JP2019504749A - Method and apparatus for mandibular support - Google Patents

Abstract

A mandibular support device comprising a structural member comprising a support component and an adhesive component. The support component traverses the front upper jaw region of the face, from the head or face above the lower jaw to the region of the lower jaw angle, or from the lower jaw angle on the first side of the face to the second side of the face It is configured to extend to the mandibular angle. The adhesive component is configured such that the structural member can be temporarily attached to the skin. This mandibular support device reduces or eliminates airway stenosis resulting from posterior displacement of the mandible, is simple, comfortable and easy to manufacture.

Description

This application claims the benefit of US Provisional Application No. 62 / 295,802, filed February 16, 2016.

No statement on research or development sponsored by the federal government

No reference to appendix

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention The invention disclosed and taught herein relates generally to devices and methods for supporting the human mandible, and more specifically to reducing or eliminating airway stenosis resulting from posterior displacement of the mandible. It relates to a simple, comfortable and easy to manufacture device.

Related Art Background Information and Description Mandibular shift in the posterior direction typically results in restriction or obstruction of the air passage in the throat. Such a restriction in the throat air passage can occur when an individual is relaxing the muscles of the face and throat, as can occur during sleep or during wakefulness activities such as endurance competitions. The relaxed muscles reduce support of the lower jaw, which allows the lower jaw to shift backwards. In turn, the shifted lower jaw allows soft tissue in the back of the throat to relax. The loose soft tissue then occludes the air flow required for breathing.

  A common example of airway effects resulting from mandibular displacement is snoring. A sleeping person generally responds to airway obstruction by breathing deeper, thereby increasing air pressure in the airway. Increased air pressure results in partial opening of the airway. The sound of snoring is a limited air flow that causes soft tissue to vibrate. Snoring noise interferes with the sleep of others close to the person snoring, and the person snoring makes difficult breathing that reduces the quality of sleep. Extreme cases of air passage obstruction often result in a condition called obstructive sleep apnea, the quality of sleep is severely degraded and other adverse health effects are exhibited.

  In the prior art, there are several types of treatment for snoring. These various procedures can be divided into at least two classes: a surgical class and a mechanical class. Surgical procedures include palatal implants, in which a braided strand of polyester filament is injected into the soft palate of a snoring person with the intention of hardening the soft tissue and reducing snoring. Another surgical procedure is uvulopalatopharyngoplasty, which is performed using traditional or laser-assisted surgical techniques to shorten the soft palate, remove the snore person's uvula, and sleep The airway can be enlarged with the intention of reducing the vibration of the soft tissue. Another surgical procedure is radiofrequency tissue ablation (Somnoplasty), where low-intensity radiofrequency signals are used to contract tissue within the soft palate. All surgical procedures for snoring have the risks associated with surgery, are expensive and are uncertain.

  Mechanical treatments for snoring include continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices. A CPAP device user wears a mask over the nose and / or mouth during sleep. The mask is attached to an air pump that snores and pushes air through the person's airway, raising the air pressure inside the airway to about 70-120 Pascals above atmospheric pressure. The increased pressure functions to reduce or eliminate airway obstruction caused by loose soft tissue. CPAP is generally considered to be the most reliable treatment for snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. However, the device is bulky and many individuals who have started using CPAP find it uncomfortable or disturbing sleep. Studies suggest that about half of individuals who have started using CPAP machines to treat sleep apnea cannot tolerate them and will stop using it.

  Other mechanical treatments for snoring include oral appliances. Oral appliances often serve to advance the position of the tongue and soft palate with the intention of opening the airway by repositioning the mandible to project forward to an unnatural position It is a mouthpiece. Oral appliances are relatively expensive and have serious side effects at various times, including jaw pain, facial discomfort, and altered tooth alignment.

  Examples of such oral appliances include US Pat. No. 7,832,403 issued to Halstrom on November 16, 2010, where the mandibular position devices each face opposite sides of a plane extending therebetween. Above, it is described as having a maxillary dentition engaging component and a mandibular dentition engaging component. An adjustable connection couples the upper dentition engaging component with the lower dentition engaging component. The adjustable connection has a first adjustment screw having a longitudinal axis perpendicular to the plane. The first and second adjustable screws are independently adjustable and are structures for providing horizontal and vertical displacement of the upper dentition engaging component relative to the lower dentition engaging component, respectively.

  Other examples of such oral appliances include U.S. Pat. No. 8,613,283 issued to Hegde on Dec. 24, 2013, where a mandibular advancement appliance secured to a subject's dentition is described. The The appliance may adjust a portion of the lower dentition relative to the subject's upper dentition while maintaining the distance between the upper and lower dentition. The appliance may also allow free rotation of the lower dentition relative to the upper dentition for increased comfort. In addition, the instrument can also be utilized with a tongue retention assembly for maintaining the position of the subject's tongue relative to a device for treating sleep breathing disorders.

  A third category of mechanical devices for snoring reduction or prevention includes devices worn on or around the subject's face and / or neck. Some such devices are splints and similar structures that are worn around the head and neck. For example, US Pat. No. 8,695,607 issued to Hohenhorst on April 15, 2014, discloses an apparatus, system, and method for constraining and / or supporting tissue structure along an airway. Yes. Hohenhorst discloses devices, systems, and methods that externally support tissue structures on or near the neck along the wall of the pharyngeal airway itself. The devices, systems, and methods mechanically support these tissue structures in, on, or near the neck in a desired orientation that is biased away from the pharyngeal airway. The mechanical support provided by the devices, systems, and methods positively resists collapse of tissue structures in, on, or close to the neck in and into the pharyngeal airway, thereby Inhibit or prevent the occurrence of sleep apnea. Such devices, systems, and methods disclosed by Hohenhorst are releasable, for example, worn around the entire neck at the level of the pharynx, allowing an individual to adjust the collar fit and form around the neck Includes full color structure, including fasteners.

  Other such devices are intended to adhere to the subject's face or neck to mechanically enlarge the airway. For example, US Pat. No. 5,752,524 issued May 19, 1998 to Corcoran discloses a device for preventing or reducing snoring. The Corcoran device, in combination, includes a rigid elliptical support base having a concave inner surface and a convex outer surface, and an adhesive material for attachment to the human epidermis is layered primarily over the entire convex inner surface. The device is “a small air passage between the maxillofacial muscles of the face and the maxilla (upper jawbone) that allows inhalation and exhalation of air so that a sleeping individual does not have to inhale and exhale air through the nose Is particularly useful for preventing snoring in humans during sleep, and by this means snoring is prevented or significantly reduced. "

  Another example of such a device is disclosed in US Pat. No. 7,793,661 issued to Macken on September 14, 2010. Macken discloses a snoring prevention device that attaches to a specific region of the neck. The attachment means can be an adhesive, a clip, or an implant. The device applies a pre-determined attractive force on the region of the neck, causing the region of the neck to expand outward from its normal position. This dilation opens an obstruction in the throat of a sleeping person, thereby eliminating snoring and helping some persons with obstructive sleep apnea.

  Another example of such a device is disclosed in US Pat. No. 8,188,330, issued May 29, 2012 to Beaudry. Beaudry discloses a bandage mechanism comprising a first section, a second section, and a third section. The first section and the third section may each include one side having an adhesive layer. A superimposed non-adhesive barrier layer may be located between a portion of the adhesive layer and the first or third section. At least one of the first or third sections may further include a plurality of hooks or loop members arranged to be fastened to corresponding hooks or loop members of the hook and loop fastener. Some forms of the mechanism disclosed by Beaudry relate to an epidermal lifting mechanism and method for increasing gas flow into the human body, more specifically, more oxygen passes through the nasal cavity. And therefore was concerned with an epidermal lifting mechanism and method for increasing both the flow of oxygen into the lungs and the flow of air exhaled from the lungs.

  The invention disclosed and taught herein is directed to devices and methods for reducing or preventing snoring that do not exist in the prior art. The invention disclosed and taught herein is easy and comfortable to use, inexpensive to manufacture, and does not require surgical intervention.

