WO1999008645A1 - Crutch attachable to the leg - Google Patents

Crutch attachable to the leg Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO1999008645A1
WO1999008645A1 PCT/GB1998/002496 GB9802496W WO9908645A1 WO 1999008645 A1 WO1999008645 A1 WO 1999008645A1 GB 9802496 W GB9802496 W GB 9802496W WO 9908645 A1 WO9908645 A1 WO 9908645A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
leg
crutch
crutch according
support
upper portion
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/GB1998/002496
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Craig Edmund Lewis
Original Assignee
Craig Edmund Lewis
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Craig Edmund Lewis filed Critical Craig Edmund Lewis
Priority to AU88164/98A priority Critical patent/AU8816498A/en
Publication of WO1999008645A1 publication Critical patent/WO1999008645A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16B—DEVICES FOR FASTENING OR SECURING CONSTRUCTIONAL ELEMENTS OR MACHINE PARTS TOGETHER, e.g. NAILS, BOLTS, CIRCLIPS, CLAMPS, CLIPS OR WEDGES; JOINTS OR JOINTING
    • F16B7/00—Connections of rods or tubes, e.g. of non-circular section, mutually, including resilient connections
    • F16B7/10—Telescoping systems
    • F16B7/105—Telescoping systems locking in discrete positions, e.g. in extreme extended position
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F5/00—Orthopaedic methods or devices for non-surgical treatment of bones or joints; Nursing devices; Anti-rape devices
    • A61F5/01—Orthopaedic devices, e.g. splints, casts or braces
    • A61F5/0102—Orthopaedic devices, e.g. splints, casts or braces specially adapted for correcting deformities of the limbs or for supporting them; Ortheses, e.g. with articulations
    • A61F5/0104—Orthopaedic devices, e.g. splints, casts or braces specially adapted for correcting deformities of the limbs or for supporting them; Ortheses, e.g. with articulations without articulation
    • A61F5/0106—Orthopaedic devices, e.g. splints, casts or braces specially adapted for correcting deformities of the limbs or for supporting them; Ortheses, e.g. with articulations without articulation for the knees
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H3/00—Appliances for aiding patients or disabled persons to walk about
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F2/00—Filters implantable into blood vessels; Prostheses, i.e. artificial substitutes or replacements for parts of the body; Appliances for connecting them with the body; Devices providing patency to, or preventing collapsing of, tubular structures of the body, e.g. stents
    • A61F2/50—Prostheses not implantable in the body
    • A61F2/60—Artificial legs or feet or parts thereof
    • A61F2/601—Peg legs, e.g. wooden legs
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F2/00—Filters implantable into blood vessels; Prostheses, i.e. artificial substitutes or replacements for parts of the body; Appliances for connecting them with the body; Devices providing patency to, or preventing collapsing of, tubular structures of the body, e.g. stents
    • A61F2/50—Prostheses not implantable in the body
    • A61F2/78—Means for protecting prostheses or for attaching them to the body, e.g. bandages, harnesses, straps, or stockings for the limb stump
    • A61F2002/7862—Harnesses or straps
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H3/00—Appliances for aiding patients or disabled persons to walk about
    • A61H2003/005—Appliances for aiding patients or disabled persons to walk about with knee, leg or stump rests
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H3/00—Appliances for aiding patients or disabled persons to walk about
    • A61H2003/007—Appliances for aiding patients or disabled persons to walk about secured to the patient, e.g. with belts

