Abstract: Apparatus (20, 200) including a leaf spring assembly (22, 220) shaped to define a first end (32), a second end (34), and a middle portion (36) including a plurality of layered leaf springs (40). The spring is placed across a joint such that the first end is placed against a first location on a first side of the joint, and the second end is placed against a second location on a second side of the joint. When the leaf spring is constrained between the first and second locations, the middle portion (36) bridges a gap (120) formed between the middle portion and the joint. Additionally, a position of a first portion of a limb on the first side of the joint is maintained at a desired angle with respect to a second portion of the limb on the second side of the joint. Other embodiments are also described.

Abstract: Hydrophilic molecules such as biologics, which can include peptides, proteins, and other biologically-derived materials, can be used as therapeutic agents in medical applications. They can face administration challenges because of poor membrane permeability and rapid clearance from the blood stream. Methods for the formation of a core-shell-brush nanoparticle from an A-B-C triblock copolymer are set forth. A hydrophilic core can contain the biologic and the C Block of the copolymer. The shell can be comprised of the precipitated B Block, and the A Block can form a stabilizing brush layer. The particles can be assembled by sequential precipitations under defined mixing conditions. Presented herein are methods to tune release based on process parameters during particle assembly and triblock characteristics.

Abstract: A maxillomandibular fixation device is provided. The maxillomandibular fixation device broadly includes a strip of material for positioning around an individual's teeth; an arch bar positioned against the teeth; and a clamping assembly for clamping the material to the arch bar. The material may include a single length of material or may be multiple lengths of shorter material. The clamping assembly may include a lever portion and a hook portion or may be a single slidable side clamp.

Abstract: A brace that includes a body and a sensor device disposed in the body, where the sensor device includes a sensor that is configured to measure at least one parameter associated with a position of the housing. The brace also includes a controller communicably coupled to the sensor device. The controller can be configured to receive a plurality of measurements of the at least one parameter taken by the sensor device. The controller can also be configured to evaluate each measurement of the plurality of measurements.

Abstract: A medical apparatus including a bar with a first attachment loop, a second attachment and a plurality of hooks, wherein the medical apparatus is an arch bar.

Abstract: A textile actuator and harness system can include a harness configured to be worn with a portion extending across a wearer's joint. The harness comprises a substantially inextensible section and at least two mounting locations spaced for positioning across the joint, with at least one located along the substantially inextensible section of the harness. A textile envelope defines a chamber and is made fluid-impermeable by (a) a fluid-impermeable bladder contained in the textile envelope and/or (b) a fluid-impermeable structure incorporated into the textile envelope. The textile envelope is secured to the harness at each mounting location, and the textile envelope has a pre-determined geometry configured to produce assistance to the joint due to inflation of the textile envelope during a relative increase in pressure inside the chamber.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a wheelchair device includes a frame adapted to be removably mounted to a wheelchair, a slide member supported by the frame that is configured to be pushed in a forward direction away from a user of the device with the user's arm, a transmission mechanism including a rotatable reel and a spring associated with the reel that resists rotation of the reel in a first direction and assists rotation of the reel in a second direction, and a cable having first and second ends, the first end of the cable being attached to the slide member and the second end being attached to the rotatable reel. With such a configuration, movement of the slide member in the forward direction causes the rotatable reel to rotate in the first direction and movement of the slide member in a backward direction opposite to the forward direction causes the rotatable reel to rotate in the second direction.

Abstract: A control method of a walking assistance apparatus is disclosed. The control method of the walking assistance apparatus includes estimating an operable time of the walking assistance apparatus based on an amount of remaining power and power consumption of the walking assistance apparatus, determining whether the operable time satisfies a preset criterion, and generating a torque profile based on an algorithm of a power saving mode when the preset criterion is satisfied.

Abstract: A post-traumatic immobilization device is produced by a method thereof. The device has an architectural form with a rounded shape, formed by at least two complementary rigid parts (1a, 1b), in the form of a mesh (11). The parts define respective concave cavities and include curved connecting ends (12), and fasteners provided with raised portions (13) for the coupling of elastic O-rings (2) that clamp the rigid parts (1a, 1b) to one another. A method produces the post-traumatic immobilization device.

Abstract: A control method of a walking assistance apparatus is disclosed. The control method of the walking assistance apparatus includes estimating an operable time of the walking assistance apparatus based on an amount of remaining power and power consumption of the walking assistance apparatus, determining whether the operable time satisfies a preset criterion, and generating a torque profile based on an algorithm of a power saving mode when the preset criterion is satisfied.

