Splint Or Brace Patents (Class 602/5)
  • Patent number: 7329229
    Abstract: An orthopedic wrist splint with an initially generally planar malleable metal core covered by a layer of synthetic foam padding material on each of its opposite sides and protected by an outer cover of fabric. In one embodiment, depending on the orientation of the splint relative to the patient, the splint provides greater or lesser firmness of support when the core is bent to conform the splint to the patient's hand, wrist, and forearm. In another embodiment, a central part of the length of the splint lacks the metal core and is flexible, so that two parts of the splint are easily used on opposite sides of an arm or ankle, with the central part comfortably bent around an elbow or a foot, and with the splint firmly supporting the limb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2008
    Assignee: The Seaberg Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Samuel Scheinberg, Adrian A. Polliack
  • Patent number: 7322950
    Abstract: An orthosis may be made by providing a laminate material having a flexible foam material and a substantially rigid plastic sheet material sandwiched between a pair of soft flexible sheet materials. A body support is formed by heating the laminate material under conditions of pressure to soften the laminate to a pliable state, cutting the laminate to a desired shape to yield a pattern corresponding to a desired shape of the body support, providing a form corresponding to a desired configuration of the body support and positioning the pattern on the form in a pliable state, applying a negative pressure to conform the pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2008
    Assignee: DeRoyal Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael D. Modglin
  • Patent number: 7322951
    Abstract: An orthosis for correcting the position of a body joint, the orthosis extending over the two members connected by the body joint and being provided with two arms forming the orthosis, the arms each being held on the respective member by a cuff and being interconnected by a pivot joint adjacent to the body joint is described. For the bending required during normal movement, the pivot joint is formed by an axle ring embraced by the one arm, and the axle ring being fixedly connected to a ring bearing eccentric with respect to the axle ring to form a central adjusting ring. The ring bearing forms a pivot bearing for the other arm and the pivot bearing being embraced by said other arm, such that the rotation plane of said ring bearing with respect to the rotation plane of the axle ring is pivotable through rotation of the adjusting ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2008
    Assignee: Bauerfeind AG
    Inventor: Holger Reinhardt
  • Patent number: 7320670
    Abstract: A brace and strap system including a brace having a posterior support having a substantially rigid posterior splint, an anterior support having a substantially rigid anterior splint. A strap system secures the supports in fitting engagement with the body parts of the user. The strap system includes a first strap and a first buckle located on the first strap, a second strap and a second buckle located on the second strap, a plurality of slides secured to a portion of the posterior support for receiving the straps, a first latch member secured to a first portion of the anterior support, and a second latch member secured to a second portion of the anterior support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2008
    Assignee: DeRoyal Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael D. Modglin
  • Patent number: 7320669
    Abstract: A shoulder brace comprising an anterior shoulder support member, a posterior support member, a strap attachment member, three primary straps, three secondary straps, and a pneumatic pad. The posterior support member comprises a back support member and a scapular support member. The back support member preferably comprises a lateral extension, an upper extension and a lower extension. The primary straps are preferably elastic and are used to don the brace. The secondary straps are preferably flexible but not elastic and are used to adjust the position of the anterior shoulder support member over the humeral head of the wearer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2008
    Assignee: Fountainhead, LLC
    Inventors: James H. Campbell, Rodger D. Broick, Bruce G. Kania, David L. Zimmerman, Warren Harding
  • Patent number: 7316660
    Abstract: A spinal orthosis for treating a spine, including an anterior support and a posterior support, each support made of a laminate having a flexible foam material and a substantially rigid plastic sheet material sandwiched between a pair of soft flexible sheet materials and bonded together to yield a unitary and substantially rigid laminate material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2008
    Assignee: DeRoyal Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael D. Modglin
  • Patent number: 7314458
