Abstract: The present invention relates to medical devices and methods useful for improving a person's ability to grasp and release an object, and more specifically, the present invention relates to a splint for causing dynamic extension of a finger and/or thumb.

Abstract: This invention describes a novel wrist support brace for patients with carpal tunnel syndrom or injured wrists that utilizes an adjustable strap in conjunction with a hard support brace positioned around the forearm. The brace will physically contain the injured wrist in a stable position, thereby minimizing the potential of further injury. The wrist brace will allow some movement of the wrist and permit a user to continue working while the wrist heals in a normal position.

Abstract: A patient care system for providing static progressive positioning of body members in pronation or supination, the system includes a positioning assembly that rotatably positions a first body engaging assembly relative to a second body engaging assembly for static progressive positioning of a body joint in pronation or supination.

Abstract: An orthotic protective device collectively including a base unit connected to a metacarpal unit by a hinge system designed to protect and prevent hyperextension and hyperflexion movements of the metacarpal, carpal, radius and ulna regions. The base unit and metacarpal unit includes a longitudinal support member and a casing, respectively, lined with at least one pad having a tongue. At least one releasable fastener is mated to the support member and casing and extends to the tongue of the pad. Apertures of the base unit are mated and connected to apertures of the hinge system which form an articulated joint allowing the hinge system to move in an upward manner allowing for natural extension of the user's wrist and in a downward fashion for unlimited flexion motion. The base unit and the hinge system may both have at least one stop formed thereon; and as these stops come into contact with one another, it limits the flexion, extension and radial-ulnar deviation.

Abstract: The apparatus of the present invention stretches the carpal ligament and the flexor retinaculum, as well as the superficial structures and muscles of the hand, in a safe manner under precise control of the patient or a healthcare professional. A first embodiment of the inventive apparatus includes a housing for receiving the patient's hand with a bottom portion having a first pressure element positioned to contact the hypothenar region of the patient's hand and a second pressure element positioned to contact the thenar region of the patient's hand, and a top portion having a central longitudinal pressure element positioned to contact the central longitudinal dorsal region of the patient's hand.

Abstract: A support (1) of a rigid material having a salient arcuate bow (6) extending orthogonally from one side of the vertex of a saddle portion (5) has a Velcro® hook part (2) fixed onto the concave surface of the saddle portion (5) and a coating of a cushioning material (3) on the convex surface of the salient arcuate bow (6). The support (1) is fixable onto a wrist band (P) by anchoring the Velcro® hook part (2) present on the concave surface of the saddle (5) onto a textile lace (9) of the wrist band (P) passed in front of the thumb, the coated convex surface of the salient arcuate bow (6) sustaining the thumb resting on it. A textile binding lace (7) is wound around the thumb and the sustaining salient arcuate bow (6) of the saddle (5) for immobilizing the thumb.

Abstract: A patient care system for positioning on a limb of a patient for assisting in flexion or extension of a joint. The system has a threaded shaft which engages a toothed gear. The threaded shaft is rotated to rotate the toothed gear for assisting in flexion or extension of the joint.

Abstract: Disclosed is a wrist-wearable electronic interface movably mounted on an arm-attachment mechanism. Interface moves from under-sleeve wrist-adjacent position to palm-adjacent position where it can be manipulated by the hand of the arm wearing the device. Alternately adaptable to telephones, audio recorders, remote controls, auto ID equipment, telephone call-blocking, and more. Alternative embodiment provides a wrist-mounted docking station. Another alternative embodiment includes a superior carpal tunnel syndrome therapy device. The system also includes novel battery chargers: (1) window-mounted, solar-powered; (2) mounted in an automobile that also includes an improved odometer, license plate, and cabin air filtration system.