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a crutch.
  • crutches also prevents the user from being able to use their hands as both hands are required to operate the crutches .
  • a crutch comprising an upper portion having means to attach the crutch to a user's upper leg, a lower leg support extending from the upper portion adapted to support the user's lower leg, and a leg extending from the upper portion or from the lower leg support to engage the ground.
  • the lower leg support extends at an angle from one end of the upper portion and most preferably at an angle of 90 degrees, preferably to extend backwards from the rear of the user's knee or thigh.
  • the upper portion is adapted to receive and secure a thigh of a leg using a first securing means.
  • the lower leg support is adapted to engage a shin of a leg using a second securing means.
  • the first and second securing means comprise one or more straps, preferably of VELCRO (RTM), webbing, canvas or the like.
  • the first and second securing means may comprise a belt and buckle fastener for example.
  • a hook and cam/lever lock mechanism such as a ski-boot type fastener.
  • the first and/or second securing means comprise a substantially rigid material, the material being held in place by securing bands.
  • the lower leg support is joined to the upper portion by a first pivoting joint whereby the lower leg support may be folded against the upper portion, and optionally within it, or vice versa.
  • the leg is collapsible such that the crutch may be stored and/or transported in a compact form.
  • the leg extends downwards from the upper portion but can in practice extend to engage the ground from any part of the crutch.
  • the leg typically comprises an upper leg member and a lower leg member.
  • the upper leg member typically comprises a substantially U-shaped portion, and having a dependent portion depending therefrom.
  • the U-shaped portion and the dependent portion are typically coupled by welding.
  • the U-shaped portion is typically coupled to the upper portion attached to the thigh.
  • the dependent portion of the leg is detachably coupled to the U-shaped portion.
  • the dependent portion of the leg may be coupled to the U-shaped portion to allow relative movement of the dependent portion and the U-shaped portion.
  • the dependent portion is coupled to the U-shaped portion by a first spring pin joint.
  • the first spring pin joint typically comprises a spring-loaded pin on one of the U-shaped portion and the dependent portion, which engages an aperture in the other of the U-shaped portion and the dependent portion.
  • the pin is provided on the dependent portion and the aperture on the U-shaped portion.
  • An upper leg member pivot joint typically facilitates relative rotation of the dependent portion with respect to the U-shaped portion.
  • the pivot joint typically allows the dependent portion to pivot between a folded and an extended position.
  • the pivot joint preferably includes locking means for locking the dependent portion with respect to the U- shaped portion.
  • the locking means typically comprises a spring loaded sleeve or bolt which in one configuration engages both portions to prevent pivotal movement .
  • the leg is adjustable such that the height of the crutch can be varied.
  • the lower leg member is typically coupled to the dependent portion of the upper leg member to facilitate telescopic movement of the upper and lower leg members with respect to each other.
  • the upper and lower leg members are locked together using a second spring pin joint.
  • the height variation may be achieved by varying the attachment position of the upper leg member on the upper portion of the crutch.
  • the second spring pin joint typically comprises a spring-loaded pin on one of the upper and lower leg members which engages an aperture in the other of the upper and lower leg members.
  • the pin is provided on the lower leg member, and the aperture on the upper leg member.
  • the aperture comprises first and second sets of apertures on circumferentially spaced arrays parallel to the axis of the leg, preferably 90 degrees apart. This provides optimum height adjustment.
  • the leg has a foot at the lower end such as a rubber stopper or an outdoor foot.
  • the outdoor foot typically includes a rubber-soled plate.
  • the foot may optionally comprise a tripod type stand.
  • the rubber- soled plate is typically profiled to simulate the motion of a human foot when walking.
  • Fig. 1 is a side elevation of a first embodiment of a crutch in accordance with the present invention
  • Fig. 2 is a front elevation of the crutch of Fig. 1
  • Fig. 3 is a side elevation of a second embodiment of a crutch in accordance with the present invention
  • Fig. 4 is a side elevation of an alternative lower leg member for use with the crutch of Fig. 3
  • Fig. 5 is a side elevation of the crutch of Fig. 4 with the lower leg member removed
  • Fig. 6 is a side elevation of the lower leg member of Fig. 4
  • Fig. 7 is a rear view of the crutch of Fig. 4
  • Fig. 8 is a rear view of the lower leg member of Fig.
  • Fig. 9 is a side elevation of a third embodiment of a crutch in accordance with the present invention