    Abstract: Splint for an orthopedic joint bandage. The splint includes at least a first section, at least a second section, at least one tensioning element, and a tightening device. The tightening device is structured and arranged to press the first and second sections against each other. This abstract is neither intended to define the invention disclosed in this specification nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2008
    Assignee: Beiersdorf AG
    Inventor: Stefan Bodenschatz
  • Publication number: 20070299381
    Abstract: A shoulder brace comprises a girdle, at least one tether connected to the girdle, and an arm band connected to the at least one tether. In one embodiment, the girdle includes at least one pad holder in the form of a pocket. The at least one tether is fastened at one end to the girdle. The opposite end of the tether is fastened to an arm band. The arm band of the brace may be provided as part of a separate flexible strip of material or may be integral with the opposite end of the tether. The arm band is fashioned to wrap around the arm of an athlete. With the tether secured to both the girdle and the arm band, the range of movement of the athlete's arm and shoulder is restricted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2006
    Publication date: December 27, 2007
    Inventor: Todd Houchin
  • Publication number: 20070299380
    Abstract: Posture correcting method and device fixed to the anatomy of a human user. The device is fixed at locations in the area of the upper cervical vertebrae and right and left scapular areas of the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2006
    Publication date: December 27, 2007
    Inventors: Serges J. Salivonchik, Timothy J. Kern
  • Patent number: 7311685
    Abstract: An immobilization apparatus incorporating a water permeable padding design that channels water away from the wearer and a method of preparing an immobilizing apparatus is described. In human or veterinary applications, the apparatus can be flushed with various solutions for cleansing of the limb beneath while avoiding the accumulation of excess moisture. The apparatus can be immersed in water then dried quickly in the open air. Subject invention allows for effective transfer of moisture away from the skin thereby avoiding skin maceration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Inventor: Thomas D. Policastro, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20070282232
    Abstract: A therapeutic device that provides an auxiliary strap holding position for at least one strap where the strap can be temporarily attached to the auxiliary strap holding position on the device to prevent tangling or connection to an unintended surface when the strap is not in a position used to attach the device to a part of a user's body. The auxiliary strap holding position enhances the ease of donning, doffing, and storing the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2006
    Publication date: December 6, 2007
    Inventor: Keith A. Hoffman
  • Patent number: 7300410
    Abstract: An arm supporting pillow in sling apparatus, comprising in combination a flexible sling, with a first strap having connection to the sling to be supported by a user, an insert pillow received in the sling, to be retrievable from the sling, the sling and pillow dimensioned to receive a user's forearm alongside the pillow, in the sling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Assignee: Weber Orthopedic Inc.
    Inventor: James J Weber
  • Patent number: 7291121
    Abstract: A cervical immobilizing device includes a pair of arms that can be folded to an upright position to engage and support a patient's head, an actuating device for folding the arms to the supporting position, and a locking device for locking the position of the arms in the folded supporting position. The actuating device is coupled to the outer ends of the arms for folding the arms to an upright position symmetrically and uniformly. In one embodiment, the actuator device is flexible member that passes around a guide to a position which can be gripped by the user. The locking device can be a cinching, ratcheting or clamping device, or a combination thereof, on the actuator device. In one embodiment, the folding arms include a coupling device for coupling the arms to a base in a sliding arrangement to enable the arms to slide along the base to a folded position. A blank is also disclosed that can be folded to form the cervical immobilizing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Assignee: Ambu Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald M. Rudy, Jr., Freddy T. Lee, Thomas Murphy, Sanjay H. Parikh
  • Patent number: 7288076
    Abstract: An ankle brace has first and second semi-rigid shell members for extending over the ankle and the lower leg on the inner and outer sides of the ankle. A sealed bladder pad is mounted to each of the shell members on the side of the shell member facing the ankle. Each bladder pad includes three small-interconnected bladders wherein a first larger bladder is mounted at the lower end of the shell, and two side-by-side upper bladders are mounted on an upper portion of the associated shell member. The three bladders having restricted openings permitting limited flow of air between the bladders. When a patient wearing the ankle brace walks, the lower bladder is compressed, and air is directed through the restricted openings to the upper bladders, thereby intermittently varying the pressure on the ankle and lower leg, and promoting circulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Assignee: Ossur hf