US Pat. No. 7,832,403 US Pat. No. 8,613,283 US Pat. No. 8,695,607 US Pat. No. 5,752,524 US Pat. No. 7,793,661 US Pat. No. 8,188,330

Brief Summary of the Invention As a brief summary, in one possible embodiment of the disclosed invention, the mandibular support device has a first side and a second side, and a first section. And a structural member comprising a second section and a third section. The first and third sections of the structural member each comprise a proximal portion and a distal portion, the proximal portion of the first section being coupled to the second section and the third section The proximal portion is coupled to a second section, and the second section is shaped and dimensioned to substantially correspond to the shape of the lower jaw angle, also referred to as the lower jaw angle. At least a portion of at least one of the first section, the second section, and the third section may be composed of a material that exhibits at least some degree of elastic properties. The adhesive component comprises a first adhesive layer and a second adhesive layer, each comprising a first adhesive side and a second side, wherein the second side of the first adhesive layer is Disposed on at least a portion of the first side of the distal portion of the first section, the second side of the second adhesive layer is at least on the first side of the distal portion of the third section. Placed on a part. The structural member extends at least from the upper jaw region, e.g., the cheekbone and / or upper jaw, to the upper jaw angle, to the rear, or directly below the jaw, along the lower jaw track toward the jaw. Molded and dimensioned.

  Another simple overview of many embodiments of the present invention is a mandibular support device comprising a structural member. The structural member comprises a support component and an adhesive component, wherein the support component is configured to extend from at least a portion of the facial cheekbone and / or the upper jaw to at least a portion of the mandibular angle and bonded The component is configured such that the structural member can be temporarily attached to the epidermis. The function of the lower jaw support device is to provide passive support of the lower jaw to reduce posterior movement of the lower jaw during sleep. One end of the support component is glued to the head or facial epidermis above the lower jaw, for example, around the cheekbone and / or the upper jaw. The other end of the mandibular support device is glued to the epidermis above, directly below, or behind it. The tension applied to the support component limits the posterior movement of the mandible that naturally occurs as a result of gravity and muscle relaxation.

  Another concise overview of many embodiments of the present invention is a mandibular support device comprising a structural member, the structural member comprising a support component and an adhesive component, wherein the support component is a first face component. Extends from the area above, behind, or just below the lower jaw angle on the side of the face across the anterior maxillary area to the area above, behind, or below the lower jaw angle on the second side of the face Configured as follows. The function of the lower jaw support device is to provide passive support of the lower jaw to reduce posterior movement of the lower jaw during sleep. One end of the support component is glued to the head or face epidermis on, below, or behind the lower jaw angle on the first side of the face. Another end of the support component is glued to the head or face epidermis on, below, or behind the lower jaw angle on the second side of the face. The support component can be glued to the head or facial epidermis across the front maxilla and across the front maxilla region of the face. The tension applied to the support component across the anterior maxilla limits the posterior movement of the mandible that naturally occurs as a result of gravity and muscle relaxation.

  The invention also relates to a method for using the mandibular support device described herein wherein the first side of the distal portion of the first section of the structural member is the epidermis covering the cheekbone and / or the upper jaw. The second section of the structural member is positioned above, behind or just below the mandibular angle and the first side of the distal portion of the third section of the structural member is along the trajectory of the lower jaw Attached to the epidermis of the area facing the jaw.

FIG. 1 illustrates a top plan view of a mandibular support device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of a subject wearing a mandibular support device, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 illustrates an alternative side view of a subject wearing a mandibular support device, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 illustrates a top plan view of a mandibular support device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 illustrates a top plan view of a mandibular support device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 illustrates a top plan view of a mandibular support device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of a subject wearing a mandibular support device, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 illustrates a top plan view of a mandibular support device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of a subject wearing a mandibular support device, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 illustrates a side view of a subject wearing a mandibular support device, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 illustrates a top plan view of a mandibular support device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 illustrates a side view of a subject wearing the mandibular support device depicted in FIG.

FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective view of a subject wearing the mandibular support device depicted in FIG.

FIG. 14 illustrates an untreated subject (14A) and an annotated MRI image of the treated subject, with the treated subject (14B) wearing the mandibular support device depicted in FIG. Yes.

FIG. 15 illustrates a top plan view of a mandibular support device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 illustrates a side view of a subject wearing a mandibular support device, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The drawings described above and the written description of specific structures and functions below are presented to limit the scope of what the applicant has invented or the scope of the appended claims. It is not a thing. Rather, the figures and written description are provided to teach those skilled in the art to make and use the invention in pursuit of patent protection. One skilled in the art can appreciate that not all features of a commercial embodiment of the present invention are described or shown for clarity and understanding. Those skilled in the art also understand that the development of an actual commercial embodiment that incorporates aspects of the present invention may require a number of implementation-specific decisions to achieve the developer's ultimate goal for the commercial embodiment. obtain. Such implementation-specific decisions may include, but are not limited to, compliance with system-related, enterprise-related, government-related, and other constraints that may vary from specific implementation, location, and time. Developer efforts can be complex and time consuming in an absolute sense, but such efforts can nevertheless be routine for those skilled in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. It should be understood that the invention disclosed and taught herein may be subject to numerous and various modifications and alternatives. Finally, although not limiting, the use of a singular term such as “a” is not intended as a limitation on the number of items. In addition, but not limited to, "top", "bottom", "left", "right", "upper", "lower", "lower", "upper", "side", and equivalents The use of sex terms is used in the description set forth for clarity in the specific reference to the Figures and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention or the appended claims.

  The Applicant has created a mandibular support device designed to be used for reducing or eliminating mandibular displacement. The mandibular support device may be used during sleep, endurance activities, or any other activity or situation where mandibular support is required to reduce mandibular displacement in the posterior direction. The use of a mandibular support device during sleep results in reduced or eliminated snoring and / or increased quality of sleep and comfort. The use of a mandibular support device during awake activity increases airway area by reducing or eliminating mandibular displacement, allowing higher respiratory efficiency and / or reduced respiratory effort. The mandibular support device can have various configurations that provide passive support of the mandible, thereby reducing mandibular displacement in the posterior direction. In one embodiment, the mandibular support device comprises a flexible strap that is at least a region above the mandible, eg, from the cheekbone and / or the upper jaw, above the mandibular angle, behind it, or directly below it. It is sized so as to extend. In another embodiment, the mandibular support device comprises a flexible trap that crosses the anterior maxillary region from a region above, behind, or just below the mandibular angle on the first side of the face. And sizing to extend to a region above, below or just below the lower jaw angle on the second side of the face. In these embodiments, the flexible strap also comprises an adhesive material that is flexible so that the flexible strap can be temporarily attached to the epidermis covering the human face and / or neck. Applies to sex straps.

  In one of the many possible embodiments of the present invention, the mandibular support device comprises a structural member. The structural member in turn comprises a support component and an adhesive component, wherein the support component is from an area above the lower jaw, for example from at least part of the cheekbone and / or upper jaw to at least part of the area of the lower jaw angle The adhesive component is configured such that the structural member can be temporarily attached to the skin. The function of the mandibular support device is to provide passive support of the mandible to reduce or limit the posterior movement of the mandible that naturally occurs during sleep. The support component is adhered to at least the region above the lower jaw such as the cheekbone and / or the upper jaw and the epidermis on or around the lower jaw corner. The tension in the support component limits the posterior movement of the lower jaw that occurs naturally as a result of muscle relaxation and the effects of gravity and biomechanical forces on the lower jaw.

  FIG. 1 shows an alternative embodiment of the present invention. The lower jaw support device 100 includes a structural member 110. The structural member 110 has a first side and a second side, and further comprises a first section 120, a second section 130, and a third section 140. The first section 120 includes a first section distal portion 150 and a first section proximal section 160. The third section 140 comprises a third section distal portion 170 and a third section proximal portion 180. The proximal portion of the first section is coupled to the second section 130 and the proximal portion 180 of the third section is coupled to the second section 130. The second section 130 is shaped and dimensioned to substantially correspond to the shape and size of the mandibular angle. The shape and size of the second section 130 depends on the specific user's mandibular angle depending on the specific application and intended positioning of the first section 120 relative to the user's cheekbone, maxilla, or other region above the mandible. Or it may be configured to be slightly larger or smaller than the average mandibular angle size and shape. The third section is configured to extend from the region of the lower jaw angle along the lower jaw toward the jaw.

