Splint Or Brace Patents (Class 602/5)
  • Patent number: 8608676
    Abstract: A moisture-resistant multi-phase orthopedic system and method including a single layer, three-dimensional knitted fabric having an open structure for providing enhanced moisture transfer from the skin outwardly into the atmosphere and a flap carried by the body and movable between an open position and a closed position overlying a part of the cast body to be applied to a treatment area of the limb. The flap is adapted to cover and retain between the cast body and the flap the splint worn by the patient during the initial treatment phase in the same position as the location of the splint during the initial treatment phase.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: BSN Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: Koen Jozef Maria Jorissen
  • Patent number: 8608677
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of therapeutic and/or injury support devices. In one form, the invention relates to a device for the relative protection and treatment of injured muscles, tendons and other soft tissue, as well as a method of utilizing this device. In one particular form, the present invention relates to providing an external support structure to assist in the load carrying function of injured soft tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Inventor: Neil Motyer
  • Publication number: 20130331751
    Abstract: A strap tab assembly has a strap tab defining a substantially square-shaped locking hole located generally at a first end, and an elongated slot on a second end. The strap tab assembly includes a top cap defining a top cover, a square-shaped locking projection corresponding in shape to the locking hole, and a female portion forming a center channel and extending beyond and concentric with the locking projection. A bottom cap has a male portion adapted for being received in the center channel of the female portion to engage the top cap. The locking projection extends beyond the periphery of the female portion, and is configured and dimensioned to correspond to and engage an inner periphery of the locking hole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2013
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Inventors: Jane LEE, Adam DUNN
  • Patent number: 8597219
    Abstract: The invention provides, in various embodiments, braces that are capable of stabilizing an injured limb, particularly an injured wrist. An exemplary brace fits across the injury in contact with the user's limb and has an adjustable casing and compressible material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: DJO, LLC
    Inventors: David C. Hargrave, Eugene Prais
  • Patent number: 8591445
    Abstract: A sacroiliac belt with a non-elastic inner belt to wrap around the user's hips and an elastic outer belt to wrap from the back to opposite sides of the inner belt. Non-cinchable hook and loop fastener construction is used to secure the inner and outer belts in position. The inner belt includes an inside elastomeric foam layer with open-cell frictional gripping surface, a non-elastic outside layer of loop material, and a hook tab for engaging the loop material to close the belt. The inner belt may be established with a non-elastic composite foam-fabric structure comprising a bi-laminate of the foam and elastic fabric, and a strip of loop material secured lengthwise onto the fabric side of the bi-laminate. The outer belt includes an elastic strip and hook tabs for connecting to the strip of loop material. The non-elastic composite foam-fabric may be used in other orthopedic braces and supports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Inventor: Richard J. Serola
  • Patent number: 8585623
    Abstract: An orthopedic device has a rigid or semi-rigid frame element defining opposed first and second sides, and is adapted to extend about at least a portion of a limb. The device includes straps formed from a variety of segments having stretchable and substantially inelastic segments. The straps adjustably secure to the frame element, and stretch relative thereto. The device also includes a central strap pad arranged to connect two straps together such that a first strap of the two straps is movable relative to a second strap, and the first and second straps are maintained diagonal relative to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Ossur HF
    Inventor: Arni Thor Ingimundarson
  • Patent number: 8579842
    Abstract: A method and system are provided for that allow for varying stiffness of a system by applying a low magnetic field to magnetorheological (MR) fluid in the system. The method and system include exposed patterns on facing surfaces of sliding structures. The facing patterns contain MR fluid. When a low to moderate magnetic field is applied to the MR fluid, the patterns are magnetically attracted to MR domains confined to the opposing surface, thus requiring additional force to slide the structures past each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: President and Fellows of Harvard College
    Inventors: Carmel S. Majidi, Robert J. Wood
  • Patent number: 8562552
    Abstract: A splint is provided having a framesheet with a pocket to receive a rigid tube. The framesheet is secured about the injured limb by a plurality of dynamic closure straps. An optional traction bar having a cantilever arm and adjustable link is inserted on the end of the collapsible rigid tube, and connected to a harness that applies traction to the limb. The countertraction force is dissipated throughout the entire framesheet, eliminating externally applied pressure points against contiguous anatomy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Inventor: Alan Forest Marble
