Arm Or Leg Patents (Class 602/62)
  • Publication number: 20040133144
    Abstract: Waterproof animal cast and bandage protector for keeping dry and clean an animal's injured limb, which has been covered by a cast or bandage. An elongated tube with two ends, one open end, where the animal's limb is inserted and one closed end. The elongated tube is made of a durable and stretchable covering being smaller in diameter than the cast or bandage, allowing it to conform to the casts or bandages shape. The open end opens via a flexible ring, being smaller in diameter than the cast or bandage. That ring creates a seal and holds tight when cover is unrolled over the animal's cast or bandage. The closed end has a non-skid surface to protect from tearing and to help prevent slipping when the animal is on a potentially slippery surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2003
    Publication date: July 8, 2004
    Inventor: Michael P. Crichton
  • Patent number: 6755800
    Abstract: A tennis elbow support comprising a main body having an opening and a tendon pad having a pad base and a raised portion that projects from the pad base. The tendon pad is inserted into the opening so that the raised portion projects outwardly from a bottom surface of the main body. The main body can be releasably secured in a substantially circular configuration so that the support can be placed around the forearm of a user and the tennis elbow support can be tightened around the arm of the user with tendon pad in contact with the arm so that straight-line pressure is applied across the extensor muscle and tendon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Assignee: Beiersdorf, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward Leonard Weaver, II, Richard Gregory Taylor
  • Patent number: 6743188
    Abstract: A cushion having at least one soft elastic region for use with orthopedic devices. The soft elastic region is detachably arranged on the cushion so that the cushion or the soft elastic region can be replaced when it is worn out while still using the other part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Assignee: Thämert Orthopädische Hilfsmittel GmbH & Co., KG
    Inventors: Alexander Littmann, Reinhold Schneider-Nieskens, Hans Georg Blau
  • Patent number: 6730052
    Abstract: An elbow brace (10) supporting a person's elbow (E) in a desired, fixed position comprises a sleeve (12) sized to fit over the person's arm (A). One end (14) of the sleeve terminates above the person's elbow, with the other end (16) of the sleeve terminating below the elbow and above the wrist. A support pad (18) fitted into the sleeve pad supports the elbow in the desired position when the sleeve is in place. Straps (24, 26) extend from the one end (14) of the sleeve and about the wearer's neck to secure the sleeve in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Inventor: James C. Y. Chow
  • Patent number: 6730053
    Abstract: Wrist bandage, consisting of an anatomically shaped section which receives the wrist and the hand and which is formed from a single piece of flexible and elastic material, the section narrowing in the proximal direction, the section having, on the medial edge, a cutout for receiving the thumb, and with at least two straps secured on the medial edge, which straps can be secured on the dorsal side of the bandage, and with a pocket which is secured on the palmar side of the bandage, in particular sewn thereon, in such a way that the centre axis of the pocket forms an inwardly directed arch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Beiersdorf AG
    Inventors: Stefan Bodenschatz, Thorsten Stradt
  • Patent number: 6718656
    Abstract: Described are shoes, orthodic appliances, and anatomic braces containing superelastic support members for enhanced performance. The superelastic supports provide dynamic response to deflection. As such, the superelastic supports incorporated in the soles of shoes enhance walking, running, jumping, kicking, or other motion involving the foot. The superelastic supports may be incorporated in the body of shoes to reinforce the ankle joint. The embodiments of the invention also provide superelastic supports in braces to reinforce or stabilize the knees, ankles, elbows, wrists, shoulders, back, neck, hips, or other anatomy commonly associated with a degree of twisting, rotation, bending, or other desired motion. The braces also intensify the motion of anatomic structures, apply a specific resistance at the joint to strengthen the muscles during training or rehabilitation, and/or immobilize or stabilize joints, bones, or other anatomic structures during healing of an injury.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Inventors: Russell A. Houser, James G. Whayne
  • Publication number: 20040059274
    Abstract: A compression garment for selective application for treatment of lymphedema and related illnesses manifested at various locations of the body. The garment includes a pair or series of layers of hermetically sealed material, that can capture pressurized air, when applied therein, and is formed through the patterned sealing of the layers of the garment together, at select locations, to form air pockets that can selectively apply isolated points of pressure to the patient's affected area, without disrupting normal vascular and lymphatic functioning. The garment is design cut, for application to various segments of the body, and applies encompassing pressure over the entire affected area, and includes valves that can allow for the injection of measurable air, to the desired pressure points, or its deflation, after treatment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2002
    Publication date: March 25, 2004
    Inventors: Richard J. Kloecker, Kent F. Schien, James A. Muir
  • Publication number: 20040059432
