Ankle Patents (Class 602/27)
  • Patent number: 9572703
    Abstract: An orthotic sock for treatment of an orthopedic condition is formed from a resilient material and has means for restricting movement of a wearer's foot in one or more predetermined directions and/or means for assisting movement of a wearer's foot in one or more predetermined directions. An opening is defined through a posterior leg portion of the sock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: DM ORTHOTICS LIMITED
    Inventor: Martin Matthews
  • Patent number: 9516913
    Abstract: A motorcycling boot, in particular a motocross boot comprises a sole and an upper in turn comprising a bottom portion, suitable for surrounding the user's foot, and a leg-piece suitable for surrounding the user's leg. A first protection means is connected to said leg-piece in the region of the shin, while a second protection means is connected to said leg-piece in the region of the calf. Said first protection means comprises an element suitable for sliding inside guiding means formed in said first protection means, while said second protection means comprises an element suitable for sliding inside guiding means formed in said second protection means. The movement of said elements allows variation, during use of the boot, of the configuration of the leg-piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2016
    Assignee: ALPINESTARS RESEARCH SRL
    Inventor: Giovanni Mazzarolo
  • Patent number: 9452344
    Abstract: A puck system achieves adjustable stance in three degrees of freedom—foot placement, foot angulation, and crosswise centering—on a snow gliding board. The puck system includes pairs of puck assemblies for each rider's foot. Puck assemblies are formed from a sliderblock, a flanged disk, and fasteners for each puck. To achieve crosswise centering, the sliderblock is patterned on a top face so as to engage a detent on the underside of the flanged disk in one of many crosswise positions. In a preferred embodiment, the patterned surface includes stepwise offset circular grooves, the grooves providing rotational freedom of angulation at multiple axes of rotation according to the crosswise displacement of the sliderblock in the mounting channel, thereby realizing independent, finely granular adjustment of stance and center of balance for the first time. The system may be used with most boot binding interfaces on the market and may be adapted for either splitboards or snowboards.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2016
    Inventor: William J Ritter
  • Patent number: 9452077
    Abstract: An ankle brace includes upper and lower members with a hinge therebetween. The hinge is configured to be positioned at a location that corresponds to, or at least approximately corresponds to, a true axis of rotation of an individual's foot relative to the tibia bone in his or her lower leg. That axis of rotation is located below the tibialtalor junction, along which tibia and talus articulate as the foot is moved between dorsiflexion and plantarflexion orientations. A foot orthosis includes an arch support that is configured to support at least a portion of a longitudinal arch of an individual's foot regardless of whether or not a ground reaction force is applied to the arch support or to the foot. Such an arch support and an orthosis of which it is a part may be configured to exert an upward force on the longitudinal arch regardless of whether or not any weight is applied to the foot or to the arch support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2016
    Inventors: Dean Cropper, Joseph T. Zachariasen
  • Patent number: 9445932
    Abstract: An orthopedic garment includes a garment body made of stretchable fabric and configured to be worn in a form-fitting manner on the upper body of a wearer. The garment body has a front body portion, a rear body portion joined to the front body portion, and right and left sleeve portions attached to the front and rear body portions. Also provided is at least one tensor band laid out along one of the front and rear body portions in a manner intended to substantially correspond to at least one of the fascial lines extending along the upper body of the wearer. When the garment is worn by the wearer, the at least one tensor band may be placed in tension so as to provide proprioceptive feedback to the wearer during movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2016
    Inventor: Erin Lynn Boynton
  • Patent number: 9439798
