Body Attachment Means Patents (Class 602/36)
  • Patent number: 7771378
    Abstract: An orthopedic traction tower system, and components thereof, for use in surgery, fracture repair, and/or radiography. The traction tower system may include a base for receiving the proximal end of a patient's limb, a tower arm for applying tractive forces to a distal end of a patient's limb, and a joint that movably connects the base and the tower arm such that the tower arm can be positioned for surgical access and/or for applying different types of traction, among others.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Acumed Sports Medicine, LLC
    Inventors: Geoffrey M. Price, Matthew C. Sucec, William B. Geissler
  • Patent number: 7766852
    Abstract: Nerve treatment/mobilization apparatuses are configured to mobilize a user's peripheral nervous system. The nerve treatment apparatus includes a back support, a pair of force applying members and a neck cradle. Additional optional attachments include upper body nerve mobilization tracks and a lower peripheral nerve mobilization device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Inventor: Jeanne O'Malley
  • Publication number: 20100145246
    Abstract: Nearly normal mobility and quality of life, during the treatment of severe surface wounds are supported by the addition of a unique combination of common medical treatment materials with a locally applied body cast. Features of the structure and corresponding kit include off loading and physical protection of the treatment area, evenly applied pressure to maintain a hydrostatically stable environment to promote healing, easy access to the treatment area without removal of most of the structure in addition to the use of readily available inexpensive and space conserving materials for sensitivity to medical cost control and treatment for patients in the developing world, battlefield and other hostile environments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2008
    Publication date: June 10, 2010
    Inventor: Rolando Chaparro Cadena
  • Publication number: 20100125231
    Abstract: A knee brace is provided with semi-pliable inserts affixed to inner sides of femoral links of the brace at two points with a bottom portion of the insert left free to move inward toward a facing side of the leg. Anterior and posterior straps that are tightenable by the wearer are attached to the semi pliable inserts in a manner enabling pulling on the straps to cause the inserts to dynamically move inward and compress against the thigh so as improve comfort by diffusing and transferring pressure away from a relatively boney side of the knee of the wearer to a softer thigh area of the wearer. The inserts are also adapted to move inward and press into femoral hollows just proximal to the knee joint of the wearer so as to provide support against movement of the brace along the length of the leg of the wearer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2008
    Publication date: May 20, 2010
    Applicant: TOWNSEND INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventor: Steven S. KNECHT
  • Publication number: 20100125230
    Abstract: This invention is a back support system designed to reduce the stress exerted on the back of a wearer when he bends over to lift a load. This back support system comprises a harness and a yoke for distributing the load on the shoulder of the wearer. The back support also comprises a tension system equipped with elastic cables. The back support further comprises leggings including straps designed to wrap around the sole of the wearer and to maintain the force acting on the leg as close as possible to the bone structure of the leg of the wearer, thereby relieving stress on his back and along his legs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2008
    Publication date: May 20, 2010
    Inventor: Patrick Timothy Hurley
  • Patent number: 7717870
    Abstract: A modality system that computes a signal having a first tension level, a second tension level, and transition tension levels between the first and second tension level, where the higher of the first and second tension levels includes an oscillation. The system communicates the signal to an electromechanical actuator to apply a modality treatment to a patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: North American Medical Corporation
    Inventors: Carlos Becerra, Markus Randel
  • Patent number: 7677249
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a device and method for providing a lateralization effect such as in a medical procedure. The lateralization device can have a supporting member, which can be adapted to be supported in a fixed position. A lateralization member can be provided to at least partially wrap around the supporting member and be mounted thereto to provide a lateralization effect. The lateralization member can be formed and/or adjusted to provide a variable lateralization. For example, the lateralization member can comprise a cylindrical member with an eccentric cut-out portion adapted to fit over the supporting member. The inter wall of the cut-out portion and the outer wall of the supporting member can be formed with interference fittings so that the lateralization member can rotate in relation to the supporting member to provide a variable lateralization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: The University of Hong Kong
    Inventors: James Kam Fu Kong, Eric Ping Chien, Keith Dip Kei Luk
  • Publication number: 20100049110
    Abstract: An extremity support apparatus having a second cuff, a first cuff, a bridge rod attached to the second cuff, and a tension rod attached to the first cuff and to the bridge rod is provided. The extremity support apparatus can place the support a first cuff in a cantilevered manner when a distal portion and a proximal portion of an extremity are supported in respective first and second cuffs. A method of supporting an extremity in a non-weight-bearing manner is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2008
