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: 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 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: 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: 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: 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: 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: 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 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: 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 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: 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: 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: 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: 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: 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 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 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 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 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 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 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.

Abstract: The invention provides a device for protecting ligaments in a knee joint of a user. The device includes a knee brace positionable about a knee joint of a user and a boot wearable on a foot of a user. Additionally, the device includes a flexible tether member including a first coupling element coupled to the knee brace and a second coupling element coupled to the boot. The boot and knee brace are attachable and detachable via the first and second coupling elements. The flexible tether member is adjustable in length to dispose the flexible tether member in tension at least in a portion of a maximum foot range of rotation, where the maximum foot range of rotation of the user's foot relative to the knee joint causes hyperextension of a knee ligament.

Abstract: The invention is a sleeve for application to a human extremity. The sleeve has a tubular structure with distal and proximal openings, a pre-flexed section between the openings, and distal and proximal contact zones on opposing sides of the pre-flexed section. At least the distal contact zone extends from the pre-flexed section in a conically tapering manner. A distal end zone is disposed between the distal contact zone and the distal end. The distal end zone may also be conically tapered toward the distal end, and in one embodiment has a different degree of taper that the distal contact zone.

Abstract: An orthosis having at least one adjustable joint for articulating two hinged parts of the orthosis, the joint comprises a tensor for carrying the load applied between the two hinged parts. Compression surfaces coupled to the hinged parts are constructed to apply compression forces to a compression element when the angle between the two parts widens. Preferably the compression element comprises a block of resilient material. The joint allows adjustability of the unloaded angle between the hinged parts by varying the dimensions of the block, while selecting blocks having different compressional characteristics such as modulus of elasticity allows varying the degree of resistance to widening the angle between the two hinged parts. The joint is particularly advantageous in constructing an articulating leg brace.

Abstract: A wearable device (10) to assist with the movement of limbs (50, 51) connected at a joint (52), the device (50) comprising: a linear motion generating unit (20) to generate linear motion, the unit (20) having distal end portions operatively connected to the limbs (50, 51), whereby the linear motion generated by the unit (20) causes the limbs (50, 51) to move and pivot about the joint (52); a force measuring unit (30) to measure a change of force applied to the limbs or linear motion generating unit (20); and a displacement measuring unit (40) to measure the displacement of the linear motion generating unit (20) when linear motion is generated; wherein a predetermined distance of linear motion having a predetermined velocity is generated by the linear motion generating unit (20) to assist with the movement of the limbs (50, 51) based on the change of force measured by the force measuring unit (30) or the displacement measured by the displacement measuring unit (40).

Abstract: Disclosed is 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/D 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/D 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.

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: An articulated, adjustable, and lockable alignment arm, and associated extensions and accessories, which are user manipulable to model the size and shape of the fractured limb of a patient in the field. The alignment arm includes a first elongated arm segment, a second elongated arm segment, and connector means for interconnecting the first segment to the second segment through respective pivotal receivers having normal axes of rotation. The alignment arm is adjusted for proper orientation by setting it over the injury, and then locking the arm into a selected orientation which models the patient's limb around the area of the injury. Next, first and second arm extenders and protective end pads are used to expand the effective size of the alignment arm to form a custom splint structure. Lastly, the splint structure is secured to the patient's injured limb through the use of flexible cravats.

Abstract: In the assist device, the output of an actuator 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.

Abstract: Embodiments are provided to reduce a foot drop condition. In an embodiment, an adjustable apparatus includes a lower leg member that can be secured to a lower leg portion of a user. The lower leg member can be adjustably and releasably coupled to a user's footwear to assist in orienting the user's foot at a desired orientation. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a molded brace member that can be secured to a user's lower leg below the calf. The molded brace member can be sized and dimensioned to correspond to the associated measurements of the lower leg of a user afflicted with a foot drop condition. A lacing member can be coupled to the user's footwear and coupled to the molded brace member to orient the user's foot at a desired orientation.

Abstract: A knee brace, method of use thereof, and modification to an existing knee brace facilitates inducing side loads to a knee joint to align upper and lower leg portions relative to one another, thereby allowing the knee joint to function properly over its full dynamic range of motion. The knee brace, whether as manufactured or modified, acts to apply a lateral shear force to the knee joint through application of opposing lateral forces, with one lateral force being above the knee joint in one direction and the other lateral force being below the knee joint in an opposite direction. The counteracting forces act to shift femoral condyles and tibial condyles of the knee joint back into proper lateral alignment without acting directly on the patella to counteract the effects of the patella femoral syndrome.

