Abstract: The invention relates to an orthotic bone stimulator and the methods of use pertaining thereto.

Abstract: A knee brace has proximal and distal frame elements with outwardly facing surfaces, and first and second hinges connecting to the frame elements. The brace includes a first strap having a first end directly attached to the first side of the proximal frame element and a second end attached to the first side of the distal frame element so as to spiral from the first side of the proximal frame element to the first side of the distal frame element about posterior and anterior sides of the knee brace. The brace also includes a second strap having a first end directly attached to the second side of the proximal frame element and a second end attached to the second side of the distal frame element so as to spiral from the second side of the distal frame element to the second side of the proximal frame element about the posterior and anterior sides of the knee brace. The first and second straps intersect within a clearance defined between the first and second hinges.

Abstract: A leg support adapted to be secured to a leg includes an elongate strut having first and second segments, and a flexible middle segment located therebetween. The strut is arranged for securing to a posterior side of a leg and is centrally located along a medial-lateral plane of a leg. A resilient element is removably secured to a first surface of the strut, and extends across the middle strut segment. The middle strut segment and the resilient device are arranged to correspond to a knee of a leg and bend therewith such that the resilient device urges the strut into a generally upright configuration.

Abstract: Anchoring system for a cable-activated prosthetic or orthotic device includes a fastener comprising a base and a clasp-engaging member, wherein the fastener further comprises an adhesive to secure the base directly to skin of a wearer; and a clasp comprising a first end configured to engage and rotate about the clasp-engaging member and a second end configured to engage the activation cable of a prosthetic or orthotic device. Also included is a prosthetic or orthotic system that includes the anchoring system in combination with a prosthetic or orthotic device comprising an activation cable and a terminal device, wherein the activation cable comprises a first end operatively coupled to the terminal device and a second end engaged with the second end of the clasp.

Abstract: Disclosed is an ankle foot orthotic device for assisting a user during gait. The device comprises: a foot support having a shape and size configured to the plantar aspect of a user foot, the foot support having a forward portion and a rearward portion and a heel plate coupled to an upper surface of the rearward portion. The device further comprises: an upper rod having a longitudinal axis and a lower end connected to an offset and a lower rod having: a longitudinal axis; a lower end connected to the heel plate; and an upward end connected to the offset.

Abstract: A control unit system. The system includes a control unit which includes a control unit charging interface, at least one magnet located proximate to the control unit charging interface, at least one actuator, a detachable manifold including at least one magnet, fluidly coupled to the at least one actuator, a pump connected to the at least one actuator for causing actuation thereof, and a control system for controlling the pump, wherein the control system controls the pump to actuate the at least one actuator at least in response to a signal received by the control system. The system also includes a recharging device configured to receive the control unit, the recharging device including a reed switch, wherein when the magnet in the control unit is located proximate to the reed switch, the switch is activated.

Abstract: A knee orthosis device provides medial, lateral, and rotational control of a knee joint. The novel knee orthosis device stabilizes an injured or surgically repaired, or a weakened knee joint having a neurological disability, which causes instability therein, by applying adjustable corrective and therapeutic forces, which operate to stabilize and protect the knee as well as to correct abnormal gait and to rehabilitate the knee joint and surrounding muscles above and below the knee by encouraging and recruiting said muscles to operate again more normally through the use of a dynamic swing assist mechanism. The knee orthosis also provides dynamically conformable thigh and shin cuff circumferential band systems in combination with a multitude of other elements that conform to the constant dimensional changes of the muscle groups that are surrounded by the knee orthosis device during ambulatory or athletic motion.

Abstract: In an embodiment, an orthopedic device in the form of a lumbar support includes first and second elongate belt members, an anatomically shaped plate, and a closure system connecting the belt members to the plate. The closure system is arranged to move the belt members relative to the plate, and connects to the belt members via a flexible belt attachment which removably secures to the belt members. The closure system includes tensioning elements corresponding to the belt members, and a pulley system connecting to the tensioning elements. The closure system is slidably mounted to the plate and arranged to the belt members relative to the plate between opposed linear directions. The plate has various contours which provide pressure distribution over a lumbar region of a back. Anatomically shaped and resiliently formed handles secure to the tensioning elements and the belt members.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to first aid articles and more specifically tourniquets. One embodiment of the claimed subject matter includes a tourniquet article having a substantially rigid base. A handle is provided, the handle has first and second ends and a slot disposed between the first and second ends. A strap disposed adjacent to the substantially rigid base and passes through the slot of the handle. A structural member having first and second sides is attached to the base at least at first and second points along each of the first and second sides of the base such that the strap being sandwiched between at least a portion of the structural member and said base.