  • Fig. 10 is a side elevation of the lower leg member of Fig. 5 for use with the crutch of Fig. 9
  • Fig. 11 is a rear view of the crutch of Fig. 9
  • Fig. 12 is a rear view of the lower leg member of Figs 4, 8 and 10 for use with the crutch of Fig. 9
  • Fig. 13 is a side elevation of the crutch of Figs 9 and 11 in a folded position
  • Fig. 14 is an isometric view of a joint for use with the crutch of Figs 9 and 11
  • Fig. 15 is a further isometric view of the joint of Fig. 14.
  • Fig. 1 shows a first embodiment of a crutch, generally designated 10, comprising a moulded leg support 12, and a downwardly extending leg 24.
  • the leg support 12 comprises a moulded thigh housing 14 which is designed to cradle the front of a human thigh.
  • the thigh housing 14 is designed to substantially surround the front of the thigh and has side lobes 16 which extend around the sides of the thigh.
  • a moulded rear thigh support 18 substantially shrouds the rear of the user's thigh.
  • the rear thigh support 18 is independent of the thigh housing 14 and is secured in place using straps, as described hereinafter.
  • the rear thigh support 18 may be hingedly attached to the leg support 12 such that it can be folded to one side to allow entry.
  • the function of the rear thigh support 18 is to provide support for the back of the thigh when the crutch 10 is in use and additionally to ensure that the crutch 10 is firmly secured to the leg of the user.
  • a lower leg support in the form of a shin housing 20 which extends backwards at an angle (preferably 90°) to the thigh housing 14, thereby optionally forming a curved knee support 22 between the thigh housing 14 and the shin housing 20.
  • the curved knee support 22 may include a pivoting means, such as hinge (not shown).
  • hinge a pivoting means
  • the thigh housing 14 and shin housing 20 could be moulded as separate components (or integrally) and joined using the hinge. This would allow the shin housing 20 to be folded upwards and stored within the thigh housing 14 when the crutch 10 is not in use.
  • the leg 24 may be collapsible such that the crutch 10 folds into a compact unit for storage and/or transportation.
  • a first locking means (not shown) associated with the hinge can be used to lock the shin housing 20 at the correct angle with respect to the thigh housing 14.
  • the first locking means may allow the shin housing 20 to be set at angles other than 90 degrees to the thigh housing 14.
  • a leg 24 extends vertically downwards from its connection point on the moulded leg support 12.
  • the leg 24 comprises an upper portion 24u, a mid-portion 24m and a lower portion 241 which is telescopically located within the mid-portion 24m.
  • the upper portion 24u comprises a substantially U-shaped portion 30 which has at the apex of the U- shape a bracket 32 from which the mid-portion 24m depends downwardly.
  • leg portions 24 may slide within one another, and the telescopic assembly of the lower and mid-portions 241, 24m can be locked at various lengths by means of locating holes 36, 38 and locking pin 40.
  • the holes 36, 38 are arranged in two respective axially-aligned rows which are circumferentially spaced apart by 90 degrees. That is to say, with reference to Fig. 1, the holes 36 are drilled on a left to right axis, whereas the holes 38 are drilled on a front to rear axis.
  • the holes 38 (as shown in Fig. 2) are vertically-spaced between the holes 36 on the front to rear axis which gives better height adjustability.
  • An alternative method of varying the height of the crutch 10 would be to vary the position at which the leg 24 is mounted on to the moulded leg support 12. This could be achieved using a nut and bolt arrangement for example with a plurality of mounting holes being provided on the moulded support 12.
  • the leg 24 is further provided with a rubber stopper 42 at the lower end thereof to ensure that the leg 24 does not slip when the crutch 10 is in use.
  • This may be replaced by any suitable substantially planar surface, such as a small plate, which provides a good level contact surface .
  • a further alternative would be to use a plurality of legs (such as three) in the form of a tripod stand.
  • the rear support 18 is removed (or folded back if hinged) and the user's leg is inserted into the moulded support 12, with the knee bent and inserted into the curved knee support 22.
  • the front of the user's thigh is then against the rear face of the thigh housing 14.
  • the shin rests against the top face of the shin housing 20 and lies in a generally horizontal plane, so that when fitted, the weight of the user while walking is supported by the knee, and the lower leg is supported.
  • the interior of the moulded leg support 12 may be provided with a padding material (not shown) .
  • the padding material may be removably located such that the pads can be removed for cleaning.
  • a plurality of different styled and shaped pads may be used which allows for variations in leg shape. If the user does not have a plaster cast for example, a different pad shape and size may be required.
  • the rear support 18 is secured around the rear of the thigh using a plurality of straps 44 to secure the leg within the moulded support 12. Alternatively, if the rear support 18 is hinged it may be swung into position and secured using the straps 44.