    Publication date: February 25, 2010
    Inventor: Christophe Blanchard
  • Patent number: 7665167
    Abstract: Generally described the invention relates to methods and apparatuses for aligning the lower extremities of a patient with a mechanical axis. More specifically, the present invention provides an exoskeleton or external framework that positions a patient's leg into a desired mechanical axis in preparation for surgery or other medical treatment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Inventors: Thomas P. Branch, Alexander Sattler, Jr., Fredrik Westin
  • Patent number: 7654974
    Abstract: A traction table (200) include a frame having a base-frame portion (202) rotabably coupled to a top-frame portion (250) at a pivot point 214, a seat back portion (208) coupled to the top frame portion, and a seat-bottom (204) slidably coupled to the frame top portion. The seat-bottom can rotate about a pivot point (262) and tilt about at least one axis (260 and/or 264). The seat-bottom can further slide forwards or backwards relative to the top frame portion. The traction table can include an optional neck piece (210) coupled to the top frame portion that can move parallel relative to the seat back portion and constructed to rotate, tilt side to side or forward and backward. The traction table can include at least one actuator motor (245 or 244) for moving the seat-bottom or neck piece relative to the top-frame portion and a controller (212) for controlling such actuator(s).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Inventor: David B. Bass
  • Patent number: 7641624
    Abstract: A femur traction device includes a brace adapted to be secured to a patient's leg, with one end secured above a break in the leg and a hitch end extending below the foot and providing a hitch for a tensioning harness. The tensioning harness is secured between the hitch and the patient's ankle, and straps of the harness may be lengthened or shortened to increase or decrease tension on the leg. The tensioning harness advantageously does not rely on hook-and-loop type fastening means, is color coded to facilitate proper use, and stores in a pouch that forms part of and is secured to the remainder of the tensioning harness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: Kendrick EMS, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard L. Kendrick
  • Publication number: 20090306567
    Abstract: A cervical traction method and apparatus for treating irregularities in the lateral curvature of the cervical region of the spine involves the application of traction load to induce an axially elongated or extension posture in the cervical region of the patient's spine. The patient is placed in a supine or seated position, and a traction halter is fitted about the head of the patient, with a traction sling also being optionally positioned about the cervical region of the patient. A traction load, which may have an intermittently varying magnitude, is exerted on one or more of the sling or halter to induce an axially elongated and/or extension posture in the cervical region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2008
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Inventor: Donald W. Meyer
  • Publication number: 20090306568
    Abstract: A traction method and apparatus for treating irregularities in the lateral curvature and global posture of the thoraco-lumbar, lumbar, lumbo-pelvic and/or pelvic region of the spine involving the application of an intermittent transverse traction load to a region of the patient's body. The patient is placed in a supine or semi-supine position, and a traction sling is positioned about a region of the body of the patient, where the region of the body can be the thoracic region, lumbar region and pelvic region of the body. A transverse traction load having an intermittently varying magnitude is exerted on the sling to induce an extension posture in at least a portion of the spine of the patient and/or a flexion posture of the pelvic portion of the spine of the patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2008
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Inventor: DONALD W. MEYER
  • Publication number: 20090299248
    Abstract: A portable traction therapy device including a traction spring, a belt, and a traction control unit. The traction control unit interconnects the spring and the belt, and includes a locking mechanism and a switch assembly. The locking mechanism selectively locks and releases the belt relative to a housing of the control unit, with the switch assembly operating to dictate a state of the locking mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2008
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Inventor: Byung Kwon Cha
  • Publication number: 20090299247
    Abstract: A spinal treatment system for treating a spinal region of a patient's back includes a harness configured to be coupled to a preselected location on the patient. A force transfer member is coupled to the harness and is configured to transfer force to the harness. A vibrational movement head is controlled by a computer and is configured to apply a preselected laterally vibrating force to the force application member extending therefrom. A vertical displacement member is coupled to the computer and is configured to move the vibrational movement head to a preselected vertical displacement relative to the patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2009
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Applicant: NORTH AMERICAN MEDICAL CORPORATION
    Inventor: Carlos BECERRA
  • Publication number: 20090275871
