US20170071264A1

US20170071264A1 - Integrated supportive device in garments

Info

Publication number: US20170071264A1
Application number: US15/362,605
Authority: US
Inventors: Shirin TOWFIGH
Original assignee: Hexagon Health Inc
Current assignee: Hexagon Health Inc
Priority date: 2015-07-01
Filing date: 2016-11-28
Publication date: 2017-03-16

Abstract

Disclosed herein is a device integrated in a piece of garment for the purpose of providing core abdominal and pelvic, or lower leg and foot support to a user comprising: an elastic band that wraps around a waist, a lower leg, or a foot of the user and provides upward and inward physical support to an abdominal and pelvic region, or lower leg and foot region of the user upon wearing; an interface that attaches the elastic band to the piece of garment; at least one mechanically adjustable connection, wherein the mechanical adjustable connection adjusts a length of the elastic band upon wearing; and an integration of the elastic band to the piece of garment, wherein the integration prevents at least a portion of the elastic band from directly contacting a body of the user upon wearing.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Continuation-In-Part of U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 15/201,259 entitled “INTEGRATED SUPPORTIVE DEVICE IN GARMENTS” filed Jul. 1, 2016, which claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/187,515 entitled “INTEGRATED SUPPORTIVE DEVICE IN GARMENTS” filed Jul. 1, 2015, which is explicitly incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

During pregnancy, a woman's abdomen distends as the fetus grows and the uterus expands. As the abdominal distension and weight gain continues, core muscles are affected, resulting in discomfort and difficulty even in daily activities such as standing, walking, bending, and driving. Similarly with physical activities, especially sports, core muscles may be prone to strain, resulting in sports hernia, groin pulls, and Achilles tendon rupture.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to supportive garment, protective garments, maternity support wear, postnatal support wear, performance protection and support wear.
During pregnancy, a woman's abdomen distends as the fetus grows and the uterus expands. As the abdominal distention and weight gain continues, the gravid uterus applies downward and outward pressure onto the pelvic floor and the abdominal wall, respectively. This results in straining on the core muscles, which include the abdominal wall, flank, diaphragm, hips, and pelvis. It also adds pressure onto the pelvic organs, such as the bladder. As a result, pregnant women are prone to a high incidence of: pelvic floor dysfunction in about ⅓ of women; low back pain and pelvic girdle pain in about ¼ of women; and diastasis recti in about ⅔ of women. In addition, the gravid uterus places pressure on the lymphatic drainage from the lower extremities, resulting in painfully swollen feet, ankles, and legs. In the situation of high-risk pregnancy, the gravid uterus adds pressure on the cervix, which may lead to premature labor, especially among women with short cervix. In over half the women, postpartum long term effects of these pressures may result in complications that last after child-birth. These include urinary frequency, urgency, stress urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence, constipation, sexual complaints, abdominal distension, low back pain, skin stretch marks, and loose lower abdominal skin. The incidence of these problems increases with age at time of pregnancy and multiparity, both of which are increasing trends in the modern day. Thus, the need for integrated support systems in garments in order to address this growing problem.
Physical activities among both men and women may also apply stress and strain on the core muscles, which include the abdominal wall, pelvic floor, hips, diaphragm, and back muscles. As an example, sports activities may result in muscle or tendon strain that causes pain, such as with a sports hernia, hip labral tear, or Achilles tendon rupture. Jobs that result in heavy lifting and prolonged standing may result in low back pain, abdominal wall and groin hernia. Weight gain and heavy lifting may predispose one to diastasis recti. In some cases, the device disclosed herein includes a maternity support belt that is integrated into the garment for gravid uterus support, pelvic floor support, and/or protection. In alternative case, the device disclosed herein includes a postnatal support belt that is integrated into the garment for abdominal wall support and/or compression. In certain embodiments, the device disclosed herein alternatively includes a sport performance support belt that is integrated into the garment for groin support, hip support, and/or core muscle support. In alternative embodiments, the device disclosed herein alternatively includes a lower extremity muscle and tendon support and/or compression for the foot and calf. Support of core abdominal, pelvic, and extremity muscles can help reduce discomfort and injury.
The device disclosed herein is different from loose maternity clothes, postnatal garments, or traditional sportswear. The device disclosed herein adds performance technology and support to the garments based on knowledge of anatomy, medical conditions, and surgical disease. Also, the support system is integrated into the clothing itself, reminding the garment wearer of the importance of adding core support to their daily wear. In some cases, the device disclosed herein is configured to provide prevention of injury, including prevention of injury to the abdominal wall, pelvic floor, hip, and lower extremity muscles and tendons. The medical benefits of the device disclosed herein, includes reduced pressure on bladder, less urinary frequency, less back pain, less pressure on cervix, and thus increased likelihood to get to term and therefore less likely to have early labor in women with short cervix, less pressure on top of legs, less pressure on lymphatics and therefore less leg swelling, less skin stretching and perhaps stretch marks, less muscle stretching and risk for diastasis of the muscles, and/or improved overall abdominal tone. The device disclosed herein is especially helpful for women with the second or any subsequent pregnancy, as the abdomen and pelvis are already stretched from previous pregnancies and they tend to have less support, for multiparous pregnancy such as twins or triplets, and for working women who may need to be on their feet at work for long periods of time. Additionally, the advantages associated with the device disclosed herein includes alleviation of diastasis recti, reduced occurrence of sports induced hernia and/or groin strain, less occurrence of Achilles' tendon rupture, less calf swelling, prevention of skin reaction, less postnatal complication, alleviation of stretch marks, alleviation of urinary incontinence, alleviation of pelvic floor dysfunction, less back pain, improvement in posture, improved medialization of rectus muscles early postpartum, and improved hip stabilization. The benefit of integrating the device disclosed herein into clothing as opposed to wearing it separately, is that it is less likely to “ride” up or down as the body moves and thus it fits better to the body. Further, the integration of the device disclosed herein underneath a layer of clothing avoids direct contact with the skin, thus additionally reduces skin reaction, redness, chafing, or other discomfort. The integration of the device disclosed herein into a piece of a garment is removable, reversible, adjustable, and independent of the fabric, shape, or other properties of the garment.
In one aspect, disclosed herein is a device integrated in a piece of garment for providing abdominal and pelvic support to a user comprising: an elastic band that wraps around a waist and pelvis of the user thereby providing upward and inward physical support to an abdominal region and a pelvic region of the user upon wearing; a mechanical interface that attaches the elastic band to the piece of garment; at least one adjustable connection, wherein the adjustable connection allows adjustment of a length of the elastic band upon wearing; and an integration element of the elastic band to the piece of garment, wherein the integration element prevents at least a portion of the elastic band from directly contacting a body of the user upon wearing.
In another aspect, disclosed herein is a device integrated in a piece of garment for providing abdominal support to a user comprising: at least two elastic straps, wherein the at least two elastic straps are not substantially parallel to each other upon wearing; a mechanical interface that attaches one or more of the at least two elastic straps to the piece of garment; and at least one mechanically adjustable connection, wherein the at least one mechanical adjustable connection allows adjustment of a length of one or more of the at least two elastic straps, wherein the device provides abdominal support to the user upon wearing, and wherein the device is integrated in the piece of garment such that at least a portion of the at least two elastic straps does not directly contact a body of the user upon wearing.
In yet another aspect, disclosed herein is a device integrated in a piece of garment for providing diastasis closure and postpartum abdominal support to a user comprising: an elastic strap that wraps around a waist of the user thereby providing inward physical support to an abdominal region of the user upon wearing; a mechanical interface that attaches the elastic strap to the piece of garment; at least one mechanically adjustable connection, wherein the mechanical adjustable connection allows adjustment of a length of the elastic strap upon wearing; and an integration element of the elastic strap to the piece of garment, wherein the integration element prevents at least a portion of the elastic band from directly contacting a body of the user upon wearing.
In another aspect, disclosed herein is a device integrated in a piece of garment for providing groin hernia, sports hernia, and groin strain support to a user comprising: at least two elastic straps, the at least two elastic straps are not substantially parallel to each other upon wearing; a mechanical interface that attaches the at least two elastic straps to the piece of garment; and at least one mechanically adjustable connection, wherein the at least one mechanical adjustable connection allows adjustment of a length of one or more of the at least two elastic straps, wherein the device provides pelvic, hip, groin, and thigh support to the user, and wherein the device is integrated in the piece of garment such that at least a portion of the at least two elastic straps does not make direct contact with a body of the user upon wearing.
In yet another aspect, disclosed herein is a device integrated into a sock for mechanical support and compression of a user comprising: a first elastic strap at a foot portion of the sock; and a second and a third elastic strap at a leg portion of the sock, wherein the second and the third elastic straps are not substantially parallel to each other and overlap at least partially with each other, wherein the first, second, and third elastic straps are integrated into the sock such that at least a portion of the elastic strap does not make direct contact with a body of the user upon wearing, and wherein the device provides compression and mechanical support to at least two muscles, at least one tendon, or both of the user.
In yet another aspect, disclosed herein is a device integrated in a piece of garment for providing abdominal support to a user comprising: at least two elastic straps, wherein the at least two elastic straps are substantially parallel to each other upon wearing; a mechanical interface that attaches one or more of the at least two elastic straps to the piece of garment; and at least one mechanically adjustable connection, wherein the at least one mechanical adjustable connection allows adjustment of a length of one or more of the at least two elastic straps by the user, wherein the device is that provides abdominal support to the user upon wearing, and wherein the device is integrated in the piece of garment such that at least a portion of the at least two elastic strap does not directly contact a body of the user upon wearing.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features of the invention are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the invention are utilized, and the accompanying drawings of which:

FIG. 1 shows a non-limiting example of a device described herein for maternity support and/or protection.

FIG. 2 shows another non-limiting example of a device described herein for maternity support and protection.

FIG. 3 shows another non-limiting example of a device described herein for maternity support and protection.

FIG. 4 shows a non-limiting example of a device described herein for maternity support and protection.

FIG. 5 shows a non-limiting example of a device described herein for postpartum support and protection.

FIG. 6 shows a non-limiting example of a device described herein for postpartum support and protection.

FIG. 7 shows a non-limiting example of a device described herein for maternity support and/or protection.

FIG. 8 shows a non-limiting example of a device described herein for sports hernia, groin strain, and hip girdle support and protection.

FIG. 9 shows a non-limiting example of a device described herein for sports hernia, groin strain, and hip girdle support and protection.

FIG. 10 shows a non-limiting example of a device described herein for sports hernia, groin strain, and hip girdle support and protection.

FIG. 11 shows a non-limiting example of a device described herein for calf and foot compression and Achilles tendon and plantar fascia support.

