Abstract: An arm cradle for holding and stabilizing an arm of a post-operative shoulder surgery patient is provided. The arm cradle has a cradle body having a first concave section adapted to accept at least a portion of an upper arm of a patient and a second concave section adapted to accept at least a portion of a lower arm of the patient. The first concave section and the second concave section may be arranged at an obtuse angle with respect to one another. A fabric cover may be provided for the cradle body. One or more straps may be affixed to one of the cradle body or the fabric cover and used to secure the arm cradle to the patient and/or to secure the arm of the patient in the arm cradle.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a splint for splinting a digit, preferably a finger, thumb or toe, rings for use in a splint, dorsal bars for use in the splint, a method for splinting a digit using the splint described herein, and a kit comprising components of the splint and, optionally, related items such as one or more ring sizers, cutting tools, adhesive, etc.

Abstract: A glove having one or more reinforcements affixed thereon that reduce restriction of movement of fingers of a user. The reinforcements cross to form at least one X-shaped pattern when projected on a plane of motion of an interphalangeal joint of the fingers. The one or more reinforcements are located substantially on one or both sides of the interphalangeal joint of the fingers. The X-shaped pattern is substantially centered over an axis of rotation of the interphalangeal joint.

Abstract: A splint assembly for use with an individual's limb including an assembleable and rigid member positioned in surrounding fashion about an intermediate joint associated with the limb. A pair of support subassemblies secure about a location of the individual's limb contiguous to the joint, an extending edge of each support subassembly securing to a perimeter extending edge of the rigid member. Upper and lower wraparound support subassemblies secure to first and second perimeter extending edges associated with the rigid member, each further including a generally grid and web-shaped foam template with a hardened plastic backing being configured to match the configuration of the foam template. Edge extending straps provided for each of the hardened plastic backings overlap and engage opposite extending edge locations of each wraparound support subassembly.

Abstract: An arm brace comprising an extendable band, such as an elastic strap, that forms a supinating tension band. The distal end the band has a looped section for a user's wrist or finger for anchoring the brace, and the proximal end has a fastening device, such as a hook and loop fastener, for securing the proximal end to another portion of band after the band is wrapped around the forearm and stretched around the elbow and back towards the forearm. The extended band exerts a force that causes supination of the arm. In some embodiments, the inner surface of the proximal end of the band attaches to the outer surface of the band, and the looped section has a loop that closes at a notched section of the band, to provide proper comfort and positioning.

Abstract: Weakened and restricted limb movement is aided by powered orthosis having one or more independent dimensions of controlled movement and a control system.

Abstract: A shoulder brace comprises a girdle, at least one tether connected to the girdle, and an arm band connected to the at least one tether. In one embodiment, the girdle includes at least one pad holder in the form of a pocket. The at least one tether is fastened at one end to the girdle. The opposite end of the tether is fastened to an arm band. The arm band of the brace may be provided as part of a separate flexible strip of material or may be integral with the opposite end of the tether. The arm band is fashioned to wrap around the arm of an athlete. With the tether secured to both the girdle and the arm band, the range of movement of the athlete's arm and shoulder is restricted.

Abstract: A low profile dynamic extension splint for biasing a person's fingers and/or a thumb in an open position.

Abstract: The invention relates to a wrist orthosis with a cuff, which is open for passage of the thumb and which is provided with stabilizing rods and with at least one tightening strap for fixing the orthosis on the wrist. The cuff has two adjacent thumb openings for receiving either the left or right thumb, wherein a central stabilizing rod extends between the thumb openings, and a lateral stabilizing rod extends along the outer side of each said opening in such a manner that the thumb openings are each located between the central stabilizing rod and the relevant lateral stabilizing rod.

Abstract: An orthotic device includes a frame having a first shell defining front and rear surfaces, and extending longitudinally into the anterior and posterior sides of the brace. The first shell defining an opening located on the posterior side of the brace. A tightening mechanism is mounted onto the first shell, and has a ratchet strap located along the rear surface of the first shell and a ratchet device mounted on the front surface of the first shell so as to extend partially into the opening and engage the ratchet strap. An elongate tensioning device having a first end portion is connected to the ratchet strap, and the first end portion of the tensioning device extends along the rear surface of the first shell. The tensioning device has a second end portion anchored to a portion of the frame. A channel is mounted to the rear surface of the first shell and entirely encloses at least a portion of the ratchet strap. The tensioning device is a textile-based and substantially inelastic strap.