Abstract: A cast or support for use in limiting movement of the anatomy to promote healing of an injured body part includes initially flexible and subsequently rigid double-knit material, or other casting blanks. There is a water-hardenable material impregnated into the casting blank. Certain areas of the blank have significantly reduced or no hardenable material. This construction may provide at least one hinge line which extends substantially across the double-knit material or other casting blank where the upper and lower layers are held in engagement with each other. The cast or support may be folded open along the hinge line to permit washing, inspection, or treatment of the portion of the anatomy to which the cast or support is applied or as one step in the preparation of a mold of a portion of the anatomy. More than one hinge line may be provided. Overlapping edges of the blank may also be of reduced thickness and with reduced hardening material to provide a smooth overlap to secure the cast or support in place.

Abstract: A dynamic splint assembly for a hand includes a forearm support section configured to abut the dorsal side of a forearm and span a wrist; and a hand support section connected to the forearm support section. The hand support section is configured to abut the dorsal side of the hand including the dorsal side of the length of a finger. The hand support section comprises a resilient material that, in response to bending, such as during flexion of the finger, generates a continuous restoring force in opposition to such bending, whereby the finger in flexion is urged toward extension. The forearm support section, in contrast, does not generate, in response to bending, a continuous restoring force in opposition to such bending, whereby a wrist may be selectively oriented in one of many fixed dispositions having varying degrees of flexion and extension relative to a forearm.

Abstract: A finger and hand brace, the combination comprising a longitudinally elongated brace body, adapted to be applied lengthwise to the wrist and finger region of the hand; multiple flexible flaps carried by the body to be spaced lengthwise thereof and to extend from the body; separate flaps configured to be wrapped about at least two of the following: hand, wrist, a finger or fingers; and retention means on the brace to retain the flaps in wrapped condition; and two generally longitudinally elongated stiffeners carried by the body, the stiffeners having undulating extent or extents with convex concave curvatures, to readily conform to wrist and finger contour with the fingers extended in natural condition.

Abstract: An ambidextrous wrist brace is described, having a substantially rectangular main strap (2) designed to be closed in a tubular shape around the wrist and provided with a slot (21) through which the user's thumb passes to be immobilized by an immobilization system (3) connected to the main strap (2). The thumb immobilization system (3) includes a rod (30) substantially bent into a U-shape to give rise to two end arms (31) which engage telescopically in respective pockets (9, 9?) formed on the main strap (2), so as to be able to adjust the thumb immobilizer (3) in position.

Abstract: The present invention 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: A wrist brace includes a flexible main body having one or more pressure transmitting members disposed thereon designed to impart focused pressure on a tendon of interest.

Abstract: A finger and hand brace, the combination comprising a longitudinally elongated brace body, adapted to be applied lengthwise to the wrist and finger region of the hand; multiple flexible flaps carried by the body to be spaced lengthwise thereof and to extend from the body; separate flaps configured to be wrapped about at least two of the following: hand, wrist, a finger or fingers; and retention means on the brace to retain the flaps in wrapped condition; and two generally longitudinally elongated stiffeners carried by the body, the stiffeners having undulating extent or extents, to readily conform to wrist and finger contour with the fingers extended in natural condition.

Abstract: A splinting device for receiving and stabilizing a plurality of fingers. The splinting device has a main body having a generally rigid and planar upper surface and lower surface, a first side edge and a second side edge, a distal end portion and a proximal end portion. The main body has a hood at its distal end portion upending proximally over the upper surface of the main body. The hood has an upper surface and a lower surface, and the lower surface of the hood and the upper surface of the main body define an interior space for receiving a plurality of fingers. In one embodiment, the splinting device also includes a glove portion comprising a wrist attachment and a flap. The main body may comprise an attachment mechanism for attaching the main body to the wrist attachment of the glove portion.