    Inventors: Tracy Grim, William K. Arnold, Joseph M. Iglesias
  • Patent number: 7288077
    Abstract: A device to alleviate lower back pain, aligning the spine in the lumbar region, stretching the spine and reducing inward curvature of the spine which is an integral, elongate, symmetrical ovoid-section rigid sheet on which the user lies in a supine position, device opening upward to receive the individual, spanning the back of the user from the buttocks to the shoulder blade area. The device, upon the user lying supine on the device, forms an air pocket formed between the user's lower spine and the surface of the device. Raising his/her knees to the chest and then lowering the feet, puts the user in a therapeutic position, the lower spine being forced down against the surface of the back due to the vacuum formed. This action applies a stretching pressure and pulls the spine down, allowing the vertebrae in the spine to align, due to the shape of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Inventor: Russell L. Notestine
  • Patent number: 7285103
    Abstract: A strap tension indicator for orthopedic brace is provided. Certain embodiments include a strap tab cap that is slidable relative to a rigid brace frame member. As tension in the strap increases or decreases, the strap tab cap slides with respect to the frame member, covering and uncovering various indicator portions on the frame member. Certain other embodiments include a strap tab that is slidable relative to a strap tab cap. As tension in the strap increases or decreases, the strap tab slides relative to the strap tab cap, covering and uncovering various indicator portions on the strap tab and/or the frame member. The strap tension indicator provides positive indication of optimal strap tension. Certain embodiments also provide positive indication of inadequate or excessive strap tension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2007
    Assignee: DJO, LLC
    Inventor: Jeremy J. Nathanson
  • Publication number: 20070239238
    Abstract: The preferred invention comprises a tube sized and configured to receive a finger for therapeutic treatment. In one form, the invention includes an exterior shell formed from plastic, silicone, or other flexible materials that defines an interior volume for holding a gel or liquid. The gel or liquid may be either heated or chilled in order to stay hot or cold for a period of time that will facilitate treatment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2007
    Publication date: October 11, 2007
    Inventor: Patricia Nausid
  • Patent number: 7278980
    Abstract: A finger and hand brace, the combination comprising a longitudinally elongated brace body, adapted to be applied lengthwise to the wrist and finger region of the hand; multiple flexible flaps carried by the body to be spaced lengthwise thereof and to extend from the body; separate flaps configured to be wrapped about at least two of the following: hand, wrist, a finger or fingers; and retention means on the brace to retain the flaps in wrapped condition; and two generally longitudinally elongated stiffeners carried by the body, the stiffeners having undulating extent or extents, to readily conform to wrist and finger contour with the fingers extended in natural condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2007
    Assignee: Weber Orthopedic Inc.
    Inventors: David H. Garelick, Edward L. Cotton, James J. Weber
  • Publication number: 20070225629
    Abstract: A brace for a patient appendage. The brace can include a first member and a second member. The first member is positioned proximate a first side of the patient appendage and includes a main body portion extending in a longitudinal direction. The first member additionally includes a circumferentially extending portion at least partially extending about the patient appendage. The second member is positioned proximate a second side of the patient appendage and includes a first end having an outer convexly curved portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2007
    Publication date: September 27, 2007
    Applicant: EBI, L.P.
    Inventors: James ISRAEL, Juan PAEZ
  • Patent number: 7273462
    Abstract: An injured person or an injured limb is supported and stabilized with a flexible film element enclosing an airtight inner region that can be evacuated. The film element is provided with two insertion bodies which respectively are formed with two air-permeable, flexible material strips. Each insertion body is divided into chambers containing loose particles, by way of intersecting seams formed between the material strips. The seams on both insertion bodies are staggered in relation to each other in both directions in such a way that the particles combine to form a substantially homogeneously thick particle layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: Kohlbrat & Bunz Gesellschaft m.b.H.
