GB2508203A - Ankle injury prevention device and method - Google Patents

Ankle injury prevention device and method Download PDF

Info

Publication number
GB2508203A
GB2508203A GB201221132A GB201221132A GB2508203A GB 2508203 A GB2508203 A GB 2508203A GB 201221132 A GB201221132 A GB 201221132A GB 201221132 A GB201221132 A GB 201221132A GB 2508203 A GB2508203 A GB 2508203A
Authority
GB
United Kingdom
Prior art keywords
cuff
footwear
connection member
item
ankle
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
GB201221132A
Other versions
GB201221132D0 (en
Inventor
Gordon Mackay
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Individual
Original Assignee
Individual
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Priority to GB201221132A priority Critical patent/GB2508203A/en
Publication of GB201221132D0 publication Critical patent/GB201221132D0/en
Publication of GB2508203A publication Critical patent/GB2508203A/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43—FOOTWEAR
    • A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B7/00—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements
    • A43B7/14—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts
    • A43B7/18—Joint supports, e.g. instep supports
    • A43B7/20—Ankle-joint supports or holders
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F5/00—Orthopaedic methods or devices for non-surgical treatment of bones or joints; Nursing devices; Anti-rape devices
    • A61F5/01—Orthopaedic devices, e.g. splints, casts or braces
    • A61F5/0102—Orthopaedic devices, e.g. splints, casts or braces specially adapted for correcting deformities of the limbs or for supporting them; Ortheses, e.g. with articulations
    • A61F5/0104—Orthopaedic devices, e.g. splints, casts or braces specially adapted for correcting deformities of the limbs or for supporting them; Ortheses, e.g. with articulations without articulation
    • A61F5/0111—Orthopaedic devices, e.g. splints, casts or braces specially adapted for correcting deformities of the limbs or for supporting them; Ortheses, e.g. with articulations without articulation for the feet or ankles

Landscapes

  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Biomedical Technology (AREA)
  • Heart & Thoracic Surgery (AREA)
  • Vascular Medicine (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
  • Orthopedic Medicine & Surgery (AREA)
  • Nursing (AREA)
  • Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
  • Epidemiology (AREA)
  • Footwear And Its Accessory, Manufacturing Method And Apparatuses (AREA)

Abstract

An ankle injury prevention device 12 for use with an item of footwear 14 e.g. boot, worn by a user, the ankle injury prevention device 12 comprising a cuff 22 configured to be worn around the users lower leg, the cuff 22 defining a lower region 23 to be positioned adjacent to a users ankle, and a connection member 30 e.g. strap, configured for attachment to an outer side of the cuff 22 and to an item of footwear 14 , wherein the connection member 30 is configured to resist any increase in distance between the cuff 22 and the item of footwear 14 along a direction of resistance having at least a component in a posterior-anterior direction. The device may also give resistance in an inferior-superior direction. The device may give resistance parallel to the anterior talo-fibular ligament.