    Abstract: The invention relates to a back brace for spinal correction and its manufacturing method. A correction brace is made according to a patient's shape, having its inside installed with plural air bags corresponding to a deformed portion and locations of reverse spinal rotation. Each air bag has an inflation valve fitted in a small through hole bored in the correction brace for a professional to inflate or deflate it to adjust pressure, laid with a soft protection cushion. An effective correction of scoliosis and reverse rotation of the vertebra can be achieved by the air bags correspondingly installed inside the correction brace to force a spinal deformed portion in three dimensions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2008
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Inventor: Gerald Liu
  • Patent number: 7601132
    Abstract: A traction force is applied at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the patient's spine and progressively increased over a period of time. A fulcrum member is applied against the posterior portion of the cervical region of a person's spine while the traction force pulls the cervical region and bends it rearwardly about the fulcrum member to stretch the soft tissues of the spine. In preferred embodiments the fulcrum member applies a progressively increasing fulcrum force, and the traction force likewise progressively increases during the treatment period. An electronic control system may be used to automatically control application of the fulcrum and traction forces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2009
    Assignee: Nichols Therapy Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Jarrod L. Nichols, Galen R. Ackerman
  • Patent number: 7597673
    Abstract: The pneumatic lumbar traction device comprises two separable parts, namely an upper hollow part and a lower frame, the frame having a pneumatically operated piston and cylinder mechanism fixed in and located centrally therein with a piston rod extending outwardly to engage a bar positioned to engage and move a loop fixed to a pelvic traction belt outwardly of a foot end of the device; the upper hollow part having an upper surface on which a user will lie during use; a generally elongate chest belt having opposite end portions with a strap fixed on each end portion with a first clip on said strap and a mating second clip fixed on the opposite end portion, each strap, after said mating clips are fixed together, being capable of being pulled through said first clip to tighten it on the first clip against said fixed mating second clip thereby to tighten the chest belt around a users chest; two, spaced apart, elongate strips of hook or loop material fixed to a central area of the upper surface for engaging with an
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: Glacier Cross, Inc.
    Inventors: Nathan Chitwood, Susan Nickell
  • Publication number: 20090247922
    Abstract: A foot support having straps which receive the calcaneous and wrap around the midfoot in a tensioned state for stabilizing the rearfoot and the midfoot to avoid excessive inversion and eversion of the foot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2008
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Applicant: DeRoyal Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Karen M. Clements, Autry O.V. DeBusk, Michael D. Modglin, John H. Krusenklaus
  • Publication number: 20090247920
    Abstract: A foot support having straps which receive the calcaneous and wrap around the midfoot in a tensioned state for stabilizing the rearfoot and the midfoot to avoid excessive inversion and eversion of the foot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2008
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Applicant: DEROYAL INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: Karen M. Clements, Autry O.V. DeBusk, Michael D. Modglin, John H. Krusenklaus
  • Publication number: 20090247919
    Abstract: A device for interlocking two sections such as a forearm-hand brace and a elbow-forearm medical device comprising, a circular strip of loop pile or hook fastener material attached to the outer surface of a first cylindrical section such as the custom forearm-hand brace. A sheet of thermo-formable material formed into a second cylindrical section matching the outer surface of the first cylindrical section wherein the second section includes a groove such that the first cylindrical section is held by the circular fastener strip within the groove and is free to rotate in either direction. A cooperating locking strap of hook or loop pile fastener attached to the second section and aligned with the strip of loop pile or hook fastener on the first cylindrical section such that attaching the locking strap to the strip prevents the free rotation and locks the first cylindrical section to the second section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2009
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Inventor: MARCUS James CASSAR
  • Patent number: 7594898
    Abstract: A sleep-aiding device for restricting stretching of a wearer's legs to full extension to reduce leg muscle cramping during sleep includes an adjustable belt worn about a wearer's waist during sleep, with leg members extending between the belt at the wearer's waist and attachment at lower portions of the wearer's legs, generally below the wearer's knees, e.g. in a preferred embodiment by engagement of the wearer's feet through end loops positioned midway between the toes and ankle. The leg members have predetermined lengths between the belt and attachment at the lower portions of the wearer's legs that are adjustably selected to restrict stretching of the wearer's legs to full extension during sleep.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2009
    Inventor: Richard Cogswell
  • Publication number: 20090204047