    Abstract: The present invention includes a walking boot device which immobilizes the ankle at about a 90° angle using a single anterior post that is angled at about 90° at an ankle joint from a lateral view, and encompasses an anterior one half of a calf proximally, and a dorsal one half of a forefoot distally. The post includes medial and lateral wings. The present invention defines an area for a medial and lateral malleolus and is narrow at the ankle and wider at the calf for a more anatomical fit. The present invention is secured to a leg using hook and loop fastener (Velcro®) strapping attached proximally around the calf posteriorly, away from any bony prominences. The hook and loop fastener (Velcro®) strapping is attached to the medial and lateral wings through brackets that are riveted into the wings. The present invention further includes foam inserts and a pneumatic bladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Inventor: Joseph C. Smith
  • Patent number: 9421117
    Abstract: An ankle brace including a foot portion, an ankle portion with a strap for securing the brace to the user and a single pneumatic air bladder system. The air bladder system includes a distal U-shaped chamber which surrounds the user's plantar fascia connected via two tapered communicating channels to two proximal chambers positioned on either side of the user's Achilles tendon. Pressure applied to the distal U-shaped chamber results in air flow to the proximal chambers. Air flows back to the distal chamber when that pressure is released. Expansion and contraction of the distal and proximal chambers massages the underlying plantar fascia and Achilles tendon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2016
    Inventor: Michael Thomas Hames
  • Patent number: 9414951
    Abstract: A method of proprioceptive training using an article of athletic equipment having an article of footwear, a knee coupling member, and a biasing member is disclosed. The method includes securing the article of footwear to a foot and securing the knee coupling member to a leg superiorly and inferiorly about a knee joint thereof. Moreover, the method includes biasing the article of footwear relative to the knee coupling member using the biasing member to bias the foot toward plantarflexion relative to the leg to increase proprioception of the foot relative to the leg.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2016
    Assignee: NIKE, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian D. Baker, Martine I. V. Mientjes, Erez Morag, Nicola J. Reynolds
  • Patent number: 9408739
    Abstract: The present invention includes a walking boot device which immobilizes the ankle at about a 90° angle using a single anterior post that is angled at about 90° at an ankle joint from a lateral view, and encompasses an anterior one half of a calf proximally, and a dorsal one half of a forefoot distally. The post includes medial and lateral wings. The present invention defines an area for a medial and lateral malleolus and is narrow at the ankle and wider at the calf for a more anatomical fit. The present invention is secured to a leg using hook and loop fastener (Velcro®) strapping attached proximally around the calf posteriorly, away from any bony prominences. The hook and loop fastener (Velcro®) strapping is attached to the medial and lateral wings through brackets that are riveted into the wings. The present invention further includes foam inserts and a pneumatic bladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2016
    Inventor: Joseph C. Smith
  • Patent number: 9387113
    Abstract: The invention relates to walkers, and in particular, to orthopaedic walker devices for assisting in the stabilization and healing of injuries to the lower leg and/or foot, including fractures to the bones of the foot, such as metatarsal fractures, ‘Jones Fracture or broken phalanges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: SONOA PRODUCTS LTD
    Inventor: Christopher Whipp
  • Patent number: 9364363
    Abstract: An ankle control system, having a form-fitting sock or brace, a relatively-rigid support member, a lever motion stabilizing strap, and collar. The form-fitting sock or brace has opposing medial and lateral sides, a foot portion having an arch portion, and an ankle portion having an upper attachment element. The relatively-rigid support member is connected to the form-fitting sock or brace and contours about a wearer's leg. The lever motion stabilizing strap acts as a lasso to restrict inversion, eversion, and plantar flexion/inversion through the lever action of the foot with respect to the ankle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Inventor: Dean E. Cropper
  • Patent number: 9364366