Description

I
ANKLE INJURY PREVENTION DEVICE AND METHOD
FIELD
The present invention r&ates to an ankle injury prevenUon device and method and, in particular, though not exclusively to an ankle injury prevention device and method for use during sporting activitSe,
BACKGROUND
Most ankle injuries are caused when the foot is twisted nwards and the ankle joint is in plantarflexion and inversion, This may result in excessive forces being apped to the lateral ankle gaments and may, in particular, result in strain of the anterior talo4ibular gaments and/or the anterior tibio4ibular ligaments. Such injuries are pa cularly common in ba sports such as soccer where a player often changes direcflon suddenly either deberately or unexpectedly. for example, as a result of a tackle, The use of sports footwear having blades for bafl sports such as soccer is a relaUvely recent development. Such sports footwear may provide improved grip and may permit the wearer to change direchon more suddenly without sapping compared with more traditional sports footwear having studs. However, the use of sports footwear having blades may result in increased strain on the ankle gaments when the wearer changes direction suddenly and may mean that the wearer of such footwear is more susceptible to ankle injuries in some circumstances. It would be desirab to prevent such injuries where possible.
It is not uncommon for sports players, especially those who have previously sustained an ankle injury, to wear a resiHent ankle support or brace. However, such ankle supports may restrict movement of the toot relathie to the leg in an inappropriate manner and/or to a nonoptimum degree and may be of hmited effectiveness. Such ankle supports may a!so be uncomfortable to wear. In addition, a player has to remember to bring the ankle support to the venue where the sports activity is scheduled to take place and to actually put the ankle support on prior to takng part in the sports activity.
SUMMARY
According to a first aspect of the present invenUon there is provided an ankle injury prevention device for use with an tern of footwear worn by a user, the ankle injury prevention device comprising: a cuff configured to be worn around a user's lower leg, the cuff defining a lower region to be positioned adjacent a user's ankle; and a connection member configured for attachment to an outer side of the cuff and to an item of footwear, wherein the connection member is configured to resist any increase in distance between the cuff and the item of footwear ong a direction of resistance having at least a component in a posterior.anterior threction.
The device may be used in conjunction with an item of footwear to prevent injury of a user's ankle ligament. The item of footwear may be adapted so as to permit attachment of the connection member to the item of footwear.
The device may be used in conjunction with an item of footwear to bokder a user's ankle llgaments and, in particular, to bolster a user's anterior talo4ibular ligament and/or a users anterior tibio4ibular ligament in plantarflexion and/or inversion.
The device may be used in conjunction with a sports boot or shoe to prevent injury of a user's ankle ligament during sports activities such as soccer, hockey, tennis, golf or the Uke, The device may at least partiafly reduce overextension of, and damage to! a users anterior talo4ihular ligament and/or anterior tibio4ibular ligament.
The device may be configured to be worn over or external to a user's sock.
Thus, the device may provide ankle support without the discomfort that may be associated with conventional resilient ankle braces which are typically worn next to the skin. Alternatively, the device may be configured to be worn next to the skin.
The device may be integrated with or constitute an item of sports equipment such as a sock, sleeve, stocking, shin guard or the like which is part of the inventory of sports equipment or kit normally worn by a user. As such, it may not be necessary for a user to remember to bring and/or wear an additional item of sports equipment for the prevention and/or mitigation of ankle injuries when actually participating in a sports activity.
The connection member may be configured to extend along the direction of resistance.
The connection member may be configured to extend from a region of attachment with an outer side of the cuff to a region of attachment with the item of footwear.
The direction of resistance may have a component n an inferiorsuperior direction, The direction of resistance may be substantiaily parailel with an anterior tao' fibular ligament of a user.
The device may be configured to permit the connecon member to extend adjacent to an anterior tofibuIar ligament of a user.
The device may be configured to match or reproduce the anatomy and/or functionality of an anterior taio4ibular ligament of a user so as to provide more effecttve protection against injury of the anterior talo-fibular ligament than a conventional ankle ia brace.
The connection member may comprise a strap, strip, tab, webbing or the like.
The connection member may be configured for direct attachment to the cuff.
The connection member may be configured for indirect attachment to the cuff, The connection member may be configured for attachment to the cuff via an inteniening member such as an intervening strap, strip, tab, webbing or the like, The connection member may be configured for direct attachment to the item of footwear.
The connection member may be configured for indirect attachment to the item of footwear.
The connection member may be configured for attachment to the item of footwear via an intervening member such as an intervening strap, strip, tab, webbing or the like, The connection member may be permanently attached to the cuff, The connection member may be sewn and/or bonded to the cuff.
The connection member may be detachably attachable to the item of footwear.
