Abstract: Apparatus and methods relate to a pneumatic compression therapy device configured to suggest content to the patient based on a determined disease state, the content pertaining to suggested changes in lifestyle based on a standard of care. In an illustrative embodiment, the suggested changes may include modifications to treatment location, treatment time, diet, eating habits, or sleeping schedule. Various examples may further sample the patient's health and automatically adjust a treatment parameter within a predetermined parameter range based on a history of measured parameters, such as limb volume, for example. In coordination with the therapeutic treatment, the therapy device may deliver suggested content to guide the patient to make more healthful lifestyle choices to reduce recovery time and improve patient health outcomes.

Abstract: A method for reducing motion of a skeletal structure in a limb towards a wall of an interface is described. The interface comprises a plurality of compression areas that are longitudinally-shaped and oriented longitudinally along the length of limb. The method comprises selecting, during a process of creating the interface, a compression level for the compression areas that compresses soft tissue against the skeletal structure. The method also comprises donning the interface over the limb to apply a plurality of compressive forces that is sufficient to aid in suspension of the interface on the limb and reduce motion of the skeletal structure toward a wall of the interface.

Abstract: The disclosure provides a system and method for producing a 3D printed object that includes printing a plurality of cavities (110) within or interior to the object (1) and providing a plurality of passages (120) between the cavities so that at least a portion of the printed cavities are in fluid communication with each other. A fluid such as a gas or liquid (2) is then provided to fill a portion of the printed cavities, thereby providing a structure that is capable of damping impacts thereto.

Abstract: A transtibial socket for a prosthetic lower limb includes a mesh arranged between rigid struts. The mesh includes a plurality of support members and a plurality of tensile members, optionally in combination with spacer members arranged between different support members. At least one tensioning member coupled with the tensile member extends through of past guides in the struts to an adjustable tensioning apparatus that is configured to allow the mesh to be constricted radially by the amputee-user. The mesh allows for the heat dissipation and volume adjustment, while increasing contact area and force distribution around a residual limb.

Abstract: A prosthetic liner includes a flexible elongate, generally conical body portion formed from an elastomeric material. The body portion defines an inner surface, an outer surface forming a liner profile between a distal end and a proximal end, and an axis extending between the distal and proximal ends. At least one seal element extends circumferentially about the axis and protrudes radially outward a distance from the liner profile. The at least one seal element has a seal height defined between the liner profile and a radially outward end of the at least one seal element. The seal height varies circumferentially about the axis between a first seal height and a second seal height.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a medical apparatus (100) for use in manufacturing a plaster impression of limb stump, in particular of a lower stump, wherein the apparatus (100) comprises a pressure vessel (1) with a fluid chamber of pressure chamber (DK) for receiving or storing a fluid (F) being under pressure, wherein the pressure vessel (1) is limited against an exterior (Ä), wherein the pressure vessel (1) comprises an insertion opening (9) for the insertion of a limb stump (KS) into the interior (I) of the pressure vessel (1) and a fluid-tight membrane (5) made of two materials, which are arranged to form or limit the fluid chamber or the pressure chamber (DK). In addition, the present invention relates to a system (300) having a medical apparatus (100) and at least one contact surface (111). Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method.

Abstract: A lower limb prosthetic device for use when bathing and showering includes a first shell. A rod is coupled to and extends substantially perpendicularly from an upper face of the first shell. A second shell, which has a top that is open, is coupled to and extends from the rod distal from the first shell. The second shell is substantially complementary to and configured to insert a stump of an amputated leg. A plurality of bladders, which is selectively inflatable, is coupled to an inner surface of the second shell. The bladders are configured to be inflated to couple the second shell to the stump. A plurality of first holes and a plurality of second holes are positioned through the first shell and the second shell, respectively. The first holes and the second holes are configured to drain water from the first shell and the second shell, respectively.

