Abstract: A knee immobilizer (10) including an elongate frame (12) having opposed convex and concave major surfaces for being positioned along a longitudinal axis of a dorsal aspect of a leg from above to below the knee, and a plurality of outwardly-extending retainers (12A-12D, 12E-12G) cooperating with the frame (12) for retaining the frame (12) on the leg. A lining (16) is provided for being positioned between the frame (12) and the leg when in use to cushion and protect the leg against direct contact with the frame (12). A spine (18) is provided for being positioned on the frame (12) substantially along an elongate axis of the frame (12) from above to below the knee and formed in an angle for maintaining the frame (12) in a predetermined rigid medical treatment extension position on the leg.

Abstract: A device to support the human back/spine and provide assistance in bending, lifting and standing upright comprises a strap and belt system for attachment to the body and one or more bias/tension member to provide the force necessary to urge the user's back to remain or return to a straight position. When used as intended, the device serves to encourage a healthy body position for lifting, and/or to alleviate or prevent back pain associated with bending or lifting. The bias/tension member preferably comprises at least one tension rod that is adjustably fixed to a waist belt, and slidably received by an upper bracket at or near the shoulder blade region of the back. The length of the preferred two tension rods, in effect, may be adjusted by adjusting how or where the rods are fixed to the waist belt, for example.

Abstract: The present invention relates to medical devices and methods useful for improving a person's ability to grasp and release an object, and more specifically, the present invention relates to a splint for causing dynamic extension of a finger and/or thumb.

Abstract: A knee brace has push button actuatable stops, wherein the stops are biased outward into angular locking positions and inwardly directed pressure on the push buttons releases the stops and permits angular adjustment of the stops. A pair of catch plates with locking recesses facing inward, are provided, and outwardly biased locking pins engage the recesses in both catch plates. Each of the stop assemblies has an outwardly directed plate extending over the outer cover plate, and this plate is coupled to the physical stop member around the outer edge of the outer cover plate. The cover plate has angular indicia thereon, which may be viewed through windows in the outwardly extending plate portions of the stop assemblies.

Abstract: Geomagnetic methods and systems are used for monitoring the directionality of a prosthetic or orthotic device. Certain methods may include measuring multiple data points over a particular time interval to identify orientation information with respect to a prosthetic or orthotic device and/or used in the real-time control of the prosthetic or orthotic device. In certain examples, multiple points may be further compared with stored orientation data associated with predefined unsafe gait patterns. Control instructions and/or alerts based on the geomagnetic measurements can then be generated for the prosthetic or orthotic device, such as if the orientation data information matches one of the predefined unsafe gait patterns.

Abstract: An adjustable device is described for applying pressure to an area of a person while substantially eliminating pressure from a prescribed area. The device includes a panel, a first elastic belt, a second elastic belt, a first elastic strap, and a second elastic strap. These elements are connected to one another such that the panel is flanked on one side by the first panel and the first elastic belt and, on the other side, by the second panel and the second belt. Alternate embodiments include several panels disposed side-by-side or on top of one another.

Abstract: Adjustable restraint includes a plantar plate surrounded by a peripheral element about which a plurality of supports can be positioned; a support system attachable to that plate or element for providing vertical and horizontal support; and a lower leg securing housing. The housing is attachable to the support system through adjustable fastener(s) such it can be adjusted vertically and secured in position with respect to the plantar plate. A sole portion of the plantar plate may be removable. The support system can include first support(s) and second support(s) attachable to the plate or element, and, through first adjustable fastener(s) and second adjustable fastener(s), respectively, the first adjustable fastener(s) and second adjustable fastener(s) be attachable to the housing.

Abstract: A lower back orthosis bandage includes a middle piece having a first flat end and a second flat end, a first end piece having a mouth-like end and a second end piece having a mouth-like end. The first end piece is releasably connected to the first flat end of the middle piece by the mouth-like end of the first end piece. The second end piece is releasably connected to the second flat end of the middle piece by the mouth-like end of the second end piece. The first end piece and the second end piece are connectable to each other to close the bandage.

Abstract: A below-knee orthosis with fastening devices for fastening the orthosis to the foot and to the lower leg includes an L-shaped support spring made of a resilient material. The L-shaped support spring has an upright branch that defines a contact plane, and is intended to bear on the dorsal aspect of the lower leg. The lower end of the upright branch is adjoined by a horizontal branch designed to engage under the foot. The below-knee orthosis allows for an improved heel-to-toe behavior in the material of the support spring which takes into account the natural outward position of the foot by the upright branch being twisted in the lower area in such a way that the horizontal branch continuing the lower end is turned outward by an angle ? from the plane lying perpendicular to the contact plane of the upright branch above the twisted lower area.