Such a connection member may be temporarily attached to the item of footwear and may make it easier for a user to connect the cuff to the item of footwear, The connection member may be configured for permanent attachment to the item of footwear.
The connection member may be configured to be sewn and/or bonded to the item of footwear, The connection member may be detachably attachable to the cuff Such a connection member may be temporarily attached to the cuff and may make it easier for a user to connect the cuff to the item of footwear.
The connection member may be configured for attachment to an outer surface of an item of footwear. Such a connection member may ensure that the users comfort is not compromed by the anke hury prevention device because the connection member does not engage the user?s akin, Such a connection member may provide greater access to the connection member for ease of attachment of the connection member to the cuff and/or an item of footwear. Such a connection member may provide greater access to the connection member for ease of detachment of the connection member from the cuff and/or an item of footwear.
The connection member may be attachable to the cuff and/or to the item of footwear using complementary fasteners such as compementary Velcro fasteners.
The cuff may comprise a cuff attachment feature configured to permit attachment of the connection member to an outer side of the cuff.
The cuff may comprise a cuff aperture formed through, attached to, or at least partiay defined by, an outer side thereof.
The cuff aperture and/or the connection member may be configured to permit the connection member to extend from the item of footwear through the cuff aperture and back to the item of footwear to thereby attach the connection member to the cuff.
The cuff may comprise a protm&on, button, and/or a stud extending from an outer de of the cuff.
The connection member may comprise a length of cord having two ends located adjacent one another and permanenliy attached to the item of footwear so as to form a loop of cord which s configured to fit around the protrusion, button, and/or a stud extending from the outer side of the cuff.
The item of footwear may comprise a footwear attachment feature configured to permit attachment of the connection member to an outer surface of the item of footwear.
The item of footwear may comprise a footwear aperture formed through, at least partially defined by, or attached to an outer surface thereof.
The footwear aperture and/or the connection member may be configured to permit the connection member to extend from an outer side of the cuff through the footwear aperture and back to the cuff to thereby attach the connection member to the item of footwear.
The item of footwear may comprise a protrusion, button, and/or a stud extending from an outer surface of the item of footwear.
The connection member may comprise a length of cord having two ends located adjacent one another and permanently attached to the cuff so as to form a loop of cord which is configured to fit around the protru&on, button and/or a stud extending from the outer surface of the item of footwear.
The device may be configured to permit adjustment of a distance between the cuff and the item of footwear.
The device may comprise a buckle arrangement.
The connection member may be nonresHient, Such a device may permit adjustment of the distance between the cuff and the item of footwear according to a users requirements, for example, according to a user's preference and/or a user's anatomy. Such a device may be configured to provide an optimum degree of protection for a users ankle ligament. Such a device may be configured to provide an opUmum degree of protection for a users anterior talo4ibur ligament and/or the anterior tibio4ibular gament.
The connection member may be resilient, A resilient connection member may serve to resist extension of the connection member when the ankle is in plantarfiexion and/or inversion so as to provide a softer or less abrupt restraining action compared with a nonresilient connection member.
The connection member may have an adjustable degree of resHience. Such a connection member would permit the degree of resilience of the connection member to be selected according to a users requirements, for example. according to a users preference and/or a users anatomy.
The connection member may be resilient under increasing tension unth a threshold tension is reached. The connection member may be nonresThent for tensions above the threshold tension. The threshold tension may be selected according to a maximum tenon which the anterior talofibular gament can withstand or according to a maximum tension of the anterior talo4ibular ligament which a user can tolerate. The threshold tension may be selected according to a users requirements, for example, according to a user's preference and/or a user's anatomy.
The cuff may be resilient. A resilient cuff may permit the cuff to stretch so as to accommodate different ankle sizes and/or shapes. A resilient cuff may serve to resist extension of the cuff when the ankle is in plantarfiexion and/or inversion so as to provide a softer or less abrupt restraining action compared with a non4esilient cuff.
The device may comprise a sUrruc extending from the cuff. The stirrup may be configured to resist an increase in distance between the cuff and the Rem of footwear a!ong an inferiorsuperior direction, Such a stirrup may serve to hold the cuff against the ankle and thereby resist any movement of the cuff in an inferior-superior direction in plantartlexion and/or inversion of the user's ankle, The stirrup may be non-reSient.
The stirrup may be resilient.
Such a stirrup may contribute to the resistance provided by the device against extension of a user's ankle gament.
The stirrup may be re&hent under increasing tension until a length of the stirrup reaches a threshold length for a threshold tension.
The stirrup may be nonresVient for tensions above the threshold tension.
