US20070276306A1 - One piece brace liner having multiple adjustment zones - Google Patents
One piece brace liner having multiple adjustment zones Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20070276306A1 US20070276306A1 US11/646,060 US64606006A US2007276306A1 US 20070276306 A1 US20070276306 A1 US 20070276306A1 US 64606006 A US64606006 A US 64606006A US 2007276306 A1 US2007276306 A1 US 2007276306A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- brace
- adjuster
- tension
- connector
- tightening portions
- 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.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
-
- 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
- A61F5/0123—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 for the knees
-
- 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
- A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
- A61F13/06—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads specially adapted for feet or legs; Corn-pads; Corn-rings
- A61F13/061—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads specially adapted for feet or legs; Corn-pads; Corn-rings for knees
- A61F13/062—Openable readjustable
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A41—WEARING APPAREL
- A41D—OUTERWEAR; PROTECTIVE GARMENTS; ACCESSORIES
- A41D13/00—Professional, industrial or sporting protective garments, e.g. surgeons' gowns or garments protecting against blows or punches
- A41D13/015—Professional, industrial or sporting protective garments, e.g. surgeons' gowns or garments protecting against blows or punches with shock-absorbing means
- A41D13/0153—Professional, industrial or sporting protective garments, e.g. surgeons' gowns or garments protecting against blows or punches with shock-absorbing means having hinged or separable parts
-
- 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
- A61F2005/0132—Additional features of the articulation
- A61F2005/0137—Additional features of the articulation with two parallel pivots
-
- 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
- A61F2005/0132—Additional features of the articulation
- A61F2005/0172—Additional features of the articulation with cushions
-
- 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
- A61F2005/0132—Additional features of the articulation
- A61F2005/0172—Additional features of the articulation with cushions
- A61F2005/0176—Additional features of the articulation with cushions supporting the patella
Definitions
- This invention relates in general to an exteriorly positional anatomical brace for stabilizing a pivoting joint.
- the brace includes a cuff having multiple adjustment zones allowing a user to tighten or loosen the brace.
- the brace prevents hyperextension of joint ligaments by communicating the movement of a first limb structure to a second limb structure.
- the health and well-being of all joints in the human body are susceptible to disease and injury.
- the human body contains many joints throughout the body; however one joint in particular is very susceptible to injury, namely, the knee joint.
- the knee joint is located on a leg and connects the femur to the tibia.
- Other bones surrounding the knee joint include the patella and the fibula.
- the bones of the knee joint are held together by four ligaments, namely the anterior cruciate ligament, posterior cruciate ligament, medial collateral ligament, and lateral collateral ligament.
- An injury to the knee involves a strain or tear in any of the above-mentioned ligaments.
- An injury to the knee joint may occur during normal, everyday activity. A simple misstep or twist in the wrong direction could strain or tear a ligament. However, injury is more likely to occur during sports related activities. During such activities, large forces may be applied to the joint, thereby causing a strain or tear in one or more of the ligaments. For example, in football, as players are tackled, a player may sustain a hit directly to his knee; in basketball, players apply forces to their knees when they routinely change their direction by planting their foot and quickly changing their course. However, one sport that can particularly cause considerable injury to a knee is motocross.
- a rider's knee acts as a shock absorber as the rider traverses over a course's rough terrain by landing large jumps, or maneuvering through a series of bumps.
- a rider's knee is susceptible to sudden twists which can cause injury. For instance, as a rider moves through the course, his foot may get caught in the dirt, thereby twisting the rider's knee.
- Athletes have been protecting their knees by wearing knee braces for years.
- a knee brace protects the knee joint by stabilizing the bones surrounding the knee. By stabilizing the movement of the bones, the changes of straining or tearing a ligament is lessened.
- braces include an upper frame member attached to a first limb structure and a lower frame member attached to a second limb structure.
- Each frame member typically includes an adjustable cuff positionable on a concave surface of the joint. The cuff can be tightened to secure the frame member to its respective limb structure.
- an exteriorly positional anatomical brace for stabilizing a pivoting joint.
- the joint is disposed between a first limb structure and a second limb structure of a living being.
- the pivoting joint includes a concave surface.
- the brace includes an upper frame member positionable adjacent the first limb structure and a lower frame member positionable adjacent the second limb structure.
- the brace further includes a joint member pivotally connecting the upper frame member and the lower frame member.
- the brace also includes a cuff member.
- the cuff member includes a pair of upper lateral tightening portions positioned on opposed sides of a cuff longitudinal axis.
- the upper lateral tightening portions are attached to the upper frame member.
- the cuff member further includes a pair of lower lateral tightening portions positioned on opposed sides of the cuff longitudinal axis.
- the lower lateral tightening portions are attached to the lower frame member.
- the cuff member further includes a liner extending along the cuff longitudinal axis.
- the liner is disposed between and coupled to the upper lateral tightening portions.
- the liner is also disposed between and coupled to the lower lateral tightening portions.
- the liner includes a bend region positionable adjacent the concave surface of the joint. The bend region is located between upper and lower lateral tightening portions.
- the cuff member further includes a latitudinal strap positioned along the bend region, and a connector coupled to the latitudinal strap.
- the connector includes a top region and a bottom region.
- the cuff member further includes a first adjuster coupled to the upper lateral tightening portions and the top region of the connector. The first adjuster is disposed in tension for adjusting a first distance between the upper lateral tightening portions.
- the cuff member further includes a second adjuster coupled to the lower lateral tightening portions and the bottom region of the connector.
- the second adjuster is disposed in tension for adjusting a first distance between the lower lateral tightening portions.
- the first and second adjusters are communicable via the connector.
- the brace is secured to the user such that the upper frame member is positioned adjacent the first limb structure, the lower frame member is positioned adjacent the second limb structure, and the liner is positioned adjacent the concave surface of the joint.
- the first adjuster is disposed in tension thereby decreasing the distance between the pair of upper lateral tightening portions and increasing the pressure applied by the cuff member to the first limb structure.
- the second adjuster is additionally disposed in tension, thereby decreasing the distance between the pair of lower lateral tightening portions and increasing the pressure applied by the cuff member to the second limb structure.