    Abstract: A hinged ankle brace having a semi-rigid ankle cuff and a semi-rigid foot bed rotatably connected by a medial hinge and a lateral hinge provides enhanced stability and support to a wearer's ankle. The medial hinge of the ankle brace may be higher than the lateral hinge to accurately replicate the bending motion of an ankle. The ankle brace also includes ratchetably interconnected semi-rigid straps. These semi-rigid straps provide a semi-rigid structure encircling the ankle of a wearer for enhanced support. The ratchet mechanism may include a curved window that enables angular adjustment of the ratchting straps. The ankle brace may also include a soft inner liner and a soft outer sleeve. The outer sleeve is configured to provide compression to the semi-rigid shell, which in turn provides additional compression to the ankle. The semi-rigid foot bed may include posterior extensions that cup and support the wearer's heel, and a posterior cut-out portion that receives the wearer's heel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Assignee: DJO, LLC
    Inventors: Drew R. Verkade, Jeremy Nathanson, David Rodwell Walters, III
  • Patent number: 9358146
    Abstract: An orthopedic device has various frame elements concealed by a sleeve defining pockets into which such frame elements are located. The orthopedic device includes a strap tightening assembly adapted to secure a plurality of straps simultaneously. The frame may include flexible edge features located along a periphery thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2016
    Assignee: OSSUR hf
    Inventors: Hildur Inga Thorsteinsdottir, Arni Thor Ingimundarson, Helga Run Palsdottir, Bjorn Omarsson
  • Patent number: 9333106
    Abstract: An orthopedic device in the form of a circumferential walker includes a first member (posterior shell) and a second member (dorsal shell) corresponding to the first member. An outsole or plantar shell portion is attached to, or formed on or with the posterior shell. A hinge mechanism is provided between the posterior and dorsal shells to allow the dorsal shell to be swung away from the posterior shell in order to accommodate an anatomical limb therein. Inflatable bladders having perspiration wicking channels and/or openings are provided within a liner for insertion between the posterior and dorsal shells. Quick-connecting buckle and retaining assemblies can be provided to allow a user to quickly don and doff the orthopedic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2016
    Assignee: OSSUR HF
    Inventors: Irving Hu, Jane Lee
  • Patent number: 9125787
    Abstract: A compression garment for applying compression therapy to a body part of a person. The compression garment includes a bladder including an inflatable chamber having a perimeter and an opening through which the inflatable chamber is inflated. A foam layer is positioned at least partially in the inflatable chamber for reducing a volume of gas required to inflate the inflatable chamber and extends at least partially outside the inflatable chamber for providing structural support to the compression garment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2015
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Arnaz S. Malhi, Raymond C. Avitable
  • Patent number: 9113996
    Abstract: An adjustable heel stabilization device comprised of first and second side plates, a union plate, a first connector plate for attaching said first side plate with the union plate and a corresponding second connector plate for connecting said second side plate with the union plate, wherein said first and second side plates are repositionable relative to the union plate and vice versa. The adjustable heel stabilization device of the present invention allows an individual to apply pressure to both sides of the heel and compress the skin and tissue along the bottom of the heel together, thereby creating a cushioning effect when the individual is walking, standing or sitting. The adjustable heel stabilization device is adjustable to accommodate various shapes and sizes of footwear, and helps to reduce swelling in the foot and provide relief for heel pain, heel spurs, plantar fasciitis and arch pain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2015
    Inventor: Raymond Ramirez
  • Patent number: 9113997
    Abstract: An ankle protecting device comprises: a wrapping sheath having a lower-leg sheath, a foot sheath and a loincloth that are integrated with thereof, the loincloth constricts the wrapping sheath on a sole, an ankle and a lower leg and is adjustable for tightness thereof; an internal supporting plate and an outer supporting plate fastened on the left and right sides of the wrapping sheath respectively, the shapes of the internal supporting plate and the outer supporting plate are symmetrical to each other, the internal supporting plate and the outer supporting plate 50b elongate to be over the ankle along the internal and outer sides of the lower leg and then to the two sides of the sole toward the top of the sole; and a foot bottom supporting plate fastened on the bottom of the foot sheath.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2015
    Inventor: Tsan-Jee Chen
  • Patent number: 9087454