The length of the stirrup may be adjustable. Such a stirrup may permit adjustment of the length of the stirrup accorthng to a user's requirements, for example, according to a user's preference andlor a users anatomy.
The cuff and the stirrup may be pemianentiy connected.
The cuff and the stirrup may be sewn and/or bonded together The cuff and the stirrup may be integrally formed.
The device may comprise a further connection member.
The further connection member may be configured for attachment to the cuff at an outer side thereof.
The further connection member may be configured for attachment to the item of footwear.
The further connection member may be configured to resist any increase in distance between the cuff and the item of footwear along a further direction of resistance which has at least a component in a posterior-anterior direction and which is different to the direction of resistance.
The further direction of resistance may have a component in an inferior-superior direction.
The further direction of resistance may be substantially parael with an anterior tibia-fibular ligament of a user.
The device may be configured to permit the further connection member to extend adjacent to an anterior tibio-fibular ligament of a user, The device may be configured to reproduce the anatomy and/or functionaMy of an anterior tibio4ibuiar gament of a user so as to provide more effective protection against injury of the anterior tibio4ibular gament than a conventional ankle brace.
The cuff may compSe a band, strap, loop, sleeve stocking, sock or the Wce which is configured to be worn around a user's lower leg to secure the device thereto.
The device may compre a plurahty of cuffs, each cuff being configured to be worn around a user's lower leg to secure the device thereto. The use of a pluraUty of cuffs may secure the device to the users lower leg more securely compared with the use of a single cuff According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a shin guard for use with an item of footwear worn by a user, the shin guard comprishig: a cuff configured to be worn around a user's lower leg, the cuff defining a lower region to be positioned adjacent a user's ankle; a shield portion connected to the cuff; and a connection member configured for attachment to an outer side of the cuff and to an item of footwear, wherein the connection member a configured to resist any increase in distance between the cuff and the item of footwear along a direction of reStance having at least a component in a posterior'anterior direction.
The shield portion may be configured to protect a user's shin, The shield portion may be hard and/or rigid.
The shield portion may be detachably attached to the cuff, The shield portion may be configured for attachment to the user's lower leg.
Such a shin guard may be used in conjunction with an item of footwear to prevent injury of a user's ankle ftgament, for example, during an activity such as a sports actMty. The item of footwear may be adapted so as to permit attachment of the connection member to the item of footwear.
it should be understood that one or more of the optional features described in relation to the first aspect may apply either alone or in combination in connection with the second aspect,According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a kit of parts for an ankle injury prevention system compri&ng: a cuff configured to be worn around a user's lower leg and defining a lower region to be positioned adjacent a user's ankle; and a connection member configured for attachment to an outer side of the cuff and to an item of footwear, wherein the connection member is configured to resist any increase in distance between the cuff and the tern of footwear ong a direction of resistance having at east a component in a posterioranterior direction.
Such a kt of parts may be used in conjunction with an tern of footwear to prevent irdury of a users ankle ligament, for example, during an actMty such as a sports activity. The item of footwear may be adapted so as to permit attachment of the connection member to the item of footwear, It shothd be understood that one or more of the optional features described in reistion to any of the first and second aspects may apply either alone or in combination in connection with the third aspect.
According to a fourth aspect of the present invenflon there is provided an ankle injury prevention system comprising: an item of footwear; a cuff configured to be worn around a user's lower leg and defining a lower region to be positioned adjacent a users ankle; and a connection member attached to an outer side of the cuff and to the tern of footwear, wherein the connection member is configured to resist any increase in distance between the cuff and the item of footwear along a direction of resistance having at least a component in a posteriofranterior direction.
The item of footwear may have blades, studs or the like protruding from a sole of the item of footwear.
The item of footwear may be an tern of sports footwear.
The item of footwear may be a soccer boot, a footbe boot, a rugby boot, a hockey boot or the like.
It should be understood that one or more of the optional features described in relation to any of the first, second or third aspects may apply either alone or in combination in connection with the fourth aspect.
According to a fifth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for use in preventing an ankle injury comprising: positioning a cuff around a user's lower leg such that a lower region of the cuff is positioned adjacent a user's ankle; fitting an item of footwear onto a user's foot; and attaching a connection member to an outer side of the cuff and to the item of footwear, wherein the connection member is configured to resst any increase in distance between the cuff and the item of footwear along a direction of resistance having at least a component in a posterior-anterior direction.
It should be understood that the steps of the method may be performed in any order. The steps of the method may be performed sequentiay or may at least partiaHy overlap.