  • Patent number: 8562550
    Abstract: A cast for aligning and supporting first and second bone locations adjoining a bone fracture zone including a body employed in at least one of interior and exterior locations of the bone surrounding the fracture zone. The body provides for at least one of aligning the bone locations on either side of the fracture zone and influencing the bone locations in a compressive fashion against the fracture zone during healing of the bone. The body may further include an internally inserted membrane, such as further exhibiting inflatable bladder incorporating a plurality of elongate stiffening members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Linares Medical Devices, LLC
    Inventor: Miguel A. Linares
  • Patent number: 8551027
    Abstract: In the assist device, the output of an actuator is adjusted so that it becomes lower as a state of charge of a battery exceeds a first threshold value, and also so that it becomes lower as the state of charge of the battery becomes lower. The output of the actuator is controlled on the basis of the state of charge of the battery, so that it is possible to make the agent recognize the change in the state of charge of the battery by changing the output of the actuator, and as a result, to avoid the situation where the agent feels strange with respect to stopping the operation of the assist device following thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yosuke Endo, Keishiro Kikuchi, Ritsuo Hara
  • Patent number: 8545422
    Abstract: A moldable decorative splint material includes a heat-moldable sheet of splint material adapted to become sufficiently pliable when heated to a first temperature to allow the sheet to be molded into a splint configuration that conforms to an anatomical body part and to become hard when cooled to a second temperature to retain the splint configuration. The splint material includes a plurality of decorative elements integrated with the sheet of splint material. The decorative elements are to be retained by the sheet of splint material when the sheet is heated to the first temperature, molded into a splint configuration, and cooled to the second temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Inventor: Cristina Watson
  • Publication number: 20130253393
    Abstract: The invention relates to an adjusting device having a first element (10) and a second element (20) movably mounted with respect thereto, wherein she first element (10) has at least one latching device (15), and wherein at least one locking element (40) coupled to an actuating element (30) is movably disposed on the second element (20) and can be moved out of a release position out of engagement with the latching device (15) into a locking position in engagement with the latching device (15). The aim of the present invention is to provide an adjusting device of simple construction which functions reliably and enables rapid adjustment of the stop position. Said aim is achieved in that the actuating element (30) has at least one actuating magnet (31), which is associated with a locking magnet (41) coupled to the locking element (40) and the locking element (40) moves into the release position and/or locking position and/or out of the release position and/or locking position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2011
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Applicant: OTTO BOCK HEALTHCARE GMBH
    Inventor: Matthias Schilling
  • Publication number: 20130253392
    Abstract: A protective brace has a base strap, an annular pressure strap and a fastening member. The base strap includes a first end and a second end. The pressure strap is secured to the first end of the base strap and is movable through the second end of the base strap. The fastening member is movably mounted on the pressure strap and includes a fastening surface. The fastening surface faces the first end of the base strap and is fastened detachably to the pressure strap or the base strap. For a user to wear the protective brace, the base strap is first wrapped around a body part and the fastening member is then operated to make the pressure strap wrapped around the base strap and is fastened to the pressure strap or the base strap. Therefore, the protective brace can be easily worn on the user's body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2012
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Inventor: Yueh-Hua Chiang
  • Patent number: 8529484
    Abstract: An orthotic foot brace for a person wearing a footwear includes: a lower leg holder; a lower leg strut extending downwardly towards the footwear; a foot strut having a rear section secured to the vertical strut, at least one of a median section and a lateral section located on a respective side of the footwear and extending outwardly thereof, and a front section securable to an instep section of the footwear; and a brace retaining member secured to the foot strut juxtaposed to the footwear, and extending from the median side of the footwear to the lateral side of the footwear, outwardly thereof, and restraining a rearwardly pivotal movement of the brace.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Ortheses Turbomed Inc./Turbomed Orthotics Inc.