  • the straps 44 are advantageously provided with double-sided VELCRO (RTM) on one end of each strap 44. One end of the double- sided strap 44 is secured onto VELCRO (RTM) on the front of the moulded leg support 12 at appropriate positions near the thigh and shin. The other end of the strap 44 is then passed around the leg and is secured on top of the first end.
  • RTM double-sided VELCRO
  • the use of VELCRO (RTM) allows the crutch 10 to be secured to the leg quickly and simply and also ensures that the straps 44 cannot slide.
  • the straps may be of the belt and buckle type and are therefore secured in the conventional manner.
  • a further alternative form of fastener would be to use a hook and cam/lever lock mechanism, such as a ski-boot type of fastener.
  • the rear support 18 may be manufactured from a substantially rigid material, such as stiff canvas, and held in place using the straps 44.
  • Figs 3, 5 and 7 show a second embodiment of a crutch designated 100.
  • the leg 124 comprises upper 124u, mid- 124m and lower 1241 portions.
  • Upper leg portion 124u is manufactured from flat bar (best shown in Fig. 7), as opposed to the tubular members used in the previous embodiment. It will be apparent that yoke 150 of the upper leg portion 124u may be formed closer to the curved knee support 122 using the flat bar. This improves the stability of the crutch and also provides improved rigidity and strength.
  • the yoke 150 is also provided with a spring pin joint 152 which allows the upper and lower portions 124u, 1241 of the leg 124 to be detached, as shown in Fig.6.
  • Spring loaded pins 154 are provided on the mid-portion 124m of the leg, and these can locate in apertures 156 in the yoke 150 locking the two together releasably. This provides the advantage that the crutch 100 may be dismantled.
  • the lower portion 1241 is slidably located (telescoped) within mid-portion 124m.
  • the lower member 1241 is locked in position using a locking pin 140, the pin 140 being located in apertures 136, 138 in mid-portion 124m. This allows the height of the crutch 100 to be adjusted to suit the user.
  • Apertures 136, 138 are circumferentially spaced apart by 90 degrees as with the previous embodiment.
  • the lower portion 1241 may be removed from mid-portion 124m. This allows the lower portion 1241 to be replaced, for example with lower portion 160 shown in Figs 4 and 8. Lower portion 160 is provided with a spring pin 140 as before for location in the apertures 136, 138 of the mid-portion 124m. It will be apparent that lower portion 160 may be used with crutch 10 if crutch 10 is to be used outdoors .
  • An outdoor foot 162 is provided at the lower end of the lower portion 160 (in place of the rubber stopper 142).
  • the outdoor foot 162 is designed to give better stability on uneven or undulating surfaces so that the crutch 100 may be used outdoors.
  • the outdoor foot 162 can also be used on soft ground, such as lawns, sand or the like.
  • the foot 162 may be provided, for example, with a rubber sole 164 which increases the grip of the foot 162 on the ground.
  • the profile of foot 162 is such that when the user is walking, the profile substantially imitates the movement of a foot.
  • a third embodiment of a crutch 200 in accordance with the present invention is provided with a pivot joint 270 (Figs 14 and 15) which allows pivotal movement of the mid-portion 224m (and the lower portion 2241 to which it is attached) with respect to the leg support 212. This allows the mid-portion 224m to be folded upwards (as shown in Fig. 13).
  • Pivot joint 270 comprises a first portion 272 which depends from the yoke 250.
  • the first portion 272 has a substantially rounded nose 274, and two substantially flat side portions 276.
  • a second portion of the pivot joint 270, in the form of two lugs 278, is provided at the upper end of the mid-portion 224m.
  • the rounded nose 274 is flanked on either side by the lugs 278, to which they are pivotally connected for relative rotational movement by a pivot pin 280.
  • the joint 270 is provided with a lock 282.
  • the lock 282 comprises a spring loaded sleeve 284 on the mid- portion 224m, which is axially moveable up and down the mid-portion 224m.
  • a spring 286 normally biases the sleeve 284 upwardly as shown in Figs 9 and 11, thus locking the mid-portion 224m (and the lower portion 2241 to which it is attached) in the extended position.
  • the sleeve 284 is moved down the mid-portion 224m against the biasing force of the spring 286. This exposes the joint 270 (Fig. 13) allowing the two portions 274, 278 to pivot relative to one another until the vertical portion 234 assumes the position shown in Fig. 13.
  • Figs 10 and 12 show a lower member 260 for use with the crutch 200, which is substantially the same as the lower member 160 (Figs 4 and 8).
  • the present invention provides a crutch which is intended for use with foot or ankle injuries instead of conventional crutches.
  • the crutch is attached to the leg, the weight of the user is supported by the knee and therefore the hands are left free. It will be appreciated that the discomfort and pain normally associated with the use of conventional crutches can be mitigated.