    Abstract: Disclosed is a device and method to aid in the monitoring of the health of an amputee's limb. The device employs a socket preferably including a liner. The liner may be constructed of an inner layer and an outer layer. The inner layer is configured to hold a plurality of sensors able to monitor the physiological health of the enclosed limb. The inner layer further employs a transmission device able to receive data from the sensors and send such data to an end user; the end user being a computer, the amputee, or a doctor. Through receipt of such data, the end user is aided in monitoring the health of the limb.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2003
    Publication date: March 25, 2004
    Inventors: Hilmar Br. Janusson, Freygardur Thorsteinsson, Gudjon G. Karason
  • Patent number: 6702772
    Abstract: A restriction splint for immobilizing the CMC joint of a hand includes a splint body of a soft stretchable material that overlies the dorsum and palm of the hand and a tensioning strap having one end connected to the splint body at the dorsum and a free end wrapping around the CMC joint capsule, extending through the web between the thumb and the index finger and releasably connected to the splint body under extension for orienting and immobilizing the thumb without consequent loss of hand functioning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Inventor: Judy C. Colditz
  • Patent number: 6695797
    Abstract: A foot support system for actively and passively supporting a foot of an individual suffering from drop foot. The foot support system includes an upper support removably attachable to the leg, a lower support removably attachable to the foot, and an elastic member attached between the upper support and the lower support for applying an upward force upon the distal portion of the foot. The upper support and the lower support preferably include an upper loop and a lower loop respectively for catchably receiving the elastic member. The elastic member may include an engaging member attached to a first end and a hook member attached to a second end thereof for selectively engaging one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Inventor: Rachelle D. Trieloff
  • Patent number: 6691316
    Abstract: Combination one-piece hand/forearm paddings and shin/foot paddings are disclosed, preferably, for use during martial arts events. The one-piece construction provides for a greater area of protection, and prevents the forearm and shin portions of the paddings from sliding up or down the wearer's arms and legs, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Technical Knockout, Inc.
    Inventor: Mitch Carlin
  • Publication number: 20040024340
    Abstract: A hip orthosis includes a hip engaging unit that can be secured to the contours of a human hip. An appendant orthotic member is formed to extend diagonally about and to be fixed to a human appendage. A connector assembly, with a support plate with a curved configuration at an anchor location to permit adjustment, interconnects the hip engaging member and the appendant member and includes an articulated joint member to control flexion, extension, abduction and adduction. The joint members can include an adjustable linkage system extending across and connected to both sides of the articulated joint. A first link member can be adjusted in length to control the movement of the articulated joint.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2003
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Inventors: Shannon R. Schwenn, Alan T. Sandifer, Kenneth P. Davis
  • Publication number: 20040015117
    Abstract: A reflecting lower leg protector is designed to be releasably attachable to the lower leg of a user with ease. Also, the proposed reflecting lower leg protector is provided with highly reflective material to enhance the visibility of the wearer and provide additional protection in situations where many users are working closely together in order to avoid any injury or to simply enhance visibility under varying degrees of illumination for any reason.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventor: Rejean Gauthier
  • Patent number: 6654960
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a shin guard, and in particular to a shin guard which is well adapted irrespective of a body shape of a user based on a flexible construction and is capable of implementing a good ventilation and an easier sweat exhaust. The shin guard according to the present invention includes a plate shaped smooth synthetic resin cover in which a plurality of mesh ventilation holes are formed in the whole surfaces of the cover, said cover being curved for thereby being well stuck to a shin of a user, and a foam synthetic resin buffering plate which is attached to a back surface of the cover and includes a plurality of ventilation holes corresponding to the mesh ventilation holes formed in the cover and a plurality of protrusions in the back surface of the same for thereby implementing a good ventilation through each ventilation hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Inventor: Man-Hee Cho
  • Patent number: 6654961
    Abstract: The invention provides an adjustable leg pad assembly comprising a knee shield, a shin shield, a liner, a shield extension, an adjustable liner, and fasteners for joining the adjustable liner and the liner. The liner is fixedly connected to both the knee shield and the shin shield while the shield extension is adjustably mounted on an interior portion of the shin shield and extends from a lower portion of the latter. The adjustable liner, which is adapted to be releasably mounted to the liner, includes connection means to enable its coupling to the shield extension. Moreover, the fasteners are capable of varying the positioning of the liner and the adjustable liner relative to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Bauer Nike Hockey Inc.