Abstract: A system for treating arthritis includes at least one joint stabilizing assembly for providing relief from arthritis. At least one signal transmission element engagement member is operatively connected to the joint stabilizing assembly for connecting a signal transmission element. At least one signal transmission element is supported by the at least one signal transmission element engagement member. An electrostimulation unit, electrically connected to the signal transmission element produces a signal for improving the overall function of an arthritic joint. The electrostimulation unit used in conjunction with the joint stabilizing assembly provides a synergistic effect, which results in optimized joint treatment versus using either the joint stabilizing assembly or electrostimulation unit alone.

Abstract: A motion controlling hinge for an orthopedic brace is provided. The hinge includes an actuator secured to one arm, and at least one spring member. As the arm with the actuator pivots in a first direction, at a predetermined flexion angle the actuator applies a force to the spring member, causing the spring member to flex. The spring member exerts a force on the actuator tending to bias the actuator away from the spring member, and tending to bias the arm in a second direction opposite the first direction. In one embodiment, the spring member comprises a plurality of flat bar leaf springs. A movable fulcrum enables adjustment of a force exerted by the spring member on the actuator. A variety of differently sized adapters are securable to the actuator. The size of the adapter determines the flexion angle at which the spring member first exerts force on the actuator. In some embodiments, the hinge includes an “ON”/“OFF” switch that enables a user to disengage biasing force provided by the spring member.

Abstract: A system and method for applying therapeutic forces to the vertebrae contained within a section of a patient's spine. The system utilizes a flexible pressure blanket having two ends and both a top surface and a bottom surface that extend between those two ends. A patient is asked to lie in a supine position on an elevated platform. The flexible pressure blanket is draped over the patient, wherein a central section of the flexible pressure blanket contacts the patient and end sections dangle freely on opposite sides of said patient. Weight elements are attached to the flexible pressure blanket to effect therapeutic forces upon the spine of the patient. The weight elements can be attached in-line with individual vertebrae in the spine. In this manner, forces acting in different directions can be experienced by the spine, thereby manipulating the spine from the benefit of the patient.

Abstract: An orthopedic bracing system for providing support to a joint of an individual is provided. The bracing system includes a frame configured to conform to the individual's body and configured to contact the individual such that it can provide support to the joint. The frame has at least two portions configured to connect at least a first part of the individual's body to a second part of the individual's body. The bracing system further includes a cable interconnected to the frame, and an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the tightness level of the cable.

Abstract: A device for a subject having plantar fasciitis, the device comprising: (a) an elastic sock (10), (b) a leg binding (15) and (c) an elastic strap (20), wherein in use the elastic strap extends from adjacent a toe portion of the elastic sock to the leg binding so as to restrain the plantar fascia from flexion, yet permits the subject to walk and exercise the plantar fascia.

Abstract: An apparatus for transcutaneously transferring an amount of energy to an implantable orthopaedic device includes a primary coil. The primary coil has a resonant frequency matched to a resonant frequency of a secondary coil, which may form part of the implantable orthopaedic device. The primary coil may have an aperture configured to receive a portion of a patient's body or may include a substantially “C”-shaped core. A power circuit may be coupled with the primary coil to provide power to the coil. The apparatus may also include a wireless receiver, a measuring device, and/or a display.

Abstract: An orthopedic device has a structure with two substantially rigid parts, for instance, rods, which rods are coupled to each other by a hinge apparatus and each rod attaches to a fastener for optional temporary fastening to a limb part, wherein a pivot axis of the hinge apparatus extends in the region and in the direction of the pivot axis zone of the relevant joint. The device has an upper hinge and a lower hinge with pivot axes. The respective pivot axes of which extend in directions which make an angle with each other of 90°±40°.

Abstract: A knee brace that is divided into anterior and posterior sides by a frontal plane, and having first and second sides divided by a median plane. The knee brace includes a ventilated, flexible proximal shell generally extending between the first and second sides on the anterior side of the brace, and a flexible distal shell connected to the proximal shell and generally extending across the first and second sides on the anterior side of the brace. The distal shell has an extension segment extending from one of the first and second sides to the posterior side of the brace. The proximal and distal shells include suitable openings and slots for attaching brackets and mechanical devices. The proximal and distal shells each include a body portion and a compliant edge. The compliant edges are formed from flexible resilient material that is configured to extend beyond the outer perimeter of the body portion of each the proximal and distal shells.