  The structural member 110 has a support component and an adhesive component with a suitable adhesive as previously discussed herein. The adhesive component of the structural member 110 results from an adhesive layer disposed on the first side of the structural member 110. The adhesive component should include at least an adhesive layer disposed over the region of the distal end 150 of the first section and the distal end 170 of the third section. However, the adhesive layer can additionally be applied to the second section 130 to create a third adhesive portion in the second section 130. In addition, the adhesive layer can be applied to the entire first side of the structural member 110, thereby creating an adhesive region across the entire first side of the structural member 110. The amount, type, quantity, and placement of adhesives and adhesive areas can be adjusted as needed to achieve the function of the mandibular support device 100 as would be understood by one skilled in the art.

  The mandibular support device 100 can also include a positioning component 190. The positioning component 190 is disposed substantially within the second section 130 and is configured to substantially match the shape and size of the mandibular angle. The positioning component 190 can be disposed on the first side or the second side of the support component of the structural member 110. As discussed above, the positioning component 190 serves two primary functions, firstly assisting in correct placement of the mandibular support device 100 and secondly providing additional support of the mandible, Thereby, the backward movement of the lower jaw is prevented.

  The positioning component 190 can be used to assist in positioning the second section 130 of the structural member 110 in the region above, below, or just below the mandibular angle. The positioning component 190 should be placed on the structural member 110 in such a way that when the structural member 110 is applied on the user, the location of the contour of the positioning component 190 can be felt relative to the mandibular angle. is there. The positioning component 190 should be comfortable enough on the user's epidermis and flexible enough to be able to conform to the shape and size of the area below, below, or behind the mandibular angle It is. The positioning component 190 also provides a degree of tactile resistance, and therefore should be sufficiently rigid to provide the user with tactile feedback regarding placement of the second section 130 of the structural member 110 relative to the mandibular angle.

  The positioning component 190 has the additional function of providing support to the lower jaw and reducing lower jaw shift in the posterior direction. Specifically, as discussed above, the positioning component 190, when bonded to the epidermis covering the face and neck above, just below, or behind it, has a mandibular angle against it. Provides a shelf-like structure that can rest in response to relaxation of the facial and neck muscles, thereby helping to prevent posterior shift of the lower jaw.

  The mechanism of operation of the lower jaw support device 100 relies on passive external support of the lower jaw. This passive support is provided at the mandibular angle. For example, during sleep or endurance activities, facial and throat muscles relax. These muscles provide support for the lower jaw, and muscle relaxation results in reduced lower jaw support. Reduced muscle support allows the lower jaw to shift backwards due to gravity and other biomechanical forces. In turn, the shifted lower jaw allows soft tissue in the back of the throat to relax. Loose soft tissue occludes the air flow required for breathing.

  Such a restriction in the throat air passage can occur, for example, during sleep or, as another example, during endurance activities, when the facial and throat muscles relax. The relaxed muscles reduce support of the lower jaw, which allows the lower jaw to shift backwards. In turn, the shifted lower jaw allows the soft tissue in the back of the throat to relax. The loose soft tissue then occludes the air flow required for breathing. A sleeping person generally responds to airway obstruction by breathing deeper, thereby increasing air pressure in the airway. Increased air pressure results in partial opening of the airway. The sound of snoring is a limited air flow that causes soft tissue to vibrate. In the case of competition engagement, a decrease in the athlete's airway size or area reduces breathing and oxygen delivery efficiency, resulting in increased dyspnea and decreased competition performance.

  The amount of support provided by the various mandibular support devices 100 can also be affected by the materials that make up the support components of the structural member 110. The supporting components of the structural member 110 can include any suitable material including, but not limited to, paper and paper-like materials, woven natural fibers, woven synthetic fibers, and woven blend fibers. The support component of the structural member 110 can include an elastic material, either in a lateral section of the structural member or as a fiber woven into the material of the support component of the structural member 110. The elasticity or lack of structural member support component thus modifies the piecewise structural material of the structural member 110 support component as well as by selection of materials used to construct the structural member 110 support component. Can be controlled by Increasing the elasticity of the material tends to reduce the amount of support that the mandibular support device 100 can provide to prevent posterior movement of the mandible during sleep. However, increasing the elasticity of the materials used for the support components of the structural member 110 tends to increase the physical comfort of the mandibular support device 100 to the user. Ideally, the elasticity of the material allows sufficient force to provide proper support for the lower jaw, while still allowing the user to move his / her lower jaw to speak, for example, when waking Make it possible. The degree of support provided by the at least partially elastic mandibular support device 100 is also determined by the user during application of the mandibular support device 100 such that the structural member 110 is above, behind, or just below the region of the epidermis. It can be adjusted by the degree of stretching between the area around the cheekbones.

  Turning to FIG. 2, possible locations for the application of the mandibular support device 200 are depicted. The lower jaw support device 200 includes a structural member 210 that includes a support component and an adhesive component. The first section 220 of the structural member 210 is adhered to soft tissue above the lower jaw, such as the cheekbone and / or the epidermis around the upper jaw, by use of the adhesive component of the structural member 210. The second section 230 of the structural member 210 is placed on the mandibular angle, directly under it or behind it. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 2, the first section 220 of the structural member 210 contains an adhesive component that is disposed on the first side of the structural member 210 in at least a portion of the first section 210. . The second section 230 of the structural member 210 may or may not have an adhesive component disposed thereon, as will be understood by those skilled in the art, depending on the specific application. There is.

  FIG. 3 depicts a perspective view of the placement of two mandibular support devices 300 applied to a user. The structural member 310 of the lower jaw support device 300 is attached to the user's face and neck. The distal end 350 of the first section 320 of the structural member 310 is temporarily affixed to the epidermis around the user's cheekbone and / or maxilla using the adhesive component of the structural member 310. The second section 330 of the structural member 310 is disposed around the mandibular angle, directly below or around the area behind it. The second section 330 of the structural member 310 can be temporarily attached to the epidermis in the region above, behind, or just below the mandibular angle using the adhesive component of the structural member 310. However, attaching the second section 330 of the structural member 310 to the epidermis in the region behind the mandibular angle is not a necessary aspect of the present invention. The distal end 370 of the third section 340 of the structural member 310 uses a bonding component of the structural member 310 to provide a portion of the neck that extends substantially parallel to or along the lower jaw toward the jaw. Attached to the epidermis. If the structural member 310 contains a positioning component 390, the positioning component 390 is placed in the area above, behind, or just below the mandibular angle.

  The function of the mandibular support device 300 is to provide passive support to the mandible at the mandibular angle to prevent or reduce or limit the posterior shift of the mandible when facial and cervical muscles are relaxed during sleep. It is. The adhesive component of the structural member 310 anchors the support component of the structural member 310 on the soft tissue of the face or head above the lower jaw and on the area below and / or behind the jaw. The placement of the adhesive component at the distal end 350 of the first section 320 of the structural member 310 may, but need not be, preferentially located on or around the zygomatic or maxilla. The weight of the lower jaw is thereby supported by the first section 320 of the support component of the structural member 310. The third section 340 of the structural member 310 stabilizes the position of the second section 330 of the structural member 310 and allows the curve of the second section 330 of the structural member 310 to swing the mandibular angle, And limit its shift in the backward direction.