Abstract: An orthotic for mounting on a user's arm comprises an upper cuff that is removeably attachable to the user's arm at a point above the elbow joint. A lower cuff is removeably attachable to the user's arm at a point below the elbow joint, and is rotationally fixed to the forearm. At least one flexible elongated member having a first end that is releasably coupled to the upper cuff and an opposite second end that is releasably coupled to the lower cuff. The upper cuff and the lower cuff are configured to move in more than one plane with respect to one another.

Abstract: A wrist support sleeve is adapted to extend over a wearer's hand and wrist from a location below the ends of the fingers tip to a position just past the wrist region. The sleeve has an opening for receiving the wearer's thumb. A first portion of the sleeve extends around the lower part and opposite sides of a wearer's hand and wrist and has spaced side edges located in an upper region of the sleeve. An insert panel of a different material to the first sleeve portion is secured between spaced side edges of the first portion, so as to extend across the tipper portion of a wearer's hand and wrist when the device is worn. The insert panel material is a strong elastic material which has a higher stiffness than the rest of the sleeve.

Abstract: The present provides an orthosis for stretching tissue around a joint of a patient between first and second relatively pivotable body portions. The orthosis includes a first arm member affixable to the first body portion and including a first extension member extending therefrom. A second arm member affixable to the second body portion is also included and has a second extension member having an arcuate shape extending therefrom. The second extension member is operatively connected to the first extension member and travels through the first extension member along an arcuate path when the second arm member is moved from a first position to a second position relative to the first arm member.

Abstract: In one embodiment of the invention, an orthotic apparatus includes a frame structure having an upper frame portion moveable relative to a lower frame portion. The orthotic apparatus further includes at least one strap attached to the upper frame portion and the lower frame portion of the frame structure. The at least one strap and the frame structure, together, are configured to apply a therapeutic moment to a joint of a limb responsive to positioning the limb within a limb-receiving space formed between the at least one strap and the frame structure.

Abstract: A shoulder orthosis includes a shoulder therapy device adapted to provide treatment to a shoulder joint of a person, and a flexion/extension device. The flexion/extension device positions the shoulder joint in at least one of greater than 0 degrees of flexion and greater than 0 degrees of extension concurrently with the shoulder therapy device providing the treatment to the shoulder joint. In one example, the shoulder therapy device may be an abduction/adduction device and/or an internal/external rotation device.

Abstract: In a dynamic shoulder joint orthesis a compensation mechanism is provided between a spring (30) and a support rod (25) to compensate for a change in spring force which occurs when the upper arm splint (9) is pivoted, such that the force to be applied to pivot the upper arm splint (9) in the adduction direction and/or in the abduction direction remains at least approximately the same over the entire pivoting range.

Abstract: In a shoulder joint orthesis a distal upper arm splint part (31) is mounted floatingly on a proximal upper arm splint part (30) so that the distance between an upper arm support (13) and a hinge can be changed during a movement in the adduction and abduction directions.

Abstract: A body support for spanning a hinge joint of the body comprises an elastically stretchable framework. The framework includes an integrally molded network of interconnected elastomeric segments. A first subset of the interconnected, elastomeric segments extends along a perimeter of the framework, and a second subset of the interconnected, elastomeric segments located within the perimeter of the framework bounds and defines an alignment opening. None of the interconnected, elastomeric segments of the first subset are part of the second subset.

Abstract: Provided herein are wrist braces with improved adjustability and performance features. An exemplary wrist brace includes a flexible support casing to enclose a user's wrist; securing loops, mounted substantially along and extending outwardly from the support casing; an elastic securing member passing through at least one of the securing loops; and a puller, attached to the ends of the elastic securing member, configured to adjustably tension the elastic securing member with respect to the casing.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a portable device for providing continuous passive motion of a limb comprising a brace for supporting said limb. A programmable motor, mechanically connected to the brace, provides continuous passive motion of a limb. The movement of the limb is controlled in two control points of movement at the lower arm. Flexible positioning means are provided with a fastening means positioning the brace and the programmable motor on the body of a person carrying said device in a stable position. The programmable motor is partially housed within the positioning means. The invention is particularly suitable for use in paramedical and orthopedic applications. It allows adduction and abduction, rotation and exo/endo rotation of a limb.