    Inventor: Hakan Rugfelt
  • Patent number: 7270643
    Abstract: An apparatus for exercising and supporting an upper limb includes two support modules connected on the first side by a rigid connecting piece. Both support modules have a frame, with a support plate fixed to their upper part. An exercising part is removably attached to the support plate of the first support module. An upper arm support part is articulated in the support plate and an actuator actuates the support part relative to the support plate. The frames of the support modules can be fitted immediately underneath the shoulder joints, the other upper limb being supported on the support plate in such a way that the upper limb exerts a force on the rigid connecting piece. The first upper limb is supported on the exercising part so that the weight of the upper limb exerts a force on the rigid connecting piece, the forces being balanced by the connecting piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Assignee: Olecranon Oy
    Inventor: Ari Pellinen
  • Patent number: 7261700
    Abstract: The present application describes a strap tab cap assembly for connecting a strap tab to an article, such as a knee brace frame. The assembly includes a strap tab cap disposed over a washer having two upwardly extending flanges. A bushing and fastening member are provided for rotatably coupling the strap tab cap to the knee brace frame. However, the washer is rotatably fixed with respect to the knee brace frame. The flanges on the washer limit the rotation of the strap tab cap with respect to the knee brace frame. The washer also protects the knee brace frame from wear during rotation of the strap tab. The assembly is very durable and is resistant to becoming disassembled during normal use, but includes field replaceable components for easy repair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Assignee: DJO, LLC
    Inventor: Drew Verkade
  • Publication number: 20070191747
    Abstract: This invention is related to an improved version of the wound wrapping, support means and compression units for use in a living body. Rapid wound dressing and wrapping are of significant importance and may save a lot of complications and lives. Also as important is the stability of the wrapped unit, a unit which does not stay stable on the wound will not function properly. The wound compression and prevention of bleeding are of significant importance as well as covering the whole area and preventing a site of wound to be covered. The compression also would be helpful and needed after certain surgeries to prevent complication and reach the ultimate goal. The adjustablility and being able to use one unit in more patients are of clinical and economical importance. This invention introduces a models combination of support units with straps, that can be used in various parts of the body. The new version allows the user to wrap a leg or arm easily and more securely.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2007
    Publication date: August 16, 2007
    Inventor: Yousef Daneshvar
  • Patent number: 7255679
    Abstract: A shoulder brace including a shoulder member mountable to a patient's shoulder, and a positioning device that increases pressure to the shoulder in accordance with the position of the patient's arm. In one embodiment, the shoulder brace includes a shoulder member with an open portion forming substantially rigid first and second arms and a positioning device that varies the spacing of the first and second arms according to the position of the patient's arm. In another embodiment, the positioning device includes a tensioning ring and first and second tension triggering straps that provide anterior and posterior compression of the shoulder joint when the arm is moved into a danger zone. In another embodiment, the shoulder brace includes a first mounting member mountable to the pectoral area, a second mounting member mountable to the upper arm, and a connecting member that connects the first and second mounting members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Assignee: Fountainhead, LLC
    Inventors: Bruce G. Kania, Warren Harding, David L. Zimmerman
  • Publication number: 20070185423
    Abstract: A knee brace, method of use thereof, and modification to an existing knee brace facilitates inducing side loads to a knee joint to align upper and lower leg portions relative to one another, thereby allowing the knee joint to function properly over its full dynamic range of motion. The knee brace, whether as manufactured or modified, acts to apply a lateral shear force to the knee joint through application of opposing lateral forces, with one lateral force being above the knee joint in one direction and the other lateral force being below the knee joint in an opposite direction. The counteracting forces act to shift femoral condyles and tibial condyles of the knee joint back into proper lateral alignment without acting directly on the patella to counteract the effects of the patella femoral syndrome.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2006
    Publication date: August 9, 2007
    Inventor: Alice M. Brown
  • Patent number: 7244239
    Abstract: A shoulder stabilizing restraint which includes a pillow and a forearm wrap. The pillow has an arcuately-configured posterior face for engaging an anterior quadrant of a torso on a first side of a user. The pillow also has a flat forearm engagement face for engaging a forearm on the first side of the user. The forearm engagement face is preferably converges with the posterior face at a posterior/lateral convergence which is positionable proximal to a lateral border of the torso on the first side of the user. The forearm wrap is fastenable to the pillow to retain the forearm in engagement with the forearm engagement face and the shoulder joint at a positive external rotation angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2007