  One method of using the mandibular support device 300 to the user's face is to use the adhesive component placed on one side of the support component of the structural member 310, to the epidermis around the cheekbone or maxillary region. Starting with the application of the distal end 350 of one section 320. If the lower jaw support device 300 has a positioning component 390, the positioning component 390 should be positioned above, behind or just below the lower jaw angle, so the curve of the positioning component 390 approximates the lower jaw angle To do. If no positioning component 390 is present on the structural member 310, the second section 330 of the structural member 310 may be positioned on the lower jaw angle and thereafter so that the structural member 310 may provide resistance to posterior movement of the lower jaw. Should be sufficiently detained or directly below. Tension should be applied to the structural member 310 when it comes to the area above, behind or just below the mandibular angle. When the second section 330 of the structural member 310 comprises an adhesive component, tension is applied while the adhesive component of the second section 330 is attached to the epidermis above, behind, or just below the mandibular angle. , Should be maintained in the first section 320 of the structural member 310. If the second section 330 of the structural member 310 does not have an adhesive component, the tension in the first section 320 and the second section 330 of the structural member 310 is such that the structural member is above the mandibular angle, behind it, or When positioned around its immediate area, it should be maintained until the distal end 370 of the third section 340 of the structural member 310 is attached to the cervical epidermis along the trajectory of the lower jaw toward the jaw. is there. In this method of using the lower jaw support device 300, the distal end 350 of the first section 320 of the structural member 310 is pulled toward the lower jaw angle to support the distal end 370 of the third section 340 of the structural member 310. An adhesive component placed on one side of the component is used to adhere to the epidermis covering the area under the jaw or around the area behind it. Of course, the method of application can also be reversed, so that the distal end 370 of the third section 340 of the structural member 310 is first adhered to the epidermis around the area under the jaw or behind it, Note that the structural member is pulled posteriorly around the mandibular angle and upwards toward the area around the cheekbone and / or the upper jaw. Similarly, the second section 330 can be held against the epidermis above, behind or just below the mandibular angle, while the first section 320 and the third section 340 are respectively below the cheekbone and the jaw. And is attached in its proper position as described herein using the adhesive component of the structural member 310. In any case, the force with which structural member 310 is pulled behind or directly below the mandibular angle affects the amount of support provided to the mandible. The degree of support provided can thus be modified according to the needs of the user, and a greater amount of support is provided for users who suffer a higher degree of posterior mandibular movement during sleep. Can do.

  In an alternative embodiment based on FIG. 3, the third section 340 may extend substantially beyond what is depicted in FIG. 3, so that it crosses the opposite side of the face under the chin. Configured to adhere to the epidermis around the opposing cheekbone or maxilla. Such a configuration would provide a modified degree of support to the lower jaw.

  FIG. 4 shows an alternative embodiment of a mandibular support device 400 comprising a structural member 410. The structural member 410 has a first side and a second side, and further comprises a first section 420, a second section 430, and a third section 440. The first section 420 comprises a first section distal portion 450 and a first section proximal portion 470. The third section 440 includes a third section distal portion 460 and a third section proximal portion 475. The proximal portion 470 of the first section is coupled to the second section 430 and the proximal portion 475 of the third section is coupled to the second section 430. The second section 430 is shaped and dimensioned to substantially correspond to the shape and size of the mandibular angle. The portion of the structural member 410 that extends between the distal ends 450, 460 and its individual proximal ends 470, 475 may be defined with different widths, materials, and / or elasticity, depending on the specific application technique desired. Can be dimensioned.

  FIG. 5 shows an alternative embodiment of a mandibular support device 500 comprising a structural member 510. The structural member 510 has a first side and a second side, and further comprises a first section 520, a second section 530, and a third section 540. The first section 520 includes two branches: a front branch 522 and a rear branch 524. The front branch 522 and the rear branch 524 are each composed of a distal portion 552 and 554 and a proximal portion 562 and 564, respectively. As shown in FIG. 5, the front branch proximal portion 562 and the front branch proximal portion 564 are coupled at the point where the first section 520 is coupled to the second section 530. The third section 540 includes a third section distal portion 570 and a third section proximal portion 580. The proximal portion 560 of the first section is coupled to the second section 530 and the proximal portion 580 of the third section is coupled to the second section 530. The second section 530 is shaped and dimensioned to substantially correspond to the shape and size of the mandibular angle. Application of this embodiment of the lower jaw support device 500 to the user's face includes application of both the first segment's anterior branch 522 and the first segment's posterior branch 524 to facial soft tissue above the lower jaw. Will. For example, in one possible application, the first segment's anterior branch 522 is glued to the epidermis in the cheekbone region, while the first segment's posterior branch 524 is the epidermis in the maxillary region. Will be glued to. The lower jaw support device 500 may include a positioning component 590.

  FIG. 6 depicts an alternative embodiment of the present invention wherein the mandibular support device 600 spans a distance from the cheekbone or maxilla region on one side of the face to the cheekbone or maxilla region on the second side of the face. , Configured to pass above, behind or just below the lower jaw angle of the first and second sides of the face. In this embodiment, the structural member 610 includes a support component and an adhesive component. The support component of the structural member 610 includes a first side and a second side. The supporting components of the structural member 610 include a first section 615, a second section 620, a third section 625, a fourth section 630, a fifth section 635, and a sixth section 640. , And a seventh section 645. The first section 615 includes a distal region 650 and a proximal region 655. The third section 625 includes a proximal region 660 and a distal region 665. The fifth section 635 includes a distal region 670 and a proximal region 675. The seventh section 645 includes a proximal region 680 and a distal region 685.

  The proximal end 655 of the first section 615 is coupled to the second section 620 and the proximal end of the third section 625 is coupled to the second section 620. The proximal end 680 of the seventh section 645 and the proximal end 675 of the fifth section 635 are coupled to the sixth section 640. The distal end 665 of the third section 625 and the distal end 670 of the fifth section 635 are coupled to the fourth section 630.

  The second and sixth sections 620 and 640 of the support component of the structural member 610 are configured to substantially correspond to the shape and size of the mandibular angle. Mandibular support device 600 may include positioning components 690 and 695. Positioning components 690 and 695 are respectively disposed substantially within the second section 620 and the sixth section 640, respectively. As in the embodiment described above, the positioning components 695 and 695 can be disposed on the first side or the second side of the support component of the structural member 610. Also, as discussed with respect to other exemplary embodiments disclosed herein, support components 695 and 695 serve two major functions, firstly, proper placement of the mandibular support device 600. Assists and, secondly, provides additional support for the lower jaw, thereby preventing rearward movement of the lower jaw.

  Proximal regions of the first section 615 and the third section 625 may coincide with a portion of the second section 620 at least in part, as illustrated in the embodiment depicted in FIG. Similarly, the proximal regions of the fifth section 635 and the seventh section 685 may coincide with a portion of the sixth section 640, as illustrated in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. The distal regions of the third section 625 and the fifth section 635 are disposed around or otherwise connected to a portion of the fourth section 630.

  The structural member 610 also comprises an adhesive component with a suitable adhesive as previously discussed herein. As with the other exemplary embodiments discussed herein, the adhesive component of structural member 610 results from an adhesive layer disposed on the first side of structural member 610. The adhesive component includes at least a portion of the distal region 650 of the first section 615, a portion of the distal region 685 of the seventh section 645, and a portion of the fourth section 630 or the third section 625. And an adhesive layer disposed on any of the fifth section 635. As described above with respect to other exemplary embodiments disclosed herein, the adhesive layer is applied to the entire first side of the structural member 610, whereby the first side of the structural member 610. An adhesive region can be created throughout. The amount, type, quantity, and placement of adhesives and adhesive layers can be adjusted as needed to achieve the function of the mandibular support device 600, as would be understood by one skilled in the art.

  Positioning components 690 and 695 can be used to assist in positioning the lower jaw support device 600 on the user's face and neck. Positioning components 690 and 695 are positioned on structural member 610 in such a way that when structural member 610 is applied on a user, the location of the contour of positioning components 690 and 695 can be felt relative to the mandibular angle. It should be. The positioning components 690 and 695 are comfortable on the user's epidermis and can be conformal to the shape and size of the area above, behind, or directly below the mandibular angle, as discussed above. Should be sufficiently flexible. Positioning components 690 and 695 also provide some degree of tactile resistance and thus provide tactile feedback to the user (or other individuals applying the mandibular support device 600 to the user) regarding placement of the structural member 610 relative to the mandibular angle. Should be sufficiently stiff for.