FIG. 12 shows non-limiting examples of a mechanical interface for attachment of a device disclosed herein to a piece of garment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

During pregnancy, a woman's abdomen distends as the fetus grows and the uterus expands. As the abdominal distention and weight gain continues, the gravid uterus applies downward and outward pressure onto the pelvic floor and the abdominal wall, respectively. This results in straining on the core muscles, which include the abdominal wall, flank, diaphragm, hips, and pelvis. It also adds pressure onto the pelvic organs, such as the bladder. As a result, pregnant women are prone to a high incidence of: pelvic floor dysfunction in about ⅓ of women; low back pain and pelvic girdle pain in about ¼ of women; and diastasis recti in about ⅔ of women. In addition, the gravid uterus places pressure on the lymphatic drainage from the lower extremities, resulting in painfully swollen feet, ankles, and legs. In the situation of high-risk pregnancy, the gravid uterus adds pressure on the cervix, which may lead to premature labor, especially among women with short cervix. In over half the women, postpartum long term effects of these pressures may result in complications that last after child-birth. These include urinary frequency, urgency, stress urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence, constipation, sexual complaints, abdominal distension, low back pain, skin stretch marks, and loose lower abdominal skin. The incidence of these problems increase with age at time of pregnancy and multiparity, both of which are increasing trends in the modern day, thus the greater need for integrated support in everyday garments
Physical activities among both men and women may also apply stress and strain on the core muscles, which include the abdominal wall, pelvic floor, hips, diaphragm, and back muscles. As an example, sports activities may result in muscle or tendon strain that causes pain, such as with a sports hernia, hip labral tear, or Achilles tendon rupture. Jobs that result in heavy lifting and prolonged standing may result in low back pain, abdominal wall and groin hernia. Weight gain and heavy lifting may predispose one to diastasis recti. In some cases, the device disclosed herein includes a maternity support belt that is integrated into the garment for gravid uterus support, pelvic floor support, and/or protection. In alternative case, the device disclosed herein includes a postnatal support belt that is integrated into the garment for abdominal wall support and/or compression. In certain embodiments, the device disclosed herein alternatively includes a sport performance support belt that is integrated into the garment for groin support, hip support, and/or core muscle support. In alternative embodiments, the device disclosed herein alternatively includes a lower extremity muscle and tendon support and/or compression for the foot and calf.
The device disclosed herein is different from loose maternity clothes, postnatal garments, or traditional sportswear. The device disclosed herein adds performance technology and support to the garments based on knowledge of anatomy, medical conditions, and surgical disease. Also, the support system is integrated into the clothing itself, reminding the garment wearer of the importance of adding core support to their daily wear. In some cases, the device disclosed herein is configured to provide prevention of injury, including prevention of injury to the abdominal wall, pelvic floor, hip, and lower extremity muscles and tendons. The medical benefits of the device disclosed herein includes reduced pressure on bladder, less urinary frequency, less back pain, less pressure on cervix, and thus increased likelihood to get to term and therefore less likely to have early labor in women with short cervix, less pressure on top of legs, less pressure on lymphatics and therefore less leg swelling, less skin stretching and perhaps stretch marks, less muscle stretching and risk for diastasis of the muscles, and/or improved overall abdominal tone. The device disclosed herein is especially helpful for women with the second or any subsequent pregnancy, as the abdomen and pelvis are already stretched from previous pregnancies, and they tend to have less support; for multiparous pregnancy such as twins or triplets, and for working women who may need to be on their feet at work for long periods of time. Additionally, the advantages associated with the device disclosed herein includes alleviation of diastasis recti, reduced occurrence of sports induced hernia and/or groin strain, less occurrence of Achilles' tendon rupture, less calf swelling, prevention of skin reaction, less postnatal complication, alleviation of stretch marks, alleviation of urinary incontinence, alleviation of pelvic floor dysfunction, less back pain, improvement in posture, improved medialization of rectus muscles early postpartum, and improved hip stabilization. The benefit of integrating the device disclosed herein into clothing as opposed to wearing it separately is that it is less likely to “ride” up or down as the body moves, and thus it fits better to the body. Further, the integration of the device disclosed herein underneath a layer of clothing avoids direct contact with the skin, thus additionally reduces skin reaction, redness, chafing, or other discomfort. The integration of the device disclosed herein into a piece of a garment is removable, reversible, adjustable, and independent of the fabric, shape, or other properties of the garment.
In one aspect, disclosed herein is a device integrated in a piece of garment for providing abdominal and pelvic support to a user comprising: an elastic band that wraps around a waist and pelvis of the user thereby providing upward and inward physical support to an abdominal region and a pelvic region of the user upon wearing; a mechanical interface that attaches the elastic band to the piece of garment; at least one adjustable connection, wherein the adjustable connection allows adjustment of a length of the elastic band upon wearing; and an integration element of the elastic band to the piece of garment, wherein the integration element prevents at least a portion of the elastic band from directly contacting a body of the user upon wearing. In some instances, the elastic band is elastic in one, two, or three dimensions. In some embodiments, the mechanical interface is a permanent connection to the elastic band and the piece of garment. In some embodiments, the mechanical interface is a mechanically reversible interface that allows removal and attachment of the device to the piece of garment. In some embodiments, the at least one mechanically reversible connection is close to a peripheral side of a body of the user upon wearing. In some embodiments, the elastic band comprises a width of about 1 mm to about 10 cm when the device is a relaxed state. In some embodiments, the band comprises a length of about 1 cm to about 100 cm when the device is in a relaxed state. In some embodiments, the elastic band comprises a length that fits around an abdominal region upon wearing. In some cases, the abdominal region is below a waist or a belly button at least, on the front side of the user upon wearing. In some cases, the device disclosed herein further comprising a second interface that connects to a supporting strap. In some cases, the supporting strap is a shoulder strap. In some cases, location of the connection between the second interface and the supporting strap is adjustable. In some embodiments, the mechanically adjustable connection comprises a belt eyelet, a belt buckle, a Velcro® fastener, a zipper, a button, a hook, a loop, a tie, a strap, a ring, a clip, a loop tape, a hook tape, an adhesive tape, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the piece of garment, the mechanical interface, the integration element, or a combination thereof prevents shifting of the device relative to a body of the user upon wearing. In some embodiments, the integration element is underneath a top layer of the piece of garment. In some embodiments, the piece of garment is a top, a bottom, or a piece of clothing comprising a top or a bottom. In some cases, the device disclosed herein provides maternity support upon wearing.
In another aspect, disclosed herein is a device integrated in a piece of garment for providing abdominal support to a user comprising: at least two elastic straps, wherein the at least two elastic straps are not substantially parallel to each other upon wearing; a mechanical interface that attaches one or more of the at least two elastic straps to the piece of garment; and at least one mechanically adjustable connection, wherein the at least one mechanical adjustable connection allows adjustment of a length of one or more of the at least two elastic straps, wherein the device provides abdominal support to the user upon wearing, and wherein the device is integrated in the piece of garment such that at least a portion of the at least two elastic straps does not directly contact a body of the user upon wearing. In some embodiments, each elastic strap is elastic in one, two, or three dimensions. In some embodiments, the mechanical interface comprises one or more permanent connection connecting the at least two elastic bands and the piece of garment optionally, at least one of the one or more permanent connection being close to a peripheral side of a body of the user upon wearing of the device. In some embodiments, the mechanical interface is a mechanically reversible interface that allows removal and attachment of the device to the piece of garment. In some embodiments, the at least one mechanically reversible connection is close to a peripheral side of a body of the user upon wearing of the device. In some embodiments, each of the at least two elastic straps comprises a width of about 1 cm to about 20 cm, when the device is a relaxed state. In some embodiments, each of the at least two elastic straps comprises a length of about 5 cm to about 100 cm, when the device is in a relaxed state. In some embodiments, each of the at least two elastic straps comprises a length that fits around an abdominal region upon wearing. In some cases, the abdominal region is below a waist, near a waist, or near a belly button. In some cases, the abdominal region is below breasts of the user and substantially above a waist or a belly button of the user. In some embodiments, the integration element is underneath a top layer of the piece of garment. In some embodiments, the piece of garment is a top. In some embodiments, the piece of garment is a breast feeding top. In some embodiments, the mechanically adjustable connection comprises a belt eyelet, a belt buckle, a Velcro® fastener, a zipper, a button, a hook, a loop, a tie, a strap, a ring, a clip, a hook take, a loop take, an adhesive tape, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the piece of garment, the mechanical interface, the integration element, or a combination thereof prevents shifting of the device relative to a body of the user upon wearing. In some embodiments, the at least two elastic straps overlap partially with each other. In some embodiments, the at least two elastic straps are not attached to each other where they overlap. In some embodiments, an acute angle between a length of each elastic band is between 10 degrees and 89 degrees, the acute angle optionally being adjustable by a user. The device of claim 18 provides postnatal support and helps reduce diastasis recti upon wearing. In some embodiments, the at least one mechanically reversible connection is directionally wrapped to cinch or close a midline of a body of the user upon wearing. In some cases, the device disclosed herein provides postnatal or postpartum support of abdominal core muscles and reduces diastasis recti. In some embodiments, the device is directionally wrapped and cinches or closes a midline of a body of the user upon wearing
In yet another aspect, disclosed herein is a device integrated in a piece of garment for providing diastasis closure and postpartum abdominal support to a user comprising: an elastic strap that wraps around a waist of the user thereby providing inward physical support to an abdominal region of the user upon wearing; a mechanical interface that attaches the elastic strap to the piece of garment; at least one mechanically adjustable connection, wherein the mechanical adjustable connection allows adjustment of a length of the elastic strap upon wearing; and an integration element of the elastic strap to the piece of garment, wherein the integration element prevents at least a portion of the elastic band from directly contacting a body of the user upon wearing. In some cases, the band is elastic in one, two, or three dimensions. In some cases, the mechanical interface is a permanent connection connecting the elastic strap and the piece of garment. In some cases, the mechanical interface is a mechanically reversible interface that allows removal and attachment of the device to the piece of garment. In some cases, the at least one mechanically reversible connection is close to a midline of a body of the user upon wearing. In some cases, the at least one mechanically reversible connection is directionally wrapped to cinch or close a midline of a body of the user upon wearing. In some cases, the elastic strap comprises a width of about 1 cm to about 20 cm when the device is a relaxed state. In some cases, the band comprises a length of about 6 cm to about 150 cm when the device is in a relaxed state. In some cases, the elastic strap comprises a length that fits around an abdominal region upon wearing. For some instances, the abdominal region is below a waist, or a belly button at least on an anterior side of the user upon wearing. In some cases, the mechanically adjustable connection comprises a belt eyelet, a belt buckle, a Velcro® fastener, a zipper, a button, a hook, a loop, a tie, a strap, a ring, a clip, a loop tape, a hook tape, an adhesive tape, or a combination thereof. In some cases, the piece of garment, the mechanical interface, the integration element, or a combination thereof prevents shifting of the device relative to a body of the user upon wearing. In some cases, the integration element is underneath a top layer of the piece of garment. In some cases, the piece of garment is a top, a bottom, or a piece of clothing comprising a top and a bottom. In some cases, the device disclosed herein provides postnatal or postpartum support of abdominal core muscles and reduces diastasis recti. In some cases, the device is directionally wrapped and cinches or closes a midline of a body of the user upon wearing. In some cases, the elastic strap overlaps partially at least at or close to the midline of the user upon wearing.
In another aspect, disclosed herein is a device integrated in a piece of garment for providing groin hernia, sports hernia, and groin strain support to a user comprising: at least two elastic straps, the at least two elastic straps are not substantially parallel to each other upon wearing; a mechanical interface that attaches the at least two elastic straps to the piece of garment; and at least one mechanically adjustable connection, wherein the at least one mechanical adjustable connection allows adjustment of a length of one or more of the at least two elastic straps, wherein the device provides pelvic, hip, groin, and thigh support to the user, and wherein the device is integrated in the piece of garment such that at least a portion of the at least two elastic straps does not make direct contact with a body of the user upon wearing. In some cases, each elastic strap is elastic in one, two, or three dimensions. In some cases, the mechanical interface is a permanent connection connecting the at least two elastic bands and the piece of garment. In some cases, the mechanical interface is a mechanically reversible interface that allows removal and attachment of the device to the piece of garment. In some cases, the at least one mechanically reversible connection is close to a peripheral side of the body upon wearing of the device. In some cases, each of the at least two elastic straps comprises a width of about 1 cm to about 20 cm when the device is in a relaxed state. In some cases, each of the at least two elastic straps comprises a length of about 2 cm to about 80 cm when the device is in a relaxed state. In some cases, each of the at least two elastic straps comprises a length that fits around at least part of a lower abdominal region upon wearing. In some cases, the lower abdominal region is below a waist, near a waist, or below a belly button. In some cases, the lower abdominal region comprises a hip, a pelvis, a groin, a thigh, or a combination thereof. In some cases, the piece of garment is a bottom. In some cases, the mechanically adjustable connection comprises a belt eyelet, a belt buckle, a Velcro® fastener, a zipper, a button, a hook, a loop, a tie, a hook tape, a loop tape, an adhesive tape, or a combination thereof. In some cases, the piece of garment, the mechanical interface, the integration element, or a combination thereof prevents shifting of the device relative to an area of body upon wearing of the device. In some cases, the at least two elastic straps: 1) overlap partially with each other, 2) intersect with each other, or 3) do not overlap with each other. In some cases, a length of two of the at least two elastic bands intersects with an acute angle between 10 degrees and 89 degrees, the acute angle being adjustable. In some embodiments, the device disclosed herein further comprises at least two additional elastic straps. In some embodiments, the device disclosed herein provides prevention, support, and protection of groin hernia, sports hernia, groin strain, or a combination thereof to the user upon wearing. In some embodiments, the device disclosed herein further comprises one or more plates close to coccyx or hip region of the user upon wearing that protects the coccyx or hip region of the user.
In yet another aspect, disclosed herein is a device integrated into a sock for mechanical support and compression of a user comprising: a first elastic strap at a foot portion of the sock; and a second and a third elastic strap at a leg portion of the sock, wherein the second and the third elastic straps are not substantially parallel to each other and overlap at least partially with each other, wherein the first, second, and third elastic straps are integrated into the sock such that at least a portion of the elastic strap does not make direct contact with a body of the user upon wearing, and wherein the device provides compression and mechanical support to at least two muscles, at least one tendon, or both of the user. In some cases, one or more of the first, second, or third elastic strap is elastic in one, two, or three dimensions. In some cases, the first, second, or third elastic strap comprises a width of about 1 mm to about 4 cm, when the device is in a relaxed state. In some cases, the first, second, or third elastic strap comprises a length of about 1 cm to about 50 cm when the device is in a relaxed state. In some cases, the first, second, or third elastic strap comprises a length that fits around a calf region, a forefoot, an arch, an Achilles' tendon region, or a combination thereof upon wearing. In some cases, the device prevents shifting of the first, second, and third elastic straps with respect to a lower leg and a foot upon wearing. In some cases, a length of any two of the first, second, or third elastic straps intersects with an acute angle between 10 degrees and 89.9 degrees. In some cases, the at least two muscles include a calf muscle, a soleus muscle, a gastrocnemius muscle, a plantaris muscle or a combination thereof. In some cases, the at least one tendon is the Achilles' tendon. In some cases, the first elastic strap is substantially a closed loop wrapped around a part of a foot of the user upon wearing. In some embodiments, the part is a forefoot, an arch, a plantar fascia, or a combination thereof. In some cases, at least one of the second and the third elastic straps is not a closed loop. In some cases, the second and the third elastic straps intersect in a region higher than an Achilles' tendon region of the user.
In yet another aspect, disclosed herein is a device integrated in a piece of garment for providing abdominal support to a user comprising: at least two elastic straps, wherein the at least two elastic straps are substantially parallel to each other upon wearing; a mechanical interface that attaches one or more of the at least two elastic straps to the piece of garment; and at least one mechanically adjustable connection, wherein the at least one mechanical adjustable connection allows adjustment of a length of one or more of the at least two elastic straps by the user, wherein the device is that provides abdominal support to the user upon wearing, and wherein the device is integrated in the piece of garment such that at least a portion of the at least two elastic strap does not directly contact a body of the user upon wearing. In some cases, each elastic strap is elastic in one, two, or three dimensions. In some cases, the mechanical interface is a permanent connection connecting the at least two elastic straps and the piece of garment. In some cases, the mechanical interface is a mechanically reversible interface that allows removal and attachment of the device to the piece of garment. In some cases, the at least one mechanically reversible connection is close to a peripheral side of a body of the user upon wearing of the device. In some cases, the at least one mechanically reversible connection comprise two connections, one of the two connections being close to a first peripheral side of a body of the user and the other of the two connection being close to a second peripheral side of a body of the user upon wearing. In some cases, each of the at least two elastic straps comprises a width of about 1 cm to about 15 cm, when the device is a relaxed state. In some cases, each of the at least two elastic straps comprises a length of about 1 cm to about 100 cm, when the device is in a relaxed state. In some cases, each of the at least two elastic straps comprises a length sufficient to cover a front side of the user in an abdominal region upon wearing. In some embodiments, the abdominal region is below breasts of the user. In some cases, the integration element is underneath a top layer of the piece of garment. In some cases, the piece of garment is a top. In some cases, the mechanically adjustable connection comprises a belt eyelet, a belt buckle, a Velcro® fastener, a zipper, a button, a hook, a loop, a tie, a strap, a ring, a clip, a hook take, a loop take, an adhesive tape, or a combination thereof. In some cases, the piece of garment, the mechanical interface, the integration element, a combination thereof, prevents shifting of the device relative to a body of the user upon wearing. In some cases, the at least two elastic straps does not overlap with each other. In some cases, the device disclosed herein provides maternity support of an expanding abdomen, an obese abdomen, and abdomen hernia of the user upon wearing.
In some cases, the device disclosed herein comprises a hidden low profile maternity belt integrated into a piece of garment. In some cases, the device disclosed herein comprises a hidden low profile postpartum wrap integrated into a piece of garment. In some cases, the device disclosed herein comprises a hidden low profile elastic band integrated into a piece of garment for support performance support, specifically designated to protect the user from sports hernia, groin strain, or Achilles' tendon rupture. In some embodiments, the device improves and facilitates the closure of diastasis recti and return of the wearer's figure to a flat functional abdomen. Such device is used for mothers after child delivery or regular people, male or female that suffers from diastasis recti. In some embodiments, the device includes unique side closures with at least one closure, for a non-limiting example, Velcro® closure, to cinch the lower belly upward for support. In some case, the device includes foldable side gussets with lightweight pleated fabric to allow for easy in and out for the wearer. In some case, the device includes attachable suspenders for extra-large abdomens that require additional support. This is more common with multiparity or a large fetus. In some embodiments, the device is integrated to any traditional bottoms, tops, underwear, or socks. In some embodiments, the device is integrated on any bottoms, tops, underwear, or socks. For examples, the device is integrated to active bottoms, pajamas, and breast-feeding tops. In some embodiments, the piece of garment with the device integrated therein provides a smooth and a natural appearance as if the device is not integrated therein. Further, the garment with the device integrated therein is comfortable and convenient to wear.