    Abstract: Quick-release casts are presented. A cast can include multiple layers of material. An inner layer comprising a soft material contacts an affected limb and forms a padded layer. One or more additional layers can wrap around the padded layer to form nested tubular casts. The materials used to form the tubular casts are preferably impregnated with a curable compound capable of hardening to provide rigid support for the limb. Each of the tubular casts can wrap around the affect limb and have an overlapping seam that permanently seals in position upon curing of the curable compound. Each of the tubular casts can include a quick-release fastener that pre-joins sections of the tubular casts together before application to the limb. After the limb heals, the fastener can be undone to remove the cast quickly, quietly, and comfortably without causing undue distress to the patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2008
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Inventor: Robert MacArthur
  • Publication number: 20090204043
    Abstract: A lumbar support device and a selective stabilization support device for use in treating mechanical lower back pain. The lumbar support device includes a semi-rigid member for positioning around the user's abdomen. The semi-rigid member helps to prevent excessive trunk bending by the patient. At least one and preferably two tensioning straps are also provided connectable at first and second end regions to a surface of the semi-rigid member. The strap or straps are provided to encircle the user's torso to maintain the lumbar support device in position. An adjustable attachment means, for example in the form of a clip, is attached to the straps. The adjustable attachment means is movable laterally along the strap. A pad base is provided on the adjustable attachment means, the pad base being movable with the adjustable attachment means such that its position at the lumbar region of the patient can be varied.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2009
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Inventor: Louis Voigt Smith, JR.
  • Publication number: 20090204046
    Abstract: The cervical traction/stretch device kit comprises a cervical traction/stretch device including an expandable bellows section which is made of non-elastic and non-stretchable material. The device further includes a shoulder section which can be fixed to or made integral with the bellows section. At least two, preferably three, interchangeable head sections are provided so that substantially all human head sizes can be supported by the device. Also provided is a head frame section which is releasably assembled with one of the head sections, the bellows section and the shoulder section to provide a cervical traction/stretch device. The bellows section, the shoulder section and the head section have aligned U-shaped openings therein adapted to receive and support a patient's neck.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2008
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Applicant: Susan Nickell
    Inventors: Nathan Chitwood, Susan Nickell
  • Publication number: 20090198163
    Abstract: A brace and traction device and associated methods of operation. In one embodiment, the device incorporates a forwardly open head and jaw brace which is adjustably supported vertically above a forwardly collar member. The brace and the collar member are adapted such that the brace is able to mate with the collar member while still being able to rotate to the subject's left and right while remaining planar to the collar member. Adjustment may be accomplished for example manually or via an electronic motor controlled by a control mechanism and microprocessor. The microprocessor may be adapted to store information regarding a user's sessions, and facilitate communication with patient and physician personal devices, thus sending these data from recorded sessions. The processor element may also be adapted to implement therapy sessions based on physician-entered program specifications, or based on pre-programmed specifications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2008
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Inventors: Andrew Senyei, M. Lou Marsh, Stuart L. Gallant, Stuart Karten, Michael Jacob Rocha, Steven K. Piorek, Eric Olson, Paul Cash
  • Patent number: 7569024
    Abstract: A holder designed for supporting a limb, such as arm or leg, of a patient undergoing surgery has six degrees of freedom. The freedom of movement allows flexing, extending, abducting and adducting and internal and external rotation of the limb. An adjustable support extends from a vertical support. The adjustable support can slide and rotate about a horizontal and vertical axes relative to the vertical support, as well as move vertically along the vertical support. The adjustable support maintains a limb in any desired position and may be adjusted to another position quickly and easily.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Inventor: Alan M. Reznik
  • Publication number: 20090187126
    Abstract: A protective cover for a limb cast. The protective cover includes a first layer, a second layer, a first fastener, and a second fastener. The first layer has a first thickness, a first length approximating a length of the limb cast and defines a first portion of the protective cover. The second layer encapsulates the first layer and is coupled to the first layer, the second layer having a second thickness less than the first thickness, the second layer having a second length extending beyond the first length, a difference between the first length and the second length defining a second portion of the protective cover, the second portion extending beyond the length of the limb cast, the second layer including a first end and a second end. The first cooperating fastener is secured to the second layer and is positioned within the first portion to couple the first end and the second end of the second layer together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2008
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Inventor: Kari Nelson
  • Publication number: 20090187127