Abstract: An elastic metal strip 10 aligning the longitudinal direction with the rolling direction of a cold-rolled plate is collected and processed to a shape comprising a correction plate 16 with the longitudinal direction of the elastic metal 10 as the width direction of nail and a plurality of tongue strips 11 protruded from the edge of the correction plate 16 near the nail tip. The tongue strip 11 is folded and bent to form a hooked claw 17 with a double structure of a folding part 18 and a bending part 19. A nail tip 21 of a deformed nail 20 is inserted between the hooked claw 17 and the correction plate 16 to apply a restoring force of elasticity in the correction plate to the deformed nail 20 as correction ability for deformed nails. A wrought wire rod can be used instead of a cold-rolled plate and a Cu—Al—Mn type shape-memory alloy may further be used as a raw material.

Abstract: A body limb movement limiter restrains the movement of a person's arm so as to protect the person's shoulder or restrains the movement of a person's lower leg with respect to the upper leg so as to protect the person's knee. The device uses a housing having a reel disposed therein with a tether attached thereto and a shear thickening non-Newtonian fluid disposed within the housing so that the fluid acts on the reel during a payout procedure of the tether. The housing is attached to a strap secured about the torso of the person while the free end of the tether is secured about the person's arm. Alternately, a pair of arms are pivotally secured to each other within a housing having the non-Newtonian fluid therein for limiting movement of one arm with respect to the other.

Abstract: An orthopedic stabilization device for use on a shoulder of a wearer for shoulder stabilization includes a torso portion having a closed end side and an open end side, the torso portion adapted to be secured around an upper torso of the wearer, a sleeve disposed on the torso closed end side, the sleeve adapted to be secured around a shoulder and an upper arm of the wearer, and a first plurality of straps, connected at their proximal end to the sleeve, the first plurality of straps having a first plurality of fasteners disposed at their distal end. The orthopedic stabilization device further includes a second plurality of straps having a second plurality of fasteners disposed at each end, whereby customizable restriction of shoulder movement may be attained by securing the first and second plurality of straps to the torso portion at various positions.

Abstract: A spinal orthosis comprising a torso unit, a base member secured to the torso unit, a spring biased hinge connected at a first end to the base member and connected at a second end to a sternal support, and one or more sternal pads (or plates) connected to the sternal support. The sternal pads (or plates) may be adapted to provide a posteriorly directed force based on a bias of the spring biased hinge. The spring biased hinge may include a receiving portion that can have an adjustment mechanism at a first end and a spring to provide bias for the spring biased hinge, wherein the adjustment mechanism can be moveable through the receiving portion so as to adjust the bias of the spring biased hinge.

Abstract: A medical device is arranged to provide adjustable, user-controlled, perpendicular compression to soft tissues. In a preferred embodiment, the pressure is adjusted by a threaded bolt or threaded bolt assembly incorporated into the design of a threaded mounting plate.

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 comprising a base, a cap disposed on said base, a strap having one free end and one end attached to said base, a buckle attached to said base, a handle with an aperture to accommodate a portion of said strap, a ring attached to said base positioned adjacent to said base, wherein said tourniquet article is positioned around a limb, wherein said free end of said strap is pulled through both said ring and said handle aperture whereby said article is initially tightened around the limb, wherein said handle is turned until adequate pressure is applied to the limb, and wherein once adequate pressure is applied to the limb, one end of said handle is inserted into said ring to secure the tightened tourniquet in place.

Abstract: A support apparatus comprising a waist band, a thigh band, a lateral vertical strap attached to said waist band and two extensions attached to said thigh band, and a medial vertical strap attached to said waist band then wrapping medially down around the thigh and attaching to the thigh band.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the apparatus for controlling the motion of a joint of a user includes a physiological sensor that measures a physiological property of the user, an orthosis that controls the motion of the joint of the user, an orthosis sensor that monitors a physical property of the orthosis, and a processing unit that processes data from the physiological sensor and from the orthosis sensor. In another embodiment, the method for controlling the motion of a joint of a user includes measuring a physiological property of the user with a physiological sensor, controlling motion of the joint of the user with an orthosis, monitoring a physical property of the orthosis with an orthosis sensor, and processing data from the physiological sensor and from the orthosis sensor.

Abstract: A brace for correction of scoliosis is disclosed, comprising at least one thoracic shell element and a pelvic shell element and at least one working element having a main longitudinal axis to be oriented parallel to the trunk to be treated, anchored on one of its opposite ends to the thoracic shell element and on the other to the pelvic shell element, and having spring characteristics adapted to apply continuous de-rotational force about said longitudinal axis.