Elastic Bands and Straps

In some case, the device disclosed herein includes one or more elastic bands, straps, or strips. As disclosed herein, an elastic strap is equivalent to an elastic strip or an elastic band. As disclosed herein, in some cases, the band is a closed loop or a continuous loop with its two ends connected to each other, without any additional connections or similar elements in the loop. In alternative cases, the band is a substantially closed loop or continuous loop with connections or similar elements in the loop (as a non-limiting example, FIGS. 1, 3, 4, 6, and 8). In other embodiments, an elastic band as disclosed herein is an elongate strap or strip with two open ends that are not connected to each other either directly or indirectly via additional connections (as a non-limiting example, FIGS. 5, 7, 9).
In some cases, an elastic band, strap, or strip, as disclosed herein, is curved in a three dimensional space to wrap about a portion of the body of the user. The portion of the body may be a waist, a lower leg, a foot, an anterior portion of the waist, or any other possible portion below breasts of the user (as a non-limiting example, FIGS. 5, 6, 11).
In some cases, the elastic band, strap, or strip includes a spatial direction that is longer than the other two spatial dimensions. In some cases, the length is along the longest spatial dimension of the elastic band. In some cases, the length or longest dimension of the elastic band is along a curved line in a three dimensional space with the elastic strap. As a non-limiting example, the longest dimension may be a circumference of a loop. As another example, the longest dimension may be a diagonal, width, height, length, or the like of the elastic band. In some cases, the longest dimension may be curved in a three dimensional space. As a non-limiting example, a length/longest dimension of the elastic band is substantially the circumference of a loop shown as the belt 10 in FIG. 1. As a non-limiting example, a length/longest dimension of the elastic band is substantially the length of line 522 shown as in FIG. 5 when it is in relaxed state. In some cases, the elastic band includes a relaxed length in its relaxed and un-stressed state. In other cases, the elastic band includes a stretched length in its stretched state. Similarly, the elastic bland may have a relaxed and a stretched width and thickness. In some instances, the relaxed length is along the longest spatial dimension of the elastic band in a relaxed state. In some cases, the relaxed length/longest dimension of the elastic band is along a curved line in a three dimensional space when the elastic strap in not stretched. In alternative cases, a longest dimension may be at the relaxed and unstressed state of the elastic band/strip.
In some embodiments, the elastic band is wrapped so that the two ends along the longest spatial dimension of the strips have at least some overlap upon wearing, for a non-limiting example, FIGS. 5 and 6. The purpose of this overlap is to cinch in the abdominal core muscles, from either side, pulling inward and toward the middle, closing along the midline axis, thereby reducing diastasis (spreading apart) of the rectus muscles, as an example. This also provides improved core abdominal muscle support, thereby improving overall abdominal wall and pelvic health and reducing injury and back pain. In alternative embodiments, two ends of the elastic bands along the longest dimension are not connected to each other upon wearing, for a non-limiting example, FIG. 7. In alternative cases, the overlapping portion of the bands along the longest spatial directions is not substantially parallel to each other upon wearing, for a non-limiting example, FIG. 5. Such configuration of the overlapping portion is for increased flexibility and adjustment in providing customized support to the wearer. In some embodiments, the two ends and/or the overlapping portion along the longest spatial directions are criss-crossed. The acute crossing angle therebetween is among about 10 to about 89 degrees. In alternative embodiments, two or more elastic bands are substantially parallel to each other, for a non-limiting example, FIG. 7. In some cases, two or more elastic bands do not overlap with each other, for a non-limiting example, FIG. 7. This allows for circumferential support of the abdomen, such as the gravid uterus, or in some cases due to obesity or abdominal hernia. The circumferential support helps reduce tension on the skin, reduce strain on the back, and provides external core support, especially in situations, such as pregnancy, obesity or ventral hernia, where the core is already compromised. This may help reduce skin stretch marks, diastasis of the rectus muscles, abdominal pain, and back pain.
In some embodiments, the elastic band is elastic in one, two, or three dimensions. In some embodiments, the elastic band is stretchable along its longest spatial dimension. In some cases, the elastic band shrinks along its second longest dimension and/or shortest dimension. In some embodiments, an elastic band includes one or more elastic bands that run substantially parallel to each other. In alternative cases, the device includes an arbitrary number of elastic bands.
In some embodiments, each elastic band has a relaxed length in between about 1 mm to about 100 cm. In some cases, each elastic band has a relaxed width in between 5 mm to 10 cm. In some embodiments, the elastic band has a relaxed thickness that is smaller than its width and its length. In some embodiments, the elastic band has a relaxed thickness in between about 0.1 mm to about 1 cm.
In some embodiments, the device includes at least two elastic bands, and the two bands are not substantially parallel to each other. In further cases, the bands are in criss-cross with an acute angle between at least 10 degrees to at least 89 degrees (as a non-limiting example, 505 and 506 in FIG. 5). In alternative instances, the bands intersect with each with an angle of substantially 90 degrees (as a non-limiting example, 1118 and 1120 in FIG. 11). In other cases, the two or more bands are substantially parallel to each other (FIG. 7).
In some embodiments, the bands overlap around the midline of the wearer's body to provide enhanced support in the overlapping region (FIGS. 5, 6). As shown in FIGS. 8-11, in some embodiments, the elastic bands are aligned with targeted muscle groups that are prone to strain. In some embodiments, the elastic bands stretch in direction of transversus abdominis muscles, hip adductor muscles, groin oblique muscles, hip girdle. In some embodiments, each elastic band stretches in direction substantially parallel or perpendicular to a muscle or a muscle group in order to optimize support to the muscle or a muscle group for maximized protection and prevention of possible muscle strain, tear, or the like.
In some embodiments, the integration, the elastic bands, the shape of the elastic bands, the device, the portion of garment covering the device and the integration has minimal interruption to style and fashion of the garment, for non-limiting examples, as shown in FIGS. 2, 4-10. In some embodiments, the wrap-around feature of the elastic bands functions also as a fashion statement in a top, a bottom, or any piece of clothing including a top and/or a bottom, for a non-limiting examples, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6.
In some embodiments, the width of the elastic band is consistent along its length. In some embodiments, the width of the elastic band varies in order to optimize the comfort and amount of support for different part of the wearer's body. As a non-limiting example, the elastic band is thicker at the back to provide ample back support when it is properly worn (for a non-limiting example, width w2 is greater than w1 as can be seen in FIG. 3, and similarly in FIGS. 1, 2, and 4).
In some embodiments, an elastic band is worn lower on the front side of the user than the back side of the user. As a non-limiting example shown in FIGS. 1-4, an elastic band is worn lower than a waist on the front side of the user while higher or near the waist on the back side of the user. Thus, the portion of the elastic band on the back side sits higher than the portion on the front side upon wearing. This is of functional significance, as the placement of the band on the underside of a gravid abdomen allows for directional support of the gravid uterus off the pelvic floor, counteracting gravitational pull. This reduces pressure of the uterus and abdomen off the pelvic organs, such as the bladder and cervix, and off the pelvic floor and the lymphatic and venous drainage of the lower extremities. This can help reduce urinary frequency, risk of preterm labor in women with short cervix, and lower extremity swelling and edema, all of which are commonly seen during pregnancy.
In some embodiments, the elastic band or the elastic strip includes support/protection in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the length of the band or strip. In some cases, the elastic stretching occurs mostly along the length of the band or strip. In some cases, the elastic shortening occurs mostly along the length of the band or strip. In some cases, the elastic stretching occurs mostly along the width of the band or strip. In some cases, the elastic shortening occurs mostly along the width of the band or strip.