Abstract: A technical orthopedic device for supporting an extremity of a wearer. The technical orthopedic device includes at least one support element, on which the extremity rests when the technical orthopedic device is applied. The support element features a support structure and a contact element. The contact element includes or is made of a flat, flexible, preferably elastic material. The contact element is fixed to the support structure in such a way that a gap is created between the contact element and the support structure.

Abstract: A handcuff for the treatment of the carpal tunnel syndrome of a hand, the handcuff comprising a base body including a dorsal section and a palmar section. The dorsal section is adapted to exert a pressure on the dorsal side of the hand at at least one location, the palmar section is arranged to exert a pressure on the palmar side of the hand on both sides of the carpal tunnel respectively at at least one location on both sides of the carpal tunnel, and the dorsal section and the palmar section are arranged to widen the carpal tunnel of the hand by the exertion of pressure. In embodiments, the base body has, between the dorsal section and the palmar section, two substantially opposite open slots, between the dorsal section and the palmar section, and the slots are adapted to receive the thumb of the left or the right hand.

Abstract: An assembly for mounting a prosthetic nail for a human or animal digit. The assembly includes at least one transdermal anchor with an interior portion and an exterior portion. The interior portion may be positioned within tissue of the digit, and the exterior portion may extend outside the tissue of the digit. In another aspect, an exterior base may be positioned on a nail bed of the digit, and the exterior base may be coupled to the exterior portion of the transdermal anchor. The base may include a mount for removably a prosthetic nail to the base.

Abstract: An orthosis, and components thereof, that may be used as a shoulder brace for immobilization of the arm and shoulder joint may comprise components that may allow for abduction, internal/external rotation and allow for flexion and extension simultaneously. Methods of using the brace and methods of using the brace and treating shoulder injuries are similarly provided.

Abstract: A rear-entry ankle brace includes an elastomeric component defining an inside elbow channel configured to span an ankle joint. A channel opening extends the length of the elastomeric component for direct insertion on top of a leg. One or more leg straps are used to adjustably tension first and second rear edges of the channel opening toward one another and secure the brace to the lower leg. Two foot straps are used to adjustably tension first and second bottom edges of the channel opening toward one another and secure the brace to the mid-foot. The foot straps overlap on the bottom to define a plantar surface of the brace and cross over each other on the topside of the elastomeric component and are secured to a leg strap. A pair of stabilizing stirrups optionally are included on the inside surfaces of the elastomeric component and receive the malleoli.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device (10) for pivoting an arm (2) relative a joint (1). The device comprises at least one artificial tendon (20, 21) attached to a distal end (3) of the arm and a driving mechanism (30), the driving mechanism being connected to and adapted to pull the tendon and the distal end of the arm, and a method of operating the device.

Abstract: A device (e.g., an article of athletic gear) comprising a post-molded expandable component, which is a part of the device that is configured to be expanded or has been expanded after being molded. This may allow the post-molded expandable component to have enhanced characteristics (e.g., be more shock-absorbent, lighter, etc.), to be cost-effectively manufactured (e.g., by using less material and/or making it in various sizes), and/or to be customized for a user (e.g., by custom-fitting it to the user).

Abstract: A body joint support device capable of abutting against at least one body joint and accommodating in configuration both to the bending and non-bending states of the body joint includes a covering structure, a control device, and at least one electrode pad unit and/or inflatable airbag. The covering structure can be worn to the body joint, the electrode pad unit is provided on the inner surface of the covering structure, and the control device is provided on the outer surface of the covering structure. The control device can transmit current to the electrode pad unit so that the electrode pad unit outputs current to stimulate and/or heat muscles. When a body joint moves, the force produced by the covering structure can press the electrode pad unit tightly against the skin at the body joint, so that the electrode pad unit does not become loose due to frequent body joint movement.

Abstract: A compression appliance includes a textile-based wrap, an electronic assembly, and wiring comprising a single wire looped through the length of the wrap. The wiring comprises shape changing materials that are used to apply controllable intermittent sequential compression or constriction pressure to a body portion of a person when the compression appliance is wrapped around the body portion. The appliance can incorporate a pre-tensioning element that applies a known initial tension to the shape changing material prior to activation of a compression cycle. The wire can be then actuated according to a compression protocol to sequentially contract and release the wire. The proposed wiring and component configuration will need access to lower power and a reduced volume of hardware as compared to conventional compression appliances.