    Inventor: Jean-François Béland
  • Patent number: 6652596
    Abstract: A suspension aid for appending an above-knee prosthesis to a human body. The suspension aid is integrally formed of a resilient fabric having a warp knit leno, or equivalent, construction. The belt portion of the suspension aid extends substantially horizontally around the intertrochanteric region of the pelvis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Inventors: Mark W.L. Smith, Elcia H. Thompson
  • Publication number: 20030191419
    Abstract: A distal extremity cast cover comprising a sleeve or gaiter portion which may be non-abrasive and which extends distally substantially to the edge of the cast, and a distal extremity covering which overlaps the sleeve or gaiter to a point proximal the wrist or ankle and which may comprise an insulating or water-repellent material. The parts of the cover may be secured by elastic and frictional properties of the materials and/or by elastic bands or pull cords proximate the openings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2002
    Publication date: October 9, 2003
    Inventors: Mark Melin, Cindy Melin
  • Publication number: 20030191424
    Abstract: A water resistant reusable sleeve for medical dressings, inclusive of medical bandages and casts having a generally tubular member and defining a sleeve-like cavity tapered for receiving an extremity of an individual with a plaster cast, a splint, or a surgical dressing. The reusable sleeve is designed so as to be ergonomic or tapered to more closely accommodate the extremities of a user, providing a better fit, a more effective watertight seal with the skin, and also providing an important aesthetic advantage. Elastic bands of a size and elasticity so as to apply sufficient elastic force for sealing the sleeve to the appendage without creating a tourniquet effect are disposed on at least one end of the reusable sleeve. Furthermore, the water resistant reusable sleeve is preferably made of a composite material or a matrix material to prevent tearing of the material substrate during use and may incorporate a design.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2002
    Publication date: October 9, 2003
    Inventor: Marc A. Skinner
  • Patent number: 6629945
    Abstract: An ankle support is provided with a semi-rigid stabilizer having upstanding walls that present a generally U-shaped support structure conforming to the shape of a wearer's heel, and having an anterior mouth from which the wearer's foot projects. Medial and lateral walls of the stabilizer have peak portions at the mouth which extend into supporting relationship to the wearer beneath the medial and lateral malleolus to provide an effective heel lock. The upper edges of the supporting walls extend abruptly downwardly from the peak portions to a lower rear wall to provide relief at the rear of the stabilizer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2003
    Inventor: Lawrence T. Stromgren
  • Publication number: 20030187375
    Abstract: An adjustable support device for the knee, including a strap having at least one elastic portion and first and second ends. A primary tensioning device is positioned on the strap for securing the strap around the knee and positioning the strap in a primary tensioned position relative to the patella, knee joint, and attachment sites of the connective tissues of the knee joint. A secondary tensioning device is also carried by the strap and includes an elastic element and at least one attachment member for being placed in a secondary tensioned position relative to the strap for increasing the tension of the strap and applying concentrated radially-directed support pressure to, the knee joint, attachment sites of the connective tissues of the knee joint, and an anterior aspect of the patella.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2002
    Publication date: October 2, 2003
    Inventor: Eric Lee Gaylord
  • Publication number: 20030187378
    Abstract: A medical padding product such as a wrist splint or support, for providing a protective pad to a desired body area to be protected, and including a support base for being applied to a site overlying and surrounding the body area to be protected. A gel pad is adjustably and releasably positioned on the base to overlie the body area to be protected. Pad attaching elements, for example hook or loop material, is carried by the gel pad on one major surface thereof for releasably attaching to a complementary hook or loop material carried on the surface of the base. According to one preferred embodiment of the invention, the cushioning pad is a gel pad.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2002
    Publication date: October 2, 2003
    Inventors: Robert Scott Gaylord, Eric Lee Gaylord
  • Patent number: 6613007
    Abstract: A multilayer compression stocking or bandage system comprises a plurality of layers, including an underlayer and at least one overlayer, each of which may have predetermined amounts of compressive pressure at discrete locations. In one aspect, the underlayer has one or more alignment markings, each positioned at a different location on the underlayer to assist in aligning discrete locations of compressive pressure on the lower extremities. In another aspect, each of the layers has one or more alignment markings, each alignment marking positioned at a different location on the respective layer, and each alignment marking on a layer corresponds to a different one of the alignment markings on each other layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Assignee: Carolon Company