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
  • Rehabilitation Therapy (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
  • Pain & Pain Management (AREA)
  • Epidemiology (AREA)
  • Nursing (AREA)
  • Orthopedic Medicine & Surgery (AREA)
  • Biomedical Technology (AREA)
  • Heart & Thoracic Surgery (AREA)
  • Vascular Medicine (AREA)
  • Rehabilitation Tools (AREA)

Abstract

A crutch (10, 100, 200) which is designed to be attached to a thigh and shin of a user, wherein the weight of the user is supported by the knee. The crutch (10, 100, 200) comprises a support (14, 114, 214) for the upper portion of a human leg, a support (20, 120, 220) for the lower portion of a human leg, and a leg (24, 124, 224) depending from the support (14, 114, 214) for the upper portion of a human leg. The leg (24, 124, 224) is designed to simulate the lower half of the user's leg, thus allowing the user to walk more easily than with conventional crutches. In addition, the crutch leaves the user's hand free when in use.

Description

CRUTCH ATTACHABLE TO THE LEG
The present invention relates to a crutch.
Conventional crutches present a number of difficulties for the user. Notwithstanding the difficulty of walking using crutches, the user often experiences pain in the under-arm region from the continual resting of the upper body on the crutches. Walking using such crutches is therefore very often slow and painful.
The use of conventional crutches also prevents the user from being able to use their hands as both hands are required to operate the crutches .
According to the present invention there is provided a crutch comprising an upper portion having means to attach the crutch to a user's upper leg, a lower leg support extending from the upper portion adapted to support the user's lower leg, and a leg extending from the upper portion or from the lower leg support to engage the ground.
Preferably, the lower leg support extends at an angle from one end of the upper portion and most preferably at an angle of 90 degrees, preferably to extend backwards from the rear of the user's knee or thigh.
Typically, the upper portion is adapted to receive and secure a thigh of a leg using a first securing means. Typically, the lower leg support is adapted to engage a shin of a leg using a second securing means. Typically, the first and second securing means comprise one or more straps, preferably of VELCRO (RTM), webbing, canvas or the like. Alternatively, the first and second securing means may comprise a belt and buckle fastener for example. A further alternative would be the use of a hook and cam/lever lock mechanism, such as a ski-boot type fastener. Optionally, the first and/or second securing means comprise a substantially rigid material, the material being held in place by securing bands.
Optionally, the lower leg support is joined to the upper portion by a first pivoting joint whereby the lower leg support may be folded against the upper portion, and optionally within it, or vice versa. Optionally also, the leg is collapsible such that the crutch may be stored and/or transported in a compact form.
Typically, the leg extends downwards from the upper portion but can in practice extend to engage the ground from any part of the crutch. The leg typically comprises an upper leg member and a lower leg member. The upper leg member typically comprises a substantially U-shaped portion, and having a dependent portion depending therefrom. The U-shaped portion and the dependent portion are typically coupled by welding. The U-shaped portion is typically coupled to the upper portion attached to the thigh. Typically, the dependent portion of the leg is detachably coupled to the U-shaped portion. Alternatively, the dependent portion of the leg may be coupled to the U-shaped portion to allow relative movement of the dependent portion and the U-shaped portion. Typically, the dependent portion is coupled to the U-shaped portion by a first spring pin joint.
The first spring pin joint typically comprises a spring-loaded pin on one of the U-shaped portion and the dependent portion, which engages an aperture in the other of the U-shaped portion and the dependent portion. Preferably, the pin is provided on the dependent portion and the aperture on the U-shaped portion.
An upper leg member pivot joint typically facilitates relative rotation of the dependent portion with respect to the U-shaped portion. The pivot joint typically allows the dependent portion to pivot between a folded and an extended position.
The pivot joint preferably includes locking means for locking the dependent portion with respect to the U- shaped portion. The locking means typically comprises a spring loaded sleeve or bolt which in one configuration engages both portions to prevent pivotal movement .
Preferably, the leg is adjustable such that the height of the crutch can be varied. The lower leg member is typically coupled to the dependent portion of the upper leg member to facilitate telescopic movement of the upper and lower leg members with respect to each other. In certain embodiments, the upper and lower leg members are locked together using a second spring pin joint. Alternatively, the height variation may be achieved by varying the attachment position of the upper leg member on the upper portion of the crutch.
The second spring pin joint typically comprises a spring-loaded pin on one of the upper and lower leg members which engages an aperture in the other of the upper and lower leg members. Preferably, the pin is provided on the lower leg member, and the aperture on the upper leg member. Preferably, the aperture comprises first and second sets of apertures on circumferentially spaced arrays parallel to the axis of the leg, preferably 90 degrees apart. This provides optimum height adjustment.
Preferably, the leg has a foot at the lower end such as a rubber stopper or an outdoor foot. The outdoor foot typically includes a rubber-soled plate. The foot may optionally comprise a tripod type stand. The rubber- soled plate is typically profiled to simulate the motion of a human foot when walking.
Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: -
Fig. 1 is a side elevation of a first embodiment of a crutch in accordance with the present invention; Fig. 2 is a front elevation of the crutch of Fig. 1; Fig. 3 is a side elevation of a second embodiment of a crutch in accordance with the present invention; Fig. 4 is a side elevation of an alternative lower leg member for use with the crutch of Fig. 3; Fig. 5 is a side elevation of the crutch of Fig. 4 with the lower leg member removed; Fig. 6 is a side elevation of the lower leg member of Fig. 4; Fig. 7 is a rear view of the crutch of Fig. 4; Fig. 8 is a rear view of the lower leg member of Fig. 5; Fig. 9 is a side elevation of a third embodiment of a crutch in accordance with the present invention; Fig. 10 is a side elevation of the lower leg member of Fig. 5 for use with the crutch of Fig. 9; Fig. 11 is a rear view of the crutch of Fig. 9; Fig. 12 is a rear view of the lower leg member of Figs 4, 8 and 10 for use with the crutch of Fig. 9; Fig. 13 is a side elevation of the crutch of Figs 9 and 11 in a folded position; Fig. 14 is an isometric view of a joint for use with the crutch of Figs 9 and 11; and Fig. 15 is a further isometric view of the joint of Fig. 14.