Abstract: Finger splints for use in connection with distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint fractures are disclosed. The splints include a ring element for positioning around a finger at a location proximal to the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint and include an extension member that extends over the DIP joint and attaches to the fingernail.

Abstract: A vibration dampening device includes a strap or band wrapped around a human body part. The strap includes one or more wing sections, either integrally formed or engaged thereto, that extend beyond the nominal width of the strap and have freedom of movement with respect to the strap. The distal ends of step members engaged to the strap may form wing sections. Wing section movement counteracts longitudinal vibrations traveling through soft tissue and musculature to dampen such vibrations. Optionally, a tension limiter may be provided to help maintain wrapping tension at or below a desired level, such as 3 pounds-force or below, which applied at a strap area of 0.093 square inches is about 32 psi.

Abstract: A hinge or joint assembly is provided that includes first and second members, a pivot rotatably connecting the first and second members and allowing movement between extension and flexion positions, and at least one elastomeric spring communicating with the first and second members to restrain pivotal movement of the members toward flexion, through compression of the elastomeric spring, and to assist pivotal movement toward extension through decompression of the elastomeric spring. The assembly can further include a disk and lock slide, the disk and lock slide each having complementary teeth providing, when engaged, an arrest of pivotal movement in a direction of flexion and one-way, ratcheting, step-advance pivotal movement in a direction toward extension. The elastomeric spring can be urethane, and can be adapted to mimic any bodily muscle. An embodiment employing a torsional spring is also provided, as is a cable release mechanism providing one-dimensional cable movement.

Abstract: A compact close contour mechanical joint that uses a snap ring, a transfer gear partially press-fit into a brake wheel, a distal bar having integral gear teeth that engage the exposed portion of the transfer gear, a second bar with a T-shaped proximal end, a handle disengaging an unlocking pin to separates gear teeth that allows incremental distal bar movement, and a two-axis arrangement for distal bar rotation. Instead of using a spring biasing member, the mechanical joint uses a gear ratio reduction that provides a smaller stop increment, less travel, enhanced joint strength, less stress on gear teeth, and less force required to unlock it than prior close contour joints. Although it is contemplated for use of the mechanical joint to be primarily in orthotic, any application for which the mechanical joint's compact configuration would provide some assistance or technical advantage is considered to be within its scope.

Abstract: A portable or wearable fracture treatment device includes a splint unit that is attached to an affected part of a forearm of a patient and a part surrounding the affected part so that the affected part is supported along a longitudinal direction of the forearm, an upper arm attachment unit that attaches the splint unit to an upper arm of the patient, a fixing unit that fixes a part of the patient that is between the affected part of the forearm and an end of a hand of the patient, and a traction unit that is supported by the splint unit. The traction unit pulls the affected part of the forearm of the patient in a direction from the affected part of the forearm toward the hand of the patient by pulling the fixing unit in the direction from the affected part of the forearm toward the hand of the patient.

Abstract: A multi-layered orthosis designed to stabilize the human shoulder joint. A base harness includes a shoulder enclosure, an anterior panel, and a posterior panel. An adjustable break separates free ends of the anterior and posterior panels which are distal to the shoulder enclosure. The base harness is applied to a patient by slipping the shoulder enclosure around the affected shoulder. Anterior and posterior straps are passed over the deltoid region of the affected shoulder and secured to the base harness. An additional large strap is placed over the anterior and posterior straps.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing a range of motion to digits on a person's hand is disclosed. The apparatus may include a splint, an outrigger, a plurality of tubes, and a plurality of rubber bands. The outrigger may be secured to the splint and the plurality of tubes may be connected to the outrigger. The plurality of tubes may be provided in varying lengths such that a variety of range of motion requirements may be accommodated by a single kit.