Abstract: A wrap for covering and protecting an intravenous site on a hand of a patient having an entertainment component such as a doll or puppet for children. The wrap comprises doll arm holes, a thumb hole and a plurality of fastening strips strategically located on both sides of the wrap for securing the wrap around the entertainment device and the intravenous site on the patient's hand. An alternate embodiment comprises a wrap with an entertainment device for protecting an intravenous site on the hand of a baby. The wrap may also be used on a foot and/or at the area of the antecubital fossa (bend of the arm) or the forearm by disregarding the finger placement holes.

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: The present invention relates to a non-invasive external fixator particularly suitable for fracture fixation. In particular, the fixator of the invention comprises proximal and distal portions for mounting on a limb either side of a fracture, each of the proximal and distal portions including a rigid member; and an articulation member connecting the proximal and distal portions, the articulation member comprising a universal joint for allowing relative movement between the proximal and distal portions, wherein the articulation member connects the rigid members.

Abstract: An arm board for supporting the forearm, wrist and hand during IV therapy which includes a contoured brace with removable straps for securing the forearm and middle two fingers of the patient's hand to the support, allowing some limited movement of the middle two fingers, and free movement of the little finger, thumb and index finger to reduce fatigue without altering the position of the IV tubing.

Abstract: An archer's hand support structure apparatus and method of use is disclosed to help stabilize an archer's hand during string draw and string release of an archer's bow. The archer's hand support structure apparatus includes a band of flexible material adapted to encase the archer's hand, the band having a first edge portion extending adjacent to an archer's distal hand portion and a second edge portion extending adjacent to an archer's proximal hand portion. The band also includes an aperture therethrough disposed substantially adjacent to the first edge portion for receiving a thumb of the archer's hand. Further included is a stiffener positioned adjacent to the band, the stiffener also extending lengthwise substantially from the band first edge portion to the band second edge portion and the band also includes structure for removably engaging the band from the archer's bow.

Abstract: A flexible cast that constructed out of a group of cells. Each cell is filled with a filler that contains a substance that can be heated or cooled. The cast is held onto the user's body by a set of straps and fasteners. The cast is intended to immobilize the body part and either heat or cool it as desired.

Abstract: The present invention relates to orthotic devices and methods of use of orthotic devices. In particular, the present invention provides a forearm orthotic device, and related methods of use. Furthermore, the present invention provides methods for treating forearm disorders.

Abstract: An orthotic protective device collectively including a base unit connected to a metacarpal unit by a hinge system designed to protect and prevent hyperextension and hyperflexion movements of the metacarpal, carpal, radius and ulna regions. The base unit and metacarpal unit includes a longitudinal support member and a casing, respectively, lined with at least one pad having a tongue. At least one releasable fastener is mated to the support member and casing and extends to the tongue of the pad. Apertures of the base unit are mated and connected to apertures of the hinge system which form an articulated joint allowing the hinge system to move in an upward manner allowing for natural extension of the user's wrist and in a downward fashion for unlimited flexion motion. The base unit and the hinge system may both have at least one stop formed thereon; and as these stops come into contact with one another, it limits the flexion, extension and radial-ulnar deviation.

Abstract: The present invention is a finger and hand brace having a longitudinally elongated body adapted to be applied lengthwise to the wrist and finger region of the hand. The brace body has multiple flaps spaced lengthwise along the body that are configured to be wrapped about at least two of the following: hand, wrist, a finger, or fingers. The flaps have a retention device, such as a hook and loop fastener, to retain the flaps in a wrapped condition. The body carries two generally longitudinally elongated stiffeners having undulating extents to readily conform to wrist and finger contour with the fingers extended in a natural condition.

Abstract: A safety device does not prevent any movement of the hand, wrist, or fingers; but discourages extension, the upward movement of the wrist. A “breakaway” property is provided so that the wearer may have complete freedom at any point. The device is worn to keep the user's wrist in a safe position least likely to induce carpal tunnel syndrome, reminding the user to hold the hand in a position which may relieve carpal tunnel syndrome or reduce the likelihood of acquiring this syndrome.