Referring to the drawings, Fig. 1 shows a first embodiment of a crutch, generally designated 10, comprising a moulded leg support 12, and a downwardly extending leg 24.
The leg support 12 comprises a moulded thigh housing 14 which is designed to cradle the front of a human thigh. The thigh housing 14 is designed to substantially surround the front of the thigh and has side lobes 16 which extend around the sides of the thigh.
A moulded rear thigh support 18 substantially shrouds the rear of the user's thigh. In this example, the rear thigh support 18 is independent of the thigh housing 14 and is secured in place using straps, as described hereinafter. Alternatively, the rear thigh support 18 may be hingedly attached to the leg support 12 such that it can be folded to one side to allow entry. The function of the rear thigh support 18 is to provide support for the back of the thigh when the crutch 10 is in use and additionally to ensure that the crutch 10 is firmly secured to the leg of the user.
At the lower end of the thigh housing 14 is a lower leg support in the form of a shin housing 20 which extends backwards at an angle (preferably 90°) to the thigh housing 14, thereby optionally forming a curved knee support 22 between the thigh housing 14 and the shin housing 20.
The curved knee support 22 may include a pivoting means, such as hinge (not shown). For example, the thigh housing 14 and shin housing 20 could be moulded as separate components (or integrally) and joined using the hinge. This would allow the shin housing 20 to be folded upwards and stored within the thigh housing 14 when the crutch 10 is not in use. Furthermore, the leg 24 may be collapsible such that the crutch 10 folds into a compact unit for storage and/or transportation.
A first locking means (not shown) associated with the hinge can be used to lock the shin housing 20 at the correct angle with respect to the thigh housing 14. The first locking means may allow the shin housing 20 to be set at angles other than 90 degrees to the thigh housing 14.
A leg 24 extends vertically downwards from its connection point on the moulded leg support 12. The leg 24 comprises an upper portion 24u, a mid-portion 24m and a lower portion 241 which is telescopically located within the mid-portion 24m. As best seen from Fig. 2, the upper portion 24u comprises a substantially U-shaped portion 30 which has at the apex of the U- shape a bracket 32 from which the mid-portion 24m depends downwardly.
To compensate for variations in the height of a user, the leg portions 24 may slide within one another, and the telescopic assembly of the lower and mid-portions 241, 24m can be locked at various lengths by means of locating holes 36, 38 and locking pin 40.
In this particular embodiment, the holes 36, 38 are arranged in two respective axially-aligned rows which are circumferentially spaced apart by 90 degrees. That is to say, with reference to Fig. 1, the holes 36 are drilled on a left to right axis, whereas the holes 38 are drilled on a front to rear axis. The holes 38 (as shown in Fig. 2) are vertically-spaced between the holes 36 on the front to rear axis which gives better height adjustability.
An alternative method of varying the height of the crutch 10 would be to vary the position at which the leg 24 is mounted on to the moulded leg support 12. This could be achieved using a nut and bolt arrangement for example with a plurality of mounting holes being provided on the moulded support 12.
The leg 24 is further provided with a rubber stopper 42 at the lower end thereof to ensure that the leg 24 does not slip when the crutch 10 is in use. This may be replaced by any suitable substantially planar surface, such as a small plate, which provides a good level contact surface . A further alternative would be to use a plurality of legs (such as three) in the form of a tripod stand.
To fit the crutch 10 onto the leg of a user, the rear support 18 is removed (or folded back if hinged) and the user's leg is inserted into the moulded support 12, with the knee bent and inserted into the curved knee support 22. The front of the user's thigh is then against the rear face of the thigh housing 14. The shin rests against the top face of the shin housing 20 and lies in a generally horizontal plane, so that when fitted, the weight of the user while walking is supported by the knee, and the lower leg is supported.
For comfort reasons, the interior of the moulded leg support 12 may be provided with a padding material (not shown) . The padding material may be removably located such that the pads can be removed for cleaning. Furthermore, a plurality of different styled and shaped pads may be used which allows for variations in leg shape. If the user does not have a plaster cast for example, a different pad shape and size may be required.
The rear support 18 is secured around the rear of the thigh using a plurality of straps 44 to secure the leg within the moulded support 12. Alternatively, if the rear support 18 is hinged it may be swung into position and secured using the straps 44. The straps 44 are advantageously provided with double-sided VELCRO (RTM) on one end of each strap 44. One end of the double- sided strap 44 is secured onto VELCRO (RTM) on the front of the moulded leg support 12 at appropriate positions near the thigh and shin. The other end of the strap 44 is then passed around the leg and is secured on top of the first end. The use of VELCRO (RTM) allows the crutch 10 to be secured to the leg quickly and simply and also ensures that the straps 44 cannot slide.
Alternatively, the straps may be of the belt and buckle type and are therefore secured in the conventional manner. A further alternative form of fastener would be to use a hook and cam/lever lock mechanism, such as a ski-boot type of fastener.
Alternatively, the rear support 18 may be manufactured from a substantially rigid material, such as stiff canvas, and held in place using the straps 44.
Figs 3, 5 and 7 show a second embodiment of a crutch designated 100. In this embodiment, the leg 124 comprises upper 124u, mid- 124m and lower 1241 portions. Upper leg portion 124u is manufactured from flat bar (best shown in Fig. 7), as opposed to the tubular members used in the previous embodiment. It will be apparent that yoke 150 of the upper leg portion 124u may be formed closer to the curved knee support 122 using the flat bar. This improves the stability of the crutch and also provides improved rigidity and strength.
The yoke 150 is also provided with a spring pin joint 152 which allows the upper and lower portions 124u, 1241 of the leg 124 to be detached, as shown in Fig.6. Spring loaded pins 154 are provided on the mid-portion 124m of the leg, and these can locate in apertures 156 in the yoke 150 locking the two together releasably. This provides the advantage that the crutch 100 may be dismantled. As with the previous embodiment, the lower portion 1241 is slidably located (telescoped) within mid-portion 124m. The lower member 1241 is locked in position using a locking pin 140, the pin 140 being located in apertures 136, 138 in mid-portion 124m. This allows the height of the crutch 100 to be adjusted to suit the user. Apertures 136, 138 are circumferentially spaced apart by 90 degrees as with the previous embodiment.