  FIG. 7 depicts a perspective view of the placement of the mandibular support device 700, according to one possible embodiment as applied to the user. The structural member 710 of the lower jaw support device 700 is attached to the user's face and neck. The distal end 750 of the first section 715 of the structural member 710 is temporarily affixed to the epidermis around the user's cheekbone and / or maxilla using the adhesive component of the structural member 710. The second section 720 of the structural member 710 is disposed around the area below, below or just below the mandibular angle. The second section 720 of the structural member 710 can be temporarily affixed to the epidermis on the lower jaw angle, directly below, or behind the area using the adhesive component of the structural member 710. However, affixing the second section 720 of the structural member 710 to the epidermis in the region above, below, or behind the lower jaw angle is not a necessary aspect of the present invention. The distal end 765 of the third section 725 and the distal end 770 of the fifth section 735, and / or the fourth section 730 of the structural member 710 may be posterior to the jaw using the adhesive component of the structural member 710. Attached to the epidermis covering the neck in the region. The distal end 785 of the seventh section 745 of the structural member 710 is in an orientation such that the sixth section 740 is positioned about the mandibular angle, behind it, or just under the area below it. Or it is attached to the region of the upper jaw. If the structural member 710 contains positioning components 790, 795, the positioning components 790, 795 are placed on the mandibular angle, directly below, or in the region behind it. The method of application of the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 6 and 7 to the user will be similar to the method of application of the other embodiments disclosed herein.

  FIG. 8 is an illustration of one embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the lower jaw support device 800 includes a structural member 810 having a first side and a second side and having a first end 820 and a second end 830. Portrayed as The structural member 810 can optionally include a positioning component 840 that can be shaped to approximate the shape and size of the mandibular angle. Structural member 810 contains a support component and an adhesive component. The adhesive component is disposed on at least a portion of one side of the support component that is substantially proximate to the first end and substantially proximate to the second end. In this embodiment, it is envisioned that the positioning component 840 will optimally lie on the side of the support component on which the adhesive component is disposed. However, if the structural member is thin enough to allow the edges of the positioning component 840 to be discriminated by touching, for placement in the upper jaw angle, directly below, or behind it, the positioning configuration Note that element 840 may be located on either side of the support component proximate to the second end of the structural member, or may be located within the support component.

  The adhesive component of the present invention can be any suitable adhesive known to those skilled in the art, such adhesive being for use on human skin for temporary adhesion of the support component to the epidermis. It is assumed that it is suitable. In the present context, the term “temporary adhesion” is intended to refer to adhesion over a sufficient period of time to span at least 8-12 hours and is removable by the user with little discomfort. Such an adhesive is envisioned to be a self-adhesive material, an adhesive that must be wetted to exhibit adhesive properties, or any other suitable adhesive known in the art.

  FIG. 9 illustrates placement of the mandibular support device 900 on the user. The first end 920 of the structural member 910 is adhered to the epidermis that covers or is close to the user's cheekbone and / or upper jaw. The second end 930 of the structural member 910 is adhered to the epidermis in the region behind the user's mandibular angle.

  FIG. 10 shows an alternative view of placement of the lower jaw support device 1000 on the user. In FIG. 10, it can be seen that in a preferred application or method of use, two mandibular support devices 1000 are applied to the user and one is located on or around each side of the mandible. In FIG. 10, it can again be seen that the structural member 1010 of the mandibular support device 1000 is sized to span the distance from the cheekbone or maxillary region to the region above, below, or just below the mandibular angle. Specifically, as depicted in FIG. 10, the first end 1020 of the structural member 1010 is adhered to the epidermis covering the cheekbones and / or the upper jaw, and the second end 1030 of the structural member 1010 is Covering, or adhering to the epidermis around, above, below or below the mandibular angle. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 10, the lower jaw support device 1000 includes a positioning component 1040. The positioning component is used to align the second end 1030 of the structural member 1010 with the mandibular angle. The positioning component 1040 also provides additional passive support to limit posterior movement of the lower jaw.

  The support component of the structural member 1010 can be made from any flexible material on which the adhesive component can be placed. Such a flexible material may have an elastic quality along all or part of its length, but such elastic quality is not a requirement of the present invention. Since the structural member 1010 is intended to be applied to the epidermis of a human head, face, and / or neck for use during sleep, the adhesive component of the structural member 1010 can be removed from the epidermis. While allowing easy removal, it should still be possible to maintain its position on the epidermis over a period of at least 8-12 hours. Similarly, because structural member 1010 is intended to be applied to the epidermis of a human head, face, and / or neck, and structural member 1010 may be in place for up to 12 hours or more. Ideally, the material from which the support component of the structural member 1010 is made may allow moisture and / or air permeation. This “breathability” of the support component of the structural member 1010 is intended to serve to increase the comfort of the mandibular support device for the user.

  The support component of the structural member 1010 may include sections that demonstrate elastic properties, or may be constructed entirely from materials that demonstrate elastic properties. Alternatively, the support component of the structural member 1010 can include an inelastic material. If the support component of the structural member 1010 includes a material that is partially or substantially elastic along its length, elasticity is necessary for proper functioning of the mandibular support device 1000. Should not be so great as to exclude substantial passive support.

  The mandibular support device 1000 serves to provide passive support of the mandible that at least partially overcomes the reduction in muscle support that occurs as a result of relaxation of facial and cervical muscles during sleep. The support component of the structural member 1010 of the lower jaw support device 1000 contacts the adhesive component on one side of the first end 1020 of the support component of the structural member 1010 to the epidermis in the cheekbone and / or maxillary region. And thereby anchoring the first end 1020 of the structural member 1010 to the soft tissue in or around the cheekbone and / or maxilla by adhering to the epidermis in the cheekbone and / or maxilla region . The second end 1030 of the structural member 1010 is then adhered to the skin covering the area directly behind the mandibular angle.

  One skilled in the art understands that the application positioning of the first end 1020 of the structural member 1010 may vary from user to user or around the user's face while still performing the functions of the present invention. Will do. For example, depending on the material used for the structural member 1010, the adhesive material, and the geometry of the user's face, the optimal position of the first end 1020 of the structural member 1010 is in the direction of the user's nose. It can be determined that it may have been rotated and may be slightly in front of the user's cheekbones.

  The positioning component 1040 can be used to assist in positioning the second end 1030 of the structural member 1010 to the area above, behind or just below the mandibular angle. The positioning component 1040 should be placed on the structural member 1010 in such a way that when the structural member 1010 is applied on a user, the contour location of the positioning component 1040 can be felt relative to the mandibular angle. is there. The positioning component 1040 should be comfortable enough on the user's epidermis and flexible enough to be able to conform to the shape and size of the area above, below, or behind the mandibular angle It is. The positioning component 1040 also provides some degree of tactile resistance and therefore should be sufficiently rigid to provide the user with tactile feedback regarding placement of the second end 1030 of the structural member 1010 relative to the mandibular angle. .

  The positioning component 1040 has the additional function of providing support to the lower jaw and reducing lower jaw shift in the posterior direction. Specifically, the positioning component 1040 is adhered to the epidermis covering the head, face, or neck above, behind, or just below the mandibular angle, so that the mandibular angle relative to the face and neck It provides a shelf-like structure that can rest in response to muscle relaxation, thereby helping to prevent posterior shift of the lower jaw.

  Turning again to FIG. 8, in an alternative embodiment, one or more heel members 850 are embedded in or otherwise disposed on the structural member 810 of the mandibular support device 800. be able to. The heel member 850 may include one or more strips of rigid or semi-rigid material. The saddle member 850 may comprise metal, plastic, or any other suitable material as would be understood by one skilled in the art to perform the required function. The heel member 850 provides support for the shape of the structural member 810 in the longitudinal direction from the first end 820 to the second end 830, the structural member 810 from the region above the lower jaw. It would be possible to maintain a shape that approximates the shape of the human cervix and face over the corner, behind it, or down to the region below it. The shape of the heel member 850 provides an inward force on the face and neck when applied to the cervical and facial epidermis to align the positioning component 840 closer to the mandibular angle. You can do so. An inward force directly behind the mandibular angle allows the positioning component 840 to effectively resist mandibular movement in the posterior direction along the longitudinal axis of the structural member 810, thereby causing the mandible to resist. Additional support can be provided for. The saddle member 850 may also be configured to pass between the positioning component 840 and the structural member 810 as shown in region 860. However, such a configuration is only one of several configurations that will be understood by those skilled in the art.