Abstract: A prosthetic device includes a socket assembly defining a cavity and configured to receive a portion of a residual limb of a user within the cavity, a force sensing member configured to detect forces applied to the residual limb at a plurality of locations about the portion of the residual limb and generate signals based on the detected force, a vacuum system in fluid communication with the socket and configured to control an amount of vacuum applied to the cavity, and a controller coupled to the force sensing member and the vacuum system. The controller is configured to receive the signals from the force sensing member and control operation of the vacuum system during use of the prosthetic device by the user based at least in part on the signals received from the force sensing member.

Abstract: A suspension liner is adapted to provide an interface between a residual limb and a prosthetic socket. The liner includes an elongate, generally conical body portion, and a volume control pad located along the body portion. The volume control pad is arranged to distend outwardly from the body portion. A resilient seal element is connected to the body portion and protrudes radially from the body portion, and is located in correspondence with the volume control pad.

Abstract: A prosthetic socket liner. A liner of the prosthetic socket liner has an inner and outer surface, the inner surface configured to engage skin of a user's residual limb and the outer surface configured to engage a surface of a socket of a prosthesis. An air channel coupled to the liner and to a valve extends downwardly towards a closed end of the liner and is configured to transfer air between an outer surface of the liner and ambient air through the valve. In implementations the air channel is configured to channel air between an inside of a cavity and a location outside the cavity. A method of donning a socket of a prosthesis includes donning a liner of a prosthetic socket liner over a residual limb, opening a valve on the liner, inserting the liner into a socket of a prosthesis with the valve open, and closing the valve.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provides myoelectric prosthesis control system that include a gel liner that has a plurality of layers and a plurality of leads at least partially positioned between the plurality of layers. In addition, a plurality of electrodes can be coupled to the leads and portions of the electrodes can also be positioned between the plurality of layers. At least some of the electrodes can include an electrode pole that is configured to contract the residual limb to detect electromyographic signals.

Abstract: An interface for use between the socket of a prosthesis and a limb liner. The interface has a double-layered body having a bottom end and an open top end. A mounting pinhole can be formed through the bottom end so that a connector pin on the limb liner can extend through the interface and engage the prosthesis. Alternatively, the bottom end can be formed without a pinhole to accommodate a non-locking type liner. The interface has an interior layer, an exterior layer and an interposed gap space. A vent is provided for selectively controlling airflow into and out of the gap space. The gap space can be inflated in one of two ways. First, the gap space can be made self-inflating by placing open cell foam material into the gap space. Second, a manual pump can be attached to the interface that actively pumps air into the gap space.

Abstract: A dynamic support system includes a control system for controlling inflation and deflation of at least one actuator having an inlet connectable to the a control unit of the dynamic support system. The control unit may be in communication with a sensor and may control inflation and deflation of the at least one actuator in response to information provided by the sensor.

Abstract: A dynamic support apparatus having a frame, a dynamic interface, a temperature control mechanism, and a control system. The dynamic interface is capable of changing its geometry and is disposed on the top surface of the frame. The control system is operably connected to the dynamic interface and controls the changing geometry of the dynamic interface. There is also a temperature control mechanism disposed on the top surface of the frame for maintaining a comfortable temperature and moisture environment between the apparatus and the user's body.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include an implantable force distribution boot with hydraulic features that mimic the natural hydraulics of a joint. Further embodiments include an exterior prosthetic leg device having intermittent and/or variable electromagnetic features that can engage with magnetic blades on the implantable force distribution boot. In use, the exterior prosthetic leg can be maintained on a residual limb by magnetic force between the implanted blades and the exterior electromagnets. Also disclosed are surgical techniques for preparing a residual limb to better receive and adapt to a prosthetic device. The techniques include an improved surgical method for harvesting a vascularized glabrous skin free flap.

Abstract: A dynamic support apparatus having a frame, a dynamic interface, a temperature control mechanism, and a control system. The dynamic interface is capable of changing its geometry and is disposed on the top surface of the frame. The control system is operably connected to the dynamic interface and controls the changing geometry of the dynamic interface. There is also a temperature control mechanism disposed on the top surface of the frame for maintaining a comfortable temperature and moisture environment between the apparatus and the user's body.