    Inventors: Stéphane Savard, François Côté
  • Patent number: 8524974
    Abstract: A hemostatic device includes a flexible band adapted to be wrapped around a patient's limb at a site on the limb where bleeding is to be stopped, a portion for securing the band in a wrapped state to the limb, a curved plate which is made of a material more rigid than the band and at least a portion of which is curved toward the inner peripheral side thereof, a main balloon which is provided on the inner peripheral side of the curved plate and which inflates when a fluid is introduced therein, and a pressing member which is provided between the curved plate and the main balloon so that at least a portion thereof overlaps with the balloon and which is adapted for pressing against the balloon. The device provides an excellent hemostatic effect and prevents numbness and poor circulation in areas peripheral to the site of attachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Terumo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Satoshi Wada, Shigeki Numata, Hiroshi Yagi
  • Patent number: 8523796
    Abstract: The inflatable splint is formed of an inner shell of thin, semi-rigid material and at least one pneumatically inflated ply surrounding the inner shell. A second pneumatically inflated ply may be placed around the first pneumatically inflated layer. The inner shell may be lined with a soft fabric material, or a soft fabric sock or sleeve may be applied over the injured limb for comfort. The innermost semi-rigid ply of the splint may be formed in two halves that attach removably to one another to allow the assembly to be removed from the wearer from time to time for hygiene, therapy, and/or other reasons as required. The pneumatically inflatable outer plies are each formed as a single wrap. An inflation device may be provided with the assembly, for the convenience of the wearer to adjust the inflation pressure of the outer pneumatic ply or plies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Inventor: Ibtesam M. Y. Mustafa
  • Patent number: 8517965
    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 nesting within the channel. The upright is longitudinally translatable within the channel so that the support length is adjustable. Flanges are provided along edges of the channel to prevent lateral separation of the upright from the channel. A spring-biased button protrudes from a 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. The upright is also completely removable from the channel. Removal of the upright 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: November 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: DJO, LLC
    Inventors: Del Ray Doty, Alexis Erwin Doty
  • Patent number: 8517966
    Abstract: A screw nail correcting apparatus used for treating ingrown nails seen in human feet and/or hands adapts to different nail widths and to the changes that may occur in time on the same nail and practically enables pulling of the nail with an amount of force complying with the requirement. The fact that the apparatus is not a single piece and that it can be mounted separately from both sides of the nail provides ease of use, and the screw mobile part in the middle thereof helps to adjust the tautness according to the requirement of the nail at the concerned moment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Inventor: Fatma Gulru Erdogan
  • Patent number: 8517963
    Abstract: The proposed device includes two segments adapted to enclose a body part in a form-fitting manner. Each segment contains an electroactive-material-based actuator, which is adapted to receive an electrical control signal and in response thereto adjust the actuator's morphology, so as to cause the segment to apply a basic pressure profile to the body part. A pressure transition is adapted to redistribute the basic pressure profiles between the first and second segments. A control signal in respect of the first segment causes the pressure transition system to apply a first adjusted pressure profile to at least part of the second portion of the body part, and vice versa, a control signal in respect of the second segment causes the pressure transition system to apply a second adjusted pressure profile to at least a part of the first portion of the body part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Swelling Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Tomas Larson, Landy Toth
  • Patent number: 8512269
    Abstract: Disclosed is an ankle-foot orthosis that includes a boot and a pre-tibial shell. The boot includes an inner shell and outer shell between which are included padding and/or structural supports according to the needs of the patient to be treated. The pre-tibial shell likewise includes an interior layer and an exterior layer. Both the boot and the pre-tibial shell are custom molded to a casting made from an injured foot while taped in a non-weight-bearing position and corrected to a position of neutral pathology. Also disclosed is a method for constructing the disclosed ankle-foot orthosis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Inventors: William Scott Stano, Scott Davis Pixley