    Assignee: Breg, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark E. Howard
  • Patent number: 7241252
    Abstract: A tapered elastic back support is situated in a fabric tube formed at the top edge of a variety of shorts and pants suitable for use during athletics, exercise or rehabilitative therapy. Unlike traditional back braces, the portion of the back support encircling the front of the wearer's abdomen is tapered to pass well beneath the wearer's navel, permitting low cut garment designs that expose significant portions of the wearer's abdomen. The rear portion of the back support increases in height to cover at least the lower three vertebrae (L5–L3). The front portion of the back support allows the wearer to tighten the appliance such that a continuous elastic stabilizing pressure is exerted across the lower back. Branched drawstring portions or tapered belt portions are secured to the elastic back support material and extend through the fabric tube at the front of the garment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Inventor: Victor W. Gagliardi
  • Patent number: 7235059
    Abstract: A hinge for an orthopedic brace has two rotation plates, a pivotal connector connecting the rotation plates, a rotation limiting mechanism, and a rotation locking mechanism. The rotation limiting mechanism includes a rotation limiting face formed in one of the rotation plates and a rotation limiting assembly which has a stop face engageable with the rotation limiting face upon rotation of the rotation plates in a given direction to limit further rotation in that direction. The rotation locking mechanism includes a series of lock notches formed in one of the rotation plates and a rotation lock pin positionable within one of the lock notches to lock the rotation plates in a fixed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Assignee: Breg, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey T. Mason, Paul Oddou
  • Patent number: 7207963
    Abstract: A shoulder brace including a shoulder member mountable to a patient's shoulder, and a positioning device that increases pressure to the shoulder in accordance with the position of the patient's arm. In one embodiment, the shoulder brace includes a shoulder member with an open portion forming substantially rigid first and second arms and a positioning device that varies the spacing of the first and second arms according to the position of the patient's arm. In another embodiment, the positioning device includes a tensioning ring and first and second tension triggering straps that provide anterior and posterior compression of the shoulder joint when the arm is moved into a danger zone. In another embodiment, the shoulder brace includes a first mounting member mountable to the pectoral area, a second mounting member mountable to the upper arm, and a connecting member that connects the first and second mounting members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Fountainhead, LLC
    Inventors: Bruce G. Kania, Warren Harding, David L. Zimmerman
  • Patent number: 7207961
    Abstract: A medical apparatus is provided. The medical apparatus is designed to be a foot covering that is specially designed for diabetic individuals who may have or be susceptible to medical conditions of the feet. The medical apparatus allows an individual to go outdoors without wearing shoes, because the medical apparatus itself serves as a crude shoe covering over a pair of feet. In addition, the medical apparatus itself can serve as a sock covering, which can then be used when a shoe is placed over an individual's feet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Inventors: David Benton, Tamika Benton
  • Patent number: 7207960
    Abstract: An orthotic device for restoring range of motion to a patient's limb, includes a first device cuff configured for attaching the device to an upper region of a patient's limb above a limb joint, a second device cuff configured for attaching the device to a lower region of the patient's limb below the limb joint, and a spring attached between the first and second cuffs for bending in a manner counteracting muscle contraction of the limb to which the device is attached, the spring having spring characteristics whereby a counteracting spring force of the spring increases during an initial flexing of the spring through a first angle range, then remains peaked during a subsequent flexing of the spring through a second angle range and finally decreases with a subsequent flexing of the spring through a third angle range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: NeuroFlex Orthotics, Inc.
    Inventor: John P. Kenney
  • Patent number: 7204818
    Abstract: An orthopedic device comprises: a structure comprising two substantially rigid parts, for instance two rods, which parts are coupled to each other by means of hinge means and each comprise fastening means for optional temporary fastening to a limb part, wherein a pivot axis of the hinge means extends at least more or less in the region and in the direction of the pivot axis zone of the relevant joint. The device has the feature according to the invention that the fastening means are at least partly provided with friction-reducing means on at least the side to be brought into contact with the relevant limb part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2007
    Assignee: Kunst & Van Leerdam IP B.V.