Abstract: A powered orthotic device, worn about a patient's elbow or other joint, senses relatively low level signals in the vicinity of the joint generated by a patient having spinal cord or other nerve damage. In response to the relatively low level signals, the powered orthotic device moves, causing the patient's joint to move accordingly.

Abstract: The device is a thin, self-adhesive non-stretch splint, having the capability to flex. This device is intended for the treatment of repetitive stress injuries such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome with elements that provide user adjustable limitation of movement within acceptable medical parameters. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome symptoms include pain and numbness in the thumb, index, and middle fingers, that are aggravated by compression of the median nerve. This device limits flexion, extension, ulnar and radial deviation movements of the wrist without compressing the median nerve The device limits movement by reducing skin elasticity on the surface skin above or below the wrist and up the forearm. The application provides biomechanical feedback to the wearer in the form of the tugging sensation on the skin around the perimeter of the device assisting the user in maintaining a more neutral wrist position without imposing wrist immobilization.

Abstract: The present invention provides a novel means of joint and body protection using engineered textiles to provide dynamic kinematic control within the device itself and for the underlying body part. The apparatus may be used in apparel or orthosis wherein a textile is organized about the proximal and distal aspects of a joint or body part and uses the mechanical and material characteristics of the engineered textile to dynamically control the kinetics of the body part and more specifically to prevent the body part from reaching extremes in range of motion. The engineered textiles can be designed to provide non-uniform increases in stiffness in any direction. The engineered textile may incorporate strain or strain rate dependant materials in which case stiffness properties would vary non-uniformly with velocity and/or acceleration within the device allowing for protection from blunt trauma, blast, or ballistic events anywhere on the body.

Abstract: A protective article is provided having a body with a finger portion and a forearm portion. The body extends from the first finger knuckles past a wearers wrist joint. The protective article has a padding extending over at least a portion of the body, with a knuckle pad region and a forearm pad region that extends from beyond the first finger knuckles past a wearer's wrist joint. The protective article can have a flexible joint at the juncture between the knuckle and the forearm pad regions and a rigid forearm guard covering a portion of the forearm pad region, extending from the flexible joint past a wearer's wrist joint. A wrist wrap can be provided that has at least one fastener attached to the body, operable to secure the forearm guard adjacent to a dorsal side of a wearer's wrist to substantially secure a wearer's wrist joint.

Abstract: A wrist brace of the present invention for supporting a wrist of the wearer. The wrist brace includes a sheet of flexible material that overlies and supports a wearer's wrist. Defined in the sheet is an opening between a pair of lateral edges, wherein the opening is sized to accommodate a thumb of a wearer. A thumb strap of the wrist brace is defined by a break extending between a distal edge of the sheet of material and the thumb opening. A fastener on one end of the thumb strap allows the thumb strap to be extended between a thumb and index finger so as to secure the wrist brace. Optionally, the thumb opening can have a non-circular shape, such as a triangular shape, with an axis extending in the proximal-distal direction when the wrist brace is worn to promote a better fit around a base of the thumb.

Abstract: The present invention provides an orthotic appliance for the carpus of a human hand for the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome using co-dynamic, rather than traditional static or dynamic, techniques. The appliance may apply a 2 pound dorsally directed force about the region of the pisiform bone in the neutral carpal position of a human hand upon co-contraction of the hand and up to 8 pounds dorsally directed during arc of motion in carpal flexion, as the wrist and hand is encouraged to actively move in all planes of motion without negatively affecting the normal activities of daily living. The appliance may comprise a biasing structure for applying the dorsally directed force and a base structure for maintaining the biasing structure in its proper configuration during normal hand motion.