    Abstract: The present invention provides a computerized interactive training method and system for receiving a user data including physical user data, medical history data and athletic goal data for the user. The method and system further includes determining a baseline data set for the user and generating a training routine for the user based on the baseline data set and the user data, including selecting a plurality of exercises for the user directed towards the athletic goal data. The method and system further includes determining a network of related users electronically networked via a networking interface, transmitting the training routine to the user and notifying the related users of the training routine. The method and system provides for receiving training feedback data from the user, including exercise-specific information and sharing the training feedback data with fellow community users.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2015
    Assignee: At Peak Resources, LLC
    Inventors: Frank Crivello, William Metzger, Frank Codella, Royce Pinkwater
  • Patent number: 9039645
    Abstract: Orthopedic device for treating neuropathic ulcers and other injuries while allowing easy access to the wound site on the plantar surface of a patient's foot includes a base portion and a sole that is either movably connected or removably connected to either the base or to a strut member. The base or strut is maintained in position on the lower leg while the sole may be rotated, slid, or completely removed for allowing inspection and access to the plantar surface of the patient's foot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: OSSUR HF
    Inventors: William Arnold, Michael Campos, Chad Leeder, David Armstrong
  • Patent number: 8998834
    Abstract: In one aspect, an ankle foot orthosis generally comprises a leg member, a foot member, and a drive assembly. The leg member is configured to be releasably fastened to a leg of the wearer. The foot member is configured to be releasably fastened to a foot of a wearer, the foot member having anterior and posterior ends. The drive assembly includes a link member hingedly secured to the foot member at a hinge location adjacent to the posterior end of the foot member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Bonutti Research, Inc.
    Inventor: Glen A. Phillips
  • Publication number: 20150094637
    Abstract: An Ankle-Foot Orthosis, or AFO, has a vertical portion and a horizontal portion joined together. The horizontal portion is fixed to a shoe, which is selected by a user, by separating at least part of the sole such that the horizontal portion can be adhered near or between a midsole of the sole of a shoe. The horizontal portion provides the necessary structure needed to connect a shoe to the vertical portion of the AFO such that a user suffering with a weakness or deformity can walk with a more normal gait. In an alternate embodiment, the AFO is removable from a shoe such that it can be replaced onto the same or a different shoe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2014
    Publication date: April 2, 2015
    Inventor: Nathan Schwartz
  • Publication number: 20150088046
    Abstract: An orthopedic device includes a base shell having ankle and foot receiving portions. The base shell forms an opening over a dorsal aspect of the base shell. A dorsal shell is contoured to generally correspond to the opening in the base shell. The dorsal shell includes a proximal member connected to distal member via a flexible or resilient connecting portion arranged to accommodate a portion of a user's lower leg or ankle A first flexible edge portion is attached to a distal terminal end of the distal member. The first flexible edge portion is arranged to bend or flex relative to the distal member so as to reduce the likelihood of pressure points on the user's toes from the distal member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2014
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Inventors: Jonathan WALBORN, Gil David MANALO, Katy FARR, Zachariah J. KLUTTS, Adam DUNN, Chris WEBSTER
  • Patent number: 8979783
    Abstract: Orthopedic devices, systems, and methods of using the same are disclosed. In an embodiment, an orthopedic device intended for use with at least one moveable body part of a user may comprise a tubular body forming an interior surface and an exterior surface. The tubular body may include at least one opening and one or more shrinkable materials. The tubular body may be moveable between a first position, wherein the tubular body is configured to at least partially receive and at least partially surround the at least one moveable body part of the user, and a second position, wherein one or more portions of the tubular body are configured to generally conform to and at least partially restrict movement of the at least one moveable body part in one or more directions. The tubular body may be configured to move from the first position to the second position in response to a treatment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Inventors: Tate L. Viehweg, Michael Wagstaff