It should be understood that one or more of the optional features described in relation to the first to fourth aspects may apply either alone or in combination in connection with the fifth aspect.
According to a sixth aspect of the present invention there is provided an item of footwear for use in preventing an ankle injury, the item of footwear comprising, or at east partially defining a footwear attachment feature on en outer surface thereof; wherein the footwear attachment feature is configured to permit attachment of a connection member to the item of footwear and the connection member is configured for attachment to a cuff worn around a users lower leg so that a lower region of the cuff is positioned adjacent a users ankle and the connection member resists any increase in distance between the cuff and the item of footwear along a direction of resistance having at least a component in a posterioranterior direction.
It should be understood that one or more of the optional features described in relation to the first to fifth aspects may apply either alone or in combination in connection with the sixth aspect.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The present invention will now be described by way of non-limiting example only with reference to the following figures of which: Figure 1 shows an ankle injury prevention system comprising an ankle injury prevention device and an item of footwear; Figure 2 is a detailed view of the ankle injury prevention system of Figure 1 in the vicinity of a connection member during attachment of the ankle injury prevention device and the item of footwear; Figure 3 is a detailed view of the ankle injury prevention system of Figure 1 in the vicinity of a connection member after attachment of the ankle injury prevenUon device and the tern of footwear: Figure 4(a) is a schematic drawing illustrating how the anatomy of the ankle gaments when the foot is in a natural resting position; Figure 4(b) is a schematic drawing illustrating the behaviour of the ankle ligaments in plantarriexion and inver&on; and Figure 5 is a detaHed view of an alternative ankle injury prevention system in the vicinfty of a connection member during attachment of the ankle injury prevention device and the item of footwear.
DETAILED DESCR1PT1ON OF THE DRAWINGS Mth reference inftiay to Figure 1 there is shown an ankle prevention system comprising an ankle injury prevention device generay designated 12 and an item of footwear in the form of a sports boot 14 having a sole 15 and one or mare blades or studs 16 extending from the sole 15. The ankle injury prevention device 12 takes the form of a modified shin guard having a shield portion 20 for shin protection. The shield porfion 20 is detachably attached to a resient cuff 22 which is configured to be worn around a user's lower leg. The cuff 22 defines a lower region generally designated 23 which is. in use, positioned adjacent a users ankle. The ankle injury prevention device 12 comprises one or more bands 24 for securing the shield portion 20 to the users lower leg. The ankle injury prevention device 12 further comprises a resHient stirrup 25 configured to pass under one or more of the blades or studs 16 so as to prevent movement of the cuff 22 up or down the user's lower leg. The ankle injury prevention device 12 is worn over a sock 26 as shown in Figure 1 and is secured in place against the users ankle with the aid of the cuff 22, the one or more bands 24 and the stirrup 25.
As shown in more detail in Figures 2 and 3. the ankle injury prevention device 12 further comprises a connection member in the form of a strap generally designated for connecting the cuff 22 to the boot 14. As shown most clearly in Figure 2, a first end 32 of the strap 30 is sewn to the cuff 22 at an outer or lateral cuff connection region 34 adjacent the lower region 23 of the cuff 22: The strap 30 comprises a Velcr&t fastener portion 36 extending from a free second end 38 thereof. The boot 14 comprises a tab 44 adhered to an outer surface thereof, the tab 44 comprising an outwardly4acing tab Velcr? fastener portion 40. The tab 44 extends from a first end 35 adjacent the first end 32 of the strap 30 to a second end 37 along a direcflon of resistance which has components along both, the posterioranterior direction and the inferiorsuperior direction. The VeicroC fastener portion 40 of the tab 44 is complimentary to the Velcr? fastener portion 38 of the strap 30.
When the ankle injury prevention device 12 and the boot 14 are worn. a user may press the free second end 38 of the strap 30 against the boot 14 so as to engage the Velcro5 fastener portion 36 of the strap 30 with the Velcro5 fastener portion 40 of the tab 44 to connect the cuff 22 and the boot 14 as shown in Figure 3. When the V&cro5' fastener portions 36, 40 are in engagement, the strap 30 is aUgned along the direction of resistance. The strap 30 may subsequenfly resist any increase in distance between the cuff 22 and the boot 14 along the direction of resistance.
Figure 4(a) shows the boot 14 in situ in reation to the users anterior talo4ihular ligament 50, calcaneo4ibular ligament 51 and posterior talo4ibular ligament 52 when a users foot is in its natural resting position. Figure 4(b) shows the boot 14 in situ in relation to the user's ta!o4ibular, calcaneo$ibular and posterior talo4ibuiar ligaments 50, 51, 52 when the users ankle is in plantarilexion and inversion. It should be understood that, in the interests of clarity, the ankle injury prevention device 12 is not shown in Figures 4(a) and 4(b) and that the following descripdon of the operation of the ankle injury prevention device 12 relies upon a comparison of Figures 1 to 3 with Figures 4(a) and 4(b). In particular, it should be understood that the ankle injury prevention device 12 shown in Figures 1 to 3 is configured so that when the Velcro5 fastener portions 36, 40 are in engagement, the strap 30 is generally aligned adjacent to the anterior tao4ibular ligament 50. More specifically the Velcro5 fastener portions 36, 40 are engaged in a region that is generally aligned with a region of connection 53 shown in Figures 4(a) and 4(b) between the anterior talo4'ibular ligament 50 and the talus bone (not shown) of the user's foot and the cuff connection region 34 is generally aligned with a region of connection 54 between the anterior talo4ibular ligament 50 and the fibula bone 55 of the user's lower leg. As such, the strap 30 may be considered to reproduce the anatomy of the users anterior talo4ibular ligament 50.