Abstract: In an embodiment, an appendage splint is disclosed. The appendage splint may include or comprise a support member including a lateral member configured to wrap and couple with a portion of the support member.

Abstract: A dynamic-response anatomical bandaging system and methodology utilizing a limb-wrappable, layered, dynamic-response, bandaging expanse which includes a dynamic-response, pressure-applying layer displaying a compressive-load versus compression-deflection behavior which is characterized by a curve having a substantially linear region in which a major change in compression deflection relates to an anatomically insignificant change in compressive load. The system and methodology also feature, relative to use of the bandaging expanse, freely attachable and detachable, dynamic-response (a) splinting structure, and (b) expanse-edge-overlap wrap-closure tensioning structure.

Abstract: A limb stabilizing device includes a base, a first clamping member adjustably mounted to the base, and a second clamping member mounted in an opposed relationship with the first clamping member. The first clamping member includes a first adjustment mechanism that operates to allow the first clamping member to slide laterally along the base and to maintain the first and second clamping members in lateral alignment.

Abstract: A device for treatment of plantar fasciitis and/or Achilles tendonitis comprises (a) a calf strap removably engagable to the calf of a leg, (b) a foot assembly removably engagable to the foot of the leg such that when the device is worn the assembly can be positioned proximate to the ball of the foot intermediate to the midfoot and forefoot areas of the foot to secure it to the foot, and (c) a substantially inelastic tension member connectable between the calf strap and the foot assembly in a tensioned manner such that when the device is worn the plantarflexion of the ankle is limited such that the plantar surface of the foot is held in a neutral to slight dorsiflection.

Abstract: A joint hinge and a leg brace having the joint hinge that includes a spring loaded spherical joint for coupling a proximal portion and a distal portion of the joint hinge. The spherical joint includes a dome on one portion coupled to a mating cup on the other portion. A wide-headed pin, typically a shoulder screw, captivates the cup against the sphere. A spring washer may be included to provide a preloading force to mate the cup to the dome. The spherical portion may be pressed or stamped into one portion of the hinge or fabricated separately and attached. In one embodiment, the dome is fabricated of sintered bearing material and may be impregnated with lubricant. The spherical joint functions in conjunction with an adjustable flexion range limiting system that include rods that are threaded and easy to screw in and out as the patient's range of motion changes.

Abstract: One embodiment of an orthopedic support for supporting a joint of a wearer includes a sheet of flexible material having a proximal edge and a distal edge configured to extend at least partially around a portion of a wearer's anatomy and a pair of opposing lateral edges configured to at least partially enclose the portion of the wearer's anatomy. The support also includes a plurality of stays each secured to the sheet of material and configured to be positioned adjacent to a portion of the wearer's anatomy. In addition, the support includes at least one slotted connector interconnecting at least a pair of the stays, wherein each of the stays is configured to pivot and slide within the slotted connector.

Abstract: A patella protector assembly for use with an orthopedic device, wherein the patella protector assembly has a central shell, an upper shell slidably connected to the central shell, and a lower shell slidably connected to the central shell. The central shell includes a main shell and a flexible perimeter edge portion surrounding at least a section of the perimeter of the main shell. The perimeter edge portion has greater flexibility than the main shell. The upper and lower shells are arranged pivotally and telescopically relative to the central shell such that the central, upper and lower shells together form a continuous shell without gaps therebetween.

Abstract: The systems and methods described herein include systems and methods for applying temperature regulated compression and support to certain injured portions of the human body. In particular, the systems and methods relate to a brace to be fitted around a joint of a human for applying therapeutic temperature regulated compression to the joint and having rigid supports disposed therein to provide support for the limb while a patient recuperates from surgery or other injury.

Abstract: A method for installing a fiberglass cast on and removing the cast from an individual includes a guide track and cutting tool designed to control carefully the vertical displacement and lateral displacement of the tool when the tool is used to cut the cast, and, accordingly, to prevent, while a cast is being removed, injury to the individual.

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 device as in a dorsal splint for treating plantar fasciitis includes a substantially rigid splint member having an overmolded flexible edge and living hinges, or substantially rigid component pieces received in a flexible member, to provide improved and more comfortable fitting to a user and reduced storage requirements. The substantially rigid splint member is shaped and configured to the dorsal aspects of a user's lower leg, ankle, and foot. Straps are provided to maintain the dorsal splint in position.