    Abstract: Devices and methods are disclosed for achieving control and stabilization of bone fractures in mammals, most specifically humans. Stabilization and traction is often required to support fractured bones of the arms or legs. The devices and methods disclosed herein are especially useful in the emergency or military setting. The devices utilize a collapsible frame or inflatable member that may be expanded and locked into position. The frame or inflatable member is fabricated primarily from polymeric materials with low radiodensity. The limb contact regions are adjustable to fit a wide variety of limb sizes and fracture locations. The traction applied by the splint is adjustable, controllable and measurable. The traction splint is sufficiently compact that it will fit in a compartment of most ambulances and emergency rescue vehicles, thus making it more available for use than standard traction splints in use today. The traction splint is either a separate device or integrated into a backboard.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2009
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Inventors: Robert F. Buckman, Jay A. Lenker, Donald J. Kolehmainen
  • Publication number: 20090187129
    Abstract: Trauma cervical stability devices for using by ambulatory personnel arriving at the scene of an injured patient are disclosed. The trauma cervical stability devices comprise a cap element, releasable and adjustable head straps, a shoulder harness, and at least one adjustable member operatively connected to the cap element and the shoulder harness. The trauma cervical stability devices are compact, easy to use, inexpensive to manufacture, and can be placed on a patient with little or no movement of the patient. The trauma cervical stability devices are also useful in diagnosing the severity of damage to a neck and the stability of the patient's neck by applying forces to the patient's head using the trauma cervical stability device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2008
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Inventors: Peleg Ben-Galim, Seyed B. Kalantar, John A. Hipp, Charles A. Reitman
  • Publication number: 20090182251
    Abstract: Cast covers, that allow someone who has a casted arm or leg, and has been authorized by a physician to resume playing a particular sport (e.g., football), to protect both the casted limb and other players from collision with the hard material in the cast, by covering the cast with a cushioning material. The cast covers are precast and premolded in different sizes and colors to meet individual needs and tastes. The cast cover has a generally tubular shape. Preferably, a thick inner layer of polyurethane foam is covered by a thinner outer layer of polyethylene foam. In a first embodiment, the tube is closed, except for openings at its ends. In a second embodiment, there is a longitudinal opening running between the open ends of the tube, and the tube is secured on a casted limb by strips of hook and loop fasteners that traverse the longitudinal opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2008
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Inventor: Mark Alan Bennett
  • Publication number: 20090182254
    Abstract: An orthopedic brace of a knee joint is disclosed. The orthopedic brace including a hinge assembly connecting a lower support member and an upper support member to have a certain relative angle, wherein the hinge assembly includes a first link hinged to an upper portion of the lower support member and a lower portion of the upper support member, a second link hinged to the lower support member at a position spaced from the first link and having a linear slit and a curved slit spaced from the linear slit, a first hinge connecting the lower support member to the second link, a second hinge connecting the lower support member to the first link, a third hinge connecting the upper support member to the first link and slidably coupled to the linear slit, and a rotation connector coupled to the upper support member and slidably coupled to the curved slit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2008
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Inventor: Sang deog CHO
  • Patent number: 7556609
    Abstract: A medical aid that functions as (1) a standalone femur traction device for femur traction or (2) a trapezoidally-shaped cushioned leg support pillow. The medical aid can be placed on an ordinary bed and is constructed to provide traction without the use of weights or pulleys. The medical aid includes a base that supports a trapezoidally-shaped leg pillow or support and an adjustable U-shaped fulcrum coupled to the base. The U-shaped fulcrum supports thereon an elastic cord with an attached leg pin connector. Adjustment of the U-shaped fulcrum and/or the tension applied by the elastic cord varies the amount of traction. The trapezoidally-shaped cushioned leg support can be used with or without the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Inventor: James W. Scott
  • Patent number: 7552021
    Abstract: It is provided a system for improving locomotion of a human user, by changing an inclination or height of a stance surface of a device for donning on a leg during walking. The system includes a device, a sensor and a microprocessor. The device includes a platform which securely receives the shoe or foot of the user, a sole and mechanisms between the platform and the sole. Each mechanism has a motor and a thrusting element which changes the height of the platform relative to the sole. The sensor is associated with the lower limb, it senses the locomotion of the user and issues a corresponding data signal to the microprocessor. The microprocessor processes the locomotion information, determines the locomotion phase, and controls the mechanisms to effect changing of the inclination and/or the height of the stance surface during a swing phase. Also, the microprocessor introduces random changes thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Assignee: Step of Mind Ltd.