Interfaces

In some embodiments, the device disclosed herein includes a mechanical interface or use of the same. In some embodiments, the mechanical interface includes two elements that connect directly to each other. In further cases, the interface 120 (FIG. 12) provides connection of the device to a piece of garment. In further cases, one of the two elements is attached to the device while the other is connected to the garment. Such attachment to the device may be on one side of one element, 1221 a, 1222 a, 1223 a, or 1224 a, while the attachment to the garment may be on one side of the other element. In further cases, the attachment may be reversible or permanent. As non-limiting examples, the attachment may include one or more selected from but not limited to sewing, a buckle, a zipper, a tie, a Velcro® attachment, a hook, a snap, an eye, a loop, a button, a clip, a hook tape, a loop tape, an adhesive tape, and a clasp. As shown in FIG. 12, in some cases, the interface includes a fastener element 1222, 1224 and/or an adjustment element 1221, 1223.
In some cases, the interface 120 enables fastening of the device to a certain location of the piece of garment. In some embodiments, the interface enables fastening of the device to a part of the wearer's body. In some embodiments, the interface enables fastening of the device to a part of the wearer's body so that it ensures the support and protection during physical activities, for preventing activity associated injury or damages to the wearer's body. In some embodiments, the interface allows adjustment of the length, width, wrapping, the criss-cross angle with another strip or band, the overlap area with another strip or band, the orientation of the elastic strip, the orientation of the elastic band, the elastic property of at least one elastic band.
In some embodiments, a mechanical interface or use of the same is installed to a traditional piece of garment to enable integration of the device disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the interface or user of the same is removed so that a device integrated in a piece of garment is removed. In some embodiments, the connection between the elements of the interface is removed so that a device integrated in a piece of garment is removed.

Integration

In some cases, the device disclosed herein includes an integration of the elastic band to the piece of garment, wherein the integration is configured to prevent at least a portion of the elastic band from directly contacting a body of the user upon wearing. In some embodiments, the integration provides one or more advantages selected from: avoid direct skin contact with the elastic band or strip, protection of the user's skin and/or body damages caused by direct contact or friction with the compressive device, prevent damage of the device caused by direct contact or friction with the user's body, and prevention of undesired shifting of the device with respect to a certain part of the user's body caused by wearing the device as a stand-alone device. In certain cases, the integration includes a bottom layer between the skin and the device such that it reduces scratch or discomfort than wearing the device next to the skin and/or prevents shifting of the device caused by wearing the device as a stand-alone device. Additionally, in some cases, the integration includes a top layer that the device can be hidden thereunder, thus the device does not affect the cosmetic value of the garment, for non-limiting examples, as shown in FIGS. 2, 5-6, and 10-11.
In some cases, the integration is configured to allow stretching or shortening of the elastic band in three dimensions without undesired stretching or folding of garment. In some cases, the integration may include a top and/or bottom layer that has similar elastic properties to the elastic band. In other cases, the integration may include a top and/or bottom layer that is sufficient to cover at least an area of the stretched elastic band with or without stretching the top and/or the bottom layer. In some cases, the integration is configured to allow stretching or shortening of the elastic band in three dimensions while such stretching and shortening may not be identifiable from outside of the garment. As a non-limiting example, as shown in FIGS. 5, 6, the integration may include a top layer with drapes below the breasts such that stressing the elastic bands may not cause over-stretching of the top. The elastic band may not be attached to the draped top layer and the bottom layer (not shown) except at one or both ends 505 a, 505 b, 506 a, 506 b, 601 a, and 601 b along its length. In addition to the attachment at one or both ends, the elastic band may be attached to the top layer and/or a bottom layer taken into consideration its stretched sizes to enable integrated movement of the garment and the device relative to the wearer. In some cases, such additional attachment is via one or more interfaces as disclosed herein.
In some embodiments, the device disclosed herein is integrated into a piece of garment using one or more selected from: sewing, a belt, a buckle, a zipper, a tie, a Velcro® attachment, a hook, a snap, an eye, a loop, a button, a clip, a hook tape, a loop tape, an adhesive tape, and a clasp. In some embodiments, the integration is permanent. In some embodiments, the integration is reversible. In some embodiments, the integration is through a reversible attachment to a piece of garment via at least one interface. In some embodiments, one element of the interface fits to another element of the interface of the garment to form the attachment. In some embodiments, the interface is not in direct contact with any part of the wearer's body when the device is properly worn. In some embodiments, the interface includes a module design so that the device is attachable to multiple pieces of garment through the attachment to different complimentary interfaces of different garments, for example, the shoulder straps in FIG. 2.
In some embodiments, the device, the interface, the integration, or a combination thereof is hidden beneath a piece of clothing so that it is not directly visually identifiable when it is properly worn. In some embodiments, the device, the interface, the integration, or a combination thereof is sufficiently concealed underneath the top layer of the garment of integration. In some embodiments, the device, the interface, the integration, or a combination thereof is hidden above a piece of clothing so that it is not directly contacting the user's body when it is properly worn.
In some embodiments, one or more devices are integrated into one or more pieces of garment that can be worn simultaneously to provide independent support of one or more regions of the wearer's body.
In some cases, the device is integrated below the upper edge of the bottom. In some case, the device is integrated near the upper portion of the bottom. In some embodiments, the device is integrated below the breast region of a top. In some embodiments, the device is integrated above the lower edge of a top. In some cases, the device is integrated to a lower leg portion of a sock. In some cases, the device is integrated to a foot portion of a sock.
In some cases, the device is integrated below the breast portion of a garment. In some cases, the device is integrated above, below or near a waist area of a garment. In some cases, the device is integrated above, below or near a belly button of a user upon wearing of the garment.
In some cases, the device is integrated in a piece of garment so that it is part of the garment. As a non-limiting example, the device is sewn in a piece of garment such as like the elastic waist band of an active bottom or top.

Adjustments

In some cases, one or more property of the device is user-adjustable. In some cases, the length of the device is user adjustable using a closure located close to the midline or the peripheral side of the wearer's body. In some embodiments, the closure uses one or more selected from belt, a buckle, a zipper, a tie, a Velcro® attachment, a hook, a snap, an eye, a loop, a button, a clip, a hook tape, a loop take, an adhesive tape, and a clasp.
In some embodiments, the amount of wrapping is adjustable, to accommodate weight and waist changes during pregnancy or postpartum. In some embodiments, the adjustment and proper wearing of the device helps promote closure of diastasis recti and return of the mother's figure postpartum.
In some embodiments, the adjustment of the device is associated with or dependent upon the adjustment of the piece of garment covering it. In other cases, the adjustment of the device is independent of the adjustment of the piece of garment covering it.