    Inventor: Lawrence G. Reid, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20030163069
    Abstract: An arm sling that allows for parts of a patient's limb to extend from a portion of the sling for either exercise or use of the limb or hand, while the remainder of the limb or shoulder is supported by the sling without increasing pressure on the patient's neck. A support strap portion having a connector is attached to a body portion having wrist, elbow and forearm portions. The body portion also has front and rear panels. An opening in the rear panel allows the wearer's forearm, wrist and hand to pass through while the elbow and shoulder continue to be supported by the sling. In alternate embodiments the support strap may be of variable length, and may have a slidable pad surrounding the support strap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2003
    Publication date: August 28, 2003
    Inventor: Carol Scudere
  • Publication number: 20030153854
    Abstract: A hinge provided with a first part and a second part, which parts are able to turn relative to one another from a first position of the hinge into a second position of the hinge, the hinge being provided with a locking element for locking the hinge in the first position thereof, which locking element can move between a first position for releasing the hinge and a second position for locking the hinge. A locking element is fitted in a movable manner for moving under the influence of gravity, between the first position and the second position when the hinge sways.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2003
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventors: Gert Nijenbanning, Josephus Anton Goudsmit
  • Publication number: 20030153862
    Abstract: One embodiment provides an ankle-foot orthosis (32) for resisting plantarflexion of a patient's foot, the orthosis (32) comprising: a resiliently flexible sock-like structure (34) enveloping, in use, at least a portion of a patient's lower leg in the vicinity of the ankle and at least a portion of the plantar (46) and dorsal (48) aspects of the patient's foot. Another embodiment provides an ankle-foot orthosis (1) for resisting plantarflexion of a patient's foot, the orthosis (1) comprising: a resilient rib (3) locatable, in use, along and in abutment with at least a portion of the dorsal aspect of the patient's foot and at least a portion of the patient's lower leg, the orthosis (1) comprising means (7) for securing the rib (3) to the patient's foot and lower leg.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2000
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: ROBERT J. WATTS
  • Patent number: 6592889
    Abstract: A gel-type adhesive composite bandage (10) is provided which can be used in the treatment of fungus-involved or discolored toe nails, or for general wound treatment. The bandage (10) includes a base (12) having a preformed recess (16), with a humectant-containing gel (18) within the recess (16). An adhesive-coated web (14) is applied over the base (12) and gel (18). The web (14) is strippable from the base (12) with the gel (18) adhered to the web (14). In the use, the web (14) is removed from the base (12), and the exposed gel (18) is applied directly to the affected toe mail or wound. The remaining portions of the adhesive-coated web (14) is then used to maintain the web (14) and gel (18) in place. The gel (18) preferably includes a polymeric matrix having a substantial quantity of water soluble humectant (for example, glycerin) entrapped within the matrix.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Assignee: Southwest Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Edward I. Stout, John Phillips, Anthony Soria, Arlen Johnson
  • Patent number: 6592539
    Abstract: An orthotic or prosthetic sleeve includes at least two elasticized fabric elements having different elastic stiffnesses in orthogonal directions connected together to form a tubular sleeve such that the direction of higher stiffness of one fabric element extends parallel with the sleeve axis and the direction of higher stiffness of the other element extends generally transversely of the sleeve axis. A three piece tubular sleeve may be arranged so that the middle section has a direction of higher stiffness extending transversely of the sleeve axis, with the end sections having the higher stiffness direction extending parallel with the sleeve axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Assignee: Ossur HF
    Inventors: Palmi Einarsson, Sigurdur Á. Ásgeirsson, Hilmar Br. Janusson
  • Publication number: 20030125655
    Abstract: The surgical stocking made by knitting a knitting yarn together with an extensible weft yarn is a placebo type stocking suitable for exerting compressive pressure at the ankle of less than 8 mmHg, and preferably less than 5 mmHg. It is intended for double blind tests versus placebo using a product having the same structure, the same visual appearance, and the same feel as an active stocking but compression that is negligible and thigh/ankle degressivity that is close to unity. The weft yarn presents mass per unit length lying in the range 250 dtex to 600 dtex, preferably in the range 350 dtex to 500 dtex, with the proportion of elastic material being less than 25% and preferably less than 20% of the total weight of the thread. Its elongation capacity lies in the range 200% to 350%, preferably in the range 200% to 300%, but its springiness (II) is very different from that of an elastic stocking (I).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2002