  One method of applying the mandibular support device 800 to the user's face is to use an adhesive component located on one side of the support component of the structural member 810, above the mandibular angle, just below it, or behind it. Beginning with application of the second end 830 to the skin in the region. If the mandibular support device 800 has a positioning component 840, the positioning component 840 should be positioned directly above, directly below, or behind it, so that the curve of the positioning component 840 is at the mandibular angle. Approximate. If the mandibular support device 800 includes one or more semi-rigid members 850, the end of the structural member 810 should be attached to the epidermis above, behind, or just below the mandibular angle, and therefore present If so, the positioning component 840 is allowed to press slightly inward to its location directly below or behind the mandibular angle. If no positioning component 840 is present on the structural member 810, the second end 830 of the structural member 810 has a sufficient mandibular angle so that the structural member 810 can provide resistance to posterior movement of the lower jaw. Should be detained beyond. In this method of using the lower jaw support device 800, the first end 820 of the structural member 810 is pulled toward the cheekbone and / or the upper jaw and placed on one side of the support component of the structural member 810. The component is used to adhere to the epidermis covering the cheekbone and / or maxillary area. The force with which the first end 820 of the support component of structural member 810 is pulled directly below or behind the lower jaw angle and toward the cheekbones and / or the upper jaw affects the amount of support provided to the lower jaw. obtain. The degree of support provided can thus be modified according to the needs of the user, and a greater amount of support is provided for users who suffer a higher degree of posterior mandibular movement during sleep. Can do. Of course, the application of the mandibular support device 800 to the user first glues the first end 820 of the structural member 810 to the area of the cheekbone, and subsequently attaches the second end 830 of the structural member 810 to the mandible. Pulling towards the corners can be accomplished by adhering the second end 830 of the structural member 810 to the epidermis covering the face and neck region above, just below, or behind the mandibular corner. . However, since the positioning of the second end 830 of the structural member 810 is most important for the most effective application of the mandibular support device 800, the preferred method of use is first the second of the structural member 810. With the step of adhering the end 830 to the soft tissue covering the area above, behind or just below the mandibular angle.

  FIG. 11 is an illustration of one embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the lower jaw support device 1100 includes a structural member 1110 having a first side and a second side and having a first end 1120 and a second end 1130. Portrayed as The structural member 1110 can optionally include a positioning component 1140 that can be shaped to approximate the shape and size of the mandibular angle. The structural member 1110 contains a support component and an adhesive component. The adhesive component is disposed on at least a portion of one side of the support component that is substantially proximate to the first end and substantially proximate to the second end. In this embodiment, it is envisioned that the positioning component 1140 will optimally lie on the side of the support component on which the adhesive component is disposed. However, if the structural member is thin enough to allow the edges of the positioning component 1140 to be discriminated by touching, for placement in the upper jaw angle, directly below, or behind it, the positioning configuration Note that element 1140 may be located on either side of the support component proximate to the second end of the structural member, or may be located within the support component. In the exemplary embodiment, positioning component 1140 is comprised of a semi-rigid plastic member that is adhered to the support component of the structural member. The positioning component 1140 can be composed of any suitable material as would be understood by one skilled in the art. The positioning component 1140 can be affixed to the structural member using any suitable means as would be understood by one skilled in the art.

  FIG. 12 illustrates placement of the mandibular support device 1100 on the user. The first end 1120 of the structural member 1110 is adhered to the epidermis that covers or is close to the user's cheekbone and / or upper jaw. The second end 1130 of the structural member 1110 is glued to the epidermis in the area behind the user's mandibular angle. The placement of the positioning component 1140 is shown at, around or close to the mandibular angle of the user. Optimal placement of the positioning component 1140 can be adjusted around the area of the mandibular angle to suit the user's needs and biomechanics. For example, the subject of FIG. 12 positions the positioning component 1140 along the lower jaw slightly anterior to the lower jaw angle for optimal effect.

  FIG. 13 illustrates an alternative view showing placement of the lower jaw support device 1100 on the user.

  FIG. 14 illustrates exemplary effects on the airway achieved using the mandibular support device 1100. FIG. 14A depicts a sagittal MRI image of a 58 year old man exercising regularly. The image in the figure shows the airway untreated (without the use of the mandibular support device 1100), as will be readily identified by those skilled in the art. This relative airway narrowing results in moderate to severe snoring. The subject's tongue is in direct contact with the soft palate and those skilled in the art will readily notice where there is no space between the tongue and the soft palate. In addition, the subject's tongue is in direct contact with the epiglottis and there is no space between the epiglottis and the tongue.

  FIG. 14B shows a sagittal MRI image of the same 58 year old male in the condition being treated with a mandibular support device 1100 in place as described herein. In this treated condition, as depicted in the MRI image, the distance at its narrowest point across the patient's airway is not treated here as would be identified by one skilled in the art About 2.5 times that of the patient's airways. Assuming a circular cross-section of the airway, this 2.5-fold increase in change from the untreated minimum distance across the airway to the treated minimum distance across the airway is a treatment using the mandibular support device 1100. Resulting in a 250% increase in the area of the airway with Specifically, in FIG. 14B of the image showing the condition being treated, the subject's tongue is now in a more forward position and is no longer in direct contact with the soft palate, and those skilled in the art From the MRI image, the substantial space between the tongue and the soft palate will be recognized. The tongue is no longer in direct contact with the epiglottis, and there is a substantial space between the tongue and epiglottis resulting from the use of the mandibular support device 1100. Although not depicted, it is anticipated that similar treatment effects will result from all alternative embodiments of the invention described herein.

  FIG. 15 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the present invention configured to provide passive support for the lower jaw using the anterior maxillary region. The lower jaw support device 1500 includes a structural member 1510. The structural member 1510 has a first side and a second side, and further comprises a first section 1515, a second section 1520, and a third section 1525. The first section 1515 includes a first section distal portion 1530 and a first section proximal portion 1535. The third section 1525 includes a third section distal portion 1545 and a third section proximal portion 1540. Proximal portion 1535 of the first section is coupled to second section 1520 and proximal section 1540 of the third section is coupled to second section 1520. The second section 1520 generally corresponds substantially to the shape and size of the facial region below the nose and above the upper lip, with the distal end 1530 of the first section 1515 being the first of the user's face. The distal end 1545 of the third section 1525 is on the second side of the user's face, while shaped and dimensioned to allow it to be glued around the area of the mandibular angle on the side Glued around the area of the mandibular angle. The shape and size of the second section 1520 may be configured to be slightly larger or smaller than the upper lip area of a particular user, depending on the specific application and intended positioning of the lower jaw support device 1500. The distal end 1530 of the first section 1515 can be sized and shaped to approximate the size and shape of the user's mandibular angle, and the distal end 1545 of the third section 1525 can be the size of the user's mandibular angle. And can be sized and shaped to approximate the shape.

  The structural member 1510 has a support component and an adhesive component with a suitable adhesive as previously discussed herein. The adhesive component of structural member 1510 results from an adhesive layer disposed on the first side of structural member 1510. The adhesive component should include at least an adhesive layer disposed over the region of the distal end 1530 of the first section and the distal end 1545 of the third section. However, the adhesive layer can be applied to the entire first section 1515 and the entire third section 1525. The adhesive component may also be applied to the second section 1520 to create a third adhesive portion in the second section 1520. In addition, the adhesive layer can be applied to the entire first side of the structural member 1510, thereby creating an adhesive region throughout the first side of the structural member 1510. The amount, type, quantity, and placement of adhesives and adhesive areas can be adjusted as needed to achieve the function of the mandibular support device 1500, as would be understood by one skilled in the art.