Abdominal Support and Protection

Referring to FIG. 1, in a particular embodiment, a hidden belt 10, including an elastic band 101, may be integrated to a bottom piece, a piece of top, or any garment including a waist area (for a non-limiting example, a jumpsuit or a dress) (not shown) near the waist of the garment. In some cases, the belt provides abdominal and lower pelvic support to the wearer. In this case, the elastic band may include an adjustable connection 102 optionally at the left and/or the right side of the bottoms close or at the peripheral side of the user. The adjustable connection 102 may allow adjustment of the total length of the elastic band as well as may ensure appropriate amount of support at various adjusted waist sizes. The adjustable connection may include an extendable unit 103 and a fastening unit 104. The extendable unit may optionally be made of a less elastic material than the elastic band or a more elastic material than the elastic band. Such extendable unit may render less resistance in extending the belt to a desired waist size or may allow for more stretching, to accommodate the abdominal girth and pressure. In some instances, the fastening unit lies in-line with the angle of the belt, and is intended to pull the belt and therefore the lower abdomen and pelvis, up and away from gravitational pull. The angle of the fastening unit can be parallel to the angle of the belt. In some instances, the fastening unit is significantly shorter than the elastic band. It may fasten via various methods that are adjustable to the abdominal girth, such as: a belt eyelet, a belt buckle, a Velcro® fastener, a zipper, a button, a hook, a loop, a tie, a strap, a ring, a clip, a loop tape, a hook tape, an adhesive tape, or a combination thereof.
In some embodiments, the belt 10 sits lower on the waist at the front than at the back of the user, and such difference at the front and the back is user adjustable so as to provide personalized comfort and optimal support for different users or a single user at different stage of pregnancy or abdominal girth. In this case, the width of the belt may be optionally uniform or variable at different locations. The relaxed length of the elastic band is the circumference of the belt. In some cases, the relaxed length of the elastic band is the circumference of the belt without the extendable unit and the fastening unit.
Referring to FIG. 4, in a particular embodiment, a hidden belt 40 may be integrated into a pair of pants, skirt, shorts, or other bottom piece, a piece of top, or a garment including a waist area (for a non-limiting example, a jumpsuit or a dress) (not shown) around the waist area for abdominal support. The elastic band 401 may be adjustable along with the waist of the garment at both peripheral sides via an adjustable connection 103, 104 to gauge the pull on the integrated device. In some cases, the pulling of the adjustment connection is from the front side to the back side of the user.
Referring to FIG. 2, in a particular embodiment, a pair of pants, skirt, shorts, or other bottom piece, a piece of top, or a garment including a waist area (for a non-limiting example, a jumpsuit or a dress) (not shown) include a hidden belt 20 including an elastic band 201 near its waist area. In the same case, the bottom piece may further include one or more shoulder straps 205 for additional support of the belly to be used, for example, in situations where the under-support with the belt is deemed inadequate. For example, in pregnant women nearing term or with multiparity (e.g., twins, triplets, etc.), additional support may be necessary for a protuberant abdomen. The shoulder straps will add that additional support at that time as needed. In this case, the shoulder straps may be optionally located at a user-selected position of the waist to provide comfort, support, and convenience to the users. The shoulder strap may include a connection 205 on the front side and/or a connection 206 on the back side of the wearer to mechanically connect with the hidden belt and also provide the necessary support. The connection may not directly contact the body of the wearer for optimized comfort and safety. In this case, the belt 20 may be hidden underneath the bottom piece. The shoulder straps may be optionally located to avoid pressing on the breasts of the wearer.
FIG. 3 shows a side view of the belt 30 as disclosed herein which may include an elastic band 301 with non-uniform width (along the head-to-foot direction of the wearer). The garment that the device is integrated within is not shown. The elastic band may be wider at the back of the user and narrower at the front side of the user. Such wider back side may provide sufficient support and distribute the same amount of weight over a larger area, and thus may exert less pressure to the back of the wearer for providing the same abdominal support. The front side may be narrower to avoid bending of the elastic band along its width optionally in movements of the user or discomfort for the wearer. The narrower front side may be advantageous to avoid covering and pressing of undesired areas by the elastic band, such as the groin. As a non-limiting example, the narrower front side of the elastic band may be worn below the waist line and below the belly to provide upward and/or inward support to the belly of the wearer. Keeping the belt narrow at the front may help avoid pressing the pregnant belly of the wearer and the organs and the baby therewithin. In this case, the elastic band is adjustable at a location other than a peripheral side of the wearer to provide appropriate amount of support with the adjusted waist size. In this case, the adjustable connection near the midline at the front side may provide easier access of adjustment to the user. The elastic band, in some cases, is adjustable on the sides, with a directional pulling of the front lower band up and away from the front section, resulting in improved directional fitting of the support system.
In some embodiments, the mechanical interface that connects or attaches the device to a piece of garment is located in any portion of the device, more specifically, any portion of one or more elastic bands. In further instances, a mechanical interface is located in any portion along the length or width of one or more elastic bands. In yet further instances, a mechanical interface is located about the midline of an abdominal region when the device is properly worn, at the front side, at the back side or both of the midline. In such instances, one or more elastic bands are pulled from the midline toward one or both peripheral side of the device for adjustment. Alternatively, the mechanical interface is located on one or more peripheral side. In further cases, one or more can be pulled from one peripheral side where the interface is located to another peripheral side or midline at the back or front side.
Referring to FIG. 6, in a particular embodiment, a piece of garment may include a hidden device 60 comprising one elastic band 601 that may be crossed close to or at its two open ends 601 a, 601 b. In this case, the hidden device with the crossed elastic band may provide support postpartum to promote closure of diastasis recti, or separated rectus muscles, related most commonly to pregnancy. The elastic band may have a size (stretched or relaxed) that may be sufficient to allow it to wrap around a waist area of a user and also have two open ends crossed securely. The two open ends of the elastic band may be crossed in customized manners that optimally provide support with comfort to the wearer. Optionally, the hidden device may include a mechanical fasten element (not shown, see 104, 404) that may fasten the two crossed ends of the elastic band. The elastic band may be hidden underneath the top layer of the garment. Alternatively, the elastic band may be enclosed within a fabric layer sleeve. Optionally, the elastic band may overlap or cross near the midline 607 of the wearer. Such overlapping or cross may enable optimal support around the diastasis recti of the wearer. The elastic band may not overlap or cross on the back of the wearer. In some embodiment, the particular wrapping and overlapping style of the garment is user adjusted to optimize comfort and support. In the same case, the garment optionally provides multiple wrapping options thus multiple style options to adjust to different weight, waist, body figure, and/or user demands. In some embodiments, the wrapping is specifically from outside to inside, or from lateral to medial, to promote inward motion of the separated muscles of the abdomen. The elastic band may be worn lower than the waist line or the belly button. The elastic band may be wider on the back of the wearer. The elastic band will be worn to optimally cinch in the lower abdominal muscles, below the belly button. Alternatively, the elastic band may be lengthened to provide directional support of the upper abdominal muscles as well (not shown).
Referring to FIG. 5, in a particular embodiment, a top and optionally a matching bottom (FIG. 6) may each include a hidden device 50 and 60. The hidden device may include two criss-crossed elastic bands 506, 507. As a non-limiting example, the criss-crossed bands may provide support postpartum to promote closure of diastasis recti, or separated rectus muscles, related most commonly to pregnancy and help return the postpartum abdominal wall to a flatter abdomen, closer in shape to prior to pregnancy. Alternatively, the wearer need not be postpartum to benefit from the core abdominal support that this supportive garment provides. Each elastic band may have a length (stretched and/or relaxed) that is sufficient to cover a part or the entire front side of a wearer. Each elastic band may have a length 522 that is sufficient to cover a part or the entire front side of a wearer. Alternatively, each elastic band may be in continuity with the back side of the garment. The elastic bands may overlap, or intersect with an angle with each other near the midline 507 of the user in a region 521. The elastic bands may be hidden underneath the top layer of the top, integrated or hidden in a fashionable sleeve, or exposed as a fashionable statement while integrated in the garment. The length of each the criss-crossed bands may be individually adjustable to enable optimal support for patients with different body shape and body sizes with comfort. The crossed band may be attached to each other at their overlapping area via a mechanical connection. Alternatively, the crossed band may not be attached to each other at their overlapping area to enable optimal flexibility in wrapping and fastening each elastic band independently. Further, not attaching the overlapping areas to each other may enable customized support to meet need for different users. The elastic bands may be attached to the top via a mechanical interface (not shown). Further, size or length of each crossed band may be adjusted at its one end 505 b, 506 b or both its ends 505 a, 505 b, 506 a, 506 b, via one or more adjustable mechanical connections. The mechanical connection may include two collaborating elements. Non-limiting examples of the mechanical connection may include one or more selected from a latch, a hook, a loop, a button, a zip, a button hole, a hook tape, a loop tape, an adhesive tape, a Velcro®, or the like. In some cases, the interface(s) for attaching the elastic band and the mechanical adjustable connections may both be located at the ends of each elastic strap.
As disclosed in FIG. 5, in some cases, the mechanical support provided by the devices disclosed herein from elastic band(s) is part of an everyday garment such as a top, a legging, or pair of pants, a camisole, or the like. In some cases, the device is not a separate belt worn under a piece of garment that can scratch and erode the skin. Additionally, the device is specifically not a piece of loose maternity outfit. In certain embodiments, the device integrated into a daily outfit is more accessible to pregnant women than stand-alone maternity belts. Further, the device integrated into a daily outfit is easier to wear than maternity belts, which can be inappropriately placed and may shift.
Referring to FIG. 7, in a particular embodiment, a top may include a hidden device 70 with a plurality of hidden elastic bands 701 below the breasts and around the abdominal region. The hidden elastic bands may be substantially parallel to each other with or without different fabric or material sewn in between them. In further cases, such different fabric or material may be of a lower, higher, or similar elasticity to the elastic bands. In some cases, the hidden elastic bands do not overlap with each other. In some instances, the adjacent elastic bands do not cross or intersect with each other. In some embodiments, each elastic band wraps about the wearer not in a closed loop such that the two ends along the length/longest dimension of each elastic band does not connect or overlap with each other. In other embodiments, each elastic band wraps around the wearer in a closed loop with or without a connection element to connect the two ends along the longest dimension. Each elastic band along with the waist of the top is adjustable at one or both end of the band close to the peripheral side(s) of the user to provide appropriate amount of support for different body sizes and/or body shapes. One end 701 a of one or more elastic bands may be attached to a side of the top with non-adjustable attachment. In some embodiments, such non-adjustment attachment may be permanent. As a non-limiting example, one end 701 a of the elastic band may be sewn into the piece of garment. In other embodiments, such non-adjustable attachment may be reversible. As another example, the open end 701 a of the elastic band may be fixed to the garment via a Velcro® attachment. Another end 701 b of one or more elastic bands may be attached to a side of the garment with an adjustable attachment. Such attachment may be reversible to increase flexibility in wearing the elastic bands. Each elastic band functions independent of the other in some instances. In some instances, to accommodate different need of wearers, one or more elastic bands may be removed from the piece of garment via reversible attachments at the two ends before wearing. As an example, a wearer in need of stomach support may remove elastic bands beneath the lowest tip of her stomach via the reversible attachment and only wear the elastic bands covering specific areas of the stomach area. As another example, the wearer in need of stomach support may increase length of elastic bands beneath her/his stomach via the adjustable end 701 b to decrease support amount in certain areas. One or more elastic bands may sit lower on the waist at the front than at the back of the user, and such difference at the front and the back is user adjustable so at to provide personalized comfort and optimal support for different users or a single user at different stage of pregnancy. In this case, the width of each band is uniform or non-uniform at different locations. The adjustable attachment at one or both end of the elastic bands 701 a, 701 b may be similar to the mechanically adjustable connections 102, 103, 104, 403, 404, 505, 506, and 601. In some cases, the adjustable attachment at one or both end of the elastic bands 701 a, 701 b may be similar to the fastening element 104 or 404. The adjustable attachment at one or both end of the elastic bands 701 a, 701 b may include two collaborating elements. Non-limiting examples of the mechanical connection may include one or more selected from a latch, a hook, a loop, a button, a zip, a button hole, a hook tape, a loop tape, an adhesive tape, a Velcro®, or the like. In some cases, the top may include a layer (not shown) above the elastic band. In some cases, as this garment is intended for postpartum use, the upper portion of the top is intended to be breast-feeding friendly. That is, in some embodiments, the top should be soft, expandable as the breast size increases and decreases with milk production, and can stretch on or off the wearer to accommodate for breast feeding. In some cases, the hidden device may include any number of elastic bands that is greater than one. In some cases, as can be seen in FIG. 7, the adjacent elastic bands have the same type of open ends 701 a on opposite sides of the garment. Additionally, the adjacent elastic bands have the same open ends 701 b on opposite sides of the garment. Alternatively, the adjacent elastic bands may have the same type of open ends 701 a, or 701 b on the same side of the garment.
In some cases, the device 10, 20, 30, and 40 disclosed herein includes at least one mechanically adjustable connection 102, 103, 104, 403, and 404, wherein the mechanical adjustable connection are configured to adjust a size of the elastic band upon wearing. Such adjustment may at the same time affect the level of support that the elastic band may be able to provide to the user. In some cases, the adjustable connection 102 may include two or more structural elements. The structural element may include a fabric with adjustable length 103, a fastening or locking element 104 that may lock the fabric at a user-selected length. The locking element may include but may not be limited to one or more of sewing, a buckle, a zipper, a tie, a Velcro® attachment, a hook, a snap, a loop, a hole, a button, a clip, a loop, a loop tape, an adhesive tape, a clasp, and a latch. In some cases, one mechanical adjustable connection may be positioned on one or both sides of the wearer to increase comfort and convenience. The connection located on a side or both sides may be advantageous as it may be more convenient and comfortable to the wearer. The connection located at the front side of the device may be advantageous as it may be more accessible to the wearer. The belt may be adjustable to provide abdominal support to users at different stages of pregnancy and/or with different sizes of abdominal girth. In some cases, the connection includes a locking element 104 that is configured to enable pulling from the front to the back of the wearer. Such configuration is more ergonomic and provides less undesired impact and better support for the pelvis than pulling back to front or along other directions.
In some cases, the device disclosed herein 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 and 70 includes a mechanical interface configured to attach the elastic band to the piece of garment. A non-limiting example of interfaces is shown in FIG. 12. The mechanical interface 120 may include two or more reversibly separable elements 1221 and 1222, or 1223 and 1224. One element 1221, 1223 may be reversibly mounted to the garment on one side 1221 a, 1223 a while the other may be reversibly or permanent mounted to the elastic strap 1222 a, 1224 a. When the belt is not needed, at least a part of the mechanical interface may be removed from the piece of garment depending on the need of the wearer. As a non-limiting example, element 1222, 1224 attached to the elastic strap may be removed from element 1221, 1223 respectively thus from the garment. It may reduce weight of the garment, avoid wear and tear to the mechanical interface, and enable more flexibility to suit different users. Further, a reversible mechanical interface may be mounted to different pieces of garment to enable options of wearing of the same belt or different belts with different clothing. Alternatively, at least part of the mechanical interface may be permanently mounted to the garment. Such permanent mounting may ensure easier, faster, safer, and more reliable attachment of the belt to the piece of garment. The permanent mounting of the interface may be less prone to accidental breakage or failing of the interface. It may also reduce risk of misalignment or improper placement of the belt.
The mechanical interface may be configured to provide a reversible attachment of the belt to the piece of garment so that the belt may be attached to or removed from the garment conveniently by the wearer. The garment may be worn together with or independent of the belt. Further, the mechanical interface may be hidden within the piece of garment along with the belt such that they are not directly contacting the body of the wearer. In addition, the mechanical interface may be hidden within the piece of garment along with the belt such that they are not exposed to an external environment. A hidden belt with hidden interface may provide significant comfort to the wearer as they may move along with the piece of garment relative to the body as a single unit. In addition, the belt and interface with no direct contact to the human body may alleviate the strict requirements on fabric of making as they may present much less or minimal health threats to the human body. For non-limiting example, no direct contact may help avoid or reduce skin rashes due to friction, allergy to the fabric, overheating the skin by the fabric, low breathability of the fabric, or the like. It may also reduce the cost of fabric in making the belt and/or interface. Further, a belt with interface not visible from outside may also provide high cosmetic values to the pieces of garment.
In some cases, the device 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 and 70 disclosed herein includes an integration of the elastic band to the piece of garment, wherein the integration is configured to prevent at least a portion of the elastic band from directly contacting a body of the user upon wearing. The integration may include two separate layers of the garment that covers the elastic band on one or both sides of the elastic band. The integration may be a fabric pocket with one or two openings that may allow sliding of the elastic band in or out of the pocket. The integration may alternatively be a sleeve over the elastic band. The integration may be padding or cushion customized to fit at least a portion of the inner side of the elastic band. As a non-limiting example, a belt may be sandwiched by two fabric layers of the garment and mechanically attached to the garment. As another example, the belt may include a cover of the elastic band, the cover being between the elastic band and the body when the belt is worn underneath the garment. No direct contact with the user body may be advantageous. A belt with no direct contact with a wearer's body may provide significant comfort to the wearer as they may move along with the piece of garment relative to the body as a single unit. In addition, the belt with no direct contact to the human body may alleviate the strict requirements on fabric of making as they may present much less or minimal health threats to the human body. For non-limiting example, no direct contact to the belt may help avoid or reduce skin rashes due to friction, allergy to the belt fabric, overheating the skin by the belt fabric, low breathability of the belt fabric, or the like. It may also reduce the cost of belt fabric in its making. Further, a belt not visible from outside may also provide high cosmetic values to the pieces of garment.
In some cases, the belt 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 and 70 disclosed herein provide upward and/or inward physical support to an abdominal region of the user upon wearing to users of different body sizes and/or body shapes. The belt may be adjustable to provide abdominal support to users at different stage of pregnancy and/or with different sizes of abdominal girth. As can been seen in FIGS. 1-4, the belt may be worn such that the front side of the belt is below the waistline and the belly button while the back side of the belt may be worn higher than the front side of the belt. The belt may provide upward and/or inward abdominal and pelvic support to the wearer. The abdominal region and its weight may push the band to elastically extend, while the belt may provide support in a direction that is against the pushing forces/pressures that exists in specific areas. The abdominal support at different site of the abdominal region may be different in its value or its direction. The belt may provide abdominal support such that weight and pressure to abdominal region may be partially or completely reduced by support from the back. In other words, the band may lift the abdominal region upward and inward by adding abdominal weight to the back via the elastic band. Thus, the belt may be wider on its back side to reduce pressure per unit area of the wearer's back underneath the band. The belt may also be higher on its back side to securely stabilize the belt when the abdominal region may have a tendency of stretching the belt downward and outward, especially in combination with motion of the wearer.