Abstract: A dynamic support apparatus having a frame, a dynamic interface, a temperature control mechanism, and a control system. The dynamic interface is capable of changing its geometry and is disposed on the top surface of the frame. The control system is operably connected to the dynamic interface and controls the changing geometry of the dynamic interface. There is also a temperature control mechanism disposed on the top surface of the frame for maintaining a comfortable temperature and moisture environment between the apparatus and the user's body.

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

Abstract: A prosthesis socket is fitted with a viscoelastic memory material. The material can aspirate a fluid to decrease the interior volume of the socket to compensate for residual limb volume decreases, and fluid can be removed from the viscoelastic memory material to increase the interior volume of the socket to compensate for residual limb volume increases.

Abstract: An active prosthetic socket including a prosthetic socket shaped to fit a residual limb. An active adjustment system is integrated with the prosthetic socket and is configured to dynamically adjust the fit of the active prosthetic socket to the residual limb of a user during ambulation or motion.

Abstract: A residual limb model may be a model of a residual limb. A residual limb model may include a residual limb portion and a bladder complementary in shape to the residual limb portion. A prosthesis donning and doffing training system may include a check socket and a residual limb model complementary in shape to the check socket. A method of training in the care of a residual limb may include providing a residual limb model and training in the care of a residual limb using the residual limb model. A method of training in the donning and doffing of a prosthesis may include providing a prosthesis training system and training in the donning and doffing of a prosthesis using the prosthesis training system.

Abstract: Provided is a prosthesis system for indirectly coupling a prosthesis to the skeletal structure of a person. The system includes a plurality of individual magnets and magnet sets attached to a prosthetic socket of a prosthetic device. The magnets may be permanent magnets or electromagnets. A second plurality of magnets is embedded within a residual limb of a person, mounted to or within a sub-dermal strut. In operation, the magnetic fields generated by the magnets of the prosthetic socket, which may be dynamic magnetic fields, interact with the magnetic fields generated by the magnets anchored beneath the skin of the person, to hold the prosthetic device in position during use. A power supply provides current to any electromagnets, and a controller alters any required magnetic fields based on input received from both load and position sensors in the sub-dermal strut.

Abstract: A prosthesis system includes a reconfigurable socket. The socket changes configurations to adjust the socket fit. The socket includes a socket main body with a window and a panel positioned in the window. The panel and the socket main body cooperate to define a cavity for receiving a residual limb. A lacing system is coupled to both the socket main body and the panel and moves the panel with respect to the socket main body to adjust a volume of the cavity. A tensioning mechanism holds the lacing system to position the adjustment panel. The prosthesis system also allows for the escape of moisture from within the cavity.

Abstract: An air expulsion pump for a prosthetic socket adapted to be worn on a residual limb of an amputee. The pump includes an elastomeric housing which fits snugly in a well defined in the lower end of the socket. The pump is easy to install by simply sliding it into the well. The pump has an upper surface commensurate with the inside surface of the socket in that both surface have the same radius of curvature. The pump includes an elastomeric spring member and two check valves that together with the elastomeric housing exert a continuous vacuum within the prosthetic socket. When donned by the user, the pump provides continuous total contact between the socket and the residual limb of the user as the user ambulates.

Abstract: In a prosthetic leg installed with a hydraulic cylinder for adjusting bending and extension resistance of a knee joint portion, a buffer device is provided between a lower leg portion and a foot portion below the knee joint portion for displacing movably in opposite directions when the toe and the heel of the foot portion contact the ground, respectively. An extension passage and a bending passage are provided in the hydraulic cylinder, a toe grounding closing valve is provided in the bending passage, and a heel grounding closing valve is provided in the bending passage. The toe grounding closing valve and the heel grounding closing valve are connected in an interlocking manner by a closing valve connecting/operating member such that valve open/close orientations thereof are set in opposite directions.

Abstract: An improved socket for a prosthesis uses a liner material providing fluid flow through a porous matrix whose local pressure is adjusted by a control system communicating with multiple valves and pressure sensors. Control of pressure in a viscoelastic material provides an improved trade-off between comfort and stability.