  • Patent number: 8512266
    Abstract: An exemplary orthopedic adjustment device includes an orthopedic appliance, an adjustment unit module and a pressure control module. The appliance is configured for supporting a human spine. The adjustment unit module includes adjustment units. Each of the adjustment units includes a chamber, a pressure sensor and a pump. The pressure sensor and the pump are arranged in the chamber. Each of the pressure sensors is configured for detecting a pressure of each chamber corresponding thereto. Each of the pumps is configured for adjusting the pressure of each chamber corresponding thereto. The pressure control module is configured for receiving pressure signals from the pressure sensors of the chambers and providing pressure adjusting signals to the pumps to adjust the pressures of the chambers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hai Lan, Ga-Lane Chen, Yu-Bin Wang
  • Patent number: 8491510
    Abstract: A system and method for correcting misshaped ears using a base section defining an opening dimensioned to accommodate the passage of the ear through the opening and a top section releasably engageable with the base section defining a compartment therebetween. A first stint can be arranged on an anterior surface of the base section to maintain a desired anatomic shape of the ear essentially in an area of the antihelix and the superior limb of the triangular fossa. A second stint can be placed in an area of the scapha of the ear to maintain a desired contour of the scaphal area. A conchal stint can be placed in the concha to maintain a desired anatomic shape of the concha. The top section can be engaged to maintain a desired amount of stabilizing pressure on the ear, the first stint, the second stint, and conchal stint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Beacon Medical Limited
    Inventors: Henry Stephenson Byrd, C. Kenneth French, Garrett Barker
  • Patent number: 8483880
    Abstract: A robotic hand assembly comprising: a hand section comprising: at least one digit provided with at least one actuatable joint; and a control section comprising: at least one actuation device, the at least one actuation device comprising: a sensing module configured to sense a force applied to a tendon coupled at a first end to the at least one actuatable joint; and an actuation module configured to actuate the at least one actuatable joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: The Shadow Robot Company Limited
    Inventors: Armando de la Rosa Tames, Graeme Richard Lawrence Walker, Jake Benjamin Goldsmith, John Hugo Elias, Matthew Paul Godden, Richard Martin Greenhill
  • Patent number: 8480604
    Abstract: A method of making an orthoses, comprising the steps of preparing a plaster mold, upon which the layers of the orthosis will be placed and formed; and placing layers of material on the mold, then forming and removing the layers. An orthosis, comprising a footplate that is capable of receiving a human foot thereabove, a heel portion at the rear side of the footplate; a strut extending upwardly from the heel portion; a calf portion extending forwardly from the strut, the calf portion including a tibial shell; the tibial shell extends around the front of the user's tibia; a rear portion extends around the back of the user's calf a rear portion disposed rearwardly with respect to the calf portion; and sides such that the calf portion is completely circumferential without seams. Two foam layers line the orthoses for comfort and ease of use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Inventor: Bill Messer
  • Patent number: 8475397
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a plantar fasciitis rehabilitation controlling device. It mainly comprises a securing portion, a rotatable portion, a torque pivoting portion, a pulling portion, and a controller. The securing portion and the rotatable portion are provided for securing a user's shank and foot. This torque pivoting portion can create a torque causing the rotatable portion moving back. The pulling portion has a controller so as to pull the rotatable portion to rotate between a first angle and a second angle so that it can reduce possibility of the plantar fasciitis and ease pain of the plantar fasciitis. Hence, this invention can achieve an active rehabilitation exercise. The belt's pulling interval time can be adjusted. It has a safety switch to ensure its product safety. It is convenient that the user can use a wireless device to operate this system. In addition, the user can be informed about current condition via an audio device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: China Medical University
    Inventors: Ching-Hua Chiu, Li-Wei Chou
  • Patent number: 8460222