Hernia Support and Protection

FIG. 8 shows an exemplary embodiment of a hidden device 80 as disclosed herein in a piece of active wear. The hidden device may include multiple elastic bands 808, 809, 810, 811, 812, 813, 814, 815. The hidden device may include four elastic bands 808, 809, 810, 811, optionally aligned in direction of groin oblique muscles (808, 809), and/or hip adductor muscles (810, 811). The hidden device may include one elastic band 812 that may optionally wrap around the waist and provide core support of the transversus abdominis and help reduce diastasis recti. The hidden device may include one elastic band 813 that may optionally support the hip girdle and pelvis. The hidden device may include directional support of the large thigh muscles, i.e. quadriceps, gluteus, hamstrings) with its integrated elastic bands (814, 815). The alignment of elastic bands with specific muscles may facilitate band stretching inline with the muscles, to maximize protection and support for sports hernia and/or groin strain. In the same embodiment, zone-specific stretch provided by the device is along direction of oblique muscles, adductor muscles, and hip stabilizers. This may protect against groin hernias and reduce risk of groin strain and sports hernia. Optional pads may be added for protection from fall injury to coccyx and/or hip (1015 and/or 1016 FIG. 10)
Referring to FIG. 9, in a particular embodiment, an activity bottom is integrated with a hidden device 90 which may include three elastic bands 912, 913, 914. The device may include one elastic band 912 that optionally wraps around the waist. Similar in effect to the hidden straps in FIGS. 1 and 6, the elastic bands of 912 help support the transversus abdominis and core abdominal muscles. These straps wrap around the waist, and can cinch down to the wearer's waist size, similar to 104, customizing the fit and support necessary per wearer. The device may include two bands optionally aligned in direction of groin muscles, and/or adductor muscles, 913, 914. The alignment of elastic bands with specific muscles may facilitate band stretching inline with the muscles, to maximize prevention, protection and support for inguinal hernia, sports hernia and/or groin strain. In some cases, the device 90 is integrated on top of the device 80 of FIG. 8 into the same or a different piece of garment such that it may provide comprehensive support and protection with the functionalities of each individual device (two right most panels). In alternative cases, the device 90 is integrated in a regular bottom (second panel to the left) without the device 80. In some cases, device 80 and 90 alone or in combination may provide support to those with existing groin hernias, strain, and/or sports injury. In some cases, device 80 and 90 alone or in combination may optionally provide support to prevent possible hernia, strain or sports injuries.
The hidden device 80, 90 may be weaved into the activity bottom. Alternatively, the hidden device may be reversibly attached to the bottom via a mechanical interface as shown in FIG. 12 or in device 10, 20, 30, and 40. At least a portion or the entirety of the hidden device may not directly contact the body of the wearer.
The device 80, 90 may be integrated in a way that a part or the entirety of the elastic band does not directly contact a human body when the device and/or the garment it attaches thereto is worn properly. The integration may include two separate layers of the garment that covers the elastic bands on one or both sides of the elastic bands. The integration may be a fabric pocket with one or two openings that may allow sliding of the elastic bands separately or together in or out of the pocket. The integration may alternatively be a sleeve of one or more elastic bands. The integration may be padding or cushion customized to fit at least a portion of the inner side of the elastic bands. As a non-limiting example, a device may be sandwiched by two fabric layers of an active short and mechanically attached to the garment. As another example, the device may include a cover for each of the elastic bands or the elastic bands together. The cover may be between the elastic bands and the body when the device is worn underneath the garment. No direct contact with the user body may be advantageous. A device with no direct contact with a wearer's body may provide significant comfort to the wearer as they may move along with the piece of garment relative to the body as a single unit. Secondly, a device with no direct contact with the wearer's body and which is intimately integrated into the primary article of clothing is more likely to be worn regularly, thereby providing consistent support, without need for compliance by the wearer. In addition, the device with no direct contact to the human body may alleviate the strict requirements on fabric of making as they may present much less or minimal health threats to the human body. For non-limiting example, no direct contact to the device may help avoid or reduce skin rashes due to friction, allergy to the belt fabric, overheating the skin by the belt fabric, low breathability of the belt fabric, or the like. It may reduce risk of misalignment or improper placement of the belt. It may also reduce the cost of fabric in its making. Further, a device not visible from outside may also provide high cosmetic values to the pieces of garment.
Referring to FIG. 10, in a particular embodiment, an activity bottom includes at least four elastic bands optionally aligned in direction of groin oblique muscles, and/or hip adductor muscles, and one elastic band optionally wraps directionally around the waist. The elastic bands may be similar in position and function as the elastic bands in FIGS. 8, 9. In this case, the alignment of elastic bands facilitates band stretching to maximize prevention, protection and support for groin hernia, sports hernia and/or groin strain. In some cases, a separate set of base layer compression shorts may add an insert 1015, 1016 for padding to the back (sacrum, coccyx) and/or to the sides (hip girdle) for additional protection in sports activities.