- the first and second adjusters are communicable via the connector member. Therefore, as the tension in the first adjuster increases, the tension in the second adjuster also increases. Likewise, as the tension in the second adjuster increases, the tension in the first adjuster also increases. Such communicability links the movement of the first limb structure to the movement of the second limb structure, thereby reducing the risk of injury to the joint.
- the cuff member may include a third adjuster coupled to the upper lateral tightening portions.
- the third adjuster may be disposed in tension for adjusting a second distance between the upper lateral tightening portions.
- the cuff member may further include a fourth adjuster coupled to the lower lateral tightening portions.
- the fourth adjuster may be disposed in tension for adjusting a second distance between the lower lateral tightening portions.
- the cuff member will be considered to have four zones of adjustment. Each adjuster is considered to control one zone of adjustment.
- the cuff member may further include a longitudinal strap coupled to the liner.
- the longitudinal strap may be positioned along the longitudinal axis.
- the connector may be coupled to the longitudinal strap to position the connector adjacent the liner.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective lateral view of an exteriorly positional anatomical brace having a cuff member, the brace positioned on a leg of a user shown in phantom;
- FIG. 2 is a perspective front view of the brace
- FIG. 3 is a perspective medial view of the brace without adjusters
- FIG. 4 is an elevation view of a cuff member with first and second adjusters shown coupled to upper and lower lateral tightening portions, respectively, and the first and second adjusters being communicable via a connector member;
- FIG. 5 is an elevation view of the cuff member of FIG. 4 with third and fourth adjusters shown coupled to the upper and lower lateral tightening portions, respectively;
- FIG. 6 is a perspective rear view of the brace of FIG. 1 having first, second, third and fourth adjusters;
- FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the connector.
- An aspect of the present invention is a device designed to protect a joint of a user. Such a joint is located between a first limb structure and a second limb structure of the user.
- the device is intended to be secured to the first and second limb structures.
- the device protects the joint by stabilizing the movement of the first and second limb structures.
- an exteriorly positional anatomical brace 10 is shown in place on a user 2 .
- the device is shown on a knee of the user 2 , where the first limb structure 6 is an upper leg and the second limb structure 8 is a lower leg.
- the brace 10 includes an upper frame member 11 positionable adjacent the first limb structure 6 of the user 2 and a lower frame member 12 positionable adjacent the second limb structure 8 of the user 2 .
- the brace 10 further includes a joint member 14 pivotally connecting the upper frame member 11 and the lower frame member 12 .
- the brace 10 also includes a cuff member 16 .
- the cuff member 16 includes a pair of upper lateral tightening portions 18 positioned on opposed sides of a cuff longitudinal axis 20 .
- the upper lateral tightening portions 18 attach to the upper frame member 11 .
- the cuff member 16 further includes a pair of lower lateral tightening portions 22 positioned on opposed sides of the cuff longitudinal axis 20 .
- the lower lateral tightening portions 22 attach to the lower frame member 12 .
- the cuff member 16 further includes a liner 24 extending along the cuff longitudinal axis 20 .
- the liner 24 is disposed between and coupled to the upper lateral tightening portions 18 .
- the liner 24 is also disposed between and coupled to the lower lateral tightening portions 22 .
- the liner 24 includes a bend region 26 positionable adjacent the concave surface of the joint.
- the bend region 26 is located between upper and lower lateral tightening portions 18 , 22 .
- the cuff member 16 further includes a latitudinal strap 30 positioned along the bend region 26 of the liner 24 .
- the cuff member 16 further includes a connector 32 coupled to the latitudinal strap 30 .
- the connector 32 includes a top region 34 and a bottom region 36 .
- the cuff member 16 further includes a first adjuster 38 coupled to the upper lateral tightening portions 18 and the top region 34 of the connector 32 .
- the first adjuster 38 is disposed in tension for adjusting a first distance between the upper lateral tightening portions 18 .
- the cuff member 16 further includes a second adjuster 40 coupled to the lower lateral tightening portions 22 and the bottom region 36 of the connector 32 .
- the second adjuster 40 is disposed in tension for adjusting a first distance between the lower lateral tightening portions 22 .
- the first and second adjusters 38 , 40 are communicable via the connector 32 .
- the upper and lower frame members 11 , 12 are positionable adjacent the first and second limb structures 6 , 8 , respectively.
- the upper and lower frame members 11 , 12 are positioned near or close to the first and second limb structures 6 , 8 , but not necessarily touching the limb structures 6 , 8 .
- the upper frame member 11 is pivotally connected to the lower frame member 12 via the joint member 14 .
- the upper and lower frame members 11 , 12 connect to the joint member 14 such that the upper frame member 11 and the lower frame member 12 rotate about the joint member 14 .
- FIGS. 1 and 3 show the cuff member 16 attached to the upper and lower frame members 11 , 12 .
- the cuff member 16 includes upper and lower lateral tightening portions 18 , 22 .
- the upper and lower lateral tightening portions 18 , 22 attach to the upper and lower frame members 11 , 12 , respectively.
- Such attachment is preferably a detachable attachment, such as a snap fastener, or a hook and loop fastener.
- the upper and lower lateral tightening portions 18 , 22 may be permanently attached to the upper and lower frame members 11 , 12 using permanent attachment devices such as a rivet or screw.
- FIGS. 4 and 5 show the cuff member 16 having a pair of upper and lower lateral tightening portions 18 , 22 .
- the pair of upper lateral tightening portions 18 are positioned on opposed sides of the cuff longitudinal axis 20 .
- an upper lateral tightening portion 18 is located on either side of the cuff longitudinal axis 20 .
- the pair of lower lateral tightening portions 22 are also positioned on opposed sides of the cuff longitudinal axis 20 .
- a lower lateral tightening portion 22 is located on either side of the cuff longitudinal axis 20 .
- the pair of upper lateral tightening portions 18 are not integrally formed.
- the pair of lower lateral tightening portions 22 are also not integrally formed.
- the upper lateral tightening portions 18 and the lower lateral tightening portions 22 may be integrally formed without departing from the scope of the invention.
- FIGS. 4 and 5 also show the liner 24 extending along the cuff longitudinal axis 20 .