Abstract: A vacuum splint for maintaining a person in an immobilized state includes a flexible airtight casing upon which a patient is placed. The casing has an internal chamber that contains a large number of beads. Valves are provided to develop a vacuum within the chamber to convert the casing from a relatively soft, flexible state to a rigid, evacuated state. A semi-rigid member spans the length of the vacuum splint that resists longitudinal compression when air is evacuated from the chamber. The semi-rigid member also retains sufficient longitudinal and lateral flexibility such that it allows the vacuum splint to be molded to various patient positions and folded or rolled up when not in an evacuated state. The head end of the vacuum splint includes two protrusions that extend upward. When in an evacuated state, these protrusions extend over either side of a patient's head thereby providing support and protection.

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.

Abstract: A splint for use in stabilizing the nasal septum of a subject following the completion of a septoplasty procedure has a longitudinal axis and is formed of a substantially rigid sheet having a longitudinal length, an anterior end, and a posterior end. The sheet is labeled with a plurality of guide markings that guide a user in shaping the splint prior to implantation of the splint within a nasal passage of the subject.

Abstract: An orthopedic device in the form of an unloading osteoarthritic knee brace has proximal and distal frame members with a flexion-extension hinge positioned between the proximal and distal frame members. At least one articulating free hinge is positioned in an upright between the flexion-extension hinge and one of the proximal and distal frame members. The free hinge provides free rotation of the proximal or distal frame member about the anteroposterior axis with respect to the flexion-extension hinge.

Abstract: An orthopedic device includes a rigid or substantially rigid frame element having a first thickness and a periphery, and an overmolded portion surrounding at least a peripheral segment of the frame element periphery. The overmolded portion encases the thickness of the peripheral segment and interlocks with the frame element without fastener elements. The combination of the frame element and the overmolded portion are adapted to secure against an anatomical portion.

Abstract: An orthopedic protective assembly is disclosed. The orthopedic protective apparatus includes a foam shaped collar to conform to a user's neck area. The foam shaped collar comprises a multi-layer polymer material having a pliable outermost protective layer to absorb initial impact energy and additional layer(s). The additional layer(s) require(s) greater impact energy to deform than those of the pliable outermost protective layer. In one embodiment, shim extension(s) customize(s) impact energy absorption properties of the foam shaped collar by filling a gap between an underside of the foam shaped collar and a shoulder region of a user.

Abstract: The present invention is a device and method to manipulate soft tissues such as tendons using a manipulator that works in conjunction with an orthopaedic device, such as a brace. The manipulator can be an electro-mechanical device. The manipulation can alleviate symptoms of soft tissue dysfunctions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, wrist tenosynovitis and tendonitis, cubital tunnel syndrome, neck tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, and Achilles tendonitis. Manipulation alleviates the inflammation and pressure and the concomitant associated pain and other symptoms of the dysfunction. The manipulation, combined with the orthopaedic aspect of the device, allows the limb to rest and recover between manipulative treatments in a suitably stationary position.

Abstract: An adjustable support assembly for an orthopedic brace has a support arm, a housing and a locking mechanism. The housing includes a travel track which slidably receives the support arm. The locking mechanism includes a lock lever which selectively applies a sufficient force to the support arm to prevent slidable displacement of the support arm in the travel track.

Abstract: An orthopedic or prosthetic support device is arranged to conform and secure to a limb of a wearer. The device includes a resilient support member adapted to extend about a limb, and a tensioning element associated with the support member. An adjustment system is connected to the support member and engages the tensioning element. The adjustment system is arranged to incrementally adjust and retain the tensioning element relative to the support member.

Abstract: A closure system for braces, protective wear and similar articles is disclosed. The closure system includes a plurality of opposing lace guide members and a tightening mechanism. The closure system further includes a lace extending through the guide members and coupled to the tightening mechanism. In some embodiments, a quick release apparatus is included to facilitate opening of the closure system. The tightening mechanism in some embodiments includes a control for winding the lace into a housing to place tension on the lace thereby tightening the closure system.

