying generally cylindrical containers having an opening at one end and closed at the other end, the conveyor comprising an endless belt provided with flanges for engagement by driving and guiding pulleys and container-supporting elements attached to the belt at regular intervals therealong. Each supporting element includes at least one portion forming a partition extending transversely of the belt and at least one portion forming a bearing for the closed end of the container, the bearing portion extending perpendicular to the belt and parallel with the edges of the belt. The supporting elements forming with the belt a succession of seatings for receiving containers which will be maintained in place when the belt is vertical or inclined to tilt the supporting elements upwardly.