  • Publication number: 20150073322
    Abstract: The current invention is an accommodating apparel or brace. It is intended to be convenient and comfortable. When the brace wearer is at rest, the brace exerts only modest forces against the body. When the brace wearer is active, the brace tightens and diverts load to protect the body part. The brace accommodation may include application of stronger fixation when activity begins and which persists as long as the activity does. It may also include application of forces around the body part to shift load away from the target part. The accommodation also includes relaxation of forces applied to the wearer when the wearer relaxes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2014
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Inventor: Donald M. Cohen
  • Patent number: 8973162
    Abstract: A garment consists of a close-fitting sleeve body formed of a stretch textile, and which includes an open upper end, an open lower end, and a body-receiving volume extending through the sleeve body from the open upper end to the open lower end. Opposed, spaced-apart, surface-gripping parts are applied exteriorly to the sleeve body near the open upper end and the open lower end, respectively. The surface-gripping parts are each formed of a gripping material different from the stretch textile, and the gripping material is slightly sticky or adhesive so as to cause the surface-gripping parts to grip, and to resist slipping relative to, surfaces they come in direct contact with without leaving a resulting residue on touched surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Inventors: Joel H. Bretan, Vincent D. Del Vecchio
  • Publication number: 20150065935
    Abstract: The present invention includes a walking boot device which immobilizes the ankle at about a 90° angle using a single anterior post that is angled at about 90° at an ankle joint from a lateral view, and encompasses an anterior one half of a calf proximally, and a dorsal one half of a forefoot distally. The post includes medial and lateral wings. The present invention defines an area for a medial and lateral malleolus and is narrow at the ankle and wider at the calf for a more anatomical fit. The present invention is secured to a leg using hook and loop fastener (Velcro®) strapping attached proximally around the calf posteriorly, away from any bony prominences. The hook and loop fastener (Velcro®) strapping is attached to the medial and lateral wings through brackets that are riveted into the wings. The present invention further includes foam inserts and a pneumatic bladder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2013
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Inventor: Joseph C. Smith
  • Patent number: 8968228
    Abstract: An ankle brace and a method of bracing an ankle including a footplate with a heel portion; an attachable wedge for tilting the ankle brace to adjust a hindfoot varus or valgus position; and an arch support attachable to a top surface of the footplate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: N&G Bracing Innovations, LLC
    Inventors: Marcia Graddon, Steven Neufeld
  • Patent number: 8967151
    Abstract: A therapeutic fabric boot that warms the calf and foot, permits ambulation and provides for moisture absorption and selective exposure and ventilation of the covered extremity. An internal foam cradle restricts foot movement and reduces pressure at the heel and calf when lying in a supine position. A re-sizable, flat, hinged foam extension piece extends from the cradle and folds to protect the heel, sole and toes. Several fleece and moisture absorbent fabric cover panels selectively fasten about the foot and calf. Numerous hook and loop fasteners are fitted to external surfaces and attach to straps and/or outer cover pieces upon wrapping the straps and panel pieces about the supported lower calf and foot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Inventors: William Davis, Keith Walli-Ware
  • Patent number: 8944065
    Abstract: A method includes placing a patient's foot in a boot comprising a cam buckle, a pad, and a retention strap. The retention strap is placed over the top of the foot, and the pad is arranged relative to the top of the foot. Pressing on the pad positions the foot within the boot. While pressing on the pad, tension is applied on the retention strap to advance the retention strap through the cam buckle. The cam buckle is configured to automatically limit movement of the retention strap through the cam buckle when tension on the retention strap is released. Tension on the retention strap is released to cause the cam buckle to impede the retention strap from receding through the cam buckle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Smith & Nephew, Inc.