  The lower jaw support device 100 can also include positioning components 1550 and 1555. Positioning components 1550 and 1555 are disposed substantially proximate to the distal portion 1530 of the first section 1515 and the distal portion 1545 of the third section 1525, respectively. The positioning components 1550 and 1555 can be disposed on the first side or the second side of the support component of the structural member 1510. Positioning components 1550 and 1555 serve two primary functions, firstly, assisting in correct placement of the mandibular support device 1500, and second, providing additional support for the mandible, thereby allowing the posterior of the mandible Prevent movement.

  The positioning components 1550 and 1555 are the first and third regions of the structural member 1510, respectively, the first and third sections 1515 and 1525, respectively, above the mandibular angle, behind it, or just below it. Can be used to assist in positioning on the two sides. Positioning components 1550 and 1555 are arranged on the structural member 1510 in such a way that when the structural member 1510 is applied on the user, the location of the contours of the positioning components 1550 and 1555 can be felt with respect to each of the mandibular angles. Should be placed in. The positioning components 1550 and 1555 are comfortable enough on the user's epidermis and flexible enough to be able to conform to the shape and size of the area below, below, or behind the mandibular angle. Should be. Positioning components 1550 and 1555 also provide some tactile resistance, thus providing tactile feedback to the user regarding placement of the first section 1515 and second section 1525 of the structural member 1510 relative to the corresponding mandibular angle, respectively. Should be sufficiently rigid to provide.

  Positioning components 1550 and 1555 provide additional support to the lower jaw and reduce lower jaw shift in the posterior direction. Specifically, as discussed above, the positioning components 1550 and 1555, when attached to the epidermis covering the face and neck above, below, or behind the lower jaw angle, the lower jaw relative thereto It provides a shelf-like structure where the horns can rest in response to relaxation of the facial and cervical muscles, thereby helping to prevent the posterior shift of the lower jaw.

  The mechanism of operation of the lower jaw support device 1500 relies on passive external support of the lower jaw. This passive support is provided at the mandibular angle. For example, during sleep or endurance activities, facial and throat muscles relax. These muscles provide support for the lower jaw, and muscle relaxation results in reduced lower jaw support. Reduced muscle support allows the lower jaw to shift backwards due to gravity and other biomechanical forces. In turn, the shifted lower jaw allows the soft tissue in the back of the throat to relax. Loose soft tissue occludes the air flow required for breathing.

  Such a restriction in the throat air passage can occur when facial and throat muscles relax, for example, during sleep or, alternatively, during endurance activities. The relaxed muscles reduce support of the lower jaw, which allows the lower jaw to shift backwards. In turn, the shifted lower jaw allows the soft tissue in the back of the throat to relax. The loose soft tissue then occludes the air flow required for breathing. A sleeping person generally responds to airway obstruction by breathing deeper, thereby increasing air pressure in the airway. Increased air pressure results in partial opening of the airway. The sound of snoring is a limited air flow that causes soft tissue to vibrate. In the case of competition engagement, a decrease in the athlete's airway size or area reduces breathing and oxygen delivery efficiency, resulting in increased dyspnea and decreased competition performance.

  The amount of support provided by the various mandibular support devices 1500 can also be affected by the materials that make up the support components of the structural member 1510. The supporting components of the structural member 1510 can include any suitable material including, but not limited to, paper and paper-like materials, woven natural fibers, woven synthetic fibers, and woven blend transitions. The support component of the structural member 1510 can include an elastic material, either at the side section of the structural member or as a fiber woven into the material of the support component of the structural member 1510. The elasticity of the supporting member of the structural member or its lack therefore modifies the piecewise structural material of the supporting component of the structural member 1510, as well as by the choice of materials used to construct the supporting component of the structural member 1510. Can be controlled by Increasing the elasticity of the material may tend to reduce the amount of support that the mandibular support device 1500 can provide to prevent posterior movement of the mandible during sleep. However, increasing the elasticity of the materials used for the support components of the structural member 1510 may tend to increase the physical comfort of the lower jaw support device 1500 for the user. Ideally, the elasticity of the material allows sufficient force to provide proper support for the lower jaw, while still allowing the user to move his / her lower jaw to speak, for example, when waking Make it possible. The degree of support provided by the at least partially elastic mandibular support device 1500 is also determined by the user during application of the mandibular support device 1500 so that the structural member 1510 is on the mandible on the first side of the face, behind it, or It can be adjusted by the extent to which it is stretched between the area of the epidermis directly below and the mandibular angle on the second side of the face, behind it or below the area of the epidermis.

  It should be noted that the various regions of the structural member 1510 can have different degrees of elasticity depending on the particular application needs, the amount of support required, the user comfort required, etc. For example, the second section 1520 is the only section that includes elastic properties and may allow the structural member 1520 to be stretched across the anterior maxillary region of the face, while the first section 1515 and the third section Sections 1525 exhibit little or no elastic properties. Alternatively, the entire structural member 1510 can have elastic properties. Varying the location of the elastic region and the degree of elasticity can have a variable effect on the application of the mandibular support device 1500 and the degree of mandibular support provided.

  Turning to FIG. 16, the location of application of the lower jaw support device 1500 is depicted. The lower jaw support device 1500 includes a structural member 1510 that includes a support component and an adhesive component. FIG. 16 illustrates the left side of the face on which the third section 1525 of the mandibular support device 1510 is placed on the epidermis above, directly below, or behind it, depending on the use of the adhesive component of the structural member 1510. It is temporarily attached and depicted. A second section 1520 of the structural member 1510 is placed on or across the front maxilla region of the face. The second section can optionally be temporarily affixed to the face by the use of adhesive components on all or part of the second section 1520. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 16, the third section 1525 of the structural member 1510 contains an adhesive component disposed on the first side of the structural member 1510 in at least a portion of the first section 1525. . The second section 1520 of the structural member 1510 may or may not have an adhesive component disposed thereon, depending on the specific application as would be understood by one skilled in the art. is there. The first section of the structural member 1510 is not shown in FIG. 16, but is temporarily attached to the epidermis above, directly below, or behind the lower jaw angle of the right side of the face by use of the adhesive component of the structural member 1510. It will be.

  One method of applying the mandibular support device 1500 to the user's face uses an adhesive component disposed on one side of the support component of the structural member 1510 on the lower jaw angle on the first side of the face. Starting with the application of the third section 1525 to the skin in the region directly below or behind it. If the mandibular support device 1500 has a positioning component 1555, the positioning component 1555 should be positioned directly above, directly below, or behind it, so that the positioning component 1555 is the anterior region of the mandibular angle. Abut. If no positioning component 1555 is present on the structural member 1510, the distal end 1545 of the third section 1525 of the structural member 1510 may provide resistance to the posterior movement of the mandible so that the structural member 1510 may provide resistance to posterior movement of the lower jaw. Should be placed well beyond the mandibular angle. In this method of using the lower jaw support device 1500, the first section of the structural member 1510 (not depicted in FIG. 16 but corresponding to the first section 1515 of FIG. 15) is pulled across the front of the face. Adhering to the skin on, below, or behind the lower jaw angle on the second side of the face, the second section 1520 therefore rests on or around the front upper jaw region of the face. The positioning component 1550 on the distal end 1530 of the first section 1515, if present, will be placed on, below, or behind the lower jaw angle on the second side of the face. The force with which the first section 1515 of the support component of the structural member 1510 is pulled over, below, or behind the lower jaw angle is provided to the lower jaw from the front upper jaw region and the second section 1520 of the structural member 1510. It can affect the amount of support. The degree of support provided can thus be modified according to the needs of the user, and a greater amount of support is provided for users who suffer a higher degree of posterior mandibular movement during sleep. Can do. The degree of support enabled by the mandibular support device can be modified throughout the structural member, in particular by the amount of elasticity provided in the second section 1520. Of course, application of the lower jaw support device 1500 to the user can be accomplished by gluing the first section 1515 of the structural member 1510 prior to gluing the third section 1525 of the structural member. . As an additional alternative, the first section 1515 and the third section 1525 of the structural member 1510 are bonded to the epidermis on, below, or behind the lower jaw angle on that individual side of the face substantially simultaneously with each other. In this process, the structural member 15150 is pulled relative to the anterior maxillary region to stretch the second section 1520.