Abstract: A shoulder immobilizer (20) includes a semi-rigid or rigid orthosis, in the form of an arm support (22), which supports the upper arm, elbow, forearm and wrist of a patient. A bolster (24) is positioned between the patient and the arm support (22). A body strap (26) extends around the patient and attaches to the arm support (22) and/or the bolster (24), holding the arm support and bolster in position against the body of the patient. In embodiments, the shoulder immobilizer (20) may utilize a shoulder strap (28), but such a shoulder strap is not necessary for shoulder immobilization of the patient.

Abstract: A shoulder stabilising device (20) configured, in use, to apply a focal pressure, via a pressure pad (21), to an anterior margin of a glenohumeral joint. The shoulder stabilising device may be used to treat or prevent shoulder impingement pain or a partial or full thickness rotator cuff muscle tear.

Abstract: A hinge or joint assembly includes a first member movably connected to a second member to allow angular displacement of the first member relative to the second member in each of extension and flexion (clockwise and counterclockwise) directions, where one elastomeric spring restrains angular displacement in a flexion position, and another elastomeric spring restrains angular displacement in an extension position. In each direction, the angular movement is dampened through compression of the respective elastomeric spring. After dampening the movement in either direction, returning movement is assisted through decompression of the respective elastomeric spring. Alternatively, one or more elastomeric springs are arranged to both dampen through compression and assist through decompression angular movement in each of the flexion and extension directions. The elastomeric spring can provide a pre-determined force deflection curve in compression and an independent rate of return hysteresis in decompression.

Abstract: A compression garment adapted for placement in a self-retaining configuration on a body part for imparting compression therapy on the body part. The compression garment includes a flexible wrap and a bladder held in use by the wrap for compressing the body part. The wrap includes and inner flap and an outer flap. The outer flap overlaps the inner flap when the garment is in a self-retaining configuration on the body part. A fastener secures the wrap in the self-retaining configuration. When the outer flap overlaps the inner flap, at least a portion of the inner flap is exposed forming a grip for grasping the inner flap when tightening and fastening the garment in the self-retaining configuration.

Abstract: The invention is for a brace for preventing or reducing muscular and nerve disorders in the region of the elbow such as tennis elbow. The brace comprises a sleeve adapted for fitting over a wearer's arm with one end terminating above the wearer's elbow and the other end terminating below the wearer's elbow. The sleeve includes a cut-out section arranged to be located over an injured portion of the wearer's elbow joint. The brace also includes a pad which supports the elbow and has an outer contour that avoids contact with the injured area of the wearer's elbow. The pad also serves to isolate the wearer's elbow from contact and pressure.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to apparatus, systems, and methods for reducing anterior shoulder dislocations in a patient. In one embodiment, the apparatus of the present invention comprises a humeral cuff, an inflatable bladder, a source of pressurized gas in select fluid communication with the inflatable bladder, and at least one elongated belt attached to the humeral cuff. In another embodiment, the system of the present invention comprises the apparatus of the present invention and at least one weight configured to selectively couple to at least a portion of the at least one elongated belt. In a further embodiment, the methods of the present invention comprise positioning the patient in a substantially prone position, providing the system of the present invention, selectively positioning the humeral cuff in an operative position, and attaching at least one weight to at least one elongated belt such that downward graviational force is applied to the patient's arm to effect the desired reduction.

Abstract: A multi-centric orthopedic joint having inner and outer guide plates and upper and lower arms rotatably connected to the guide plates for pivotal movement therebetween. The plates each include upper and lower pairs of curved bean shaped slots, tilted relative to one another. The arms include a proximal end, the proximal end further including pins positioned and proportioned for complimental sliding movement within the upper and lower slots of the guide plates. Set screws are positioned between the inner and outer guide plate against a locking surface of the proximal end of each arm. When the set screws are loosened the upper and lower arms may be moved relative to one another, permitting the guide pins to slide within the slots but in opposite directions relative to one another. Flat-screws secure the inner and outer guide plates and co-act with the set screws as a locking mechanism of proximal ends of said arms at a desired angulation between them.