    Inventor: John Albert Slusarz, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20150032041
    Abstract: An orthopedic device has at least one flexible or rigid frame member contoured to generally correspond to an anatomical limb. The device also includes a tightening system having a dial tensioning device and at least one cable and/or strap connected to the dial tensioning device. The dial tensioning device has a rotary ratchet permitting incremental adjustment of the cable and/or strap. Adjustment of the dial tensioner in a first direction secures the frame member to the limb.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2014
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Inventors: Arni Thor INGIMUNDARSON, Palmi EINARSSON, Irving HU, Jane LEE
  • Patent number: 8932245
    Abstract: An orthopedic boot has a boot body, a front cover and at least one binding strap. The boot body has a foot support, a leg support, an air cushion and a toecap. The leg support has a free edge provided with multiple slits and multiple vents. The air cushion is mounted on the foot support. Accordingly, the orthopedic boot is ventilative and can provide comfort to a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Inventor: Tung-Cheng Chen
  • Patent number: 8915874
    Abstract: An adjusting device having a first element and a second element movably mounted with respect thereto, wherein the first element has at least one latching device, and wherein at least one locking element coupled to an actuating element is movably disposed on the second element and can be moved out of a release position out of engagement with the latching device into a locking position in engagement with the latching device. The adjusting device has a simple construction which functions reliably and enables rapid adjustment of the stop position. The actuating element has at least one actuating magnet, which is associated with a locking magnet coupled to the locking element and the locking element moves into the release position and/or locking position and/or out of the release position and/or locking position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Assignee: Otto Bock Healthcare GmbH
    Inventor: Matthias Schilling
  • Publication number: 20140371648
    Abstract: Devices and processes used to treat ankle equinus. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a brace and the corresponding method of use to treat equinus by stretching the Gastrocnemius muscle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2014
    Publication date: December 18, 2014
    Applicant: IQ MED LLC
    Inventors: Patrick DeHeer, John H. Moorin, Ricky Heath
  • Patent number: 8905955
    Abstract: An exoskeleton bracing system includes: a trunk support for affixing to the trunk of a disabled person and leg braces for connecting to the legs of the person, each leg brace including limb segment braces. Motorized joints are adapted to provide relative angular movement between the limb segment braces of the leg braces and between the leg braces and the trunk support. One or more ground force sensors are designed to sense ground force exerted on each of the leg braces. The system also includes a controller for receiving sensed signals from said one or more ground force sensors, with an algorithm for identifying a stance from the sensed signals and, based on the identified stance, actuating the motorized joints to perform an action relating to a mode of locomotion selected from a set of predefined actions corresponding to the identified stance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Rewalk Robotics Ltd
    Inventors: Amit Goffer, Chaya Zilberstein
  • Publication number: 20140358056
    Abstract: An ankle stabilizing device having a lace-tongue attachment includes a body member, a plurality of eyelets extending along the front edges of the body member, and a centering lace. The centering lace is secured to the ankle stabilizing device between the pair of eyelets at the toe-end of the device such that the central portion of the centering lace is precluded from passing through either of the toe-end pair of eyelets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2014
    Publication date: December 4, 2014
    Applicant: MEDICAL SPECIALTIES, INC.
    Inventor: Eric Lee Gaylord
  • Patent number: 8900171
    Abstract: A splinting device includes a first part for contacting a lower leg and a second part for contacting a foot hingedly connected to the first part. An adjustable attachment includes an elastic part and interconnects the first part and the second part. A method of treating plantar fasciitis includes securing the first part of the splint device to the lower leg, and securing the second part to a foot. The first part is rotated relative to the second part to establish a predetermined angle between the first part and the second part. The elastic part of the adjustable attachment, which is attached to one of the first and second parts, is stretched and attached to the other of the first part of the second part at a position based on the predetermined angle to limit movement of the first part relative to the second part beyond the predetermined angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Darco International, Inc.