Abstract: A prosthetic device having a socket with an insert having a bladder system for monitoring and compensating for volume fluctuations in a residual limb is provided. A plurality of bladders are preferably provided, in one embodiment, substantially only on a posterior portion of the socket. The bladders may be organized into zones, with the zones being inflatable to differing pressures depending on volume fluctuations in a residual limb. Pressure sensors may be provided for each bladder or for each zone, and flow regulators may be provided to control fluid flow into or out of the bladders or zones of bladders based on readings from the pressure sensors to control volume within the insert. Alternatively, bladders can be manually inflated depending on an amputee's needs.

Abstract: A dynamic support apparatus having a frame, a dynamic interface, a temperature control mechanism, and a control system. The dynamic interface is capable of changing its geometry and is disposed on the top surface of the frame. The control system is operably connected to the dynamic interface and controls the changing geometry of the dynamic interface. There is also a temperature control mechanism disposed on the top surface of the frame for maintaining a comfortable temperature and moisture environment between the apparatus and the user's body.

Abstract: In a prosthetic leg installed with a hydraulic cylinder for adjusting bending and extension resistance of a knee joint portion, a buffer device is provided between a lower leg portion and a foot portion below the knee joint portion for displacing movably in opposite directions when the toe and the heel of the foot portion contact the ground, respectively. An extension passage and a bending passage are provided in the hydraulic cylinder, a toe grounding closing valve is provided in the bending passage, and a heel grounding closing valve is provided in the bending passage. The toe grounding closing valve and the heel grounding closing valve are connected in an interlocking manner by a closing valve connecting/operating member such that valve open/close orientations thereof are set in opposite directions.

Abstract: A prosthetic sleeve and socket system, the sleeve including a flap or skirt concentrically arranged about the sleeve and configured to form a sealed chamber between the sleeve and socket when the sleeve is inserted into the socket. An air permeable material is interposed between the skirt and the sleeve to maintain a continuous interconnected air layer therebetween. An expulsion valve is provided to allow air contained within the sealed chamber to be forced out of the chamber ahead of the sleeve when it is inserted into the socket. A powered vacuum pump is also provided for producing and maintaining a partial vacuum in the sealed chamber for keeping the socket and sleeve joined. The system allows for a substantial reduction in size of known sockets and permits, in some instances, the disposal of bulky suspension straps currently in use to force the socket against a residual limb.

Abstract: A prosthetic sleeve and socket system, the sleeve including dual flaps or skirts concentrically arranged about the sleeve and configured to form a sealed chamber between the sleeve and socket when the sleeve is inserted into the socket. An air permeable material is interposed between one of the skirts and the sleeve to maintain a continuous interconnected air layer therebetween. An expulsion valve is provided to allow air contained within the sealed chamber to be forced out of the chamber ahead of the sleeve when it is inserted into the socket, and a powered vacuum pump maintains the vacuum thereafter, if needed. The system allows for a substantial reduction in size of known sockets and permits, in some instances, the disposal of bulky suspension straps currently in use to force the socket against a residual limb.

Abstract: A prosthetic or orthotic sleeve includes a distal portion, a proximal portion, and a center portion extending between the distal and proximal portions. An external surface of the sleeve includes at least one peripheral profile portion having an undulating wall thickness defined as a plurality of projections arranged in a pattern.

Abstract: A prosthetic socket is fitted at a distance from its distal end with an annular chamber. This annular chamber is closed by a contour-conforming sealing wall facing the inner side of the prosthetic socket, said wall being designed to hermetically rest against the outer side of a residual limb. The space between the contour-conforming wall and the hard prosthetic socket is vented to atmosphere, whereby self-enhancing compression by the sealing wall against a residual limb arises when a partial vacuum arises in the distal prosthetic socket between the wall and the distal end. A liner having a sealing wall also is disclosed.

Abstract: Articles of apparel for an amputee's residuum and for non-amputees who desire or require padding or joint support.