Muscle Compression and Support

Referring to FIG. 11, in a particular embodiment, a device 110 may be integrated into a sock to provide compression, mechanical support, and thus help prevent injury for the foot and the lower leg. The device includes one elastic band 1117 that optionally wraps around the arch of the forefoot and plantar fascia. The device includes two bands optionally wrapped directly under the belly of the calf muscle (gastrocnemius) 1118, 1119 and/or one band optionally wrapped directionally inline with the Achilles' tendon 1120. The alignment of elastic bands with the tendons and muscles of interest facilitates band stretching to maximize prevention, protection and support for foot arch, plantar fascia, calf muscle belly support, and/or Achilles' tendon strain. In one case, the vertical Achilles's band 1120 optionally stops at the gastrocnemius or calf belly (not shown). In another case, the vertical Achilles's band optionally continues through the gastrocnemius or calf belly section (FIG. 11). The elastic bands may include special elastic ribbed patterns in line with the structures they are intended to support. This provides similar supportive effect as kinesiotape, which is used by athletes and during physical therapy, for directional support of at-risk muscles, tendons, and ligaments. In the same embodiment, the compression sock includes elastic band over-the-calf (FIG. 11) or below-the-calf (not shown). In this embodiment, the compression sock provides support for Achilles's tendon, calf muscle, and forefoot stability.
In some cases, the device includes a first elastic 1117 at a foot portion of the sock; and a second and a third elastic band 1118, 1119 at a leg portion of the sock, wherein the second and the third elastic bands are not substantially parallel to each other and overlap at least partially with each other with an overlapping area 1121. In some cases, the first elastic band is substantially a closed loop wrapped around a part of a foot of a wearer, wherein the part is a forefoot, an arch, or a combination thereof. In certain cases, at least one of the second and the third elastic bands is not a closed loop, and they intersect in a region higher than an Achilles' tendon region of the wearer.
In some cases, the elastic bands/strips are integrated into the sock with a top fabric layer, a bottom fabric layer, or both such that the elastic band does not make direct contact with a human body upon wearing and the elastic bands are not visible from the outside upon wearing. In some cases, the device is configured to provide both compression and mechanical support to muscles, tendons, or both of a wearer. In certain embodiments, the device is configured to prevent shifting of the first, second, and third elastic bands with respect to a lower leg and foot upon wearing.
In some cases, the elastic bands 1117, 1118, 1119 include a width of about 1 mm to about 10 cm in a relaxed state, or a length of about 1 cm to about 100 cm when the device is in a relaxed state. In some cases, the length of the elastic bands/strips that fits around a calf region, a forefoot, an arch, an Achilles' tendon region, or a combination thereof upon wearing. In some cases, a longest dimension of any two of the elastic bands/strips intersect with an acute angle between 10 degrees and 89.9 degrees, wherein the acute angle is adjustable by a wearer.
In some cases, the device is configured to support a calf muscle, a soleus muscle, a gastrocnemius muscle, a plantaris muscle or a combination thereof. In some cases, the device is configured to support the Achilles' tendon.
In some cases, the device 110 is configured to provide mechanical support and compressive support to the forefoot and muscles of the lower leg thus these sometimes are less prone to injuries during activities. Such injuries may include a muscle strain, tear, rupture, or the like. Further, the mechanical support may protect weaken muscles due to existing medical conditions. In some cases, the device 110 is configured to reduce tension on the tendon(s) thus they are less prone to injuries during activities. Such injuries may include a tendon strain, tear, rupture, or the like. In some cases, the device is different from padding or cushion that reduces injury only by damping external impact(s).

Additional Support and Protection

In some embodiments, the device comprises one or more plates for additional weight support. In some cases, each plate includes a metal. In further cases, each plate includes a compressible material for padding or cushioning support. In some embodiments, the device comprises one or more uplifting straps 101, 201, 301, 401, 601, 701 for additional weight support. In some embodiments, the device disclosed herein provides support for one or more selected from: an abdominal region, a belly, a stomach, a pelvis, a back, a lower back, a calf, a foot, a hip, a groin, a breast, and a waist. In some embodiments, the device provides one or more selected from: maternity support, abdominal support, rectus muscle support, core support, nursing breast support, postpartum support, sports hernia support, groin strain support, calf support, calf compression, foot compression, Achilles tendon support, plantar fascia support, leg support, thigh support, and abdominal wall compression.
In some embodiments, the device is worn below the breasts. In some cases, the device is worn above the waist. In some case, the device is worn below the waist or the belly button. In some embodiments, the device is worn around the waist or the belly button. In some case, the device is worn around the torso. In some embodiments, the device is worn near the Achilles tendon. In some embodiments, the device is worn around the arch of the foot, and/or near the calf.

Shoulder Straps

In some embodiments, the device disclosed herein includes at least one shoulder strap. In some cases, the shoulder strap is connected to the garment with the device integrated therein. In some cases, the shoulder strap is connected directly to the garment and directly or indirectly to the device integrated therein. In some embodiments, the connection is through a mechanical interface. In some cases, the connection is concealed beneath a top layer of the garment so that it is invisible when the shoulder strap is properly worn. In some embodiments, the shoulder strap is connected to the inside of the piece of garment. In further embodiments, the shoulder strap is connected in a way that it does not press on or chafe the breasts of the wearer. In other cases, the shoulder strap is connected in a personalized manner that it provides optimal support to the individual that is wearing it. In some embodiments, the shoulder straps are used for women at different pregnancy stages or users with back problem, including back pain. In some cases, different shoulder straps are used for different user or same user at different pregnancy stages to optimize customized support. In some cases, the shoulder strap is elastic or non-elastic.

Fabrics and Materials

In some cases, the device comprises polyester, rubber, nylon, spandex, elastane, cotton, plastic, metal, polyester, silk, viscose, elastane, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the device is stretchable in one, two, or three spatial dimensions. In some embodiments, the device and the piece of garment that the device integrated therewithin includes comparable elastic functions so that the garment stretches in a similar fashion as the device stretches. In some case, the garment includes an elastic property that is within a 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, or 30% difference range of the matching elastic property of the device. As a non-limiting example, if a device has a Young's modulus of 1 gigapascal (GPa), the garment has a Young's modulus of 0.9 to 1.1 gigapascal (GPa) if the elastic property of the garment is within a 10% difference range of the device. In some embodiments, the piece of garment that the device integrated therewithin includes softer materials or fabrics comparing to the device in order to ensure the comfort of the wearer.
In some embodiments, the device, or the piece of garment has a Young's modulus in the range of about 0.1 GPa to 30 GPa. In some embodiments, the materials or fabric forming the device or forming the piece of garment have different elastic properties. In some embodiments, the different material or fabric forms a uniform composite material or fabric in at least a part of the device or the garment. In some embodiments, the different material or fabric are used in different regions of the device or the garment thus providing variable elasticity in different regions of the device or the garment.

Garments

In some embodiments, a piece of garment is a top, a bottom, a sock, a piece of underwear, a piece of base layer, a breast feed top or bra, a camisole, a pair of shorts, a skirt, a pair of pants, a jumpsuit, a belt, a wrapping piece, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, a piece of garment is configured to enclose a device therewithin through connection via the interface and the complementary interface. In some embodiments, a piece of garment is a regular or an off-the-shelf piece of clothing. In some embodiments, a piece of garment is any clothing article that can be adapted to include a mechanical interface or a complimentary interface to hold at least one device disclosed herein concealed and not visually identifiable when the article and the device are properly worn.

Sizes

In some embodiments, the elastic band, strap, or strip includes a length in the range between about 1 mm to about 10 cm, about 1 cm to about 20 cm, or about 1 cm to about 50 cm, about 10 cm to about 100 cm, or any range in between about 1mm to about 200 cm. In some embodiments, the elastic band, strap, or strip includes one or more width in the range between about 1 mm to about 1 cm, about 1 cm to about 10 cm, or about 1 cm to about 20 cm, about 5 cm to about 20 cm, or any range in between about 1mm to about 50 cm. In some embodiments, the elastic band, strap, or strip includes one or more width in the range between about 0.01 mm to about 1 mm, about 0.1 mm to about 1 cm, or about 0.5 mm to about 2 cm, about 1 mm to about 2 cm, or any range in between about 0.01 mm to about 5 cm.
In some embodiments, a red arrow in the figure represents a directional stretching or pulling direction of an elastic band or an elastic strip.
Unless otherwise defined, all technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Any reference to “or” herein is intended to encompass “and/or” unless otherwise stated. As used in this specification and the claims, unless otherwise stated, the term “about,” and “approximately” refers to variations of less than or equal to +/−1%, +/−2%, +/−3%, +/−4%, +/−5%, +/−6%, +/−7%, +/−8%, +/−9%, +/−10%, +/−11%, +/−12%, +/−14%, or +/−15%, depending on the embodiment. As a non-limiting example, about 100 meters represents a range of 95 meters to 105 meters, 90 meters to 110 meters, or 85 meters to 115 meters depending on the embodiments. The term “substantially ” refers to less than or equal to +/−1%, +/−2%, +/−3%, +/−4%, +/−5%, +/−6%, +/−7%, +/−8%, +/−9%, +/−10%, +/−11%, +/−12%, +/−14%, or +/−15% variation. As a non-limiting example, substantially parallel represents a range of −1 to 1 degree difference, −5 to 5 degree difference, or −15 degrees to 15 degrees of difference from being parallel, depending on the embodiments.
All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.
While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments, of the invention described herein might be employed in practicing the invention. It is intended that the following claims define the scope of the invention and that methods and structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents be covered thereby.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A device integrated in a piece of garment for providing abdominal and pelvic support to a user comprising:

a) an elastic band that wraps around a waist and pelvis of the user thereby providing upward and inward physical support to an abdominal region and a pelvic region of the user upon wearing;

b) a mechanical interface that attaches the elastic band to the piece of garment;

c) at least one adjustable connection, wherein the adjustable connection allows adjustment of a length of the elastic band upon wearing; and

d) an integration element of the elastic band to the piece of garment, wherein the integration element prevents at least a portion of the elastic band from directly contacting a body of the user upon wearing.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the elastic band is elastic in one, two, or three dimensions.

3. The device of claim 1, wherein the mechanical interface is a permanent connection to the elastic band and the piece of garment.

4. The device of claim 1, wherein the mechanical interface is a mechanically reversible interface that allows removal and attachment of the device to the piece of garment.

5. The device of claim 1, wherein the at least one mechanically reversible connection is close to a peripheral side of a body of the user upon wearing.

6. The device of claim 1, wherein the elastic band comprises a width of about 1 mm to about 10 cm when the device is a relaxed state.

7. The device of claim 1, wherein the band comprises a length of about 1 cm to about 100 cm when the device is in a relaxed state.

8. The device of claim 1, wherein the elastic band comprises a length that fits around an abdominal region upon wearing.

9. The device of claim 8, wherein the abdominal region is below a waist, or a belly button at least, on the front side of the user upon wearing.

10. The device of claim 1, further comprising a second interface that connects to a supporting strap.

11. The device of claim 10, wherein the supporting strap is a shoulder strap.

12. The device of claim 10, wherein location of the connection between the second interface and the supporting strap is adjustable.

13. The device of claim 1, wherein the mechanically adjustable connection comprises a belt eyelet, a belt buckle, a Velcro® fastener, a zipper, a button, a hook, a loop, a tie, a strap, a ring, a clip, a loop tape, a hook tape, an adhesive tape, or a combination thereof.

14. The device of claim 1, wherein the piece of garment, the mechanical interface, the integration element, or a combination thereof prevents shifting of the device relative to a body of the user upon wearing.

15. The device of claim 1, wherein the integration element is underneath a top layer of the piece of garment.

16. The device of claim 1, wherein the piece of garment is a top, a bottom, or a piece of clothing comprising a top or a bottom.

17. The device of claim 1 provides maternity support upon wearing.

18. A device integrated in a piece of garment for providing abdominal support to a user comprising:

a) at least two elastic straps, wherein the at least two elastic straps are not substantially parallel to each other upon wearing;

b) a mechanical interface that attaches one or more of the at least two elastic straps to the piece of garment; and

c) at least one mechanically adjustable connection, wherein the at least one mechanical adjustable connection allows adjustment of a length of one or more of the at least two elastic straps,

wherein the device provides abdominal support to the user upon wearing, and

wherein the device is integrated in the piece of garment such that at least a portion of the at least two elastic straps does not directly contact a body of the user upon wearing.

19. The device of claim 18, wherein each elastic strap is elastic in one, two, or three dimensions.

20. The device of claim 18, wherein the mechanical interface comprises one or more permanent connection connecting the at least two elastic bands and the piece of garment optionally, at least one of the one or more permanent connection being close to a peripheral side of a body of the user upon wearing of the device.

21. The device of claim 18, wherein the mechanical interface is a mechanically reversible interface that allows removal and attachment of the device to the piece of garment.

22. The device of claim 18, wherein the at least one mechanically reversible connection is close to a peripheral side of a body of the user upon wearing of the device.

23. The device of claim 18, wherein each of the at least two elastic straps comprises a width of about 1 cm to about 20 cm, when the device is a relaxed state.