In use, the strap 30 resists an increase in distance between the cuff 22 and the boot 14 along the direction of resistance 56 as the user's ankle moves towards plantarfiexion and inversion as shown in Figure 4(b). At the same tima the stirrup 25 resists an increase in distance between the cuff 22 and the boot 14 along a superioF inferior direction as indicated by the sod arrow 58 in Figure 4(b). The resilience of the cuff 22 may also serve to resist an increase in distance between the cuff 22 and the boot 14 along the direction of resistance 56 and along the superior-inferior direction 58 as the ankle moves towards plantaflexion and inversion, Although the strap 30 is not shown in Figure 4(b), t should be understood that, in use, the strap 30 remains in general agnment with the anterior talo-tibular ligament 50 when the ankle is in plantarflexion and inversion as shown in Figure 4(b) and the ankle injury prevention system 10 bolsters the anterior talo-fibular ligament 50 so as to prevent injury of, or at least resist over-extension of, the anterior talo-fibular ligament 50.
One skilled in the art wfll appreciate that ankle prevention system 10 may be adjusted according to a users requirements, preferences andfor anatomy. For example, a user who has previously sustained an injury to their anterior talo-fibular ligament 50 may prefer to pull the strap 30 more tightly than shown in Figure 3 by pulhng the free second end 38 of the strap 30 past the second end 37 of the tab 44 along the direction of resistance before engaging the VelcroC fastener portions 3$, 40 This may result in the lower region 23 of the cuff 22 being closer to the boot 14 and may aow the ankle injury prevention system 10 to prevent or at least resist extension of the users anterior talo-fibular ligament 50 to a greater degree.
Figure 5 shows an alternative ankle injury system 110 comprising an ankle injury prevention device generally designated 112 and an item of footwear in the form of a sports boot 114. The alternative ankle injury system 110 of Figure 5 shares many simiar features to the ankle injury system 10 of Figures 1 to 4 and, as such, like features share like reference numerals. The alternative ankle injury system 110 of Figure 5 differs from the ankle injury system 10 of Figures ito 4 in that the cuff 122 defines an aperture 134 adjacent to a lower edge 123 of the cuff and the alternative ankle injury system 110 of Figure 5 comprises a connection member in the form of a strap generaVy designated 130 that is adhered to an outer surface of the boot 114 in a region 144 extending from a first fixed end 137 of the strap 130. The strap 130 extends to a second free end 138. On side of the strap 130 comprises a first outwardly-facing V&cro5' fastener portion 140 extending from the first fixed end 137 of the strap 130 and a second Velcro5 fastener portion 136 extending from the second free end 138 of the strap 130.
n use, the second free end i38 of the strap 130 is passed through the aperture 134 in the cuff 22 and is folded over such that the second V&croC fastener pardon 136 is disposed inwardly towards the first outwardly-facing Velcro5 fastener portion 140.
The user may then pu the second free end 138 of the strap 130 towards and/or past the first fixed end 137 of the strap 130 and engage the first and second Velcro5 fastener portions 140, 136 according to the user's requirements, preferences and/or anatomy.
One skiHed in the art wiU also appreciate that various modifications to the ankle injury prevention systems 10 and 110 are pos&ble. For example, the straps 30, 130 may be resilient. The straps 30, 130 may have an adjustable degree of resience. The straps 30, 130 may be configured to be resilient under increasing tension when the user's ankle is in plantarfiexion and inversion untU a tension of the straps 30, 130 reaches a threshold tension. Thereafter, the straps 30, 130 may be none4endable for tensions above the threshold tension. The threshold tension may be selected according to a maximum tension for the user's anterior talo4ibular gament 50 such that the ankle injury prevention systems 10, 110 prevent the users anterior talo-fibular gament 50 from being subjected to a tensbn in excess of the maximum tension, An alternative connection arrangement (not shown.) may comprise a strap having a first end which is permanently attached to a cuff at a cuff connection region located adjacent a lower region of the cuff. The aternative connecdon arrangement may comprise an aperture formed in or attached to the item of footwear at a footwear connection region such that the strap extends from the cuff connection region through the aperture at the footwear connection region and back to the cuff connection region where it is secured using complementary Velcro5 fastener regions located either end of the strap, A further alternative connection arrangement may comprise a resilient cop of cord extending from the cuff which is configured to fit over a protruSn, stud or button extending from the tern of footwear or vice versa. A yet further alternaftve connection arrangement may comprise a buckle arrangement.
The ankle injury prevention system may comprise an additions connection member (not shown) which is generally similar to the connection member 30 but which is generally aligned with an anterior tiblo-fibular ligament of the user (not shown) so as to prevent injury to, or at east resist over-extension of, the user's anterior tibio4ibular figament.