    Inventors: Simona Bar-Haim, Mark Belokopytov
  • Patent number: 7544175
    Abstract: A traction device for use on a support surface which includes a body contacting assembly which releasably contacts the a suitable anatomical region of the patient, a gas spring and associated assembly, the gas spring variable between an extended rest position and a retracted force exerting position, and means of relieving traction force exerted by the gas spring and associated assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Inventor: Anthony T. D'Amico
  • Publication number: 20090131844
    Abstract: A tension strap to be used with any brand of ACL or OA functional knee bracing. The position, elasticity and versatility of the strap allow it to be used for patella support and to prevent vertical migration of the brace. The strap is placed over the anterior side of the face of the knee joint with the support buttress lying adjacent to the anterior edge of the patella and the support straps extended posteriorly to the upper arms and lower arms of the brace. The support straps are then pulled around the outside of the upper arms and lower arms of the brace and adhered back to themselves using hook and loop fastener material. Additional support tension can be applied to the patella through the buttress support by increasing tension through the support straps. The prevention of vertical migration of the knee brace is also achieved through the use of non-slip lining on the face of the tension strap that is in contact with the skin covering the knee joint and patella.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2007
    Publication date: May 21, 2009
    Inventors: John Harvey Dean, Michael Alan Spooner
  • Publication number: 20090118655
    Abstract: A back brace includes a first brace member having a first connector, and a second brace member having a second connector and a coupler at two opposite sides thereof. The coupler is detachably connectable to the first connector. A first adjustment holder is affixed to one end of the first brace member and holds therein a first rod member. A second adjustment holder is affixed to one end of the second brace member and holds therein a second rod member. Two pull cords are inserted through the first adjustment holder and the second adjustment holder and run alternately back and forth over the first rod member and the second rod member to adjustably and abuttably hold the first and second brace members side by side. Two fastening members are fastened to distal ends of the pull cords and detachably connectable to the First and second connectors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2008
    Publication date: May 7, 2009
    Applicant: Kao Chen Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chih-Chuan WANG
  • Publication number: 20090118657
    Abstract: Low-cost, light weight portable cervical traction or spinal decompression devices for home use by a patient. A carriage is slidable along a portion of a support structure parallel to a longitudinal axis. The carriage includes a restraining mechanism adapted to releasably restrain a portion of a patient's body to the carriage. The pneumatic traction force generating apparatus is operatively coupled to move the carriage relative to the support structure when in a pressurized state. The pneumatic traction force generating apparatus is adapted to maintain a generally static traction force during a treatment period when in the pressurized state without additional pressurized air being supplied. A hand pump operated by the patient is fluidly connected to the pneumatic traction force generating apparatus to inject pressurized air. A pressure relief mechanism operated by the patient is adapted to release pressure from the pneumatic traction force generating apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2009
    Publication date: May 7, 2009
    Inventors: H. Duane Saunders, Mark R. Stultz
  • Publication number: 20090105704
    Abstract: A stabilization brace presents a compressive, sock-like body for a compressive fit about the ankle joint and forefoot. A pair of force straps extends from the metatarsal heads and is wound in a preferred manner along opposed regions of the foot and ankle to offer countervailing forces therealong. First and second closure systems secure the body to the foot and offer circumferential support thereto. The brace resists excessive supination and pronation of the foot, ankle joint and underlying structures. Three embodiments of the brace are shown wherein one end of the force straps are attached to a zone adjacent the metatarsals as well as bifurcated ends attached to the metatarsal zone and a second zone spaced therefrom. A third embodiment presents bifurcated ends attached at one zone adjacent the metatarsals and another zone of the rear of the Achilles which presents an enhanced heel locking mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2008
    Publication date: April 23, 2009
    Inventor: Howard A. Gordon, JR.