    Inventors: H. Darrel Darby, II, Wu Zhang
  • Publication number: 20140350446
    Abstract: An Achilles heel wedge can include a single member having an anterior portion and a plurality of layers integrally connected at the anterior portion. A plurality of slits can differentiate the layers. Each slit can include a terminal end in the anterior portion having a perforation with a dimension greater than a width of the slit. The layers of the heel wedge can he selectively cut, ripped, or torn from the anterior portion of the heel wedge along the perforations to achieve incremental height adjustment of the heel wedge and stretching of the Achilles tendon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2014
    Publication date: November 27, 2014
    Inventor: Larus GUNNSTEINSSON
  • Patent number: 8894594
    Abstract: A joint-supporting device comprises tensile members extending from above the joint to below it, supplementing the tensile characteristics of the joint's tendons, ligaments, and other structure. The tension members extend between a proximal cuff above the joint to a distal cuff below it, and pass over a pad at the apex of the joint, redirecting the tension members. In order that the cuffs are supported in position so that the tension members can effectively support the joint, they are spaced away from the joint by compression members bearing on proximal and distal bolsters, in turn located positively by the boney structure of the joint. In order that the structure of the invention not interfere overly with the normal function of the joint, the device employs dilatant materials having the property of varying their hardness upon motion. The dilatant material is disposed so as to limit the relative angular velocity of the members of the joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: HOSSO, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Scott Pflaster, Joseph J. Crisco, Carl A. Kirker-Head, Russell D. Fiore, Wendy Drumm
  • Patent number: 8894595
    Abstract: A traction hip brace which provides a traction force to the femur, pulling it out and away from the acetabulum. A knee brace element secures around the lower thigh and below the knee at the upper shin using two shells with adjustable straps. An articulating hinge allows bending of the knee. A strut member extends from the knee hinge up to a saddle harness. The strut member has an articulating hinge that can be locked to prevent motion if desired. The terminus end of the strut member is inserted into a holster of the saddle harness worn by the user. The saddle harness is fitted to the user's waist and buttock and provides the anchor point for the end of the strut member. Attachment straps are used to tension the strut member down and away from the saddle harness to exert a traction force on the femur.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Inventor: Stephen Hennessy
  • Patent number: 8882690
    Abstract: An orthotic device having a thin, flexible material defining a plantar wall and lateral, medial and posterior sidewalls. A fastening mechanism releasably secures the lateral and medial sidewalls together. In some embodiments, the plantar wall defines a laterally extending distal trimline positioned distal of the first metatarsal head and proximal of the third, fourth and fifth metatarsal heads when the foot is secured within the orthotic device. In other embodiments, the device includes a heel post having a distal terminal edge with a medial portion extending into the arch proximal to the navicular bone and a lateral portion positioned proximal of the arch. In still other embodiments, an elongate strip of padding material projects inwardly below and proximate the medial malleosus and the lateral malleosus and is positioned to inhibit withdrawal of the calcaneous bone. A method of manufacturing an orthotic device is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Inventor: Fred W. Toenges
  • Publication number: 20140330191
    Abstract: A pair of ankle supportive socks where each sock comprises a tubular body, where the tubular body includes a foot portion, a rise and an opening; an ankle brace attached to a backside of the tubular body; a pair of wings extending from the ankle brace, where the pair of wings wrap around the tubular body; a fastening means on the pair of wings, where the fastening means secures the wings to each other around the tubular body. The ankle supportive sock may include a padded toe and padded heel to provide additional comfort and support during wear.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2013
    Publication date: November 6, 2014
    Inventors: Pierre Charles, Chris Wright
  • Publication number: 20140323939
    Abstract: An orthosis configured to stretch tissue around a toe of a patient and methods for using the same are provided. The orthosis includes a foot plate, a toe assembly and a drive assembly. The toe assembly can include a first member including a first extension member and a second member including a second extension member. The drive assembly can move the second member with respect to the first member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2014
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Inventors: Boris P. Bonutti, Peter M. Bonutti, Kevin R. Ruholl, Glen A. Phillips
  • Patent number: 8870967
    Abstract: Artificial limbs and joints that behave like biological limbs and joints employ a synthetic actuator which consumes negligible power when exerting zero force, consumes negligible power when outputting force at constant length (isometric) and while performing dissipative, nonconservative work, is capable of independently engaging flexion and extension tendon-like, series springs, is capable of independently varying joint position and stiffness, and exploits series elasticity for mechanical power amplification.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Hugh M. Herr, Lee Harris Magnusson, Ken Endo
  • Patent number: 8870801
    Abstract: A lower-limb joint orthosis includes a lower component supporting the foot region, an upper component attached to the lower-limb, and an orthotic joint coupling both components. The orthotic joint includes: a stator including some fluid chambers in which an MR fluid is enclosed; and a rotor including partition plates protruding into the respective fluid chambers. The stator includes a communication path between the anterior chamber and the posterior chamber. The rotor includes connection paths that connect the anterior chambers together, and connect the posterior chambers together. An electromagnet is placed on a side surface of the communication path so that a rotational resistance of the lower component and the upper component is adjusted by adjusting a magnetic force to control the viscosity of the MR fluid that flows through the communication path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Hashimoto Artificial Limb Manufacture Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroki Tomiyama, Tomio Kubo
  • Publication number: 20140316321
    Abstract: A ankle brace for use by athletes or others requiring protection and support of the ankle. The ankle brace includes a base and a tension member. The base is comprised of elastic material and configured to closely fit around portions of the ankle and adjacent foot and leg portions. A tensioning member is fastened to the interior surface of the base, with the tensioning straps extending through apertures in the base for detachable attachment to the exterior surface of the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2014
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Applicant: MUELLER SPORTS MEDICINE, INC.