The lower portion 1241 may be removed from mid-portion 124m. This allows the lower portion 1241 to be replaced, for example with lower portion 160 shown in Figs 4 and 8. Lower portion 160 is provided with a spring pin 140 as before for location in the apertures 136, 138 of the mid-portion 124m. It will be apparent that lower portion 160 may be used with crutch 10 if crutch 10 is to be used outdoors .
An outdoor foot 162 is provided at the lower end of the lower portion 160 (in place of the rubber stopper 142). The outdoor foot 162 is designed to give better stability on uneven or undulating surfaces so that the crutch 100 may be used outdoors. Furthermore, the outdoor foot 162 can also be used on soft ground, such as lawns, sand or the like. The foot 162 may be provided, for example, with a rubber sole 164 which increases the grip of the foot 162 on the ground. The profile of foot 162 is such that when the user is walking, the profile substantially imitates the movement of a foot.
Referring now to Figs 9 to 15, there is shown a third embodiment of a crutch 200 in accordance with the present invention. Crutch 200 is provided with a pivot joint 270 (Figs 14 and 15) which allows pivotal movement of the mid-portion 224m (and the lower portion 2241 to which it is attached) with respect to the leg support 212. This allows the mid-portion 224m to be folded upwards (as shown in Fig. 13).
Figs 14 and 15 show the pivot joint 270, which is an alternative to the spring pin joint 152 (Figs 3, 5 and 7). Pivot joint 270 comprises a first portion 272 which depends from the yoke 250. The first portion 272 has a substantially rounded nose 274, and two substantially flat side portions 276. A second portion of the pivot joint 270, in the form of two lugs 278, is provided at the upper end of the mid-portion 224m. The rounded nose 274 is flanked on either side by the lugs 278, to which they are pivotally connected for relative rotational movement by a pivot pin 280.
The joint 270 is provided with a lock 282. The lock 282 comprises a spring loaded sleeve 284 on the mid- portion 224m, which is axially moveable up and down the mid-portion 224m.
A spring 286 normally biases the sleeve 284 upwardly as shown in Figs 9 and 11, thus locking the mid-portion 224m (and the lower portion 2241 to which it is attached) in the extended position. When the mid- portion 224m is to be pivoted about the pivot joint 270 to the folded position, the sleeve 284 is moved down the mid-portion 224m against the biasing force of the spring 286. This exposes the joint 270 (Fig. 13) allowing the two portions 274, 278 to pivot relative to one another until the vertical portion 234 assumes the position shown in Fig. 13. The force biasing the sleeve 284 downwardly can then be removed allowing the sleeve 284 to slide back under the force of the spring 286 to butt against the first portion 272. Figs 10 and 12 show a lower member 260 for use with the crutch 200, which is substantially the same as the lower member 160 (Figs 4 and 8).
Hence, the present invention provides a crutch which is intended for use with foot or ankle injuries instead of conventional crutches. In the embodiments shown, the crutch is attached to the leg, the weight of the user is supported by the knee and therefore the hands are left free. It will be appreciated that the discomfort and pain normally associated with the use of conventional crutches can be mitigated.
Modifications and improvements may be made to the foregoing without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A crutch comprising an upper portion (14, 114, 214) having means to attach the crutch to a user's upper leg, a lower leg support (20, 120, 220) extending from the upper portion (14, 114, 214) adapted to support the user's lower leg, and a leg (24, 124, 224) extending from the upper portion (14, 114, 214) or from the lower leg support (20, 120, 220) to engage the ground.
2. A crutch according to claim 1, wherein the lower leg support (20, 120, 220) extends at an angle from the upper portion (14, 114, 214).
3. A crutch according to claim 2, wherein the angle is 90 degrees.
4. A crutch according to either claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the lower leg support (20, 120, 220) extends backwards from the rear of the upper portion (14, 114, 214).
5. A crutch according to any preceding claim, wherein the lower leg support (20, 120, 220) is joined to the upper portion (14, 114, 214) by a first pivoting joint.
6. A crutch according to any preceding claim, wherein the leg (24) is collapsible.
7. A crutch according to any preceding claim, wherein the leg (24) extends downwards from the upper portion (14, 114, 214) or from the lower leg support (20, 120, 220).
8. A crutch according to any preceding claim, wherein the leg (24) comprises an upper leg member (24u, 24m), and a lower leg member (241).
9. A crutch according to claim 8, wherein the upper leg member comprises a substantially U-shaped portion (24u, 124u, 224u), and having a dependent portion (24m, 124m, 224m) depending therefrom.
10. A crutch according to claim 9, wherein the U- shaped portion (24u, 124u, 224u) is coupled to the upper portion (14, 114, 214) of the crutch.
11. A crutch according to either claim 9 or claim 10, wherein the dependent portion (124m) of the leg (124) is detachably coupled to the U-shaped portion (124u).
12. A crutch according to claim 11, wherein the dependent portion (124m) is coupled to the U-shaped portion (124u) by a first spring pin joint (152).
13. A crutch according to claim 12, wherein the first spring pin joint (152) comprises a spring loaded pin (154) on one of the U-shaped portion (124u) and the dependent portion (124m), which engages an aperture (156) in the other of the U-shaped portion (124u) and the dependent portion (124m).
14. A crutch according to either claim 9 or claim 10, wherein the dependent portion of the leg (224) is pivotally coupled to the U-shaped portion (224u).
15. A crutch according to claim 14 wherein the pivot coupling is lockable.
16. A crutch according to claim 15, wherein the lock comprises a spring loaded sleeve (284) or bolt which in one configuration engages both portions (224u, 224m) to prevent pivotal movement .
17. A crutch according to any preceding claim, wherein the leg (24, 124, 224) is adjustable such that the length of the crutch can be varied.
18. A crutch according to any preceding claim, wherein the lower leg (24, 124, 224) comprises one or more members which are telescopically extendible.
19. A crutch according to claim 18, wherein two of the respective leg members are locked together using a second spring pin joint.
20. A crutch according to claim 19, wherein the second spring pin joint comprises first (36, 136, 236) and second (38, 138, 238) sets of apertures on circumferentially spaced arrays on one of the leg members.
21. A crutch according to claim 20, wherein the arrays are spaced 90 degrees apart.
22. A crutch according to any preceding claim, wherein the leg (24, 124, 224) has a foot at the lower end.
PCT/GB1998/002496 1997-08-20 1998-08-20 Crutch attachable to the leg WO1999008645A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU88164/98A AU8816498A (en) 1997-08-20 1998-08-20 Crutch attachable to the leg