Abstract: A taping method that follows a specific set of rules based on anatomical and physiological patterns in humans. This taping method causes a change in skeletal muscle tone in the human body when tape is directly applied to the skin of the human body over the targeted muscles. This taping method will inhibit the muscle tone in the affected motor units that are underneath the tape applied in a specific inhibition method. This taping method will elicit the muscle tone in the affected motor units that are surrounded by the tape applied in a specific elicitation method. There are three different types of elicitation method patterns based on muscle size or groups of muscles, secondarily to the length tension relationship required for a muscle contraction. There is only one type of inhibition method.

Abstract: A strap attachment for attaching a strap to a frame member in an orthopedic device including a retainer; a cable connected to the retainer having at least one segment arranged to be adjustably connected to a frame of a device; a connector securable to an end portion of the at least one segment of the cable, the connector arranged to engage the frame.

Abstract: The invention comprises an elastomeric athletic or orthopedic brace, support for a joint complex and is a network of interlinking elastomeric bands that extend radially from a hub member to support a joint in tension but provide for controlled hinging about an axis defined through the hub member. In particular, the brace is provided for an ankle.

Abstract: A method of splinting limbs of a patient by a single person and an elongated splint device, for use in the method. The splint device has a first track member and second and third elongated riding members movably held and positioned on the first track member. The riding members are freely movable on the first track member along a single longitudinal axis to obtain a proper length for splinting and a releasable locking mechanism is included to maintain the selected length. Two or more adjustable belt elements are removably connected to the riding member and serve to affix the splint device to a patient in a proper splinting position.

Abstract: A joint device of an orthosis or prosthesis or for an orthosis or prosthesis with an upper part, a lower part, a joint that comprises a joint axis, about which the upper part is mounted such that it can be swivelled relative to the lower part, and an actuator, which is designed to influence a swivelling of the upper part relative to the lower part. The actuator is mounted at an upper part fixing point on the upper part and at a lower part fixing point on the lower part. At least two joints are arranged between the upper part fixing point and the lower part fixing point, wherein the joints enable a swivelling of the actuator relative to the upper part fixing point and the lower part fixing point, and the joints each form at least one joint axis, at least one of which is not oriented parallel to the joint axis.

Abstract: Disclosed is a shoulder brace for immobilization of the arm and shoulder joint in neutral abduction/adduction. Methods of using the brace and methods of treating shoulder injuries are similarly provided.

Abstract: An inflatable therapy band with pocket comprises a circular band configured to removably be secured about a head. The band comprises four pockets for an ice pack and four inflatable air bladders. The pocket for the ice packets and air bladders alternate about the length of the band. An air pump is provided on the band which is in pneumatic communication with the air bladders.

Abstract: A medical apparatus including a bar with a first attachment loop, a second attachment and a plurality of hooks, wherein the medical apparatus is an arch bar.

Abstract: A medical apparatus having a bar, the bar having a slot extending laterally along the bar; and a plurality of hooks, wherein the bar is an arch bar that is configured to be attached to a mandible or a maxilla. Such medical apparatuses may also have a plurality of arch bar fasteners, wherein each arch bar fastener is a bone screw having a threaded shaft and a compound head, the compound head having a threaded bore configured to receive a set screw. The medical apparatus may be used in methods to fixate a maxillary or mandibulary arch, or to aid in reducing a fracture of the mandible or maxilla.

Abstract: A flexible energy absorbing system comprising a material coated, impregnated and/or combined with a strain rate sensitive substance is disclosed. It is formed so as to define repeating adjacent cells, each cell having a re-entrant geometry such that, upon impact, the material locally densifies at the impact site.

Abstract: A shoulder brace device includes: a torso band, an arm band, and a brace mechanism, such that the brace mechanism is configured to connect to the torso band and the arm band; wherein the brace mechanism includes a ball joint assembly, such that the shoulder brace device enables free range of movement; wherein the brace mechanism can be locked in place or tightened for reduced range of movement.

Abstract: A rear-entry ankle brace includes an elastomeric component defining an inside elbow channel configured to span an ankle joint. A channel opening extends the length of the elastomeric component for direct insertion on top of a leg. One or more leg straps are used to adjustably tension first and second rear edges of the channel opening toward one another and secure the brace to the lower leg. Two foot straps are used to adjustably tension first and second bottom edges of the channel opening toward one another and secure the brace to the mid-foot. The foot straps overlap on the bottom to define a plantar surface of the brace and cross over each other on the topside of the elastomeric component and are secured to a leg strap. A pair of stabilizing stirrups optionally are included on the inside surfaces of the elastomeric component and receive the malleoli.

Abstract: A device for correcting a forward head posture includes a front support configured to support a jaw of a user, a rear support configured to support a rear side of a cervical spine of the user, and an adjuster configured to adjust a distance between the front support and the rear support. As the adjuster is adjusted or operated, a lower jaw joint of the jaw of the user moves backward in a horizontal direction.