Abstract: The invention relates to a splint for a joint connecting two parts of a human body or of an animal, such as the ankle, knee or elbow for example, comprising at least one rigid shell (1,2), globally concave, for positioning around the joint in order to support said joint. The splint comprises, on the internal face thereof, in other words the concave face, a chamber (3,4) made from a flexible plastic material which may be placed under pressure by any suitable means, and positioned on the internal face of the shell (1,2) to provide a supportive cushion between said shell (1, 2) and the joint and covering at least a part of the internal face of the shell (1,2).

Abstract: An orthotic knee brace for treating unicompartmental osteoarthritis in a knee joint is described. The brace includes a fabric sleeve mounting and a bracing member removably positioned in the sleeve to provide a therapeutic force on the joint. The force is applied by a force dosimeter assembly that draws an incrementally adjustable amount of force on cables connected to the bracing member. The amount of force applied by the force dosimeter is detected by a force sensor, and is indicated by a force indicator, each also removably attachable on the fabric sleeve mounting. The foregoing features, while exemplified in the context of a knee brace, are adaptable to any orthotic or prosthetic device where it is desired to apply an adjustable amount of force to a point on the device to provide a therapeutic benefit, and to provide a real-time indication to the user of the amount of force being applied.

Abstract: An orthotic device for supporting a jointed limb of the human body includes a first segment having a first support member that extends along a posterior portion of the limb about the joint, a first support pad secured to the first support member, and a channel slot extending along the first support member. An extension segment includes a second support member that also extends along the posterior portion of the limb and a second support pad secured to the second support member. The second support member can be adjustably coupled to the first segment by entering and engaging the channel slot.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a spinal orthosis includes a shoulder unit comprising a left shoulder portion and a right shoulder portion, a retracting device, a first connector connected to the left shoulder portion at a first end of the first connector and connected to the retracting device at a second end of the first connector, a second connector connected to the right shoulder portion at a first end of the second connector and connected to the retracting device at a second end of the second connector, and a lumbosacral belt attached to the retracting device, the lumbosacral belt being able to be secured to a body.

Abstract: A body limb cast including an elbow or knee joint supporting element having a first perimeter edge and a second opposite perimeter edge. A first splint subassembly is secured in engaging and extending fashion from the first perimeter edge, a second splint subassembly secured in engaging and extending fashion from the second perimeter edge of the joint supporting element. Cushioning elements extend from an inside of each splint subassembly and support the surfaces of a patient's limb upon assembly of the joint supporting element and splints. The splint subassemblies each further include a plurality of individual, lengthwise extending and assembleable members extending around a perimeter about the patient's limb.

Abstract: An apparatus for stabilizing movement of an ankle comprises in one embodiment a flexible body member for receiving a foot and a stiffening unit secured to selected portions of the body member such that the stiffening unit minimizes movement of upper portions of the body member with respect to lower portions of the body member, without obstructing forward and rearward movement of the upper portions of the body member with respect to the lower portions of the body member.

Abstract: The invention provides an adhesive support article for supporting a body part of a user. A single-sided stretchable adhesive tape blank is precut into a sheet having a central anchoring portion and a plurality of outwardly extending fingers. The sheet is marked with visual indicators to guide the user of the support article for applying the central anchoring portion onto a first exterior surface of the body part and for stretching the fingers before adhering them at a predetermined distance away from the central anchoring portion. The adhesive support article can also be provided in a support system with at least one corresponding body landmark article, providing further guidance for applying the support article to the desired body part.

Abstract: A splint (1), in particular for the wrist, includes a substantially rectangular main band (2), adapted to be closed in a tubular shape around the part of the body to be protected, a plurality of laces (50) having an end integral with one side of the main band, at least one gripping element (30) joined to the other end of the laces and adapted to be fastened on the upper surface (20) of the main band. The splint further includes a comb-shaped insert (6), provided with teeth (61, 62) spaced apart from each other so as to form gaps (63) wherein the laces can be inserted. A fastening strip (65) is connected to the teeth of the insert and is adapted to be fastened on the upper surface of the main band.

Abstract: A reversible wrist and thumb support is formed of a sleeve of resiliently stretchable material and includes an optionally detachable thumb support coupled to the sleeve. The thumb support includes a plurality of removable battens formed of a semi-rigid material and disposed along the posterior of a wearer's thumb. A resiliently deformable support pad is disposed on an underside of the splint and a removable stiffening semi-rigid batten that optionally includes padded surfaces, is disposed in a pocket on the top side of the support. The reversible wrist and thumb support may be worn on either the wearer's left or right hand, and the battens need not be removed when the reversible wrist and thumb support is turned inside-out.