    Abstract: Rotation mechanism for a forearm which includes a moving stay (2) which supports a wrist, which includes at least one guide track in the form of an arc of a circle, a fixed stay (4) which supports the rear end of a forearm, rods (12) that are rigid lengthwise which link the moving stay (2) and the fixed stay (4) and which allow the moving stay (2) and fixed stay (4) to rotate around a longitudinal axis (Z), by means of articulated links which can rotate (14), and a strut (6) rigidly linked at one of its ends to the fixed stay (4), and linked at its other end to a roller-bearing, whose rollers are in rolling contact with the guide track of the moving stay (2), and which cause the moving stay (2) to pivot around a longitudinal axis (Z), where the direction of said longitudinal axis (Z) passes through the centre of the arc of the circle of the guide track and through the centre of a circle defined by the ends of rods linked to the fixed stay.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Commissariat a l'Energie Atomique
    Inventor: Philippe Garrec
  • Publication number: 20130131565
    Abstract: An elastic bandage having an elongated length in which the bandage has a portion that extends along its length that is of a shade of a color that is a function of the amount the material is stretched, representing either a loose fit, a firm fit, or a tight fit. A novel color chart may be used with the elastic bandage that includes different shades printed thereon to assist the user during wrapping of the bandage around a part of a body. The elastic bandage may further include a second portion that extends along its length that is of a color different from the first portion and wherein, upon completion of a proper wrapping of the bandage, most of the first color of the first portion is visible and nearly none of the second color of the second portion is visible.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2012
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Inventor: Dave DALLAFIOR
  • Publication number: 20130116610
    Abstract: An orthopedic component for use in orthopedic device includes a rigid frame and a flexible subshell connected to and extending flexibly outwardly from the rigid frame. The subshell may have a shell body and a perimeter edge portion defining a lip extending outwardly from a surface of a shell body and defining a clearance between the shell body and the lip. The subshell may include a plurality of slots and ventilated padding is used in combination with the slots. A tightenable fastener may be adjustably secured to the rigid frame and extend through an opening on the subshell, wherein the first side portion of the subshell is adjustable in location relative to the rigid frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: Össur hf
    Inventor: Össur hf
  • Patent number: 8425439
    Abstract: A lockable hinge assembly configured for incorporation within a brace for stabilizing a joint includes a static support structure configured to remain in a fixed position, a dynamic support structure that is configured to be rotatable relative to the dynamic support structure, and a locking means for locking the dynamic support structure in a desired fixed position relative to the static support structure. The locking means is configured to enable the dynamic support structure to rotate relative to the static support structure and to automatically lock the dynamic support structure in a fixed position relative to the static support structure when the dynamic support structure rotates into the desired position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Inventors: Brian P. McKeon, John D. Fiegener
  • Patent number: 8425442
    Abstract: An ankle brace is configured to provide lateral and/or medial support of an ankle joint between the leg and foot and broadly includes an upper brace anchor secured to the leg above malleoli of the ankle joint and a lower brace anchor secured below the foot. The anchors are interconnected by a stabilizing strap that is tensioned between the anchors and serves to restrict inversion and/or eversion of the foot. The anchors and strap are also dimensioned and configured to permit dorsiflexion and plantar flexion of the foot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Inventor: Leslie C. Lundberg
  • Patent number: 8419670
    Abstract: A frame is provided for an orthopedic brace having an upper frame assembly, a lower frame assembly, a first hinge and a second hinge. The first and second hinges dynamically connect the upper and lower frame assemblies. The upper or lower frame assembly includes a truss unit which defines a triangle. The first side of the triangle is a substantially vertical longitudinal strut. The second side of the triangle is a first cross beam which is substantially horizontal or diagonal. The third side of the triangle is a diagonal second cross beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Breg, Inc.