  Other and further embodiments utilizing one or more aspects of the invention described above can be devised without departing from the spirit of Applicants' invention. Further, various methods and embodiments of the mandibular support device can be included in combination with each other to produce variations of the disclosed methods and embodiments. A discussion of a singular element can include a plurality of elements and vice versa.

  The order of the steps can occur in various sequences unless specifically limited otherwise. The various steps described herein can be combined with other steps, sandwiched by the steps described, and / or divided into multiple steps. Similarly, elements can be functionally described and embodied as separate components or combined into components having multiple functions.

  The present invention has been described in the context of preferred and other embodiments, and not all embodiments of the invention have been described. Obvious modifications and variations of the described embodiments are available to those skilled in the art. The disclosed and undisclosed embodiments are not intended to limit or limit the scope or availability of the invention as conceived by the applicant, but rather, according to patent law, the applicant It is intended to fully protect all such modifications and improvements that fall within the scope or category of equivalents of the paragraph.

The invention also relates to a method for using the mandibular support device described herein wherein the first side of the distal portion of the first section of the structural member is the epidermis covering the cheekbone and / or the upper jaw. The second section of the structural member is positioned above, behind or just below the mandibular angle and the first side of the distal portion of the third section of the structural member is along the trajectory of the lower jaw Attached to the epidermis of the area facing the jaw.
For example, the present invention provides the following.
(Item 1)
A lower jaw support device,
A structural member comprising a support component and an adhesive component;
The adhesive component is disposed between the support component and a wearer's epidermis;
The adhesive component temporarily attaches the structural component to the skin of the wearer;
The structural member is disposed around the epidermis covering the lower jaw angle on the first side of the face, is disposed around the front upper jaw region of the face, and covers the lower jaw angle on the second side of the face Placed around the epidermis,
At least a portion of the support component is substantially flexible;
Mandibular support device.
(Item 2)
The support component comprises a first section, a second section, and a third section;
The first section comprises a proximal portion and a distal portion;
The second section comprises a first end and a second end;
The third section comprises a proximal portion and a distal portion;
A proximal portion of the first section is coupled to a first end of the second section;
A proximal portion of the third section is coupled to a second end of the second section;
The distal portion of the first section is disposed around the epidermis covering the area around or behind the lower jaw angle of the wearer on the first side of the face;
The distal portion of the second section is disposed around the epidermis covering the area around or behind the lower jaw angle of the wearer on the second side of the face;
The second section is disposed around the front maxillary region of the face;
The lower jaw support device according to item 1.
(Item 3)
The support component is tensioned across the anterior maxillary region between an epidermis in which a distal portion of the first section is disposed and an epidermis in which a third section of the support component is disposed. The lower jaw support device of claim 2, wherein the tension is sufficient to limit posterior movement of the wearer's lower jaw.
(Item 4)
4. A mandibular support device according to item 3, wherein at least some of the support components exhibit elastic properties.
(Item 5)
A positioning component is disposed around a first section of the support component, and the positioning component is disposed on the first side of the face behind the mandibular angle of the wearer and the positioning component The element is disposed about a third section of the support component, and the positioning component is disposed on the second side of the face behind the mandibular angle of the wearer. Mandibular support device.
(Item 6)
A method of increasing the size of a human airway,
Providing a mandibular support device, such mandible support device including a support component, at least one adhesive component, a first end, and a second end; ,
Temporarily affixing the first end of the support component to the epidermis covering the area around or behind the lower jaw angle on the first side of the face using the adhesive component Steps,
Placing the support component around the front maxillary region of the face;
Temporarily attaching the second end of the support component to the epidermis covering the area around or behind the lower jaw angle on the second side of the face using the adhesive component And steps to
Including
Thus, a method wherein a tension in the support component sufficient to provide support to the lower jaw is generated across the front upper jaw region of the face.
(Item 7)
Item 7. The method of item 6, wherein the structural component exhibits elastic properties.
(Item 8)
A lower jaw support device,
Comprising a structural member comprising a support component and at least one adhesive component;
Each adhesive component is disposed between the support component and the wearer's epidermis,
The adhesive component temporarily attaches the structural component to the skin of the wearer;
The support component comprises a first end and a second end,
The first end is disposed around the epidermis covering the area around or behind the lower jaw angle of the wearer on the first side of the face;
The second end is disposed around the epidermis covering the area around or behind the lower jaw angle of the wearer on the second side of the face;
The first end and the second end are connected across the anterior maxillary region of the face;
At least a portion of the support component is substantially flexible;
Mandibular support device.
(Item 9)
9. The item of claim 8, wherein the support component provides tension across the anterior maxillary region between a lower jaw angle on the first side of the face and a lower jaw angle on the second side of the face. Mandibular support device.
(Item 10)
The lower jaw support device of item 9, wherein the tension is sufficient to limit posterior movement of the wearer's lower jaw.

Claims (10)

A lower jaw support device,
A structural member comprising a support component and an adhesive component;
The adhesive component is disposed between the support component and a wearer's epidermis;
The adhesive component temporarily attaches the structural component to the skin of the wearer;
The structural member is disposed around the epidermis covering the lower jaw angle on the first side of the face, is disposed around the front upper jaw region of the face, and covers the lower jaw angle on the second side of the face Placed around the epidermis,
At least a portion of the support component is substantially flexible;
Mandibular support device. The support component comprises a first section, a second section, and a third section;
The first section comprises a proximal portion and a distal portion;
The second section comprises a first end and a second end;
The third section comprises a proximal portion and a distal portion;
A proximal portion of the first section is coupled to a first end of the second section;
A proximal portion of the third section is coupled to a second end of the second section;
The distal portion of the first section is disposed around the epidermis covering the area around or behind the lower jaw angle of the wearer on the first side of the face;
The distal portion of the second section is disposed around the epidermis covering the area around or behind the lower jaw angle of the wearer on the second side of the face;
The second section is disposed around the front maxillary region of the face;
The lower jaw support device according to claim 1.   The support component is tensioned across the anterior maxillary region between an epidermis in which a distal portion of the first section is disposed and an epidermis in which a third section of the support component is disposed. The lower jaw support device of claim 2, wherein the tension is sufficient to limit posterior movement of the wearer's lower jaw.   4. A mandibular support device according to claim 3, wherein at least some of the support components exhibit elastic properties.   A positioning component is disposed around a first section of the support component, and the positioning component is disposed on the first side of the face behind the mandibular angle of the wearer and the positioning component The element is disposed around a third section of the support component, and the positioning component is disposed behind the lower jaw angle of the wearer on the second side of the face. Mandibular support device as described. A method of increasing the size of a human airway,
Providing a mandibular support device, such mandible support device including a support component, at least one adhesive component, a first end, and a second end; ,
Temporarily affixing the first end of the support component to the epidermis covering the area around or behind the lower jaw angle on the first side of the face using the adhesive component Steps,
Placing the support component around the front maxillary region of the face;
Temporarily attaching the second end of the support component to the epidermis covering the area around or behind the lower jaw angle on the second side of the face using the adhesive component And steps to
Including
Thus, a method wherein a tension in the support component sufficient to provide support to the lower jaw is generated across the front upper jaw region of the face.   The method of claim 6, wherein the structural component exhibits elastic properties. A lower jaw support device,
Comprising a structural member comprising a support component and at least one adhesive component;
Each adhesive component is disposed between the support component and the wearer's epidermis,
The adhesive component temporarily attaches the structural component to the skin of the wearer;
The support component comprises a first end and a second end,
The first end is disposed around the epidermis covering the area around or behind the lower jaw angle of the wearer on the first side of the face;
The second end is disposed around the epidermis covering the area around or behind the lower jaw angle of the wearer on the second side of the face;
The first end and the second end are connected across the anterior maxillary region of the face;
At least a portion of the support component is substantially flexible;
Mandibular support device.   9. The support component of claim 8, wherein the support component provides tension across the anterior maxillary region between a lower jaw angle on the first side of the face and a lower jaw angle on the second side of the face. Mandibular support device.   10. A mandibular support device according to claim 9, wherein the tension is sufficient to limit posterior movement of the wearer's mandible.

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