Abstract: A hand splint includes: a forearm component; a strut mounted on the forearm component; and a hand component mounted on the strut such that a spacing extends between the hand component and the forearm component, whereby the strut spans a wrist when the hand splint is worn. The hand component is configured to receive the volar surface of digits 2 through 5, the thumb, and the palm. The hand component includes a malleable section and may include a resilient section for generating a continuous restoring force in response to bending. Multiple hand pieces can be used with the same palm support platform and forearm component for progressive treatment of hand. An initial hand piece having a malleable section and a rigid bar-like portion; a second hand piece having only a malleable section; and a hand piece having both a malleable section and resilient section may be progressive used.

Abstract: A protective glove is disclosed that provides a user with protection against radial luxation or subluxation of the user's thumb during activities in which the user's thumb can be subjected to forces that may dislocate the thumb in relation to the hand. In one preferred embodiment, the protective glove is a ski glove that includes a bracing element to prevent injurious movement of a snow skier's thumb when a ski pole used by the skier forcefully reacts to movement of the ski pole as the pole is inserted or dragged within the snow upon which the skier is skiing. In other embodiments, the present invention may also be utilized by as user participating in activities such a skiing, rodeos, football, hockey, polo, baseball, and lacrosse.

Abstract: An exercise aid useful in allowing human subjects with amputations or other infirmities to use standard exercise equipment is described. In one embodiment, the exercise aid has a harness that securely encircles a shoulder of the subject and has a transverse wing that extends towards the other shoulder of the subject. The exercise aid has a sleeve, preferably adjustable, that fits securely around the upper arm and other shoulder of the subject and has an extension directed toward the transverse wing of the harness. The harness and sleeve may be detachably connected by a fastener. Exercise facilitating features, such as rings, are integrated into the sleeve of the exercise device for attachment to standard exercise equipment thus allowing human subjects with amputations or other infirmities the ability to engage in a full range of exercise options in order to prevent, or reverse, muscular atrophy associated with amputation.

Abstract: A system comprising a combination of orthopedic traction devices for limiting abduction of the arm and preventing impingement of the user's shoulder. The devices include a nighttime ipsilateral shoulder traction device with removable leg and wrist cuffs, an elastic connecting strap connecting the cuffs to apply impingement-reducing traction to the shoulder joint; and a daytime centrifugal exercise device with a weighted member rotated by a handle using the ipsilateral arm. The invention also includes a method for using the two devices in combination, and a series of exercises for the centrifugal exercise device that specifically complement the nighttime impingement reduction of the traction device. In the preferred form, the traction device includes removable leg and wrist cuffs secured to the lower leg and wrist, respectively, and a one-handed quick release mechanism that allows the user to release the cuffed arm with the cuffed hand.

Abstract: A support system for surgical patients, a convertible support for surgical patients, and a method for providing a convertible support for surgical patients is provided. The support system includes an arm cradle adapted to hold an arm of a patient at an angle when the patient is in a supine position and a side bolster adapted to be positioned against a side of a patient opposite the arm cradle. The side bolster is adapted to stabilize the patient in the supine position. The arm cradle is adapted to hold an arm of a patient at an angle conducive to recovery from shoulder surgery when the patient is in a supine position. The arm cradle is also adapted to be worn as a sling when the patient is ambulatory. The arm cradle, side bolster, and an optional head support may be secured to a mat in a temporary manner.

Abstract: The same orthosis can be used to sequentially move joints of different fingers of a hand. A hand cuff of the orthosis is mounted on the hand. Mechanisms operable to move the joints are connected to the hand cuff at locations aligned with the fingers. The mechanisms are connected with the fingers. The joints of the fingers are moved by operating the mechanisms. The joints and first and second portions of the fingers define on one side of the joints outer sectors which decrease in angle as the joints are extended. Force is applied to the first and second portions of the fingers to move the joints by providing relative rotation between internally and externally threaded members disposed in the outer sectors. Actuator members connected with the internally or externally threaded members are moved along paths that extend through the joints.

Abstract: A support for sonographers provides a path of force transmission from an ultrasound probe to the sonographer's upper arm bypassing the wrist, and thus reducing wrist injuries that can come from the need to tightly grip and restrain an ultrasound probe for long periods of time.

Abstract: A posture strap formed by connecting the ends of an elongate band to the middle of the band after twisting each end 180 degrees to form two arm loops and the method of correcting posture by disposing the arms of a person into the loops and locating the loops at the upper aspect of the arms while the strap extends along the person's back.