Abstract: A back brace includes a first brace member having a first connector, and a second brace member having a second connector and a coupler at two opposite sides thereof. The coupler is detachably connectable to the first connector. A first adjustment holder is affixed to one end of the first brace member and holds therein a first rod member. A second adjustment holder is affixed to one end of the second brace member and holds therein a second rod member. Two pull cords are inserted through the first adjustment holder and the second adjustment holder and run alternately back and forth over the first rod member and the second rod member to adjustably and abuttably hold the first and second brace members side by side. Two fastening members are fastened to distal ends of the pull cords and detachably connectable to the first and second connectors.

Abstract: The subject invention provides a shield for protecting a patient's extremities when positioned on an arm or leg board or other surgical or examination table extension. The shield comprises essentially an inverted C-shaped or U-shaped covering with a channel therein. It may further comprise one or more flanges to aid in supporting and positioning the shield.

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: A tightener for orthopedic use, includes a guide loop having opposite sections, a first orthopedic strap anchored to one section for passing about a user's arm, leg or like member, and then passage through the loop to extend in a first tightening direction, a second orthopedic strap anchored to another loop section to extend in a second and opposite tightening direction, whereby the two straps extending in the first and second directions can be manually pulled in those directions to tighten the first strap about the member, and two tensioned straps can then be connected by push together connection to tightened extents of the first strap to hold tension transmission via the loop sections and straps.

Abstract: Hand and/or wrist support apparatus, comprising in combination, a first brace configured for application to the hand and/or wrist of the user, and a second brace configured for application over at least a portion of the first brace, each brace configured for in-place retention, providing support to a substantial portion of the hand and/or wrist of the user, including the thumb.

Abstract: A medical bandaging product fabricated of a rib-knitted fabric constructed of synthetic yarns selected from the group of acrylic, polyester and polypropylene yarns. An elastic yarn provides elasticity to the fabric, and an effective amount of a water repelling treatment is applied to the fabric for imparting water-repellent characteristics. The fabric may be used as a cast liner or as a protective wrapping of a splint product.

Abstract: A method of donning a potentiating support for a body's hinge joint 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 there through 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 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: A wrist support includes a first section for receiving a forearm, a second section for receiving a hand, and a bridging section spanning a wrist and connecting the first and second sections together. The bridging section is integrally formed with some portion of the first section or second section. The disposition of the second section relative to the first section is variable, for example, according to the tension in a tensioning line, wherein the tension may be adjusted by a rotary device.

Abstract: A device for supporting the abdominal region of the user. A fabric band is sized to be worn surrounding the abdominal region which supports strategically placed hook and loop regions. A pair of segments of stretch material, also having hook and loop regions at least one of their ends are capable of being selectively and removably appended to the fabric band to apply compression or restriction to the user's abdomen. The device is particularly useful in helping one to restore abdominal muscle and control particularly after pregnancy.

Abstract: A potentiating support for an area of a body includes a framework having a surface for abutment with an area of a body. The framework defines a plurality of permanent openings in the surface regardless of whether the surface is in abutment with the area of the body, the openings extending completely through and being bounded by the framework. Furthermore, the framework, along its entire boundary with at least one of the openings, is elastically stretchable between a first initial state and extended states and, when expanded to an extended state, the framework stores potential energy that is released as kinetic energy upon its return to the initial state. The support also includes a fastening mechanism connected at multiple points proximate each of opposite sides of the framework for applying tension at each of the multiple points for tensioning the framework's surface in abutment with the area of the body.

Abstract: A potentiating support for an area of a body includes: a framework having a surface for abutment with an area of a body including a hinge joint, the framework defining a plurality of permanent openings in the surface; and two strut members each attached to the framework such that each the strut member spans the hinge joint when the framework is disposed in abutment with the area of the body, the strut members providing a measure of rigidity to the framework in the direction of their respective lengths, each respective the strut member including an intermediate portion thereof spanning the hinge joint that is expandable and recoverable between a first initial state and extended states wherein, when expanded to a the extended state during flexing of the hinge joint, the respective strut member stores potential energy that is released as kinetic energy upon its return to the initial state.

Abstract: A device (22) for analgesic immobilization in the event of thorax or rib fractures as well as a method for application of such a device are disclosed. The immobilization device (22) includes a flat splint element (24) which covers a large area of the region of the break (19), and is provided with an adhesive layer (26) which is located on the side thereof facing the body and is used to adhere the immobilization device (22) to the body. In a preferred method of application, two separate areas of adhesive are applied to the patient's skin over the fracture at two different points in the breathing cycle. This allows the device to remain in place more securely under the dynamic condition of the ribcage that results from constant inhalation and exhalation.