Claims (25)

  1. CLAIMS1, An ankle injury prevenflon device for use with an item of footwear worn by a user, the ankle injury prevention device comprising: a cuff configured to be worn around a use(s lower leg, the cuff defining a lower region to be po&tioned adjacent a use(s ankle; and a connection member configured for attachment to an outer side of the cuff and to an item of footwear, wherein the connection member is configured to resist any increase in distance between the cuff and the item of footwear along a direction of reStance having at east a component in a postenor-antenor direction.
  2. 2. A device according to claim 1, wherein the direction of resistance has a component in an inferior-superior direction.
  3. 3. A device according to claim I cr2. wherein the direction of resistance is substantially parallel with an anterior talo4ibular ligament of a user.
  4. 4. A device according to any preceding claim, wherein the device is configured to permit the connection member to extend adjacent to the anterior talo4ibular gament of a user.
  5. 5. A device according to any preceding claim, wherein the connection member is permanently attached to the cuff and detachably attachable to the item of footwear.
  6. 6. A device according to any preceding claim, wherein the connection member is permanently attached to the item of footwear and detachably attachable to the cuff.
  7. 7. A device according to any preceding claim, wherein the connection member is configured for attachment to an outer surface of the item of footwear.
  8. 8, A device according to any preceding claim, comprising complementary fasteners for attaching the connection member to the cuff and/or to the item of footwear.
  9. 9. A devke according to any preceding dm, comprising compementary V&cro® fasteners for attaching the connection member to the cuff and/or to the tern of footwear.
  10. 10. A device according to any preceding caim, wherein the cuff comprises a cuff aperture formed through, at east partiay defined by, or attached to an outer de thereof and the cuff aperture and/or the connection member are configured to permit the connection member to extend from the tern of footwear through the cuff aperture and back to the tern of footwear to thereby attach the connection member to the cuff,
  11. 11. A device according to any preceding daim, wherein the item of footwear comprises a footwear aperture formed through, at least partiaDy defined by, or attached to an outer surface thereof and the footwear aperture and/or the connection member are configured to permit the connection member to extend from an outer side of the cuff through the footwear aperture and back to the cuff to thereby attach the connection member to the item of footwear.
  12. 12. A device according to any preceding claim, wherein the device is configured to permit adjustment of a distance between the cuff and the item of footwear.
  13. 13. A device according to any preceding claim, wherein the connection member is non resilient.
  14. 14. A device according to any of dairns I to 12, wherein the connection member is resient.
  15. 15. A device according to any preceding claim, wherein the connection member is resiflent for tensions below a threshold tension and nonresihent for tensions above the threshold tension.
  16. 16. A device according to any preceding claim, wherein the cuff is resilient,
  17. 17. A device according to any preceding claim, comprSng a stirrup extending from the cuff, the stirrup configured for resisting an increase in distance between the cuff and the item of footwear along an inferiorsuperior direction.
  18. 18. A device according to claim 17, wherein the stirrup is resilient.
  19. 19. A device according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the cuff and the stirrup are permanently connected,
  20. 20. A device according to any of claims 17 to 19, wherein the cuff and the stirrup are integrally formed.
  21. 21. A device according to any preceding claim, comprising a further connection member configured for attachment to an outer side of the cuff and to the item of footwear, wherein the further connection member is configured to resist any increase in distance between the cuff and the item of footwear along a further direcdon of resistance which has at least a component in a posterioranterior direction and which is different to the direction of resistance.
  22. 22. A device according to claim 21 wherein the further direction of resistance is substantiay parael with an anterior tibio4ibu!ar ligament of a user.
  23. 23. A device according to ciaim 21 or 22, wherein the device is configured to permit the further connection member to extend adjacent to an anterior tibo4ibular ligament of a user.
  24. 24. A device according to any preceding claim, wherein the cuff comprises a hand, strap, loop, sleeve, sock or stocking which is configured to be worn around a users lower leg to secure the device thereto.
  25. 25. A device according to any preceding claim, comprising a plurality of cuffs, each cuff being configured to be worn around a user's lower leg to secure the device thereto.28. A shin guard comprising a device according to any preceding claim and a shield portion connected to the cuff.27. A shin guard according to claim 26, wherein the shield portion is detachably attached to the cuff.28. A thin guard according to claim 26 or 27., wherein the shi&d portion is configured for attachment to the user's lower leg.29. An item of footwear configured for use with the device accorthng to any of claims I to 25 or the shin guard according to any of claims 26 to 28.30. A kit of parts for an ankle injury prevention system comprising: a cuff configured to be worn around a users lower leg and defining a ower region to be positioned adjacent a users ankle; and a connection member configured for attachment to an outer side of the cuff and to an item of footwear, wherein the connection member is configured to resist any increase in distance between the cuff and the item of footwear along a direction of resistance having at least a component in a posterioranterior direction.31. An ankle injury prevention system comprising: an item of footwear: a cuff configured to be worn around a users lower!eg and defining a lower region to be positioned adjacent a user's ankle; and a connection member attached to an outer side of the cuff and to the item of footwear, wherein the connection member is configured to resist any increase in distance between the cuff and the item of footwear along a direction of resistance having at east a component in a posterioranterior direction, 32. An ankle injury prevention system according to claim 21, wherein the item of footwear is a sports boot comprising studs and/or blades, 33. A method for use in preventing an ankle injury comprising: positioning a cuff around a users lower leg such that a lower region of the cuff is positioned adjacent a users ankle; fitting an item of footwear onto a users foot; and attaching a connection member to an outer side of the cuff and to the item of footwear, wherein the connection member is configured to resist any increase in distance between the cuff and the item of footwear along a direction of resistance having at least a component in a posterioNanterior direction.
GB201221132A 2012-11-23 2012-11-23 Ankle injury prevention device and method Withdrawn GB2508203A (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB201221132A GB2508203A (en) 2012-11-23 2012-11-23 Ankle injury prevention device and method