Abstract: This invention relates to an electrotherapeutic device useful for treating a variety of aspects associated with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. The device is a TENS-like unit that is miniaturized, comfortable and unobtrusive, thereby allowing for unencumbered performance of daily activities. The device houses an electronic circuit comprising optimally placed electrodes and a microprocessor preprogrammed to deliver an optimal stimulus pulse protocol whereby the stimulus pulse parameters are varied so as to deliver a series of stimulus pulses for treating all aspects of CTS, including but not limited to pain blockage, nerve regeneration, reduction in inflammation and biochemical release.

Abstract: This invention describes a novel wrist support brace for patients with carpal tunnel syndrom or injured wrists that utilizes an adjustable strap in conjunction with a hard support brace positioned around the forearm. The brace will physically contain the injured wrist in a stable position, thereby minimizing the potential of further injury. The wrist brace will allow some movement of the wrist and permit a user to continue working while the wrist heals in a normal position.

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: A wrist splint is formed from two rods, preferably parallel and substantially straight, with straps or bands at one end to secure the rods to the wrist and forearm area of the user such that the rods extend over the back (dorsal) side of the wrist and hand. The ends of the rods opposite the straps or bands are bent back along the lengths of the rods and are spaced apart to pass between the middle finger and the adjacent fingers of the wearer with one on each side of the middle finger, and to continue toward the mid-palm. The splint maintains the wrist in a flat, extended position without any fabric covering, or in contact with, the hand of the wearer, and with no restriction on the movement of the thumb or of any of the fingers.

Abstract: The apparatus of the present invention stretches the carpal ligament and the flexor retinaculum, as well as the superficial structures and muscles of the hand, in a safe manner under precise control of the patient or a healthcare professional. Various embodiments of the inventive apparatus commonly include a housing for receiving the hypothenar portion of the patient's hand with an open side portion adapted and configured to contact and retain the hypothenar region of the patient's hand, with an edge of the housing extending along a central longitudinal dorsal portion of the hand, while a flexible resilient strap is wrapped around the thenar portion of the hand (i.e. around the thumb area) in such a manner as to pull the thenar portion of the hand upward with the edge of the housing serving as a fulcrum around which the thenar and hypothenar portions of the hand are bent.

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: An orthopedic wrist splint with an initially generally planar malleable metal core covered by a layer of synthetic foam padding material on each of its opposite sides and protected by an outer cover of fabric. In one embodiment, depending on the orientation of the splint relative to the patient, the splint provides greater or lesser firmness of support when the core is bent to conform the splint to the patient's hand, wrist, and forearm. In another embodiment, a central part of the length of the splint lacks the metal core and is flexible, so that two parts of the splint are easily used on opposite sides of an arm or ankle, with the central part comfortably bent around an elbow or a foot, and with the splint firmly supporting the limb.

Abstract: Splint for an orthopedic joint bandage. The splint includes at least a first section, at least a second section, at least one tensioning element, and a tightening device. The tightening device is structured and arranged to press the first and second sections against each other. This abstract is neither intended to define the invention disclosed in this specification nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to an orthopedic support having a flexible inner member and an exo-skeleton that is molded directly onto the flexible inner member. One aspect of the invention relates to a wrist support having a thumb spica. The wrist support includes a molded plastic exostructure supplying support for resisting motion of said wrist. An inner fabric support is attached to said molded exostructure for providing cushioning to the wrist area. A separate, attachable thumb spica member is provided for optionally configuring the wrist support to include a thumb spica.

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 up 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 upper 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: A method of treating and/or preventing carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is provided, comprising administering a therapeutically effective amount of a botulinum toxin to a patient in need thereof or a patient at risk for development of CTS. More specifically, the method includes one or more injections of a botulinum toxin over a period of time into one or more muscles of the hand and/or wrist, or directly into the carpal tunnel along the median nerve. Pharmaceutical compositions are provided as are combination therapies with other agents such as anti-inflammatory drugs, growth factors, and agents useful in the treatment of neuropathic pain. The use of the methods of the present invention are also contemplated with other treatment regimens used to treat patients having carpal tunnel syndrome.