Abstract: A volume control pad is provided for use in the socket of an artificial limb. The volume control pad has a core surrounded by a flexible shell. The core includes super absorbent polymer particles which form a gel upon the addition of water thereto. The volume control pad includes a tube for the introduction of water into the core portion of the pad. The volume control pad provides a simple and inexpensive means for adjusting the conformance of the socket around the residual limb from an initial swollen condition to a further point in time in which the swelling has diminished.

Abstract: A volume control pad is provided for use in the socket of an artificial limb. The volume control pad has a core surrounded by a flexible shell. The core includes super absorbent polymer particles which form a gel Upon the addition of water thereto. The volume control pad includes a tube for the introduction of water into the core portion of the pad. The volume control pad provides a simple and inexpensive means for adjusting the conformance of the socket around the residual limb from an initial swollen condition to a further point in time in which the swelling has diminished.

Abstract: A socket device of a prosthetic includes a liner with a variable viscosity fluid disposed between the socket and the user's stump. The variably viscosity fluid varies the softness or stiffness of socket. In addition, the variable viscosity fluid conforms to the contours of the user's stump for a more customized fit. The variable viscosity fluid can include a shear stiffening material that increases in viscosity as a load or strain, or rate of loading or rate of strain, applied, or a magneto or electro rheologic fluid responsive to a magnetic or electric field.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for securing a prosthesis to the residuum of a limb of an amputee and for providing pressure therapy to the residuum so as to manage fluid within the residuum. The apparatus includes a socket shaped to receive a residuum of a limb of an amputee and configured to connect to a prosthetic limb. The socket forming a chamber between the socket and the residuum when the socket receives the residuum. The apparatus also includes a pressure control device operably connected to the chamber and capable of creating a positive pressure and a negative pressure within the chamber to provide pressure therapy to the residuum, as well as provide securement of the socket to the residuum. The apparatus may also include a liner surrounding at least a portion of the residuum. The control device adjust pressure within the chamber based on manual and automatic inputs.

Abstract: A socket device of a prosthetic includes a liner with a variable viscosity fluid disposed between the socket and the user's stump. The variably viscosity fluid varies the softness or stiffness of socket. In addition, the variable viscosity fluid conforms to the contours of the user's stump for a more customized fit. The variable viscosity fluid can include a shear stiffening material that increases in viscosity as a load or strain, or rate of loading or rate of strain, applied, or a magneto or electro rheologic fluid responsive to a magnetic or electric field.

Abstract: A prosthetic device having a socket with an insert having a bladder system for monitoring and compensating for volume fluctuations in a residual limb is provided. A plurality of bladders are preferably provided, in one embodiment, substantially only on a posterior portion of the socket. The bladders may be organized into zones, with the zones being inflatable to differing pressures depending on volume fluctuations in a residual limb. Pressure sensors may be provided for each bladder or for each zone, and flow regulators maybe provided to control fluid flow into or out of the bladders or zones of bladders based on readings from the pressure sensors to control volume within the insert. Alternatively, bladders can be manually inflated depending on an amputee's needs.

Abstract: A dynamic variable geometry fitting system with fluid-filled bladders and automatically regulating their volumes to provide a continuously secure fit. This system can vary volume continuously to accommodate natural variation in an amputee's residuum. It makes reliable suction retention of a prosthesis easier for the prosthetist to achieve while reducing the potential for tissue lesions. By maintaining a continuous, secure fit, the amputee's sense of confidence and willingness to use the prosthesis increases.

Abstract: A prosthetic device having a socket with an insert having a bladder system for monitoring and compensating for volume fluctuations in a residual limb is provided. A plurality of bladders are preferably provided, in one embodiment, substantially only on a posterior portion of the socket. The bladders may be organized into zones, with the zones being inflatable to differing pressures depending on volume fluctuations in a residual limb. Pressure sensors may be provided for each bladder or for each zone, and flow regulators may be provided to control fluid flow into or out of the bladders or zones of bladders based on readings from the pressure sensors to control volume within the insert. Alternatively, bladders can be manually inflated depending on an amputee's needs.

