Abstract: Disclosed is a self-retaining retractor configured for insertion into an orifice. The self-retaining retractor may include a flexible structure made of, for example, one or more of an elastic polymer sheet and an elastic polymer mesh. Further, the self-retaining retractor may include a flexible or shape memory material, such as, for example, nitinol, polymer or elastomer, incorporated in the flexible structure. Further, the shape memory material may be configured to change a state of the self-retaining retractor between a collapsed state and an expanded state. Accordingly, in the collapsed state, the self-retaining retractor may be conveniently inserted into the orifice. Subsequently, the self-retaining retractor may be changed to the expanded state in which the self-retaining retractor applies outwardly radial force causing the orifice to increase in size.

Abstract: An ankle protector comprises an elastic webbing element, formed with a tubular construction thereby to surround and embrace a user's ankle region. The webbing element is defined by upper and lower apertures to enable a user's foot to pass therethrough when putting the ankle protector on. Each of said upper and lower apertures is formed by overlock-stitching an edge of the elastic webbing material, such that said apertures have no perceptible ribs. A cushioning element is attached to the webbing element (11) and is adapted to cover and protect a user's Achilles tendon. The cushioning element protrudes inwardly relative to the circumference of the tubular webbing element.

Abstract: An ankle protector (10) comprises an elastic webbing element (11), formed with a tubular construction thereby to surround and embrace a user's ankle region. The webbing element (11) is defined by upper and lower apertures (12, 13) to enable a user's foot (21) to pass therethrough when putting the ankle protector (10) on. Each of said upper and lower apertures (12, 13) is formed by overlock-stitching (22) an edge of the elastic webbing (11) material, such that said apertures (12, 13) have no perceptible ribs. A cushioning element (17) is attached to the webbing element (11) and is adapted to cover and protect a user's Achilles tendon. The cushioning element (17) protrudes inwardly relative to the circumference of the tubular webbing element (11).