    Publication date: July 3, 2003
    Inventors: Eric GrosJean, Joel Mathieu, Christian Gardon-Mollard
  • Patent number: 6585671
    Abstract: The hybrid-mesh cast sleeve invention comprises a tubular mesh woven of an elastic yarn and a coarse, impregnable yarn. In use, a stockinette, then a hybrid-mesh cast sleeve impregnated with a hardening agent, are positioned around a part of the body of a human or other animal to be reinforced by a cast. Solidification of the hardening agent produces a solid cast with a plurality of air vents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Inventor: Kun Young Rhee
  • Patent number: 6585674
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a therapeutic device and related methods for treating arthritis of the knee. The therapeutic device includes a stretchable band having a predetermined length, a flexible and resilient body installed in the longitudinal middle of the stretchable band with a substantially triangular cross-section whose height is greater at one side of the stretchable band than at the other, such that the higher portion of the flexible and resilient body is applied to the sole at a position nearer to the inner or outer side thereof, and the stretchable band may be used to wrap and fix the ankle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Inventor: Yoshitaka Toda
  • Patent number: 6582384
    Abstract: An apparatus to facilitate a physician's examination and manipulation of a patient's joint which includes an elastic stretchable wrap for wrapping a limb of a patient and for restricting its size to avoid pooling of blood and liquid during manipulation and a surgical garment for the physician, said wrap and garment having cooperating surfaces for affixing the patient's limb to the garment for effecting manipulation of the patient's joint by the surgeon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Inventor: Barry J. Henry
  • Patent number: 6579252
    Abstract: A method to and apparatus to prevent injury and infection of a health-care recipient as a result of anticipated possible complications associated with any ones of a predetermined plurality of health-care procedures. The invention provides specific unambiguous warning indications prohibiting one or more of the aforementioned procedures on the outer surface of a physical barrier which is placed onto said health-care recipient in such a way that the indications are clearly visible, or alternatively affixed as a decal to the skin of the patent. The presence of said barrier is designed to significantly interferes with any reasonable application said plurality of procedures on said recipient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Inventors: Jeffrey Lloyd, Timothy Gordon
  • Patent number: 6572574
    Abstract: The orthosis (1) is designed to apply degressive compression to all or part of the leg starting from the ankle The orthosis has a knitted compressive tubular portion (2) of varying section formed by a leg portion of an elastic stocking that does not have a foot or a heel, said compressive tubular portion being extended at its bottom end by a knitted non-compressive tubular portion (3) suitable for covering at least a portion of the foot, without compressing it, and made for example using a stitch of the plain moss type.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: Innothera Topic International, Société anonyme
    Inventor: Christian Gardon-Mollard
  • Publication number: 20030093025
    Abstract: The hybrid-mesh cast sleeve invention comprises a tubular mesh woven of an elastic yarn and a coarse, impregnable yarn. In use, a stockinette, then a hybrid-mesh cast sleeve impregnated with a hardening agent, are positioned around a part of the body of a human or other animal to be reinforced by a cast. Solidification of the hardening agent produces a solid cast with a plurality of air vents.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2001
    Publication date: May 15, 2003
    Inventor: Kun Young Rhee
  • Publication number: 20030060845
    Abstract: The orthosis comprises a compressive tubular portion (10) of knitted or woven fabric, of varying section that matches the profile of the lower limb, and in which the knit or weave structure is selected as a function of the peripheral dimensions of the lower limb so as to apply compression pressure of about 30 mmHg to 40 mmHg that is substantially constant along the length of the limb. The tubular portion extends from the foot to the top of the thigh and comprises a stretchable inner region (12) that is highly elastic and that is connected along two generator lines to an outer region (14) that is non-stretchable or poorly stretchable. The top end of the orthosis is also provided with a thigh sleeve (22) that is open along a generator line and that is provided with adjustable closure means (24).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2002
    Publication date: March 27, 2003
    Inventor: Christian Gardon-Mollard
  • Patent number: 6533745
    Abstract: The invention, Support Relief Hosiery shall be made in a variety of colors to appeal to the various users. An alternative sport model can be made In a variety of colors. There would be an additional area of support around the knee. The invention would be slipped over the foot and positioned on the leg where the support is needed the greatest. Pants can be worn over the invention without any obvious bulges or bumps. Adults as well as children of all ages can wear the hosiery if extra supports are needed. Many women wear support panty hose, but would rather have additional support just around the knees that would be provided by the hosiery. The relief hosiery does not fit the foot to cover the toes, but could be placed at the calf and pulled to lower thigh, then a sock may be worn at the individual's discretion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Inventor: Lottie Mae Watkins