Abstract: An adjustable toe plate for an adjustable boot brace adapted to aid in stretching and supporting inflamed tissues and/or an inflamed plantar fascia within a person's foot while healing. The adjustable toe plate includes a toe plate adjustment mechanism to adjust the angle of the toe plate with respect to its foot portion, such that a person can adjust the position and angle of their toes during the healing process.

Abstract: A three-dimensional data creation method in a client device includes: creating three-dimensional data of a surrounding area of the client device using sensor information that is obtained through a sensor equipped in the client device and indicates a surrounding condition of the client device; estimating a self-location of the client device using the three-dimensional data created; and transmitting the sensor information obtained to a server or an other client device.

Abstract: A lightweight inflatable vest is provided with embedded listening devices. Once inflated, the vest enables a physician to hear amplified lung sounds and heart beats and rhythms of a patient wearing the vest, via connection to a smart phone application, through a patient portal, or the like. By using the device on a patient, a physician is provided with an accurate way to perform a respiratory and heart health assessment of the patient during a telehealth visit.

Abstract: A rear-entry ankle brace includes an elastomeric component defining an inside elbow channel configured to span an ankle joint. A channel opening extends the length of the elastomeric component for direct insertion on top of a leg. One or more leg straps are used to adjustably tension first and second rear edges of the channel opening toward one another and secure the brace to the lower leg. Two foot straps are used to adjustably tension first and second bottom edges of the channel opening toward one another and secure the brace to the mid-foot. The foot straps overlap on the bottom to define a plantar surface of the brace and cross over each other on the topside of the elastomeric component and are secured to a leg strap. A pair of stabilizing stirrups optionally are included on the inside surfaces of the elastomeric component and receive the malleoli.

Abstract: A sling includes a strap assembly, and arm support cushion that includes: an inflatable bladder, valve, and hand-squeezable pump. The bladder has first and second surfaces corresponding to contours of the wearer's torso and arm, respectively. The valve permits air flow into or out from the bladder. The resilient bulb-shaped pump is squeezed to inflate the bladder, through the valve being in fluid communication with a hose, providing greater reach of the hand pump for each of the wearer's left/right hands. Alternatively, the bladder has first and second valves positioned on first and second sides of the bladder permitting left/right-handed use of the pump. The bladder's interior includes high-inflation foam to suck air therein to increase a rate of inflation of the bladder from a deflated condition. Decoupling of the resilient pump permits repetitive squeezing as exercise by the user. and/or blowing of air onto the wearer's arm.

Abstract: A spinal orthosis includes a rear panel, and first and second belt members securing to the rear panel. The first and second belt members each define a first end secured to a first side of the rear panel and a second end having a foldable portion adapted to fold over a first surface of the first and second belt members and secure to the first surface to reduce a length of the first and second belt members. First and second front closures are secured to the second ends of the first and second belt members, respectively, and arranged for removably securing to one another to form a continuously circumferential loop with the rear panel and the first and second belt members. A kit or method may be provided for sizing the belt members with a sizing device for forming a predetermined distance between the first and second belt members.

Abstract: An orthosis, and components thereof, that may be used as a shoulder brace for immobilization of the arm and shoulder joint may comprise components that may allow for abduction, internal/external rotation and allow for flexion and extension simultaneously. Methods of using the brace and methods of using the brace and treating shoulder injuries are similarly provided.

Abstract: The arm brace supports the arm weight. The arm brace has a soft elastic arm pad that partially surrounds and protects the forearm. The arm pad is secured to a platform that is supported by a brace structure that is secured to the waist and the thigh of the patient. The weight of the arm can be supported by the hips. The brace is releasably coupled to a side of a patient's torso and thigh with belts. The brace provides rotational stability that immobilizes the arm regardless of the position of the patient. The brace has a hinge adjacent to the hip that allows the brace to immobilize the forearm while the patent dynamically moves during activities including: standing, walking, sitting, and lying down. The hand extends out from the brace so the user can perform activities such as eating, typing, and grasping.

Abstract: Devices and methods for treating carpal tunnel syndrome or DeQuervain's syndrome. The device may include a resting portion for receiving a user's forearm, first and second contact portions configured to contact the user's forearm, and a stretching mechanism configured to apply opposing forces to the first contact portion and the second contact portion to stretch the user's underlying tissue. The first contact portion may be configured to apply a compressive force to the user's forearm at a first location. The second contact portion may be configured to apply a compressive force to the user's forearm at a second location different than the first location.