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GBGB9717573.1A GB9717573D0 (en) 1997-08-20 1997-08-20 Mobility aid
GB9717573.1 1997-08-20

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO1999008645A1 true WO1999008645A1 (en) 1999-02-25

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AU (1) AU8816498A (en)
GB (1) GB9717573D0 (en)
WO (1) WO1999008645A1 (en)

Cited By (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6494919B1 (en) * 1998-04-03 2002-12-17 Canadaleg Inc. Crutch device
EP1603643A2 (en) * 2003-03-14 2005-12-14 Emmert Second Limited Partnership Stilt device with improved leg attachment assembly
WO2007043379A1 (en) * 2005-10-03 2007-04-19 Keio University Walking training apparatus and walking training method
DE102005062909A1 (en) * 2005-12-29 2007-07-12 Alexander Schriefer Knee brace for supporting bent knee of patient, has roughly-semicircular shell that is adapted to shape of knee, where shell proceeds to two sides of semicircular shell, even when shell pieces are arranged perpendicular to each other
EP2299962A1 (en) * 2008-06-11 2011-03-30 The Regents of the University of California External walking assist device for those with lower leg injuries
EP2415367A1 (en) * 2010-03-29 2012-02-08 Marufuji Inc. Stick
US20120290102A1 (en) * 2011-05-11 2012-11-15 Mahoney Ormonde M Knee Crutch System
CN110292511A (en) * 2019-06-21 2019-10-01 黄河科技学院 Be exclusively used in foot sprain patient kneels formula crutch
EP3586809A1 (en) * 2018-06-25 2020-01-01 Martin Krause Crutch-like device for aiding persons with lower leg, ankle or foot injuries
CN112656555A (en) * 2020-12-25 2021-04-16 江苏启源碳纤维制品有限公司 Splicing high-strength carbon fiber artificial limb
CN113367943A (en) * 2021-06-15 2021-09-10 李雁 Orthopedic nursing crutch capable of relieving pain

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US5300016A (en) * 1992-04-14 1994-04-05 Marlatt William W Lower leg shelf with foldable weight-bearing strut and stabilizer frame
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US4058119A (en) * 1976-08-12 1977-11-15 Rosequist Craig D Walking device
US4141375A (en) * 1978-02-03 1979-02-27 Tykwinski Leonard M Knee crutch-cane
US4852597A (en) * 1987-03-24 1989-08-01 Medline Industries, Inc. Crutch design
FR2643813A1 (en) * 1989-03-06 1990-09-07 Chretien Gerard Orthopaedic device permitting human locomotion
US5178595A (en) * 1992-02-13 1993-01-12 Macgregor Douglas Walking device to assist those with an injury to a lower limb
US5300016A (en) * 1992-04-14 1994-04-05 Marlatt William W Lower leg shelf with foldable weight-bearing strut and stabilizer frame
US5575299A (en) * 1995-08-01 1996-11-19 Bieri; H. Carlton Walking device

Cited By (20)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6494919B1 (en) * 1998-04-03 2002-12-17 Canadaleg Inc. Crutch device
EP1603643A2 (en) * 2003-03-14 2005-12-14 Emmert Second Limited Partnership Stilt device with improved leg attachment assembly
EP1603643A4 (en) * 2003-03-14 2007-10-31 Emmert Second Ltd Partnership Stilt device with improved leg attachment assembly
WO2007043379A1 (en) * 2005-10-03 2007-04-19 Keio University Walking training apparatus and walking training method
DE102005062909A1 (en) * 2005-12-29 2007-07-12 Alexander Schriefer Knee brace for supporting bent knee of patient, has roughly-semicircular shell that is adapted to shape of knee, where shell proceeds to two sides of semicircular shell, even when shell pieces are arranged perpendicular to each other
DE102005062909B4 (en) * 2005-12-29 2009-10-08 Alexander Schriefer Knee support for a walker
US8257291B2 (en) 2008-06-11 2012-09-04 The Regents Of The University Of California External walking assist device for those with lower leg injuries
EP2299962A4 (en) * 2008-06-11 2012-03-21 Univ California External walking assist device for those with lower leg injuries
EP2299962A1 (en) * 2008-06-11 2011-03-30 The Regents of the University of California External walking assist device for those with lower leg injuries
US8851094B2 (en) 2010-03-29 2014-10-07 Marufuji, Inc. Cane
EP2415367A4 (en) * 2010-03-29 2012-03-07 Marufuji Inc Stick
CN102762122A (en) * 2010-03-29 2012-10-31 株式会社丸冨士 Stick
EP2415367A1 (en) * 2010-03-29 2012-02-08 Marufuji Inc. Stick
US20120290102A1 (en) * 2011-05-11 2012-11-15 Mahoney Ormonde M Knee Crutch System
EP3586809A1 (en) * 2018-06-25 2020-01-01 Martin Krause Crutch-like device for aiding persons with lower leg, ankle or foot injuries
CN110292511A (en) * 2019-06-21 2019-10-01 黄河科技学院 Be exclusively used in foot sprain patient kneels formula crutch
CN110292511B (en) * 2019-06-21 2024-06-04 黄河科技学院 Kneeling type crutch special for foot sprain patient
CN112656555A (en) * 2020-12-25 2021-04-16 江苏启源碳纤维制品有限公司 Splicing high-strength carbon fiber artificial limb
CN112656555B (en) * 2020-12-25 2022-06-10 江苏启源碳纤维制品有限公司 Splicing high-strength carbon fiber artificial limb
CN113367943A (en) * 2021-06-15 2021-09-10 李雁 Orthopedic nursing crutch capable of relieving pain

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Publication number Publication date
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AU8816498A (en) 1999-03-08

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