Abstract: A method of donning a potentiating support for a hinge joint of a body includes positioning a garment proximate an area of a body; positioning an expandable and recoverable framework in abutment with the area of the body such that the framework spans a hinge joint of the body, the framework defining a plurality of permanent openings extending therethrough regardless of whether the support is donned; applying tension at points of the framework such that the framework is expanded and the framework is tensioned in its abutment with the area of the body, said step of applying tension being performed by pulling on one or more fastening components that are attached at one or more points to said framework; and affixing each of the fastening components to the garment while applying tension to the framework to secure the expanded framework in its forced abutment with the area of the body.

Abstract: A method is provided for securely fitting an orthopedic brace to the body by means of a plurality of straps, strap locks, strap attachment members, and strap connection members. The method retains the close fit of the brace to the body without the need for substantial readjustment of the fit even after repeated removal and remounting of the brace on the body. The method also enables repositioning the brace on the body without requiring removal of the brace from the body or substantial readjustment of the fit.

Abstract: The use of an orthopedic aid with two parts (15, 16) which are movable relative to one another and with a locking device for locking the two parts (15, 16) in a predetermined relative position and for unlocking the parts (15, 16) in order to permit movement of the parts (15, 16) with respect to one another is made much safer by virtue of the fact that at least one signaling arrangement (36, 40, 41, 42) is provided which emits a particular signal for the locking state or upon unlocking of the locking device. The risk of accidents due to the parts (15, 16) being incorrectly locked is at least substantially reduced.

Abstract: This invention relates to a reinforced support device suitable for the protection of a body part against overextension. In particular, this invention relates to a device comprising at least one reinforcement spine used to protect a body part against overextension and a plate disposed below a portion of the spine used to provide additional support and comfort. The reinforcement spine can flex in direction of the body part's natural movement and is substantially inflexible in the direction of overextension. Together, the reinforcement spine and plate prevent overextension of the protected body part and disperse the incident forces by transferring those forces from the reinforcement spine to the plate.

Abstract: A hyperextension brace with a frame construction has adjustable upper and lower supports as well as adjustable side members. The frame comprises a sub-clavicula support and a pelvic and pubic support connected by side members. The height of the side members and the width of the sub-clavicula support and the pubic support are adjustable by using non-rotational telescopic and lockable connections. The sub-clavicula support may be connected by a turnbuckle screw arrangement to the side members. The frame may be made of composite material, suitably a polymer reinforced by glass fiber and/or carbon fiber. All adjustments may be made without requiring any tools.

Abstract: A device may include a first plate and a second plate, and a linkage system that attaches the first plate and the second plate to one another such that the plates are capable of translating relative to each other, and the plates are incapable of rotating relative to each other.

Abstract: A casting or splinting device comprises a plastic casting body formed into various configurations for immobilizing a bone fracture or the like. The casting body is filled with small spherical granules having a smooth and slippery surface. The casting body is sealed and provided with an outlet port for aspirating air from within the casting body. Aspiration of air from the casting body results in a rigid casting or splint.

Abstract: An orthotic device includes a frame having a first shell defining front and rear surfaces, and extending longitudinally into the anterior and posterior sides of the brace. A tightening mechanism is mounted onto the first shell, and has a ratchet strap located along the rear surface of the first shell and a ratchet device mounted on the front surface of the first shell. An elongate tensioning device having a first end portion is connected to the ratchet strap.

Abstract: The plantar flexion prevention device is an elastic sock. The sock extends over a foot to a calf area above the foot. A heel portion has a first attachment mechanism positioned near a plantar surface of a heel of the foot. There is an inverted Y-shaped inelastic strap that has two members securely attached to the elastic sock near the plantar surface of a metatarsalphalangeal joint region of the foot. A third member has a second attachment mechanism positioned in a middle portion of the third member. There is an inelastic toe strap that extends from a toe portion of the sock. A separate adjustable cuff with a third attachment mechanism is positioned above the calf area of the leg. The inelastic toe strap attaches to the second attachment mechanism of the inverted Y-shaped strap for toe extension, and can attach to the first attachment mechanism for toe flexion.