  • Publication number: 20030045826
    Abstract: The forearm support band with direct pressure monitoring provides a means by which patients may optimize treatment of medial or lateral epicondylitis (golfer's elbow or tennis elbow, respectively) with the use of optimal pressure application. Unlike previous forearm support bands, this band allows patients to directly read the pressure of application and appropriately adjust the band's tightness This results in the correct amount of pressure to the forearm musculature, thereby minimizing risks and gaining optimal therapeutic benefits.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventor: Nicholas Joseph Meyer
  • Patent number: 6528697
    Abstract: A modular bandage for treating wounds located on highly contoured, non-planar regions of a person includes a standoff for placement near the wound, and a sheet of material for forming a sealed environment over the wound in conjunction with the standoff. The modular bandage may further include a heater to thermally regulate the sealed environment formed by the standoff and the sheet of material. A sheet of material for such a bandage may include various uniform or compound structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Augustine Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul Leslie Knutson, Scott Douglas Augustine, John Paul Rock
  • Publication number: 20030032912
    Abstract: A tennis elbow support comprising a main body having an opening and a tendon pad having a pad base and a raised portion that projects from the pad base. The tendon pad is inserted into the opening so that the raised portion projects outwardly from a bottom surface of the main body. The main body can be releasably secured in a substantially circular configuration so that the support can be placed around the forearm of a user and the tennis elbow support can be tightened around the arm of the user with tendon pad in contact with the arm so that straight-line pressure is applied across the extensor muscle and tendon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2002
    Publication date: February 13, 2003
    Inventors: Edward Leonard Weaver, Richard Gregory Taylor
  • Patent number: 6506175
    Abstract: An orthopedic bandage includes a length of unbroken loop fabric to which a layer of thermoplastic breathable elastomeric foam is intimately adhered. The bandage has integral or attachable parts of different widths that are closed around an anatomical part using tabs that engage the fabric where desired, in a hook-and-pile fastener arrangement. Narrower strap-like parts and wider pad-like parts which can have specific shapes, wrap around the body with minimal bunching or folding which allow a user to apply desired amount of concentrated and general pressure around the particular areas of the body. In addition, the wide and narrow straps are effective to engage tapering anatomical parts such as the base of the hand and wrist or the ankle and foot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Inventor: Samuel A. Goldstein
  • Patent number: 6497673
    Abstract: The present invention offers a brace for the treatment of tennis elbow and similar muscular disorders whereby both massage therapy and the continuous application of a fluid, topical lotion is provided. The brace is attached to the arm of a wearer such that a massage ball protruding from one end of the brace is in contact with the affected area of the arm such that as the arm is moved the massage ball exerts massaging pressure on the arm while simultaneously transferring a fluid, topical lotion from a fluid reservoir to the affected area of the arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2002
    Inventor: Roger P. Rogalski
  • Patent number: 6478762
    Abstract: A foot orthosis has an L-shaped support member having leg, heel and foot portions. An anklet and a plurality of straps extend around the support member to engage the burned foot and secure the foot to the support member. The anklet and straps have support surfaces comprised of a closed foam material that will not absorb moisture and which will not adhere to the burn areas of the foot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Inventor: Harold T. Varn
  • Publication number: 20020147422
    Abstract: A custom-moldable patellar support product for improved patella tracking in the femoral groove and relief of associated patella femoral pain syndrome, and including an outer container formed of moisture-impervious material and an initially-moldable, patellar support positioned in the container in substantially moisture-free conditions and sealed therein against entry of moisture until use. The support includes a substrate and a reactive system impregnated into or coated onto the substrate. The system remains stable when maintained in substantially moisture-free conditions and hardens upon exposure to moisture to form a rigid, self supporting structure. A flexible protective pad is positioned on one side of the substrate along its length to provide a cushioning barrier between the substrate and the skin of a patient when the patella support is in use. An outer cover covers the substrate on the side opposite the protective pad.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2001