Abstract: A volume control pad is provided for use in the socket of an artificial limb. The volume control pad has a core surrounded by a flexible shell. The core includes super absorbent polymer particles which form a gel Upon the addition of water thereto. The volume control pad includes a tube for the introduction of water into the core portion of the pad. The volume control pad provides a simple and inexpensive means for adjusting the conformance of the socket around the residual limb from an initial swollen condition to a further point in time in which the swelling has diminished.

Abstract: A dynamic variable geometry fitting system with fluid-filled bladders and automatically regulating their volumes to provide a continuously secure fit. This system can vary volume continuously to accommodate natural variation in an amputee's residuum. It makes reliable suction retention of a prosthesis easier for the prosthetist to achieve while reducing the potential for tissue lesions. By maintaining a continuous, secure fit, the amputee's sense of confidence and willingness to use the prosthesis increases.

Abstract: An open-ended annular sleeve configured to receive a limb of a wearer and having an inside, an outside, a first open end, a second open end and an intermediate position between the first and second opened ends. The annular sleeve has a foamed or non-foamed gel composition containing a block copolymer and mineral oil, as well as several other features such as the capability to form an air-tight seal, differing elasticity in the circumferential direction as opposed to the axial direction, etc. Also described is an open-ended polymeric annular sleeve completely coated on one of the inside or outside with fabric, and on the other side, coated with fabric only at an intermediate portion.

Abstract: A device is provided for applying therapeutic pneumatic pressure to the residual limb of an amputee in the post-operative stage. The device is intended for use in the immediate post-operative phase, i.e., immediately after surgical amputation of a limb. The device is intended to promote healing and proper residual limb formation after surgery. The device may comprise a calm-shell-like outer shell, the halves of which are joined together by a fastening means. A two-piece outer shell construction may also be used. The interior of the outer shell is fitted with inflatable bladders which, in combination, encompass the circumferential surface of the residual limb. An additional bladder may be provided at the distal end of the outer shell to cover the lower-most portion of the residual limb. The pressure within each bladder may be varied and adjusted.

Abstract: A volume control pad is provided for use in the socket of an artificial limb. The volume control pad has a core surrounded by a flexible shell. The core includes super absorbent polymer particles which form a gel upon the addition of water thereto. The volume control pad includes a tube for the introduction of water into the core portion of the pad. The volume control pad provides a simple and inexpensive means for adjusting the conformance of the socket around the residual limb from an initial swollen condition to a further point in time in which the swelling has diminished.

Abstract: A socket has a gelatinous core to provide an enhanced cushioning effect for a residual limb. The gelatinous material is covered by a flexible inner cover that shields the skin of the residual limb from the gel and by a flexible outer cover that shields the inner wall of a prosthetic frame from the gel. The inner cover prevents the gel from absorbing body oils and therefore eliminates odors associated with liners formed of gelatinous materials. A self-inflating foam pad is positioned between the inner and outer covers to adjust the fit as needed when the residual limb changes in volume. The pad initially has substantially no air in its interstitial spaces and air is admitted when the patient opens a valve. This prevents over-pressurization of the pad because the maximum pressure that can be exerted by the pad is determined by the prosthetist when the patient is fitted with a prosthesis.

Abstract: A weight-bearing apparatus such as a cushion, prosthetic device, or bed mattress includes a support surface having a shaped or sculpted portion that conforms to the shape of a body portion being supported. The shaped portion fits to the body portion, thereby to position the body portion so as to situate one or more weight-bearing parts of the body portion over specific zones of the support surface that are cooled below normal body temperature. The reduced temperature applied to the zones of the support surface removes heat from the weight-bearing areas, thereby reducing the risk of injury to tissue in those areas.

Abstract: Novel crystal gels and articles are formed from one or more block copolymers having at least one crystalline midblock and high levels of a plasticizer, said midblock segment having an amount of crystallinity sufficient to achieve improvements in one or more physical properties including improved crack propagation resistance, improved tear resistance, improved resistance to fatigue and resistance to catastrophic failure not obtainable in amorphous gels.