- the liner 24 is comprised of an elastic material, capable of bending without losing its structural integrity.
- the liner 24 is disposed between the pair of upper lateral tightening portions 18 .
- the liner 24 extends between the pair of upper lateral tightening portions 18 .
- the liner 24 is also disposed between the pair of lower lateral tightening portions 22 .
- the liner 24 extends between the pair of lower lateral tightening portions 22 .
- the liner is coupled to the upper lateral tightening portions and the lower lateral tightening portions.
- the liner 24 is sewn or stitched to the upper and lower lateral tightening portions 18 , 22 , thereby permanently coupling the liner 24 to the upper and lower lateral tightening portions 18 , 22 .
- the cuff member 16 includes only one liner 24 , as is shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 .
- the liner 24 extends along the cuff longitudinal axis 20 from the lower frame member 11 to the upper frame member 12 .
- the liner 24 includes a bend region 26 located between the upper and lower lateral tightening portions 18 , 22 .
- the bend region 26 is positionable adjacent the concave surface of the joint. In this regard, the bend region 26 is situated next to or near the concave surface of the joint. The bend region 26 does not necessarily have to be in contact with the concave surface of the joint.
- the cuff member 16 having a connector 32 .
- the connector 32 is coupled to the latitudinal strap 30 .
- the connector 32 is fixedly coupled to the latitudinal strap 30 by being stitched or sewn to the strap 30 .
- the connector 32 may be detachably coupled to the strap 30 using snap fasteners or hook and loop fasteners.
- the latitudinal strap 30 holds the connector 32 in place, adjacent to the liner 24 , as the brace 10 is in use.
- FIG. 4 shows the cuff member 16 having first and second adjusters 38 , 40 .
- the first and second adjusters 38 , 40 are comprised of a non-elastomeric lace.
- the first adjuster 38 is coupled to the upper lateral tightening portions 18 and the top region 34 of the connector 32 .
- the second adjuster 40 is coupled to the lower lateral tightening portions 22 and the bottom region 36 of the connector 32 .
- the top region 34 of the connector 32 is the region through which the first adjuster 38 passes through.
- the bottom region 36 of the connector 32 is the region through which the second adjuster 40 passes through.
- the upper and lower lateral tightening portions 18 , 22 are provided with eyelets which the first and second adjusters 38 , 40 are laced through.
- the first adjuster 38 is disposed in tension for adjusting a first distance between the upper lateral tightening portions 18 .
- the distance between the upper lateral tightening portions 18 decreases, thereby increasing the pressure applied by the cuff member 16 to the first limb structure 6 .
- the second adjuster 40 is disposed in tension for adjusting a first distance between the lower lateral tightening portions 22 . As the user 2 increases the tension in the second adjuster 40 , the distance between the lower lateral tightening portions 22 decreases, thereby increasing the pressure applied by the cuff member 16 to the second limb structure 8 .
- the tensions of the first and second adjusters 38 , 40 are communicable via the connector 32 .
- the tensions of the first and second adjusters 38 , 40 fluctuate as the user 2 moves his first and second limb structures 6 , 8 .
- the tension in the first or second adjusters 38 , 40 increases when one of the first or second limb structures 6 , 8 begins to separate or extend from its natural position in the joint.
- a hyperextension of the joint occurs when one of the first or second limb structures 6 , 8 separates from its natural position so as to strain or tear the ligaments securing the joint.
- An increase in tension in one of the first or second adjusters 38 , 40 is communicated to the other one of the first or second adjusters 38 , 40 via the connector 32 .
- the pressure of the entire cuff member 16 , as applied to the first and second limb structures 6 , 8 increases.
- the increase in pressure of the cuff member 16 as applied to the first and second limb structures 6 , 8 stabilizes the joint thereby decreasing the chances of hyperextending the joint.
- FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of the connector 32 .
- the connector 32 guides the first adjuster 38 such that when the first adjuster 38 is disposed in tension, the portions of the first adjuster 38 exiting the top region 34 of the connector 32 are directed in non-parallel directions.
- the connector 32 guides the second adjuster 40 such that when the second adjuster 40 is disposed in tension, the portions of the second adjuster 40 exiting the bottom region 36 of the connector 32 are directed in non-parallel directions. Therefore, as the tension increases in any of the directions of one of the first or second adjusters 38 , 40 , such increase in tension is communicated to the other one of the first or second adjusters 38 , 40 .
- the cuff member 16 may also include a third adjuster 42 and a fourth adjuster 44 .
- FIG. 5 shows a view of the cuff member 16 having third and fourth adjusters 42 , 44 .
- the third and fourth adjusters 42 , 44 will be used in addition to the first and second adjusters 38 , 40 .
- the third adjuster 42 is coupled to the pair of upper lateral tightening portions 18 .
- the third adjuster 42 is disposed in tension for adjusting a second distance between the upper lateral tightening portions 18 .
- the fourth adjuster 44 is coupled to the pair of lower lateral tightening portions 22 .
- the fourth adjuster 44 is disposed in tension for adjusting a second distance between the lower lateral tightening portions 22 .
- a user 2 is able to tighten or loosen the brace 10 by adjusting the tension in the adjusters 38 , 40 , 42 , 44 .
- Each adjuster 38 , 40 , 42 , 44 controls one zone of adjustment.
- the brace 10 includes multiple zones of adjustment.
- FIG. 6 is a perspective rear view of the brace 10 having first, second, third and fourth adjusters 38 , 40 , 42 , 44 .
- the brace 10 has four zones of adjustment; two control the upper lateral tightening portions 18 , while two control the lower lateral tightening portions 22 .
- the adjusters 38 , 40 , 42 , 44 must be capable of being disposed in tension.
- the preferred material for the adjusters 38 , 40 , 42 , 44 is a non-elastomeric lace, or other appropriate materials as would be recognized by the skilled artisan.
- FIGS. 4-5 shows an alternative embodiment of the brace 10 containing a longitudinal strap 46 .
- the longitudinal strap 46 is coupled to the liner 24 and positioned along the cuff longitudinal axis 20 .