    Inventor: Travis Donald Downing
  • Patent number: 8419665
    Abstract: An inflatable garment for applying to parts of the body such as the calf of the leg as a means of enhancing blood circulation in the body. The garment is of universal application in the sense that it comprises two wrap halves (8, 9) provided with inflatable bladders (4, 5, 6). The two wrap halves can be selectively coupled together in such a way as to provide a variable overall length of garment wrap to suit calf's of differing size while at the same time maintaining the integrity of fluid communication between the bladders on the respective wrap halves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: Gordon John Cook
  • Patent number: 8409121
    Abstract: A therapy tool designed to assist therapist to manually control and facilitate patient elbow and knee flexion-extension during walking, sit to stand, control in standing, and other functions is provided. The therapy tool includes a first cushion adapted to receive at least a portion of a person's shin or forearm, a second cushion adapted to cushion a person's knee, a elongate handle attached the first and second cushions in a manner such that the second cushion is disposed above the first cushion, and a horizontal extension adapted to provide a support surface for the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Inventor: Waleed Al-Oboudi
  • Patent number: 8409123
    Abstract: A dorsal night splint has dynamic adjustable features that allow the patient to adjust the splint while in use to control the stretching of the plantar fascia and Achilles. A semi-rigid flexible frame is included along with a tightening strap that is anchored to the frame and by which the patient can tension the strap and adjust the structure of the frame to fit the patient's desired therapeutic or prophylactic needs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: DJO, LLC
    Inventors: Carl Hoffmeier, Tracy Ng, Eileen Zirpolo-Kisco
  • Patent number: 8398573
    Abstract: The DRUJ brace is donned circumferentially around the distal radioulnar joint and provides adjustable compression of the proximal portion of the distal radioulnar joint that is independent of adjustable compression of the distal portion of the distal radioulnar joint, without compression of the ulnar styloid. Compression is maintained by hook and loop fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Howard Therapy LLC
    Inventor: Wendy Marie Medeiros Howard
  • Patent number: 8394045
    Abstract: A hand orthosis supporting a patient's thumb and fingers spaced apart and separated from contact with the palm of the hand, including an elongated body having a palm surface, a thumb portion, and a finger support portion. The elongated body includes a plurality of unequal cross-sectional areas spaced along the axial length between a distal end and a base end. A plurality of finger concavities are angled in helical orientation along the orthosis, including spaced apart concavities for each finger and the patient's thumb. Each finger and thumb concavity is angled non-perpendicular relative to the orthosis axial length to retain the fingers and thumb spaced apart, curved in a relaxed orientation, and apart from the palm of the hand during extended periods of time without impeding hand or wrist motion. A method of extended use for the hand orthosis is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Inventor: Russell A. Betcher
  • Publication number: 20130060178
    Abstract: The invention relates to a textile bandage with a bandage body (20) which has an inner face, directed towards a bandage wearer, and an outer face, wherein the surface of the inner face has zones (30, 40, 50) with different marking orientations (33, 44, 55).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2011
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Applicant: OTTO BOCK HEALTHCARE GMBH
    Inventor: Matthias Vollbrecht
  • Patent number: 8388563
    Abstract: A splint, in particular for the wrist, includes a substantially rectangular main band adapted to be closed in a tubular shape around the part of the body to be protected, a plurality of laces having an end integral with one side of the main band, at least one gripping element joined to the other end of the laces and adapted to be fastened on the upper surface of the main band. The splint further includes a comb-shaped insert, provided with teeth spaced apart from each other so as to form gaps wherein the laces can be inserted. A fastening strip is connected to the teeth of the insert and is adapted to be fastened on the upper surface of the main band.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Sports & Supports Limited
    Inventor: Jean-Patrick Jaccard
  • Patent number: 8382693
    Abstract: A segmented lumbosacral orthosis with mechanical advantage integrates two side members conjoined by cord threaded through an array of seamless tubes that are independently mounted and swivel from an axis point proximal to the end points of each tube. Each tube array is housed in a mounting bracket made from a continuous piece of material folded over to form a gap in between two sides. Each mounting bracket is attached to a side member by sliding a pin along the folded edge of the bracket through knuckles (or loops) attached to the side member—similar to a hinge. A removable posterior member is connected to each posterior end of the side members using an elastic material that expands and contracts in parity with the mechanical advantage closure system. The removable posterior panel is designed to hold a rigid or semi-rigid insert stored in three separate sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Neurotron Medical Inc.