    Inventors: Mark Stefan Besselink, Nicolaas Gerardus Adrianus Van Leerdam, Jurrie Van Der Woude
  • Patent number: 7198609
    Abstract: A method for splinting rib injuries is disclosed. A pair of anchor strips having a plurality of fasteners on their exposed surfaces are attached to the skin of the chest cavity by an adhesive, the strips being more or less vertically oriented and equidistantly spaced from the injury. Elastomeric straps having a plurality of fastener receivers are removably fastened to the anchor strips across the injury so as to produce a stabilizing/reducing force at the injury. Tension in the straps and orientation of the straps are adjusted to maximize patient comfort. In another embodiment a pad is placed between the elastomeric straps and the chest wall. In other embodiments the pad is a hot or cold compress. In yet another embodiment the pad is connected to a cold therapy machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2007
    Inventors: Michael A. Rolnick, Matthew P. Warden, Robert A. Van Wyk
  • Patent number: 7182740
    Abstract: A joint protecting brace includes a cuff member. The cuff member includes a pair of upper lateral and lower lateral tightening portions positioned on opposed sides of a cuff longitudinal axis. The cuff member further includes a liner disposed between and coupled to the upper lateral tightening portions and lower lateral tightening portions and extending along the cuff longitudinal axis. The cuff member further includes a connector coupled to a latitudinal strap. The cuff member further includes a first adjuster coupled to the upper lateral tightening portions and the connector. The cuff member further includes a second adjuster coupled to the lower lateral tightening portions and the connector. The first and second adjusters are disposed in tension for adjusting a distance between the upper and lower lateral tightening portions respectively. The first and second adjusters are communicable via the connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Assignee: Asterisk.Asterisk, LLC
    Inventor: David Castillo
  • Patent number: 7182742
    Abstract: An orthopaedic brace apparatus for the treatment of fractures is described. The brace comprises two portions (2,3) joined together by a strap (4). The first portion (2) comprises at least one preformed pad and the second portion (3) comprises at least two preformed pads (5, 6) joined together by resilient material (7). The resilient material is elastically deformable and the preformed pads are formed from a material that resists slippage such that the apparatus provides gentle compression on the fracture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Assignee: Grampian Health Board
    Inventor: Douglas Wardlaw
  • Patent number: 7173161
    Abstract: Bandage 100 for relief of the musculature, comprising an essentially rectangular central portion 1 on whose transverse edges 11, 12 a total of four tensioning straps 21, 22, 23, 24 are secured, the central portion 1 being smoothed on opposite the injured site in the muscle tissue of the limb, the two proximal tensioning straps 21, 22 being guided in a diagonal movement in the distal direction and the two distal tensioning straps 23, 24 being guided in a diagonal movement in the proximal direction in such a way that the two proximal tensioning straps 21, 22 cross each other proximally of the injured site, the two distal tensioning straps 23, 24 cross each other distally of the injured site, and in each case one proximal tensioner 21, 22 and one distal tensioner 23, 24 cross each other laterally of the injured site, so that the injured site is left free, with the ends 31, 32, 33, 34 of the tensioning straps 21, 22, 23, 24 being secured on the bandage 100.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Assignee: Beiersdorf AG
    Inventor: Olaf Kandt
  • Patent number: 7172565
    Abstract: A water-curable orthopedic splint, which can be immediately applied to an affected limb includes a water-curable orthopedic casting material, which is in the form of a splint, and a gel container. The word gel is meant to apply to a viscous semi-solid which can be applied over surfaces in an adherent film and will disperse and move in response to the movement of the practitioner's hands in molding and forming the adhesive bandage around the limb or in the formation of various shapes as splints prior to application to the patient. It is to be distinguished from a free-flowing liquid which drips when applied to a limb resulting in a messy environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Assignee: Beta Holdings, Inc.