    Publication date: October 10, 2002
    Inventors: Thomas D. Darcey, Kevin John O'Neill
  • Patent number: 6461319
    Abstract: A medical apparatus support system including a pouch assembly for comfortably and effectively supporting a medical device, such as an intravenous supply bag. The pouch assembly including an opening to receive the supply bag in a pocket and a slit to allow egress of a supply tube associated with the supply bag positioned near the lower portion of the pocket, wherein the pouch assembly further includes an extension extending from a position proximal the slit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Inventor: Barbara N. Ekey
  • Publication number: 20020143281
    Abstract: DFC'S are used for two applications. The first application is a finger covering that is made of cotton weaving on the outside and plastic latex on the inside, referred to herein as DFC#1. DFC#1 is used to apply mdeication to open wounds, cuts, sores and can be used anywhere on the body as needed for sanitary protection. The second application is a finger covering that is made of cotton weaving on the outside and cotton weaving on the inside, referred to as DFC#2. The DFC#2 is used for putting on and taking off facial make-up and cosmetics, cleaning dirt out of eyes and ears, and good to use on all the body where sanitation is necessary to ensure non-contamination from fingers and nails. Also, DFC'S guard against spreading contagious bacteria whil applying medication and cosmetics.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2001
    Publication date: October 3, 2002
    Inventor: Diana Wiley
  • Patent number: 6458091
    Abstract: The muscle tone reduction splint has an elongated pad. A retainer strap holds the pad against the sole of the foot or the palm of a hand adjacent to the digits. A plurality of digit separators are secured to the elongated pad. A free end of each digit separator is secured to hold the digit separators between adjacent digits. Securing the digit separators promotes a reduction of muscle hypertonicity in the extremities of neurologically impaired patients.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2002
    Inventors: Deborah Sue Parker, Kristine Bellenbaum
  • Patent number: 6447470
    Abstract: Ready-to-use bandage self-adhesively coated on one side, for relieving, stabilizing and functionally restricting the ligament and muscle structures of the knee joint, comprising a substantially rectangular central part (A) which is at least partially inelastic in the transverse direction of the bandage and on which there are respectively arranged, directed upwards and downwards seen in the longitudinal direction, two elongate strips (B, C, D and E).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Assignee: Beiersdorf AG
    Inventors: Stefan Bodenschatz, Peter Himmelsbach
  • Patent number: 6443920
    Abstract: A soft, flexible, low friction enclosing device designed to function as a protective support for the human body when lying in bed or on other horizontal surfaces. A support wrap (10) is made of sturdy, flame-retardant low friction material such as nylon for durability and for ease of moving enclosed patient along the surface of a bed or chair. An inner lining made of soft and pliable composite material such as foam rubber is enveloped by the support wrap (10). Velcro latches (30, 40) at predetermined locations provide means for attachment when the support is closed around the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Inventor: Margarita Clement
  • Patent number: 6436066
    Abstract: The present truss body joint brace includes a pair of upper bars for positioning on opposite sides of an upper portion of a limb, a pair of lower bars for positioning on opposite sides of a lower portion of the limb, and a pair of hinges for positioning on opposite sides of a joint on the limb and connected between respective upper bars and respective lower bars. A pair of upper front crossed straps and a pair of upper back crossed straps are connected between the upper bars. A pair of lower front crossed straps and a pair of lower back crossed straps are connected between the lower bars. A flexible tubular upper sleeve is positioned between the upper bars, and a flexible tubular lower sleeve is positioned between the lower bars. The straps are adjustable in length for a snug fit. The bars, crossed straps, and the limb cooperate to form a truss structure that strongly resists lateral forces and protect the body joint from injury while allowing normal joint movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Inventor: Robert Lockhart
  • Patent number: 6425876
    Abstract: A tightening and elastic tautness adjustment device for a garment or sanitary protection or alike implement to be tightly worn comprises: at least a first elastic textile band formed of a plurality of parallel elastic strips (2) extending from a first edge of said garment or sanitary protection, their free ends being sewn onto a first strip (8) of hooked “Velcro” material, and at least a second elastic textile band similarly formed of a plurality of parallel elastic strips (2′) extending from a second edge of said garment or sanitary protection opposed to the first edge, and interlaced with the parallel strips (2) of the first band, their free ends being sewn onto a second strip of hooked “Velcro” material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2002
    Assignee: Pavis Varese S.R.L.
    Inventors: Giampietro Frangi, Gianluigi Frangi