24. The device of claim 18, wherein each of the at least two elastic straps comprises a length of about 5 cm to about 100 cm, when the device is in a relaxed state.

25. The device of claim 18, wherein each of the at least two elastic straps comprises a length that fits around an abdominal region upon wearing.

26. The device of claim 25, wherein the abdominal region is below a waist, near a waist, or near a belly button.

27. The device of claim 25, wherein the abdominal region is below breasts of the user and substantially above a waist or a belly button of the user.

28. The device of claim 18, wherein the integration element is underneath a top layer of the piece of garment.

29. The device of claim 18, wherein the piece of garment is a top.

30. The device of claim 18, wherein the piece of garment is a breast feeding top.

31. The device of claim 18, wherein the mechanically adjustable connection comprises a belt eyelet, a belt buckle, a Velcro® fastener, a zipper, a button, a hook, a loop, a tie, a strap, a ring, a clip, a hook take, a loop take, an adhesive tape, or a combination thereof.

32. The device of claim 18, wherein the piece of garment, the mechanical interface, the integration element, or a combination thereof prevents shifting of the device relative to a body of the user upon wearing.

33. The device of claim 18, wherein the at least two elastic straps overlap partially with each other.

34. The device of claim 18, wherein the at least two elastic straps are not attached to each other where they overlap.

35. The device of claim 18, wherein an acute angle between a length of each elastic band is between 10 degrees and 89 degrees, the acute angle optionally being adjustable by a user.

36. The device of claim 18 provides postnatal support and helps reduce diastasis recti upon wearing.

37. The device of claim 18, wherein the at least one mechanically reversible connection is directionally wrapped to cinch or close a midline of a body of the user upon wearing.

38. The device of claim 18 provides postnatal or postpartum support of abdominal core muscles and reduces diastasis recti.

39. The device of claim 18, wherein the device is directionally wrapped and cinches or closes a midline of a body of the user upon wearing

40. A device integrated in a piece of garment for providing diastasis closure and postpartum abdominal support to a user comprising:

a) an elastic strap that wraps around a waist of the user thereby providing inward physical support to an abdominal region of the user upon wearing;

b) a mechanical interface that attaches the elastic strap to the piece of garment;

c) at least one mechanically adjustable connection, wherein the mechanical adjustable connection allows adjustment of a length of the elastic strap upon wearing; and

d) an integration element of the elastic strap to the piece of garment, wherein the integration element prevents at least a portion of the elastic band from directly contacting a body of the user upon wearing.

41. The device of claim 40, wherein the band is elastic in one, two, or three dimensions.

42. The device of claim 40, wherein the mechanical interface is a permanent connection connecting the elastic strap and the piece of garment.

43. The device of claim 40, wherein the mechanical interface is a mechanically reversible interface that allows removal and attachment of the device to the piece of garment.

44. The device of claim 40, wherein the at least one mechanically reversible connection is close to a midline of a body of the user upon wearing.

45. The device of claim 40, wherein the at least one mechanically reversible connection is directionally wrapped to cinch or close a midline of a body of the user upon wearing.

46. The device of claim 40, wherein the elastic strap comprises a width of about 1 cm to about 20 cm when the device is a relaxed state.

47. The device of claim 40, wherein the band comprises a length of about 6 cm to about 150 cm when the device is in a relaxed state.

48. The device of claim 40, wherein the elastic strap comprises a length that fits around an abdominal region upon wearing.

49. The device of claim 48, wherein the abdominal region is below a waist, or a belly button at least on an anterior side of the user upon wearing.

50. The device of claim 40, wherein the mechanically adjustable connection comprises a belt eyelet, a belt buckle, a Velcro® fastener, a zipper, a button, a hook, a loop, a tie, a strap, a ring, a clip, a loop tape, a hook tape, an adhesive tape, or a combination thereof.

51. The device of claim 40, wherein the piece of garment, the mechanical interface, the integration element, or a combination thereof prevents shifting of the device relative to a body of the user upon wearing.

52. The device of claim 40, wherein the integration element is underneath a top layer of the piece of garment.

53. The device of claim 40, wherein the piece of garment is a top, a bottom, or a piece of clothing comprising a top and a bottom.

54. The device of claim 40 provides postnatal or postpartum support of abdominal core muscles and reduces diastasis recti.

55. The device of claim 40, wherein the device is directionally wrapped and cinches or closes a midline of a body of the user upon wearing.

56. The device of claim 40, wherein the elastic strap overlap partially at least at or close to the midline of the user upon wearing.

57. A device integrated in a piece of garment for providing groin hernia, sports hernia, and groin strain support to a user comprising:

a) at least two elastic straps, the at least two elastic straps are not substantially parallel to each other upon wearing;

b) a mechanical interface that attaches the at least two elastic straps to the piece of garment; and

wherein the device provides pelvic, hip, groin, and thigh support to the user, and

wherein the device is integrated in the piece of garment such that at least a portion of the at least two elastic straps does not make direct contact with a body of the user upon wearing.

58. The device of claim 57, wherein each elastic strap is elastic in one, two, or three dimensions.

59. The device of claim 57, wherein the mechanical interface is a permanent connection connecting the at least two elastic bands and the piece of garment.

60. The device of claim 57, wherein the mechanical interface is a mechanically reversible interface that allows removal and attachment of the device to the piece of garment.

61. The device of claim 57, wherein the at least one mechanically reversible connection is close to a peripheral side of the body upon wearing of the device.

62. The device of claim 57, wherein each of the at least two elastic straps comprises a width of about 1 cm to about 20 cm when the device is in a relaxed state.

63. The device of claim 57, wherein each of the at least two elastic straps comprises a length of about 2 cm to about 80 cm when the device is in a relaxed state.

64. The device of claim 57, wherein each of the at least two elastic straps comprises a length that fits around at least part of a lower abdominal region upon wearing.

65. The device of claim 64, wherein the lower abdominal region is below a waist, near a waist, or below a belly button.

66. The device of claim 64, wherein the lower abdominal region comprises a hip, a pelvis, a groin, a thigh, or a combination thereof.

67. The device of claim 57, wherein the piece of garment is a bottom.

68. The device of claim 57, wherein the mechanically adjustable connection comprises a belt eyelet, a belt buckle, a Velcro® fastener, a zipper, a button, a hook, a loop, a tie, a hook tape, a loop tape, an adhesive tape, or a combination thereof.

69. The device of claim 57, wherein the piece of garment, the mechanical interface, the integration element, or a combination thereof prevents shifting of the device relative to an area of body upon wearing of the device.

70. The device of claim 57, wherein the at least two elastic straps: 1) overlap partially with each other, 2) intersect with each other, or 3) do not overlap with each other.

71. The device of claim 57, wherein a length of two of the at least two elastic bands intersects with an acute angle between 10 degrees and 89 degrees, the acute angle being adjustable.

72. The device of claim 57 further comprising at least two additional elastic straps.

73. The device of claim 57 provides prevention, support, and protection of groin hernia, sports hernia, groin strain, or a combination thereof to the user upon wearing.

74. The device of claim 57 further comprising one or more plates close to coccyx or hip region of the user upon wearing that protects the coccyx or hip region of the user.

75. A device integrated into a sock for mechanical support and compression of a user comprising:

a) a first elastic strap at a foot portion of the sock; and

b) a second and a third elastic strap at a leg portion of the sock, wherein the second and the third elastic straps are not substantially parallel to each other and overlap at least partially with each other,

wherein the first, second, and third elastic straps are integrated into the sock such that at least a portion of the elastic strap does not make direct contact with a body of the user upon wearing, and wherein the device provides compression and mechanical support to at least two muscles, at least one tendon, or both of the user.

76. The device of claim 75, wherein one or more of the first, second, or third elastic strap is elastic in one, two, or three dimensions.

77. The device of claim 75, wherein the first, second, or third elastic strap comprises a width of about 1 mm to about 4 cm, when the device is in a relaxed state.

78. The device of claim 75, wherein the first, second, or third elastic strap comprises a length of about 1 cm to about 50 cm when the device is in a relaxed state.

79. The device of claim 75, wherein the first, second, or third elastic strap comprises a length that fits around a calf region, a forefoot, an arch, an Achilles' tendon region, or a combination thereof upon wearing.

80. The device of claim 75, wherein the device prevents shifting of the first, second, and third elastic straps with respect to a lower leg and a foot upon wearing.

81. The device of claim 75, wherein a length of any two of the first, second, or third elastic straps intersects with an acute angle between 10 degrees and 89.9 degrees.

82. The device of claim 75, wherein the at least two muscles include a calf muscle, a soleus muscle, a gastrocnemius muscle, a plantaris muscle or a combination thereof.

83. The device of claim 75, wherein the at least one tendon is the Achilles' tendon.

84. The device of claim 75, wherein the first elastic strap is substantially a closed loop wrapped around a part of a foot of the user upon wearing.

85. The device of claim 84, wherein the part is a forefoot, an arch, a plantar fascia, or a combination thereof.

86. The device of claim 75, wherein at least one of the second and the third elastic straps is not a closed loop.

87. The device of claim 75, wherein the second and the third elastic straps intersect in a region higher than an Achilles' tendon region of the user.

88. A device integrated in a piece of garment for providing abdominal support to a user comprising:

a) at least two elastic straps, wherein the at least two elastic straps are substantially parallel to each other upon wearing;

c) at least one mechanically adjustable connection, wherein the at least one mechanical adjustable connection allows adjustment of a length of one or more of the at least two elastic straps by the user,

wherein the device is that provides abdominal support to the user upon wearing, and

wherein the device is integrated in the piece of garment such that at least a portion of the at least two elastic strap does not directly contact a body of the user upon wearing.

89. The device of claim 88, wherein each elastic strap is elastic in one, two, or three dimensions.

90. The device of claim 88, wherein the mechanical interface is a permanent connection connecting the at least two elastic straps and the piece of garment.

91. The device of claim 88, wherein the mechanical interface is a mechanically reversible interface that allows removal and attachment of the device to the piece of garment.

92. The device of claim 88, wherein the at least one mechanically reversible connection is close to a peripheral side of a body of the user upon wearing of the device.

93. The device of claim 88, wherein the at least one mechanically reversible connection comprise two connections, one of the two connections being close to a first peripheral side of a body of the user and the other of the two connection being close to a second peripheral side of a body of the user upon wearing.

94. The device of claim 88, wherein each of the at least two elastic straps comprises a width of about 1 cm to about 15 cm, when the device is a relaxed state.

95. The device of claim 88, wherein each of the at least two elastic straps comprises a length of about 1 cm to about 100 cm, when the device is in a relaxed state.

96. The device of claim 88, wherein each of the at least two elastic straps comprises a length sufficient to cover a front side of the user in an abdominal region upon wearing.

97. The device of claim 96, wherein the abdominal region is below breasts of the user.

98. The device of claim 88, wherein the integration element is underneath a top layer of the piece of garment.

99. The device of claim 88, wherein the piece of garment is a top.

100. The device of claim 88, wherein the mechanically adjustable connection comprises a belt eyelet, a belt buckle, a Velcro® fastener, a zipper, a button, a hook, a loop, a tie, a strap, a ring, a clip, a hook take, a loop take, an adhesive tape, or a combination thereof.

101. The device of claim 88, wherein the piece of garment, the mechanical interface, the integration element, a combination thereof, prevents shifting of the device relative to a body of the user upon wearing.

102. The device of claim 88, wherein the at least two elastic straps does not overlap with each other.

103. The device of claim 88 provides maternity support of an expanding abdomen, an obese abdomen, and abdomen hernia of the user upon wearing.