Abstract: An orthopedic brace is provided that provides for immobilization of an injured or postoperative extremity in an abduction position and also allows the user to control internal and external rotation of the extremity. A brace is provided with two opposing members, one opposing member having a torso resting surface and the other opposing member having a forearm support surface, and an adjustment mechanism that allows a user to expand or contract the orthopedic brace to provide for internal and/or external rotation of a humeral head of the user through the forearm of the user.

Abstract: A method of rehabilitation comprising: providing a first actuator that includes a movement mechanism capable of applying a force that interacts with a motion of a patient's limb in a volume of at least 30 cm in diameter, in at least three degrees of freedom of motion of the actuator and capable of preventing substantial motion in any point in any direction in said volume; coupling said first actuator to a first point on a human body; providing a second actuator that includes a movement mechanism capable of applying a force that interacts with a motion of a patient's limb in a volume of at least 30 cm in diameter, in at least three degrees of freedom of motion of the actuator and capable of preventing substantial motion in any point in any direction in said volume; coupling said second actuator to a second point on a human body; and applying different forces to said points using said actuators.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a thermal covering that delivers consistent therapy to a portion of a user's hand-wrist area, is easy to use and apply to the body, and is securely positionable on the body. The thermal covering can be entirely disposable after one use. The thermal covering can also have a disposable component and a reusable component that can be packaged individually together as a kit.

Abstract: A system that can monitor motion and establish haptic feedback to promote rehabilitation and/or strength training is provided. The innovation can be applied at any point along a rehabilitative progression continuum to provide computer-regulated (e.g., virtual, remote) training and/or coaching. For example, the innovation can be employed to actively drive a limb, provide force feedback to promote wellness, passively monitor motion of a limb or even to establish resistance to encourage strength training. The modular components of the system promote adaptability to users of all shapes and sizes.

Abstract: Wrist orthosis (11) having a supporting shell (10) that is open in the radial direction for receiving the distal forearm area and having a volar hand support (29) for coming into contact with the palmar surface of the hand and having a closing device (31, 32, 33, 70) for force-locking connection of the wrist orthosis to the wrist area, wherein a dimensionally stable supporting insert that surrounds the wrist area and is designed to conform to the forearm area is provided for lining the supporting shell (10), the supporting insert extending beyond the supporting shell (10) starting from a forearm part with a metacarpal part (73) covering the metacarpal area.

Abstract: An apparatus for disposition on appendage, such as an arm or leg, is capable of encircling and applying opposing forces selectively thereto. A C-shaped component receives one side of the appendage, a second C-shaped component receives the other side of the appendage, and a tensioning system draws the two components together for selective application of pressure to the appendage. Outriggers and pressure applicators may be used to apply pressure to extended areas of the appendage that otherwise would not be engaged by the C-shaped components. Side-to-side tissue compression thereby is provided for deflection of muscle forces, functional shortening of muscle length, and the maintenance of neurovascular channels. Circumferential forces may be minimized based on semirigid characteristics of the components. Elbow and shoulder braces apply side-to-side tissue compression to arms.

Abstract: An adjustable support assembly for an orthopedic brace has a support bar, a housing and a locking mechanism. The housing includes a travel track which receives the support bar. The locking mechanism includes a lock stop and a lock peg array having at least one column and a plurality of rows. The lock stop is perpendicularly positioned between two lock pegs in adjacent rows to prevent displacement of the support bar in the travel track when the length locking mechanism is in the closed position and the lock stop is parallely positioned to enable displacement of the support bar in the travel track when the length locking mechanism is in the open position.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a pivotal disc is pivotally coupled to a first brace and a second brace. The pivotal disc has a motion-limit member and a positioning member limiting the angle by which the second brace rotates with respect to the first brace with the pivotal disc being the axis and fixing the angle between the first and second braces. The present invention is characterized in that the motion-limit member uses a range-adjust member to push a slide block and determine the range that a block portion of the second brace is blocked by the slide block, and that the positioning member uses a switch knob actuates on end of a positioning rod to engage with or depart from a positioning notch on the pivotal disc, and that the pivotal disc has two limit elements to define the maximum movement range of the first brace and the second brace.