Abstract: Weakened and restricted limb movement is aided by powered orthosis having one or more independent dimensions of controlled movement and a control system.

Abstract: A knee brace divided into anterior and posterior sides by a frontal plane, and having first and second sides divided by a median plane. The knee brace including a frame having proximal and distal portions, a stability strap having first and second ends respectively connected to first and second sides on the proximal frame portion along the posterior side thereof, and a cross strap having a first end connected to the first side of the proximal and a second end connected to the distal frame portions. A bracket assembly having a buckle connects the stability and cross straps to the frame. A sleeve is provided which covers the frame and upon which the bracket assembly rests.

Abstract: Systems, devices and methods for treating a targeted body tissue (e.g., bone, soft tissue, muscle, ligaments, etc.) by stimulating the body tissue with an electric current are described herein. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a first orthosis member that includes a first electrode. The first orthosis member is configured to be disposed about a first portion of a limb of a user of the apparatus such that the first electrode is in contact with the first portion of the limb. The apparatus includes a second orthosis member that includes a second electrode. The second orthosis member is configured to be disposed about a second portion of the limb such that the second electrode is in contact with the second portion of the limb. A connector is configured to couple the second orthosis member to the first orthosis member and the connector has a selectively adjustable length.

Abstract: A limb protective covering (10) includes an elongated sleeve (11) and an adjustable, elastic retaining strap (12). The sleeve has a closed end (15) and an open end (16) opposite the closed end. The sleeve is made of a high performance elastomeric polymer blend, such as a styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) based monolayer elastomeric antistatic film having a coefficient of friction of at least 0.6.

Abstract: A secure adjustable orthotic device having multiple brace portions and one or more locking mechanisms. One locking mechanism is a level moving buckle comprising a top member, a locking member and a base member. The locking member is adapted to engage and disengage an inserted strap in response to the longitudinal movement of the top member relative to the base member. The level moving buckle inhibits accidental longitudinal movement of the inserted strap when the top member is in a locked position.

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.

Abstract: A low profile dynamic extension splint for biasing a person's fingers and/or a thumb in an open position.

Abstract: An orthotic device includes a frame having a first shell defining front and rear surfaces, and extending longitudinally into the anterior and posterior sides of the brace. The first shell defining an opening located on the posterior side of the brace. A tightening mechanism is mounted onto the first shell, and has a ratchet strap located along the rear surface of the first shell and a ratchet device mounted on the front surface of the first shell so as to extend partially into the opening and engage the ratchet strap. An elongate tensioning device having a first end portion is connected to the ratchet strap, and the first end portion of the tensioning device extends along the rear surface of the first shell. The tensioning device has a second end portion anchored to a portion of the frame. A channel is mounted to the rear surface of the first shell and entirely encloses at least a portion of the ratchet strap. The tensioning device is a textile-based and substantially inelastic strap.

Abstract: A night splint for a user's foot having a frame member and a toe retainer that is releasably connected to the frame member. The toe retainer is configured to dorsiflex at least one toe of the user to allow for a dynamic stretch of the plantar fascia and to provide a low load stretch of the Achilles tendon, plantar fascia tendon, deep flexor muscles and calf muscles to relieve symptoms of plantar fasciitis.

Abstract: An orthotic device comprises a first, resilient, portion configured to apply a force in one or more predetermined directions to assist or restrict movement of at least one part or a wearer's body, and a second, rigid, portion configured to restrict movement of at least one part of the wearer's body. The second portion is removably-couplable to the first portion such that it can be removed from, and coupled to, the first portion while the device is being worn.

Abstract: A relief member is described. The relief member is suitable for engaging a support member adapted to support a subject's body part and includes a relief member body which includes a body thickness and comprises a relief member body plane disposed along a selected body axis; and an engagement means integral with the relief member body and adapted to engage with a support member, the engagement means being movable between a first configuration and an engagement configuration, the engagement means in the first configuration being disposed within extremity boundaries of the body thickness or is disposed substantially within the same plane as the relief member body plane, and the engagement means when in the engagement configuration extending outside the extremity boundaries of the body thickness or outside the relief member body plane to releasably engage the relief member to the support member.