  • Publication number: 20090099495
    Abstract: An orthopedic device includes a strut assembly having a resilient shell defining opposed first and second sides, and a patient compliance system. The patient compliance includes a tightening strap connecting the first and second sides of the shell. The tightening strap has first and second end portions arranged for incremental uni-directional adjustment relative to at least one of the first and second sides of the strut assembly. The tightening strap is arranged to bend the shell and draw the first and second sides thereof toward one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2008
    Publication date: April 16, 2009
    Inventors: Michael Campos, Chad Leeder, William Arnold
  • Publication number: 20090099494
    Abstract: A walking assistance device has a leg link formed by connecting a first link member and a second link member through a third joint assembly. A force generated at the leg link by driving the third joint assembly is transmitted to the body of a user. The walking assistance device enables the user to deeply squat by making the third joint assembly highly bendable. The third joint assembly is has with a joint link member, a first joint which connects the joint link member and a first link member, and a second joint which connects the joint link member and the second link member. The walking assistance device is further equipped with a drive source which imparts a torque in a stretching direction to the first joint, and an elastic member which elastically holds the second joint in a predetermined stretched state until predetermined value or more acts thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2008
    Publication date: April 16, 2009
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Jun Ashihara
  • Publication number: 20090093745
    Abstract: The pneumatic lumbar traction device comprises two separable parts, namely an upper hollow part and a lower frame, the frame having a pneumatically operated piston and cylinder mechanism fixed in and located centrally therein with a piston rod extending outwardly to engage a bar positioned to engage and move a loop fixed to a pelvic traction belt outwardly of a foot end of the device; the upper hollow part having an upper surface on which a user will lie during use; a generally elongate chest belt having opposite end portions with a strap fixed on each end portion with a first clip on said strap and a mating second clip fixed on the opposite end portion, each strap, after said mating clips are fixed together, being capable of being pulled through said first clip to tighten it on the first clip against said fixed mating second clip thereby to tighten the chest belt around a users chest; two, spaced apart, elongate strips of hook or loop material fixed to a central area of the upper surface for engaging with an
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2007
    Publication date: April 9, 2009
    Applicant: Glacier Cross, Inc.
    Inventors: Nathan Chitwood, Susan Nickell
  • Patent number: 7510539
    Abstract: Health equipment for dragging the lumber with the trunk of the human body securely supported is provided. The trunk support 2 is bendable only inwardly, and holds and supports the trunk of the human body. Since the trunk support 2 is placed around the human body and enfolds from the area below the costae to above the pelvis, the human body is securely supported, whereby lumbago treatment can be carried out with the patient suspended in the air. Since the lumber is dragged with the weight of the lower part of the patient's body, there is no possibility that the lumber is dragged with the excessive weight. The leg hanging unit 4 is a device to hang the legs of the patient. By using this leg hanging unit 4, so called mobilization may be carried out with the lower back portion suspended in the air, thereby increasing effectiveness of lumbago treatment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Assignee: Protec House Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Fumio Katane, Hideaki Sakitsu
  • Publication number: 20090082708
    Abstract: An orthopedic support device of the type worn on a wrist and a palm of a wearer. The device has a sleeve with an open upper end for receiving the fingers of the wearer, a thumb opening, and an open lower end for receiving the wrist of the wearer. A portion of the sleeve covering the palm of the wearer has a curved configuration. The device also includes, a first strap, designed to be wrapped and secured about a portion of the sleeve covering a palm of the wearer, a second strap designed to be removably wrapped and secured about a portion of the sleeve covering a distal forearm of the wearer, and a third strap, designed to be removably wrapped and secured about a portion of the sleeve covering the wrist of the wearer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2008
    Publication date: March 26, 2009
    Inventors: John Scott, Leland Duyck
  • Publication number: 20090076428
    Abstract: An ankle brace, comprising a truss and an envelope, the envelope having left and right wrapping straps and a truss sleeve suitable for securably holding said truss, and the truss having a bottom connected to left and right uprights having left and right ends, wherein said left and right uprights have equally sized ankle protrusions. The ankle brace is preferably constructed from nylon coated neoprene. The left and right straps of the invention allow a user to adjust the tension of the brace around the user's ankle. The equally sized ankle protrusions on the truss allow the brace to be worn on either the left or the right foot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2008