- the longitudinal strap 46 connects the liner 24 to the connector 32 . Therefore, as the liner 24 expands or stretches the connector 32 moves accordingly.
- a user 2 secures the brace 10 to the first and second limb structures 6 , 8 .
- the user 2 secures the brace 10 to the leg 4 of a user 2 .
- the brace 10 is secured to the user 2 by positioning the upper frame member 11 adjacent the first limb structure 6 and positioning the lower frame member 12 adjacent the second limb structure 8 .
- a cuff member 16 is attached to the upper and lower frame members 18 , 22 .
- the cuff member 16 is positioned such that the bend region 26 of the liner 24 is adjacent the concave surface of the joint of the user 2 .
- the user 2 adjusts a first distance between the pair of upper lateral tightening portions 18 by disposing the first adjuster 38 in tension.
- the user 2 also adjusts a first distance between the pair of lower lateral tightening portions 22 by disposing the second adjuster 40 in tension.
- a connector 32 communicates the tensile forces of the first adjuster 38 with the tensile forces of the second adjuster 40 .
- the brace 10 may also include third and fourth adjusters 42 , 44 .
- a user 2 may adjust a second distance between the pair of upper lateral tightening portions 18 using the third adjuster 42 .
- a user 2 may adjust a second distance between the pair of lower lateral tightening portions 22 using the fourth adjuster 44 .
- the increase in tension in the adjusters 38 , 40 , 42 , 44 increases the pressure applied by the cuff member 16 to the first and second limb structures 6 , 8 .
- the connector 32 communicates the increase in tension to the other one of the first and second adjusters 38 , 40 .
- the tension in the other one of the first or second adjusters 38 , 40 is thereby increased.
- the increase in tension stabilizes the joint and prevents hyperextension.
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- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Vascular Medicine (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Biomedical Technology (AREA)
- Heart & Thoracic Surgery (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Public Health (AREA)
- Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
- Orthopedic Medicine & Surgery (AREA)
- Nursing (AREA)
- Orthopedics, Nursing, And Contraception (AREA)
- Professional, Industrial, Or Sporting Protective Garments (AREA)
Abstract
A joint protecting brace includes a cuff member. The cuff member includes a pair of upper lateral and lower lateral tightening portions positioned on opposed sides of a cuff longitudinal axis. The cuff member further includes a liner disposed between and coupled to the upper lateral tightening portions and lower lateral tightening portions and extending along the cuff longitudinal axis. The cuff member further includes a connector coupled to a latitudinal strap. The cuff member further includes a first adjuster coupled to the upper lateral tightening portions and the connector. The cuff member further includes a second adjuster coupled to the lower lateral tightening portions and the connector. The first and second adjusters are disposed in tension for adjusting a distance between the upper and lower lateral tightening portions respectively. The first and second adjusters are communicable via the connector.
Description
- Not Applicable
- Not Applicable
- 1. Field of Invention
- This invention relates in general to an exteriorly positional anatomical brace for stabilizing a pivoting joint. Specifically, the brace includes a cuff having multiple adjustment zones allowing a user to tighten or loosen the brace. The brace prevents hyperextension of joint ligaments by communicating the movement of a first limb structure to a second limb structure.
- 2. Description
- The health and well-being of all joints in the human body are susceptible to disease and injury. The human body contains many joints throughout the body; however one joint in particular is very susceptible to injury, namely, the knee joint. The knee joint is located on a leg and connects the femur to the tibia. Other bones surrounding the knee joint include the patella and the fibula. The bones of the knee joint are held together by four ligaments, namely the anterior cruciate ligament, posterior cruciate ligament, medial collateral ligament, and lateral collateral ligament. An injury to the knee involves a strain or tear in any of the above-mentioned ligaments.
- An injury to the knee joint may occur during normal, everyday activity. A simple misstep or twist in the wrong direction could strain or tear a ligament. However, injury is more likely to occur during sports related activities. During such activities, large forces may be applied to the joint, thereby causing a strain or tear in one or more of the ligaments. For example, in football, as players are tackled, a player may sustain a hit directly to his knee; in basketball, players apply forces to their knees when they routinely change their direction by planting their foot and quickly changing their course. However, one sport that can particularly cause considerable injury to a knee is motocross. In motocross, a rider's knee acts as a shock absorber as the rider traverses over a course's rough terrain by landing large jumps, or maneuvering through a series of bumps. In addition to acting as a shock absorber, a rider's knee is susceptible to sudden twists which can cause injury. For instance, as a rider moves through the course, his foot may get caught in the dirt, thereby twisting the rider's knee.
- Whatever the activity may be, one can mitigate the chance of injuring a joint by fitting a brace around the joint. Athletes have been protecting their knees by wearing knee braces for years. A knee brace protects the knee joint by stabilizing the bones surrounding the knee. By stabilizing the movement of the bones, the changes of straining or tearing a ligament is lessened.
- In the related art, most braces include an upper frame member attached to a first limb structure and a lower frame member attached to a second limb structure. Each frame member typically includes an adjustable cuff positionable on a concave surface of the joint. The cuff can be tightened to secure the frame member to its respective limb structure.
- Despite the protection offered by most braces, injuries to joints continue to occur. A number of injuries occur because of the lack of protection on the concave surface of the joint. Chief among such injuries are hyperextensions of the knee ligaments. Hyperextensions continue to occur despite the presence of a knee brace because of the lack of support and stabilization on the concave surface of the joint. The typical knee brace does not stabilize the rearward movement of the first limb structure relative to the second limb structure. As such, there is a need in the art for an improved knee brace that prevents hyperextension of the joint by preventing the rearward movement of the first and second limb structures relative to each other.
- According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided an exteriorly positional anatomical brace for stabilizing a pivoting joint. The joint is disposed between a first limb structure and a second limb structure of a living being. The pivoting joint includes a concave surface.