    Inventors: Brett Mueller, Zhaodong Max Li
  • Publication number: 20140309572
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a custom or pre-fabricated ankle brace system providing medial-lateral support. The ankle brace comprises a brace body, first reinforcement strips, second reinforcement strips, and a closure mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2011
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Inventors: Davin T. Heyd, William D. Falcon, Timothy F. O'Keefe
  • Patent number: 8858482
    Abstract: An orthopedic device has at least one flexible or rigid frame member contoured to generally correspond to an anatomical limb. The device also includes a tightening system having a dial tensioning device and at least one cable and/or strap connected to the dial tensioning device. The dial tensioning device has a rotary ratchet permitting incremental adjustment of the cable and/or strap. Adjustment of the dial tensioner in a first direction secures the frame member to the limb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Ossur HF
    Inventors: Arni Thor Ingimundarson, Palmi Einarsson, Irving Hu, Jane Lee
  • Patent number: 8858483
    Abstract: Provided is an Achilles tendon support capable of suppressing a dorsiflexion of an ankle joint as well as suppressing a twist of the ankle joint. The Achilles tendon support includes: an inner support section for covering an Achilles tendon and both side edge portions thereof, upper portions of the inner support section being fastenable to each other on a front side of an upper ankle portion with a hook and loop fastener; and an outer support section for covering the Achilles tendon and both the side edge portions thereof in a range from a sole through a back heel portion, upper portions of the outer support section being fastenable to an outer surface of the inner support section with a hook and loop fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Nippon Sigmax Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Aya Kobayashi
  • Publication number: 20140288475
    Abstract: An ankle-foot orthosis for resisting plantarflexion of a patient's foot, the orthosis comprising: a first resiliently flexible part (1) that comprises a first portion (3) and a second portion (5) set at an angle to said first portion (3), said first portion (3) being configured to lie against and along a portion of a patient's shin in use, and said second portion (5) being configured to extend partway along a dorsal aspect of the patient's foot in use, said first part (1) further comprising means (9) operable to secure said first portion (3) against the patient's shin; and a second resiliently flexible part (7) that is separate from but co-operates with said first part (1) in use, said second part (7) comprising a tubular body that is configured and arranged to fit around the patient's foot and to overlap at least part of the second portion (5) of said first part (1); wherein said first (1) and second parts (7) co-operate to provide a resistance to flexure suitable for correcting the plantarflexion experience
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2012
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Inventor: Robert John Watts
  • Publication number: 20140276315
    Abstract: An ankle support includes a flexible, elastically stretchable framework configured to generally surround a wearer's ankle when the support is worn, and an anchor band configured to be secured about a lower portion of a wearer's leg. The framework comprises an integrally molded network of interconnected, elastomeric segments defining a plurality of permanent openings. The framework includes an upper securement portion configured to be adjustably secured to the anchor band via the fastening mechanism of the anchor band. The ankle support is configured to allow a wearer of the ankle support to adjustably tension the ankle support by adjusting an extent of the securement portion of the framework passing through a fastening mechanism of the anchor band.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: Richard E. Gildersleeve, William E. Nordt, Ian Kovacevich