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Inventor: Jason Kay
  • Publication number: 20090076426
    Abstract: A wearable device includes a unitary first frame assembly which is integrally formed from first and second polymeric materials. The first frame assembly has a first frame portion formed by the first polymeric material and extends around part of a second frame portion formed by the second polymeric material. The first frame member includes a flexible first shell and a first connecting portion which depends from the first shell. The second frame portion forms part of the first shell and continuously extends to the first connecting portion without interruption. The second polymeric material has greater rigidity than the first polymeric material. The device also includes a second frame assembly having a second connecting portion which links to the first connecting portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2008
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Inventors: Palmi Einarsson, Arni Thor Ingimundarson
  • Publication number: 20090062705
    Abstract: Back support devices for use in supporting a lower back region of an individual in a seated position are disclosed. The back support device can include a flexible, double-ended back support member adapted to provide lumbar support to the user's lower back, and a number of elastic knee straps extending from the ends of the back support member each forming a loop that can be attached to the user's knee when in a seated position. The back support device can be equipped with adjustment mechanisms for adjusting the length of the elastic knee straps and/or the length of the back support member. The back support member may further define an interior pouch that can be configured to receive a thermal pack, vibration element and/or other therapeutic device, and which can be used to store the back support device when not in use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2008
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Inventor: Victor Toso
  • Publication number: 20090043232
    Abstract: An articulated, adjustable, and lockable alignment arm, and associated extensions and accessories, which are user manipulable to model the size and shape of the fractured limb of a patient in the field. The alignment arm is adjusted for proper orientation by setting it over the injury, and then locking the arm into a selected orientation which models the patient's limb around the area of the injury. Next, first and second arm extenders and protective end pads are used to expand the effective size of the alignment arm to form a custom splint structure. Lastly, the splint structure is secured to the patient's injured limb through the use of flexible cravats. The cravats are self-sterilizing, stored so that their sterility is maintained, and deployed so that only the sterile portion of the cravat comes into contact with a patient's skin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2008
    Publication date: February 12, 2009
    Inventor: Anthony G. Borschneck
  • Publication number: 20090030353
    Abstract: The present invention provides a new and improved orthosis for use in effecting relative movement between bones in an arm of a patient. The apparatus includes a lower cuff gripping distal bone, such as a wrist, and an upper cuff gripping a proximal bone, such as an upper arm. The lower cuff is secured in a rotatable drive assembly substantially coincident to a longitudinal axis of a medial bone, such as the forearm, during rotational distal adjustment. The angle between the forearm and the upper arm is adjustable and can be securely fixed at a desired angle. The rotation of the rotatable drive assembly effectuates the pronation and supination of the hand and wrist relative to the patient's forearm. The orthosis of the present invention can be disassembled with interchanging parts substituted depending on the patient's needs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2008
    Publication date: January 29, 2009
    Inventors: Peter M. Bonutti, Boris P. Bonutti, Kevin R. Ruholl, Glen A. Phillips
  • Publication number: 20080319365
    Abstract: A self adhesive support which conforms to the human back and spans a number of joints thereby maintaining body posture in the range of the neutral spine whether the wearer is sitting, standing or lying and which is made from a material which is flexible enough to adapt to the wearer's body shape but rigid enough to maintain correct body posture such as orthopedic foam, rubber or soft plastics and which is sufficiently inelastic to limit flexure from the neutral spinal position but is sufficiently elastic to assist movement back into the correct posture. The support may be in the shape of an X and applied to the wearer's back. In an alternative form, the support is in the form of the sides of a square and is applied to the base of the wearer's back.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2006
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Inventor: Ryan Joseph Kendrick