- The brace includes an upper frame member positionable adjacent the first limb structure and a lower frame member positionable adjacent the second limb structure. The brace further includes a joint member pivotally connecting the upper frame member and the lower frame member. The brace also includes a cuff member. The cuff member includes a pair of upper lateral tightening portions positioned on opposed sides of a cuff longitudinal axis. The upper lateral tightening portions are attached to the upper frame member. The cuff member further includes a pair of lower lateral tightening portions positioned on opposed sides of the cuff longitudinal axis. The lower lateral tightening portions are attached to the lower frame member. The cuff member further includes a liner extending along the cuff longitudinal axis. The liner is disposed between and coupled to the upper lateral tightening portions. The liner is also disposed between and coupled to the lower lateral tightening portions. The liner includes a bend region positionable adjacent the concave surface of the joint. The bend region is located between upper and lower lateral tightening portions. The cuff member further includes a latitudinal strap positioned along the bend region, and a connector coupled to the latitudinal strap. The connector includes a top region and a bottom region. The cuff member further includes a first adjuster coupled to the upper lateral tightening portions and the top region of the connector. The first adjuster is disposed in tension for adjusting a first distance between the upper lateral tightening portions. The cuff member further includes a second adjuster coupled to the lower lateral tightening portions and the bottom region of the connector. The second adjuster is disposed in tension for adjusting a first distance between the lower lateral tightening portions. The first and second adjusters are communicable via the connector.
- In operation, the brace is secured to the user such that the upper frame member is positioned adjacent the first limb structure, the lower frame member is positioned adjacent the second limb structure, and the liner is positioned adjacent the concave surface of the joint. The first adjuster is disposed in tension thereby decreasing the distance between the pair of upper lateral tightening portions and increasing the pressure applied by the cuff member to the first limb structure. The second adjuster is additionally disposed in tension, thereby decreasing the distance between the pair of lower lateral tightening portions and increasing the pressure applied by the cuff member to the second limb structure. The first and second adjusters are communicable via the connector member. Therefore, as the tension in the first adjuster increases, the tension in the second adjuster also increases. Likewise, as the tension in the second adjuster increases, the tension in the first adjuster also increases. Such communicability links the movement of the first limb structure to the movement of the second limb structure, thereby reducing the risk of injury to the joint.
- According to various embodiments of the invention, the cuff member may include a third adjuster coupled to the upper lateral tightening portions. The third adjuster may be disposed in tension for adjusting a second distance between the upper lateral tightening portions. The cuff member may further include a fourth adjuster coupled to the lower lateral tightening portions. The fourth adjuster may be disposed in tension for adjusting a second distance between the lower lateral tightening portions. In such embodiments including first, second, third and fourth adjusters, the cuff member will be considered to have four zones of adjustment. Each adjuster is considered to control one zone of adjustment.
- The cuff member may further include a longitudinal strap coupled to the liner. The longitudinal strap may be positioned along the longitudinal axis. The connector may be coupled to the longitudinal strap to position the connector adjacent the liner.
- These and other features and advantages of the various embodiments disclosed herein will be better understood with respect to the following description and drawings, in which like numbers refer to like parts throughout, and in which:
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective lateral view of an exteriorly positional anatomical brace having a cuff member, the brace positioned on a leg of a user shown in phantom; -
FIG. 2 is a perspective front view of the brace; -
FIG. 3 is a perspective medial view of the brace without adjusters; -
FIG. 4 is an elevation view of a cuff member with first and second adjusters shown coupled to upper and lower lateral tightening portions, respectively, and the first and second adjusters being communicable via a connector member; -
FIG. 5 is an elevation view of the cuff member ofFIG. 4 with third and fourth adjusters shown coupled to the upper and lower lateral tightening portions, respectively; -
FIG. 6 is a perspective rear view of the brace ofFIG. 1 having first, second, third and fourth adjusters; and -
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the connector. - An aspect of the present invention is a device designed to protect a joint of a user. Such a joint is located between a first limb structure and a second limb structure of the user. The device is intended to be secured to the first and second limb structures. The device protects the joint by stabilizing the movement of the first and second limb structures.
- Referring to
FIGS. 1-3 , an exteriorly positionalanatomical brace 10 is shown in place on auser 2. In the embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 1-3 , the device is shown on a knee of theuser 2, where thefirst limb structure 6 is an upper leg and thesecond limb structure 8 is a lower leg. - The