    Inventor: Eric Guldalian
  • Patent number: 8382692
    Abstract: A spine and neck support device adapted to support the anatomical structures in the cervical and upper thoracic spine when the user's neck is in flexion. A cushion conforms about the user's anatomical neck structures and rests on the upper chest of the user. The cushion has a chin support area that avoids contacting the user's chin when the user's head is in a neutral position and contacts the user's chin when the user's neck is in flexion. When the user's neck is flexed and the user's chin contacts the chin support area, the cushion unloads and supports the user's neck. At least one and preferably two straps are attached to the cushion and secure it to the user. The top is sloped downwards from back to front to maximize the user's downward field of vision. A groove in the posterior surface of the cushion accommodates the user's trachea/esophagus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Inventor: John Chao
  • Publication number: 20130046217
    Abstract: An appliance which removably stores a portion of a catheter and an adapter, where the indwelling portion of catheter is still inside the body tissue of a patient. The appliance has an aperture that permits connection of a vacuum source such as hospital suction. When the appliance containing the catheter is held against the portion of the body including the indwelling site of the catheter, the vacuum source is applied, having a tendency to hold the appliance in place against the body. An orthopedic cast can be fabricated around the appliance, after which time the vacuum can be deactivated and the appliance can be removed, revealing a channel formed in the orthopedic cast. Through the channel, the distal portion of the catheter and the adapter can be accessed, facilitating continued post-operative anesthesia, easy visual inspection for signs of infection or dislodgment of the catheter and permitting easy removal when needed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2011
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Inventor: James Mooney
  • Publication number: 20130035620
    Abstract: A splint in a flat, two dimensional condition and formable into a rigid, three-dimensional structure is disclosed. A first support panel is formed of a rigid material in an initially-flat condition and has at least one elongate weakness zone extending along a longitudinal axis and a second support panel is formed of a rigid material in an initially-flat condition and has at least one elongate weakness zone extending along a longitudinal axis perpendicular to the at least one elongate weakness zone of the first support panel, and is asymmetrically-attached to or formed with one end to an adjacent one end of the first support panel. Cooperating pivot attachment members are provided on the one end of first support panel and the one end of the first support panel. The first support panel and the second support panel are adapted to be folded into a three-dimensional structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2012
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Applicant: BSN medical GmbH
    Inventors: Patrick Schütz, Koen Jozef Maria Jorissen
  • Publication number: 20130035621
    Abstract: The invention relates to a fixing element (33) extending as a flat, particularly lamellar element along a preferred direction (34) and comprising a corrugated sheet metal core (18) as a central component, said core providing the fixing element (33) with the characteristic of being integrally rigid and permanently deformable by hand, and said core being covered by a cover (36, 37). For such a fixing element, a large range of use is achieved in that the corrugations of the corrugated core sheet (18) are oriented substantially parallel to the preferred direction (34), and that means (38, 39) for releasably attaching the fixing element (33) are disposed on the fixing element (33).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2010
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Applicant: CHRISOFIX AG
    Inventor: Kalman Bolla
  • Patent number: 8357111
    Abstract: A method and system for designing a patient-specific orthopaedic surgical instrument includes coupling a knee sleeve to a leg of the patient. The knee sleeve includes sensors configured to generate sensor data indicate of the position of the respective sensor. The method also include determining angulation data indicative of the angulation of the knee based on the sensor data. The angulation data may be indicative of, for example, the ligament laxity of the knee. The method may also include generating a medical image(s) of the knee. The design of the patient-specific orthopaedic surgical instrument is determined based on the angulation data and the medical image(s).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: DePuy Products, Inc.