    Inventor: Zafer Termanini
  • Patent number: 7166760
    Abstract: An ankle brace includes a single strap made of a substantially inelastic and flexible, non-adhesive material of sufficient length to be wrapped in a figure-eight configuration at least once about the ankle and foot, with one loop of the figure-eight passing around the back of the ankle, one loop passing under the foot in front of the heel, and the strap crossing above the foot. Hook and look fasteners secure one free end of the strap to the other end portion thereof to maintain tension in the strap and to retain the brace on the foot and ankle. The ankle brace can be worn under or over a stocking with equal support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Inventor: Meldon L. Talbot
  • Patent number: 7163519
    Abstract: A foot orthosis includes a generally “L”-shaped splint having a generally upright leg-engaging section and a forwardly-extending foot support section with at least a portion of the splint being substantially transparent. A generally flexible foot receiving and retaining boot is removably mounted on the splint for releasably securing a foot on the splint, and a tongue-receiving pocket is mounted on one of the splint and the boot, the tongue-receiving pocket having at least one opening and a tongue retaining section therein. A generally planar skid pad includes an attached tongue section projecting from the skid pad, and the tongue section of the skid pad is insertable into the tongue-receiving pocket such that the tongue is releasably secured in the tongue-receiving pocket and the skid pad is thus releasably secured on one of the splint and the boot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Inventors: Mary Price, Steve Price
  • Patent number: 7160262
    Abstract: A binder for supporting the abdomen, back, ribs or breasts includes an H-shaped elongated band with an inner surface and an outer surface. The H-shaped elongated band includes a central panel, a first extension member and second extension member extending from an upper portion of and contiguous with the central panel and a third extension member and a fourth extension member extending from a lower portion of and contiguous with the central panel. The inner surface of the central panel is positioned adjacent to a portion of a user's body and a first slit on the first extension member is adapted to receive the second extension member, and a second slit on the third extension member is adapted to receive the fourth extension member thereby securing the binder on the user's body via fastening members positioned on each of the extension members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Inventor: Trenna Ruston Wicks
  • Patent number: 7156818
    Abstract: A multi-functional brace for a joint includes a releasable locking mechanism that allows the brace to be set for static stretch of the joint in either flexion or extension, and a range of motion assembly that allows for free movement of the joint through its natural axis over a controlled range of motion when the locking mechanism is released.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Assignee: DJO, LLC
    Inventors: Scott Salmon, Dan Ueda, Robert Joachim, Mario Turchi, David C. Hargrave, Bernard Morrey, Shawn O'Driscoll, Robert Adams
  • Patent number: 7150721
    Abstract: Braces for applying dynamic forces and methods for applying dynamic forces on limbs are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a brace has an upper frame, a lower frame, a hinge coupling the upper frame to the lower frame, a hydraulic pump, and a bladder. The upper frame is moveable relative to the lower frame. The hydraulic pump is coupled to the hinge, the upper frame or the lower frame. The hydraulic pump generates a fluid flow that flows into and expands the bladder. The bladder is positioned to apply a force to the limb as it expands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2006
    Assignee: Thuasne
    Inventor: Guy M. Houser
  • Patent number: 7147612
    Abstract: An orthotic device is formed with a stationary proximal receiving element adapted to receive at least a portion of a thigh region of a human limb and a distal receiving element adapted to receive a lower region of the human limb. The distal receiving element is pivotally movable with respect to the proximal receiving element by forces applied to a proximal region of the distal receiving element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Inventors: Joseph L. Molino, Micheal Rebarber
  • Patent number: 7134969
    Abstract: A device and method are provided for encouraging or ensuring proper posture of a golfer during a golf swing. In certain embodiments, the device may be in the form of a brace comprising a strap that fits around the body to resist or prevent excessive bending of the spine, or “hunching over,” during the golf swing. The brace may have a single, continuous strap that winds around the body, forming a crossing pattern across the spine and passing over both shoulders, with the ends of the strap meeting in the front of the body. The ends of the strap may be suitably joined, for example by a buckle, to allow adjustment. The brace may be an integral part of a garment, which may have an outer shell and inner lining.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Inventors: Lowell A. Citron, Michael A. Feinberg
  • Patent number: 7135006
    Abstract: A positioner to control the position of a finger or thumb of the hand, comprising an elongated, flexible holder configured to extend along the upper side of the user's finger or thumb; a retainer carried by the holder to retain the tip of the user's finger or thumb, the holder adapted to be anchored, remotely from the retainer, endwise thereof; the holder configured to flex, thereby allowing bending of the finger or thumb, producing tensioning of the holder that resists such bending.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: Weber Orthopedic Inc.