brace 10 includes anupper frame member 11 positionable adjacent thefirst limb structure 6 of theuser 2 and alower frame member 12 positionable adjacent thesecond limb structure 8 of theuser 2. Thebrace 10 further includes ajoint member 14 pivotally connecting theupper frame member 11 and thelower frame member 12. Thebrace 10 also includes acuff member 16. Thecuff member 16 includes a pair of upperlateral tightening portions 18 positioned on opposed sides of a cufflongitudinal axis 20. The upperlateral tightening portions 18 attach to theupper frame member 11. Thecuff member 16 further includes a pair of lowerlateral tightening portions 22 positioned on opposed sides of the cufflongitudinal axis 20. The lowerlateral tightening portions 22 attach to thelower frame member 12. Thecuff member 16 further includes aliner 24 extending along the cufflongitudinal axis 20. Theliner 24 is disposed between and coupled to the upperlateral tightening portions 18. Theliner 24 is also disposed between and coupled to the lowerlateral tightening portions 22. Theliner 24 includes abend region 26 positionable adjacent the concave surface of the joint. Thebend region 26 is located between upper and lowerlateral tightening portions cuff member 16 further includes alatitudinal strap 30 positioned along thebend region 26 of theliner 24. Thecuff member 16 further includes aconnector 32 coupled to thelatitudinal strap 30. Theconnector 32 includes atop region 34 and abottom region 36. Thecuff member 16 further includes afirst adjuster 38 coupled to the upperlateral tightening portions 18 and thetop region 34 of theconnector 32. Thefirst adjuster 38 is disposed in tension for adjusting a first distance between the upperlateral tightening portions 18. Thecuff member 16 further includes asecond adjuster 40 coupled to the lowerlateral tightening portions 22 and thebottom region 36 of theconnector 32. Thesecond adjuster 40 is disposed in tension for adjusting a first distance between the lowerlateral tightening portions 22. The first andsecond adjusters connector 32. - As described above, the upper and
lower frame members second limb structures lower frame members second limb structures limb structures upper frame member 11 is pivotally connected to thelower frame member 12 via thejoint member 14. In this regard, the upper andlower frame members joint member 14 such that theupper frame member 11 and thelower frame member 12 rotate about thejoint member 14. -
FIGS. 1 and 3 show thecuff member 16 attached to the upper andlower frame members cuff member 16 includes upper and lowerlateral tightening portions lateral tightening portions lower frame members lateral tightening portions lower frame members -
FIGS. 4 and 5 show thecuff member 16 having a pair of upper and lowerlateral tightening portions lateral tightening portions 18 are positioned on opposed sides of the cufflongitudinal axis 20. In this regard, an upperlateral tightening portion 18 is located on either side of the cufflongitudinal axis 20. The pair of lowerlateral tightening portions 22 are also positioned on opposed sides of the cufflongitudinal axis 20. As such, a lowerlateral tightening portion 22 is located on either side of the cufflongitudinal axis 20. As shown inFIGS. 4 and 5 , the pair of upperlateral tightening portions 18 are not integrally formed. The pair of lowerlateral tightening portions 22 are also not integrally formed. However, the upperlateral tightening portions 18 and the lowerlateral tightening portions 22 may be integrally formed without departing from the scope of the invention. -
FIGS. 4 and 5 also show theliner 24 extending along the cufflongitudinal axis 20. Preferably, theliner 24 is comprised of an elastic material, capable of bending without losing its structural integrity. As mentioned above, theliner 24 is disposed between the pair of upperlateral tightening portions 18. In this regard, theliner 24 extends between the pair of upperlateral tightening portions 18. In addition, theliner 24 is also disposed between the pair of lowerlateral tightening portions 22. As such, theliner 24 extends between the pair of lowerlateral tightening portions 22. The liner is coupled to the upper lateral tightening portions and the lower lateral tightening portions. Preferably, theliner 24 is sewn or stitched to the upper and lowerlateral tightening portions liner 24 to the upper and lowerlateral tightening portions - In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the
cuff member 16 includes only oneliner 24, as is shown inFIGS. 4 and 5 . Theliner 24 extends along the cufflongitudinal axis 20 from thelower frame member 11 to theupper frame member 12. As explained above, theliner 24 includes abend region 26 located between the upper and lowerlateral tightening portions bend region 26 is positionable adjacent the concave surface of the joint. In this regard, thebend region 26 is situated next to or near the concave surface of the joint. Thebend region 26 does not necessarily have to be in contact with the concave surface of the joint. - The
cuff member 16 having aconnector 32. As mentioned above, theconnector 32 is coupled to thelatitudinal strap 30. In this regard, theconnector 32 is fixedly coupled to thelatitudinal strap 30 by being stitched or sewn to thestrap 30. However, theconnector 32 may be detachably coupled to thestrap 30 using snap fasteners or hook and loop fasteners. Thelatitudinal strap 30 holds theconnector 32 in place, adjacent to theliner 24, as thebrace 10 is in use. -
FIG. 4 shows thecuff member 16 having first andsecond adjusters second adjusters first adjuster 38 is coupled to the upperlateral tightening portions 18 and thetop region 34 of theconnector 32. Thesecond adjuster 40 is coupled to the lowerlateral tightening portions 22 and thebottom region 36 of theconnector 32. Thetop region 34 of theconnector 32 is the region through which thefirst adjuster 38 passes through. Thebottom region 36 of theconnector 32 is the region through which thesecond adjuster 40 passes through. As shown inFIG. 4 , the upper and lowerlateral tightening portions second adjusters - The
first adjuster 38 is disposed in tension for adjusting a first distance between the upperlateral tightening portions 18. In this regard, as theuser 2 increases the tension in thefirst adjuster 38, the distance between the upperlateral tightening portions 18 decreases, thereby increasing the pressure applied by thecuff member 16 to thefirst limb structure 6. Likewise, thesecond adjuster 40 is disposed in tension for adjusting a first distance between the lowerlateral tightening portions 22. As theuser 2 increases the tension in thesecond adjuster 40, the distance between the lowerlateral tightening portions 22 decreases, thereby increasing the pressure applied by thecuff member 16 to thesecond limb structure 8. - The tensions of the first and
second adjusters connector 32. The tensions of the first andsecond adjusters user 2 moves his first andsecond limb structures second adjusters second limb structures second limb structures second adjusters second adjusters connector 32. By communicating the increase in tension in one of the first orsecond adjusters second adjusters entire cuff member 16, as applied to the first andsecond limb structures cuff member 16 as applied to the first andsecond limb structures -
FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of theconnector 32. Preferably, theconnector 32 guides thefirst adjuster 38 such that when thefirst adjuster 38 is disposed in tension, the portions of thefirst adjuster 38 exiting thetop region 34 of theconnector 32 are directed in non-parallel directions. Likewise, theconnector 32 guides thesecond adjuster 40 such that when thesecond adjuster 40 is disposed in tension, the portions of thesecond adjuster 40 exiting thebottom region 36 of theconnector 32 are directed in non-parallel directions. Therefore, as the tension increases in any of the directions of one of the first orsecond adjusters second adjusters - The
cuff member 16 may also include athird adjuster 42 and afourth adjuster 44.FIG. 5 shows a view of thecuff member 16 having third andfourth adjusters fourth adjusters second adjusters third adjuster 42 is coupled to the pair of upperlateral tightening portions 18. Thethird adjuster 42 is disposed in tension for adjusting a second distance between the upperlateral tightening portions 18. Similarly, thefourth adjuster 44 is coupled to the pair of lowerlateral tightening portions 22. Thefourth adjuster 44 is disposed in tension for adjusting a second distance between the lowerlateral tightening portions 22. - According to an aspect of the present invention, a
user 2 is able to tighten or loosen thebrace 10 by adjusting the tension in theadjusters adjuster brace 10 includes multiple zones of adjustment.FIG. 6 is a perspective rear view of thebrace 10 having first, second, third andfourth adjusters brace 10 has four zones of adjustment; two control the upperlateral tightening portions 18, while two control the lowerlateral tightening portions 22. - The
adjusters adjusters -
FIGS. 4-5 shows an alternative embodiment of thebrace 10 containing alongitudinal strap 46. Thelongitudinal strap 46 is coupled to theliner 24 and positioned along the cufflongitudinal axis 20. Thelongitudinal strap 46 connects theliner 24 to theconnector 32. Therefore, as theliner 24 expands or stretches theconnector 32 moves accordingly. - In operation, a
user 2 secures thebrace 10 to the first andsecond limb structures FIGS. 1 , 2 and 3, theuser 2 secures thebrace 10 to the leg 4 of auser 2. Thebrace 10 is secured to theuser 2 by positioning theupper frame member 11 adjacent thefirst limb structure 6 and positioning thelower frame member 12 adjacent thesecond limb structure 8. Acuff member 16 is attached to the upper andlower frame members cuff member 16 is positioned such that thebend region 26 of theliner 24 is adjacent the concave surface of the joint of theuser 2. Theuser 2 adjusts a first distance between the pair of upperlateral tightening portions 18 by disposing thefirst adjuster 38 in tension. Theuser 2 also adjusts a first distance between the pair of lowerlateral tightening portions 22 by disposing thesecond adjuster 40 in tension. Aconnector 32 communicates the tensile forces of thefirst adjuster 38 with the tensile forces of thesecond adjuster 40. - The
brace 10 may also include third andfourth adjusters user 2 may adjust a second distance between the pair of upperlateral tightening portions 18 using thethird adjuster 42. Similarly, auser 2 may adjust a second distance between the pair of lowerlateral tightening portions 22 using thefourth adjuster 44. - The increase in tension in the
adjusters cuff member 16 to the first andsecond limb structures second adjusters connector 32 communicates the increase in tension to the other one of the first andsecond adjusters second adjusters - While an illustrative and presently preferred embodiment of the invention has been described in detail herein, it is to be understood that the inventive concepts may be otherwise variously embodied and employed and that the appended claims are intended to be construed to include such variations except insofar as limited by the prior art.
Claims (22)
1. (canceled)
2. (canceled)
3. (canceled)
4. (canceled)
5. (canceled)
6. (canceled)
7. (canceled)
8. (canceled)
9. (canceled)
10. An exteriorly positional anatomical brace for stabilizing a pivoting joint, the joint having a concave surface and being disposed between a first limb structure and a second limb structure of a living being, wherein the joint pivots about a pivot axis, the brace comprising:
an upper frame member positionable adjacent the first limb structure;
a lower frame member positionable adjacent the second limb structure;
a joint member pivotally connecting the upper frame member and the lower frame member; and
a cuff member including:
a first adjustment zone;
a second adjustment zone;
a first adjuster capable of being disposed in tension to securely position the first adjustment zone adjacent to the first limb structure, wherein the tension of the first adjuster increases when the first limb structure separates from its natural position;
a second adjuster capable of being disposed in tension to securely position the second adjustment zone adjacent to the second limb structure, wherein the tension of the second adjuster increases when the second limb structure separates from its natural position; and
a connector coupled to the first and second adjusters, wherein the first and second adjusters are in communication with each other via the connector, such that a change in tension in one of the first and second adjusters is communicated to the other one of the first and second adjusters.
11. The brace of claim 10 , wherein the cuff member further includes a third adjustment zone and a third adjuster capable of being disposed in tension to securely position the third adjustment zone adjacent to the first limb structure, wherein the first adjustment zone is positioned between the third adjustment zone and the pivot axis.
12. The brace of claim 10 , wherein the cuff member further includes a fourth adjustment zone and a fourth adjuster capable of being disposed in tension to securely position the fourth adjustment zone adjacent to the second limb structure, wherein the second adjustment zone is position between the fourth adjustment zone and the pivot axis.
13. The brace of claim 10 , wherein the cuff member further includes a liner disposed between and extending along the length of the first and second adjustment zones, wherein the liner includes a bend region positionable adjacent the concave surface of the joint, the bend region being located between the first and second adjustment zones.
14. The brace of claim 13 , wherein the liner is comprised of an elastic material.
15. The brace of claim 13 , wherein cuff member further includes a longitudinal strap coupled to the liner, the longitudinal strap being positioned along a brace longitudinal axis.
16. The brace of claim 15 , wherein the connector is coupled to the longitudinal strap.
17. The brace of claim 10 , wherein the cuff member further includes a latitudinal strap positioned between the first and second adjustment zones.