Abstract: A knee brace adapted for placement over at least a posterior side of a leg and comprising a first posterior frame member, a second posterior frame member connected to first frame member, and a posterior resilient hinge device located at or near a first end portion of the first frame member. The hinge device is arranged to urge the first and second frame members into a predetermined alignment. The hinge device can be arranged for selectively locking the second frame member at an angle relative to the first frame member, and permitting rotation of the second frame member relative to first frame member within a range of predetermined angles.

Abstract: An orthotic for mounting on a user's arm comprises an upper cuff that is removeably attachable to the user's arm at a point above the elbow joint. A lower cuff is removeably attachable to the user's arm at a point below the elbow joint, and is rotationally fixed to the forearm. At least one flexible elongated member having a first end that is releasably coupled to the upper cuff and an opposite second end that is releasably coupled to the lower cuff. The upper cuff and the lower cuff are configured to move in more than one plane with respect to one another.

Abstract: A wrist support sleeve is adapted to extend over a wearer's hand and wrist from a location below the ends of the fingers tip to a position just past the wrist region. The sleeve has an opening for receiving the wearer's thumb. A first portion of the sleeve extends around the lower part and opposite sides of a wearer's hand and wrist and has spaced side edges located in an upper region of the sleeve. An insert panel of a different material to the first sleeve portion is secured between spaced side edges of the first portion, so as to extend across the tipper portion of a wearer's hand and wrist when the device is worn. The insert panel material is a strong elastic material which has a higher stiffness than the rest of the sleeve.

Abstract: An orthotic such as a knee, ankle, elbow or wrist brace is provided. The orthotic includes one or more compression devices that adjust the amount of compressive force applied to a body part based upon fluctuations in atmospheric pressure. One embodiment of the invention incorporates one or more inflatable air bladders connected to an air pump and an atmospheric pressure sensor. The brace places the inflatable air bladder proximate a joint where it can be inflated to provide compressive support for the joint. The invention also comprises a method for adjusting the compressive force applied to a body part based upon fluctuations in atmospheric pressure.

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.

Abstract: An orthopedic brace is provided with an adjustable support assembly having a support arm, a housing and a locking mechanism. The housing includes a travel track which slidably receives the support arm. The locking mechanism includes a lock lever which selectively applies a sufficient force to the support arm to prevent slidable displacement of the support arm in the travel track. The orthopedic brace is further provided with a hinge having a first rotation plate, a second rotation plate, a pivotal connector connecting the first and second rotation plates, a rotation limiting mechanism, and a rotation locking mechanism.

Abstract: The invention relates to a support bandage (1) comprising a base body (2) that is made of an elastic textile material and that has an inner side facing the body of a bandage user and an outer side facing away from the body of the bandage user. An anti-slip coating (5) is arranged on the inner side. The support bandage (1) has at least one supporting strap (10) that is reversibly arranged on the outer side of the base (2) by way of form-fitting elements (21, 16).

Abstract: A system and method for correcting misshaped ears using a molding device having one or more braces supporting a scaphal mold. The one or more braces and the scaphal mold are adapted to retain the helix and the helical rim of a misshaped ear within a space defined between the one or more braces and the scaphal mold, and to maintain a substantially correct anatomical shape of the helix and the helical rim.

Abstract: A composite material 10 for forming custom fitted orthopedic and other products. The composite material is easily formable when heated to temperatures of about two hundred degrees Fahrenheit for a time of at least six to eight minutes and then is rigid at temperatures of about one hundred thirty degrees. The composite material can be sewn and formed in complex shapes when initially heated to about two hundred degrees. Closure attachments 60 can be secured to the composite material as needed on site rather than at the manufacturing facility. The composite material can be custom fitted to a patient in situ.

Abstract: A body support for spanning a hinge joint of the body comprises an elastically stretchable framework. The framework includes an integrally molded network of interconnected elastomeric segments. A first subset of the interconnected, elastomeric segments extends along a perimeter of the framework, and a second subset of the interconnected, elastomeric segments located within the perimeter of the framework bounds and defines an alignment opening. None of the interconnected, elastomeric segments of the first subset are part of the second subset.

Abstract: A hip orthosis, provided with a trunk engaging part and an upper leg engaging part which are intercoupled by coupling means, wherein the coupling comprise at least one resilient element for operatively preventing an adducting movement of an upper leg engaged by the upper leg engaging part by means of spring force.