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB201221132A GB2508203A (en) 2012-11-23 2012-11-23 Ankle injury prevention device and method

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
GB201221132D0 GB201221132D0 (en) 2013-01-09
GB2508203A true GB2508203A (en) 2014-05-28

Family

ID=47560590

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
GB201221132A Withdrawn GB2508203A (en) 2012-11-23 2012-11-23 Ankle injury prevention device and method

Country Status (1)

Country Link
GB (1) GB2508203A (en)

Citations (13)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1666290A (en) * 1926-10-29 1928-04-17 Johnston Harry Leigh Ankle brace
US4489719A (en) * 1983-03-25 1984-12-25 Lapenskie Garry P Ankle support
GB2162755A (en) * 1984-07-27 1986-02-12 Michael Ivany Ankle support system
US4753229A (en) * 1986-11-06 1988-06-28 Tom Sutherland Ankle brace
US4817589A (en) * 1987-08-27 1989-04-04 Wertz Larry W Foot support device for improved ambulation
US5822887A (en) * 1993-06-22 1998-10-20 Turner; Gregory D. Over-the-shoe athletic spat
US5921947A (en) * 1996-08-14 1999-07-13 Kessler; Sigurd Bandage for the fixation of the ankle joint
US6272772B1 (en) * 1999-08-24 2001-08-14 Daniel J. Sherman Footwear support system
US20050177083A1 (en) * 2004-02-09 2005-08-11 Heil Arlan D. Foot eversion inhibitor
US20050198869A1 (en) * 2004-03-12 2005-09-15 Bouche Richard T. Ankle and foot stabilization support
US7094213B1 (en) * 2003-04-10 2006-08-22 Gerry Cook Adjustable foot and ankle device for gait control
US20100304937A1 (en) * 2009-06-01 2010-12-02 Clevon Spencer Speed doctor speed builder
WO2012169895A2 (en) * 2011-06-10 2012-12-13 Technische Universiteit Delft Assembly comprising a shoe, a shaped piece connected with the shoe to support the ankle, and a set of a shaped piece and fixing means for attachment to the shoe

Patent Citations (13)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1666290A (en) * 1926-10-29 1928-04-17 Johnston Harry Leigh Ankle brace
US4489719A (en) * 1983-03-25 1984-12-25 Lapenskie Garry P Ankle support
GB2162755A (en) * 1984-07-27 1986-02-12 Michael Ivany Ankle support system
US4753229A (en) * 1986-11-06 1988-06-28 Tom Sutherland Ankle brace
US4817589A (en) * 1987-08-27 1989-04-04 Wertz Larry W Foot support device for improved ambulation
US5822887A (en) * 1993-06-22 1998-10-20 Turner; Gregory D. Over-the-shoe athletic spat
US5921947A (en) * 1996-08-14 1999-07-13 Kessler; Sigurd Bandage for the fixation of the ankle joint
US6272772B1 (en) * 1999-08-24 2001-08-14 Daniel J. Sherman Footwear support system
US7094213B1 (en) * 2003-04-10 2006-08-22 Gerry Cook Adjustable foot and ankle device for gait control
US20050177083A1 (en) * 2004-02-09 2005-08-11 Heil Arlan D. Foot eversion inhibitor
US20050198869A1 (en) * 2004-03-12 2005-09-15 Bouche Richard T. Ankle and foot stabilization support
US20100304937A1 (en) * 2009-06-01 2010-12-02 Clevon Spencer Speed doctor speed builder
WO2012169895A2 (en) * 2011-06-10 2012-12-13 Technische Universiteit Delft Assembly comprising a shoe, a shaped piece connected with the shoe to support the ankle, and a set of a shaped piece and fixing means for attachment to the shoe

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
GB201221132D0 (en) 2013-01-09

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US7882568B2 (en) Two piece knee pad
US8037546B2 (en) Athletic pants with integral knee support
US7225563B2 (en) Shoe with adjustable fitting
US20080208092A1 (en) Shoulder brace traction system
US6929617B2 (en) Nonbulky ankle brace for use with footwear
US7267656B2 (en) Ankle brace
US9215898B2 (en) Shin guard
US20140196317A1 (en) Athletic shoe
CN101715357B (en) Ankle protector
KR20080046645A (en) Shin guard
US3515136A (en) Ankle support
US11246728B2 (en) Ankle brace
WO2011029837A1 (en) An orthopaedic hosiery item
US9861146B2 (en) Pants assembly
JP5986092B2 (en) Shin strap
GB2508203A (en) Ankle injury prevention device and method
JP2004337483A (en) Ankle protector
US20090198165A1 (en) Brace for ankle support
US20140298568A1 (en) Leg wear with integral brace sleeve
WO2010138681A2 (en) Shoe cover
US20030172440A1 (en) Roller hockey fabric pants
WO2013082385A1 (en) Improved athletic shoe
IE20090678U1 (en) An orthopaedic hosiery item
KR20070108344A (en) Knee protector
IES20010061A2 (en) Improvements in riding boots

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
WAP Application withdrawn, taken to be withdrawn or refused ** after publication under section 16(1)