    Inventors: James J. Weber, Michael J. Berman
  • Patent number: 7128723
    Abstract: An orthopedic brace having length adjustable supports is provided. The brace comprises upper and lower supports rotatably connected by a hinge. Each of the supports comprises an elongate portion having a channel along part of its length, and a sliding upright that nests within the channel. The upright is incrementally longitudinally translatable within the channel so that the length of the support is adjustable. Flanges are provided along the edges of the channel to prevent lateral separation of the upright from the stationary portion. A spring-biased button protrudes from an upper surface of the channel. The button cooperates with one of a plurality of holes in the upright, providing a positive lock to retain the upright in one of a number of predetermined positions within the channel. The upright is also completely removable from the channel. Removal of the upright from the channel shortens the brace. Straps cooperate with brackets on the supports and/or uprights to secure the brace to a patient's leg.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Assignee: DJ Orthopedics, LLC
    Inventors: Del Ray Doty, Alexis Laurand Erwin
  • Patent number: 7122016
    Abstract: An adjustable knee brace for immobilization of a patient's knee in multiple adjustment angular inclinations for use in therapeutic applications. The knee brace has a sheet of cushion material which is adapted to be wrapped about and secured to the patient's leg by a pair of interconnected rigid upper and lower leg engagement plates and associated straps. The leg engagement plates are determined to be registerably engaged against the medial aspect of the leg above and below the knee and have adjustable articulated locking interconnecting hinge and pivot fitting assemblies extending therebetween for both saggital and frontal plane brace adjustment. An independent knee engagement pad provides knee stabilization in cooperation with leg engagement plates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Assignee: Anatomical Concepts, Inc.
    Inventors: William DeToro, Brian Perala
  • Patent number: 7118543
    Abstract: A closure system for orthoses that permits a first body member conforming to a portion of a patient's torso to be connected through the closure system, with a second body member conforming to another portion of a patient's torso. The closure system includes a first connector member with a first series of plastic molded channels and a second connector member with a second series of plastic molded channels with an elongated flexible pull member operatively weaving around the respective first and second series of plastic molded channels to provide a mechanical force advantage when tightened by the patient to draw the first body member and the second body member against the patient's torso to exert compression forces. The elongated flexible pull member can comprise a cord such as a polyester cord with an exterior braided configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Assignee: Top Shelf Manufacturing, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey L. Telles, Craig J. Koloske, Chad M. Sindel
  • Patent number: 7101346
    Abstract: An orthotic device is developed and customized to control the (un)desired movements of the patient's defective lower limb. The device incorporates a footplate made of a rubber like elastomeric material, a proximal segment that encompasses the foot at the metatarsal phalengeal joints and the dorsal aspect of the foot, and a second proximal segment that encompasses the shin portion of the leg. Motion of the patient's talocrual is allowed and controlled by laminating mechanical joints to the medial and lateral aspects of the brace and providing cutouts in the lamination just anterior and posterior to the ankle joint axis of motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Inventor: Locke Davis
  • Patent number: 7101347
    Abstract: A therapeutic mobilization device is disclosed. The device includes a flexion assembly, a pro/supination assembly and a valgus carrying angle compensation device. The flexion assembly has an arm attachment assembly and an elbow actuator and the elbow actuator defines and axes of rotation. The pro/supination assembly is attached to flexion assembly and has a distal forearm attachment assembly and a pro/supination actuator operably connected thereto. The valgus carrying angle compensation device is operably attached to the flexion assembly and the pro/supination assembly. Preferably the pro/supination assembly is slidably mounted on a housing shaft whereby during flexion the pro/supination assembly is free to move along the housing shaft. Further, preferably the arm attachment assembly includes an attachment ring and an adjustable clamp pivotally attached thereto whereby the attachment ring defines a pro/supination axis and the adjustable clamp pivots orthogonally to the pro/supination axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: OrthoRehab., Inc.
    Inventors: Jeff Culhane, Alex Solomon, Paul Kruger, Dragan Milosavljevic, Dan Cotterell, Andrew MacPhail