18. The brace of claim 17 , wherein the connector is coupled to the latitudinal strap.
19. The brace of claim 10 , wherein the first adjuster is comprised of non-elastomeric lace.
20. The brace of claim 10 , wherein the second adjuster is comprised of non-elastomeric lace.
21. The brace of claim 11 , wherein the third adjuster is comprised of non-elastomeric lace.
22. The brace of claim 12 , wherein the fourth adjuster is comprised of non-elastomeric lace.
Priority Applications (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/646,060 US20070276306A1 (en) | 2006-05-26 | 2006-12-27 | One piece brace liner having multiple adjustment zones |
US12/793,119 US7947005B2 (en) | 2006-05-26 | 2010-06-03 | One piece brace liner having multiple adjustment zones |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/441,951 US7182740B1 (en) | 2006-05-26 | 2006-05-26 | One piece brace liner having multiple adjustment zones |
US11/646,060 US20070276306A1 (en) | 2006-05-26 | 2006-12-27 | One piece brace liner having multiple adjustment zones |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/441,951 Continuation US7182740B1 (en) | 2006-05-26 | 2006-05-26 | One piece brace liner having multiple adjustment zones |
Related Child Applications (1)
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US12/793,119 Continuation US7947005B2 (en) | 2006-05-26 | 2010-06-03 | One piece brace liner having multiple adjustment zones |
Publications (1)
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US20070276306A1 true US20070276306A1 (en) | 2007-11-29 |
Family
ID=37769561
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US11/441,951 Expired - Fee Related US7182740B1 (en) | 2006-05-26 | 2006-05-26 | One piece brace liner having multiple adjustment zones |
US11/646,060 Abandoned US20070276306A1 (en) | 2006-05-26 | 2006-12-27 | One piece brace liner having multiple adjustment zones |
US12/793,119 Expired - Fee Related US7947005B2 (en) | 2006-05-26 | 2010-06-03 | One piece brace liner having multiple adjustment zones |
Family Applications Before (1)
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US11/441,951 Expired - Fee Related US7182740B1 (en) | 2006-05-26 | 2006-05-26 | One piece brace liner having multiple adjustment zones |
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US12/793,119 Expired - Fee Related US7947005B2 (en) | 2006-05-26 | 2010-06-03 | One piece brace liner having multiple adjustment zones |
Country Status (3)
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US (3) | US7182740B1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP2029068A4 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2007139835A2 (en) |
Cited By (7)
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US8277401B2 (en) | 2006-09-12 | 2012-10-02 | Boa Technology, Inc. | Closure system for braces, protective wear and similar articles |
US8424168B2 (en) | 2008-01-18 | 2013-04-23 | Boa Technology, Inc. | Closure system |
US8468657B2 (en) | 2008-11-21 | 2013-06-25 | Boa Technology, Inc. | Reel based lacing system |
US9149089B2 (en) | 2010-07-01 | 2015-10-06 | Boa Technology, Inc. | Lace guide |
US9179729B2 (en) | 2012-03-13 | 2015-11-10 | Boa Technology, Inc. | Tightening systems |
US10499709B2 (en) | 2016-08-02 | 2019-12-10 | Boa Technology Inc. | Tension member guides of a lacing system |
US11297903B2 (en) | 2011-10-13 | 2022-04-12 | Boa Technology, Inc. | Reel-based lacing system |
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US7182740B1 (en) * | 2006-05-26 | 2007-02-27 | Asterisk.Asterisk, Llc | One piece brace liner having multiple adjustment zones |
US20110098618A1 (en) * | 2007-05-03 | 2011-04-28 | Darren Fleming | Cable Knee Brace System |
DE102010001583A1 (en) * | 2010-02-04 | 2011-08-04 | BSN medical GmbH, 20253 | Rail for immobilizing a joint |
WO2012037275A1 (en) | 2010-09-16 | 2012-03-22 | Steadman Philippon Research Institute | Posterior cruciate ligament support brace |
KR101352039B1 (en) * | 2010-10-21 | 2014-02-13 | 대한민국 | Recombinant virus-induced gene silencing vector from SYMMV useful for functional analysis of useful genes in soybean and uses thereof |
US8882689B2 (en) | 2010-12-20 | 2014-11-11 | Asterisk.Asterisk, Llc | Knee brace |
CN104203165B (en) | 2011-10-31 | 2016-12-28 | 奥索有限责任公司 | For dynamically treating the orthotic device of knee |
US10413437B2 (en) | 2013-01-25 | 2019-09-17 | Ossur Iceland Ehf | Orthopedic device having a dynamic control system and method for using the same |
US9351864B2 (en) | 2013-01-25 | 2016-05-31 | Ossur Hf | Orthopedic device having a dynamic control system |
US9539135B2 (en) | 2013-01-25 | 2017-01-10 | Ossur Hf | Orthopedic device having a dynamic control system and method for using the same |
WO2014205103A1 (en) | 2013-06-21 | 2014-12-24 | Ossur Hf | Dynamic tension system for orthopedic device |
WO2015026889A1 (en) | 2013-08-22 | 2015-02-26 | Ossur Hf | Torque limiting tool and method for using the same |
KR102197708B1 (en) * | 2014-05-23 | 2020-12-31 | 삼성전자주식회사 | A supporting module and a motion assist apparatus |
EP3166548B1 (en) | 2014-07-11 | 2019-06-05 | Ossur Iceland EHF | Tightening system with a tension control mechanism |
US10653546B2 (en) | 2014-10-31 | 2020-05-19 | Ossur Hf | Orthopedic device having a dynamic control system |
WO2019104302A2 (en) | 2017-11-27 | 2019-05-31 | Ossur Iceland Ehf | Orthopedic device having a suspension element |
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- 2006-05-26 US US11/441,951 patent/US7182740B1/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2006-12-27 US US11/646,060 patent/US20070276306A1/en not_active Abandoned
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US8277401B2 (en) | 2006-09-12 | 2012-10-02 | Boa Technology, Inc. | Closure system for braces, protective wear and similar articles |
US11877943B2 (en) | 2006-09-12 | 2024-01-23 | Boa Technology, Inc. | Closure system for braces, protective wear and similar articles |
US10433999B2 (en) | 2006-09-12 | 2019-10-08 | Boa Technology, Inc. | Closure system for braces, protective wear and similar articles |
US8424168B2 (en) | 2008-01-18 | 2013-04-23 | Boa Technology, Inc. | Closure system |
US8984719B2 (en) | 2008-01-18 | 2015-03-24 | Boa Technology, Inc. | Closure system |
US10123589B2 (en) | 2008-11-21 | 2018-11-13 | Boa Technology, Inc. | Reel based lacing system |
US10863796B2 (en) | 2008-11-21 | 2020-12-15 | Boa Technology, Inc. | Reel based lacing system |
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US8468657B2 (en) | 2008-11-21 | 2013-06-25 | Boa Technology, Inc. | Reel based lacing system |
US9149089B2 (en) | 2010-07-01 | 2015-10-06 | Boa Technology, Inc. | Lace guide |
US11297903B2 (en) | 2011-10-13 | 2022-04-12 | Boa Technology, Inc. | Reel-based lacing system |
US9179729B2 (en) | 2012-03-13 | 2015-11-10 | Boa Technology, Inc. | Tightening systems |
US10499709B2 (en) | 2016-08-02 | 2019-12-10 | Boa Technology Inc. | Tension member guides of a lacing system |
US11089837B2 (en) | 2016-08-02 | 2021-08-17 | Boa Technology Inc. | Tension member guides for lacing systems |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP2029068A2 (en) | 2009-03-04 |
WO2007139835A2 (en) | 2007-12-06 |
US20100241043A1 (en) | 2010-09-23 |
EP2029068A4 (en) | 2011-10-26 |
US7182740B1 (en) | 2007-02-27 |
US7947005B2 (en) | 2011-05-24 |
WO2007139835A3 (en) | 2008-08-07 |
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