Abstract: A finger and hand brace, the combination comprising a longitudinally elongated brace body, adapted to be applied lengthwise to the wrist and finger region of the hand; multiple flexible flaps carried by the body to be spaced lengthwise thereof and to extend from the body; separate flaps configured to be wrapped about at least two of the following: hand, wrist, a finger or fingers; and retention means on the brace to retain the flaps in wrapped condition; and two generally longitudinally elongated stiffeners carried by the body, the stiffeners having undulating extent or extents, to readily conform to wrist and finger contour with the fingers extended in natural condition.

Abstract: A finger and hand brace, the combination comprising a longitudinally elongated brace body, adapted to be applied lengthwise to the wrist and finger region of the hand; multiple flexible flaps carried by the body to be spaced lengthwise thereof and to extend from the body; separate flaps configured to be wrapped about at least two of the following: hand, wrist, a finger or fingers; and retention means on the brace to retain the flaps in wrapped condition. Elongated, adjustably bendable inserts may be employed to extend in spaced relation in the body, and a thumb hole may be provided in the body, between the inserts.

Abstract: A brace for a patient appendage. The brace can include a first member and a second member. The first member is positioned proximate a first side of the patient appendage and includes a main body portion extending in a longitudinal direction. The first member additionally includes a circumferentially extending portion at least partially extending about the patient appendage. The second member is positioned proximate a second side of the patient appendage and includes a first end having an outer convexly curved portion.

Abstract: A dynamic gauntlet including at least two of a base, a hand piece, and a thumb piece. At least one of the base, hand piece and thumb piece is constructed of an elastomeric material and includes an anchor having an attachment element extending toward the at least one other of the base, hand piece and thumb piece, which includes an attachment area. The attachment element is secured to the attachment area in a variety of pre-selected locations, thereby providing variable tension in the anchor to reconfigure the hand or digits. A method of the invention includes applying at least two of the base, the hand piece and the thumb piece to a wrist, arm or hand, and securing an anchor attachment element of one or more of these components to a pre-selected location on an attachment area of these components to reconfigure the hand or digits in a desired configuration.

Abstract: The present invention includes an adhesive bandage for use in one or more disorders of a joint and/or associated appendage. The method of the present invention includes placing a user's joint in a corrective orthopedic position, and adhering an adhesive bandage onto an external surface of the user's joint, such that the adhesive bandage stimulates a somatic reflex arc when the user's joint deviates from the corrective orthopedic position to prompt the user to return the joint to the corrective orthopedic position.

Abstract: The apparatus of the present invention stretches the carpal ligament and the flexor retinaculum, as well as the superficial structures and muscles of the hand, in a safe manner under precise control of the patient or a healthcare professional. The preferred embodiment of the inventive apparatus includes a first housing with an open side portion adapted and configured to contact and retain the hypothenar region of the patient's hand, with a first edge of the first housing extending along a central longitudinal dorsal portion of the hand, and a second housing with an open side portion adapted and configured to contact and retain the thenar region of the patient's hand, with a second edge of the second housing also extending along a central longitudinal dorsal portion of the hand. A flexible resilient strap is secured to the first housing, and then wrapped around the second housing encompassing the thenar portion of the hand (i.e.

Abstract: A joint protecting brace includes a cuff member. The cuff member includes a pair of upper lateral and lower lateral tightening portions positioned on opposed sides of a cuff longitudinal axis. The cuff member further includes a liner disposed between and coupled to the upper lateral tightening portions and lower lateral tightening portions and extending along the cuff longitudinal axis. The cuff member further includes a connector coupled to a latitudinal strap. The cuff member further includes a first adjuster coupled to the upper lateral tightening portions and the connector. The cuff member further includes a second adjuster coupled to the lower lateral tightening portions and the connector. The first and second adjusters are disposed in tension for adjusting a distance between the upper and lower lateral tightening portions respectively. The first and second adjusters are communicable via the connector.