Abstract: An orthodontic appliance may include an archwire and multiple orthodontic brackets. The archwire may fit within a human mouth and contain multiple male connectors. Each orthodontic bracket may have a configuration that facilitates attaching the orthodontic bracket to a single tooth. Each orthodontic bracket may allow one of the male connectors to be locked into the orthodontic bracket with a snapping action. The male connector may be unable to slide with respect to the orthodontic bracket after being locked in the orthodontic bracket. A manual unlocking action may allow the male connector to disengage from the orthodontic bracket.

Abstract: An orthodontic appliance may include an archwire and multiple orthodontic brackets. The archwire may fit within a human mouth and contain multiple male connectors. Each orthodontic bracket may have a configuration that facilitates attaching the orthodontic bracket to a single tooth. Each orthodontic bracket may allow one of the male connectors to be locked into the orthodontic bracket with a snapping action. The male connector may be unable to slide with respect to the orthodontic bracket after being locked in the orthodontic bracket. A manual unlocking action may allow the male connector to disengage from the orthodontic bracket.

Abstract: A lace tensioning device includes a housing component having an interior region, a first aperture, and a second aperture, and a spool component that is rotatably positionable within the interior region of the housing component. The spool component has a central cylindrical member and a lumen that extends through the central cylindrical portion. The spool component is rotatable within the interior region of the housing component to align one end of the lumen with the first aperture and to align an opposite end of the lumen with the second aperture to enable a lace to be inserted through the first aperture, the lumen, and the second aperture so that opposing ends of the lace are positioned exterior to the housing component. A knot may then be tied in the lace and the lace retracted to couple the lace with the housing component and spool component.

Abstract: A monolateral actuation system of a hip articulation is configured to be connected to an orthosis. The monolateral actuation system comprises a motor device arranged to provide assistive torque at a motor axis; a transmission device is connected to the motor axis and arranged for transferring the assistive torque onto an output axis corresponding to an axis of flexion-extension of the hip articulation and parallel to the motor axis. The transmission device includes a cable and first and second pulleys connected to one another by the cable. The first and second pulleys are arranged to extend relative to one another variably. A fixed frame is provided for connecting to the orthosis onto which the motor device and the transmission device are mounted.

Abstract: Improved customizable orthotic/prosthetic braces and a lightweight modular exoskeleton may aid individuals with lower limb motor impairment, including children. These customizable orthotic/prosthetic braces improve the strength and rigidity of such braces without a weight penalty. A structural frame is embedded between an inner shell and outer shell, which comprise materials that are easily moldable to conform to a user's limb. The lightweight modular exoskeleton system provides six (6) joint actuators, which are designed to be modular, that act as the active joints (e.g. hips, knees, and ankles) of the exoskeleton. Additionally, the exoskeleton may also provide four (4) passive joints for inversion/eversion of the legs and feet. Foot, crutch, and hip assemblies may also be provided for the exoskeleton.

Abstract: Described herein are systems and devices for providing an orthopedic walking brace having a housing and a sole with a curved distal surface. The housing is configured to encompass and immobilize a patient's ankle against flexion. The distal surface of the sole has a posterior region, a mid region, and an anterior region. The posterior region is configured to lie under a heel portion of the patient's foot and has a first anterior-posterior (AP) curvature that increases from a posterior side of the posterior region toward a middle portion of the posterior region and decreases from the middle portion of the posterior region toward the mid region. The mid region is configured to lie under a center portion of the patient's foot. The anterior region is configured to lie under an anterior metatarsal and toe portion of the patient's foot and has a second AP curvature.

Abstract: A system to augment motion via a battery-powered active exoskeleton boot is provided. The system can include a controller and an electric motor that generates torque about an axis of rotation of an ankle joint of the user. The controller can receive sensor data associated with activity of the exoskeleton boot during a first time interval. The controller can determine, based on the sensor data input into a model trained via a machine learning technique associated with one or more users performing one or more physical activities, one or more commands for a second time interval. The controller can transmit the one or more commands generated based on the model to the electric motor to cause the electric motor to generate torque about the axis of rotation of the ankle joint of the user in the second time interval.

Abstract: A medical apparatus including a bar with a first attachment loop, a second attachment and a plurality of hooks, wherein the medical apparatus is an arch bar.

Abstract: The present embodiments disclose an exercise apparatus including at least one rocker board dimensioned to support a user. A plurality of convex rockers are releasably engageable with the at least one rocker board to provide instability during an exercise. A cutout is positioned through the rocker boards to strengthen the intrinsic and extrinsic muscles of the user.