    Inventors: James Caillouette, Jose F. Guzman, Jason T. Sherman
  • Patent number: 8348810
    Abstract: A movement device for flexing and/or straightening a joint of a user includes a first anchor element adapted to be positioned adjacent a jointed appendage of a user at a first position. A second anchor element is adapted to be positioned about the jointed appendage at a second position, wherein the jointed appendage is located between the first anchor element and the second anchor element. A spring member is positioned between the first and second anchor elements wherein the spring member is fixedly secured to the second anchor element and moveable through the first anchor element to thereby allow the spring member to bend about a joint of the appendage when said appendage is flexed. The spring member is configured to exert bending forces in opposition to working muscles of the user to straighten or flex the joint of the appendage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: The Johns Hopkins University
    Inventors: Edward M. Land, H. Lee Mantelmacher
  • Patent number: 8343082
    Abstract: A medical bandaging product, including a non-woven, fibrous, flexible medical material adapted for being applied and conformed to a body part to be supported, and a reactive system impregnated into or coated onto the medical material. The system remains stable when maintained in a non-activated condition in the absence of an activating agent, such as water, and hardens upon activation by exposure to the activating agent to form a rigid, self supporting structure. An enclosure is provided within which the medical material is maintained against exposure to the activating agent until use. The product may be in pre-cut shapes or in roll-form for cutting off a desired length for a given use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: BSN Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: John C. Evans, Shitij Chabba, Martin O'Hara
  • Publication number: 20120330091
    Abstract: Orthopaedic device and a method of use thereof are provided for treating a bone fracture. The orthopaedic device has at least one pressure applying element configured to apply pressure to soft tissue adjacent to the bone fracture and a holder configured to engage, in an engaged configuration, soft tissue adjacent to the bone fracture and, while in the engaged configuration, to permit adjustable positioning and securing the at least one pressure applying element to the holder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2012
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Inventors: Ernest C. Chisena, Jahangir S. Rastegar
  • Patent number: 8337439
    Abstract: A splint for orthopedics for supporting the affected part of a patient suffering from a fracture or a sprain. A splint includes a support having 500˜1500 g/m2 of polyester non-woven fabric coated with a water-curable resin, an aluminum casing having a combination of polyethylene, aluminum and nylon (or polyester) in a pouch form to completely prevent the permeation of water so as to prevent the affected part from festering due to water, and a skin-protecting layer having polypropylene non-woven fabric and an outer surface layer having 200˜400 g/m2 of polyester, polypropylene or nylon, which are sequentially formed on the support. Unlike conventional splints for orthopedics which include a skin contact layer, a surface layer, and a support therebetween, the splint of the invention has a structure in which the support is directly packed with an aluminum casing, and an outer surface layer and a skin-protecting layer are provided thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Inventor: Jin-Woo Bae
  • Patent number: 8337441
    Abstract: A modular splint system having a base for securing to the limb, with various intervening components for joint positioning, with outriggers for mounting various tensioning devices and secured to the base with reclosable fasteners for precise alignment of forces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Inventor: Judy C. Colditz
  • Publication number: 20120323154
    Abstract: An orthopedic device includes an elongate and rigid or semirigid strut assembly, an arcuate cuff pivotally secured to the strut assembly, and a strap securing to the cuff and forming an adjustable circumferential configuration therewith. A tensioning device may be mounted on the cuff and coupled to the strap in order to incrementally adjust the tensioning device among a plurality of preselected levels such that a first end of the strap secures to the tensioning device and a second end of the strap couples to the cuff. A soft-good assembly connects to the strut assembly and has a flexible stay embedded within with a plurality of layers. The soft-good assembly is adapted to form an adjustable circumferential loop with the stay only located within a segment short of the circumference of the loop.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2012
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Inventors: Arni Thor INGIMUNDARSON, Thorvaldur INGVARSSON, Nina BAKKEN, Chad LEEDER