WO2018108635A1

WO2018108635A1 - Orthosis, in particular of the knee, including deformable lateral supports

Info

Publication number: WO2018108635A1
Application number: PCT/EP2017/081560
Authority: WO
Inventors: Laurent DEVILLERS; Gérard ANGLADA
Original assignee: Gibaud
Priority date: 2016-12-16
Filing date: 2017-12-05
Publication date: 2018-06-21
Also published as: FR3060293A1; FR3060293B1

Abstract

The orthosis (1) comprises: -two lateral supports (2) including a first arm (11) and a second arm (12) pivotally assembled between a neutral position, in which they are aligned, and a flexed position; -at least a first strap (61a-b) linking the first arms (11) and a second strap (62a- b) linking the second arms (12) to hold the supports around the limb (102). At least one arm (11, 12) comprises: -a main part (30); -a tongue (34, 39) having abase (35, 40) linked to the main part and extending parallel to the main part by being separated therefrom by a slot (50, 53), an opening (52, 54) receiving a strap being arranged on the tongue, the tongue being able to deviate from the main part under the effect of a traction of the strap.

Description

Orthosis, in particular of the knee, including deformable lateral supports

The present invention concerns an orthosis for a joint of a person's limb, in particular a knee orthosis.

The invention can be used on a person's limb comprising an upper portion and a lower portion linked by a joint. Subsequently, there is a more specific interest to the knee, but the invention can also be used on the elbow of a person.

In the particular case of the knee, such an orthosis aims in particular at stabilizing the joint of the knee in the frontal plane, and at controlling and/or accompanying the flexion and the extension in the sagittal plane. This orthosis can be prescribed in particular in the following cases: sprain, trauma (in reeducation or rehabilitation phase), chronic laxity, or a medical pathology leading to a painful and unstable knee. The orthosis can be in particular worn when practicing a sport.

Among the known knee orthoses, some comprise a tubular element made of elastic material that the wearer puts on the leg, as well as articulated lateral supports that can be attached on the tubular element, on either side of the leg, so as to improve the stabilization of the joint.

These orthoses generally give satisfaction.

However, they could be improved in terms of wearing comfort and of holding in position on the wearer, especially when the wearer flexes the limb equipped with the orthosis, herein the leg for example.

In addition, the wearing of an orthosis including lateral supports may be prohibited in particular sports. This forces therefore the person to be equipped with a first orthosis devoid of such lateral supports for the practice of the sport in question, and with a second orthosis including such lateral supports, that he/she can wear the rest of the time to obtain an increased stabilization allowing to reduce the pain felt and/or to accelerate the healing.

The present invention aims to overcome the above-mentioned drawbacks. To this end, the invention concerns an orthosis for a joint of a person's limb, in particular a knee orthosis, comprising:

- two lateral supports, each arranged generally in a plane, and intended to be placed on either side of the limb, each support including a first arm and a second arm assembled to one another via at least one pivot axis which is orthogonal to the plane of the support and which is adjacent to the joint of the limb, in the position of use, so that the arms are movable between a neutral position, in which they are substantially aligned in a longitudinal direction, and a flexed position, in which they form together an angle of less than 100° ;

- a system for holding the supports around the limb, including at least a first strap linking the first arms and a second strap linking the second arms, each strap being engaged in an opening arranged on at least one of the corresponding arms.

According to a general definition of the invention, the or each arm including the opening comprises:

- a main part which extends substantially along the longitudinal direction, in the neutral position, and which has an end linked to the pivot axis and a free end;

- at least one tongue which has a base linked to the main part and which extends substantially parallel to the main part by being separated from the main part by a slot, the opening being arranged on the tongue, so that the tongue can deviate from the main part under the effect of a traction of the strap, in a reversible manner.

By providing for an arm including such a tongue, the invention allows obtaining a number of advantages.

Firstly, the orthosis can thus be adapted, from a geometric point of view, to the needs of the wearer. On the one hand, in statics, that is to say when the wearer's limb remains in an anatomical position (typically the wearer standing with a substantially extending leg in the case of a knee orthosis), a more or less significant traction on the strap results in a more or less significant spacing of the tongue relative to the main part of the arm of the support. On the other hand, in dynamics, that is to say in particular when the wearer's limb is flexed, some of the muscles of the limb increase in volume and therefore exert an increased traction on the strap(s). Again, this results in an increased spacing of the tongue relative to the main part of the arm of the support. Conversely, when the traction on the strap decreases, the tongue approaches its position in the unconstrained state (that is to say in the absence of stresses).

Due to this variable and reversible spacing, the invention ensures maintaining effective contact and without overtightening in the different conditions described above. In addition, it is not necessary for the wearer to proceed to a loosening, especially when the limb moves from the extended position to the flexed position, and conversely to a retightening, when the limb moves from the flexed position to the extended position, in order to avoid any discomfort while ensuring the required holding. The flexibility obtained accordingly, and the spring effect, thus give the orthosis an increased comfort and a greater ease of use. It is also noted that, due to the spacing of the tongue relative to the main part of the arm, following the increase in traction on the strap, the surface area carrying the arm is increased. In other words, this limits the increase in pressure at the supports resulting from the increase in traction on the strap, which further increases the wearing comfort.

Furthermore, such an orthosis can be placed on a tubular element made of elastic material that the wearer has previously put on his leg or his arm. Thus, a modular orthosis is obtained, the wearer of which can adapt the configuration depending on the circumstances, without having to acquire two separate orthoses.

According to a possible embodiment, the or each arm including the opening comprises:

- an anterior tongue which has a base linked to the main part of the arm and which extends substantially parallel to the main part by being separated from the main part by a slot, an opening intended to receive a strap being arranged on the anterior tongue;

- a posterior tongue which has a base linked to the main part of the arm and which extends substantially parallel to the main part, on the side opposite to the anterior tongue, by being separated from the main part by a slot, an opening intended to receive a strap being arranged on the posterior tongue.

The expression "on the opposite side" extends relative to the frontal plane, which is the plane containing the pivot axis and the longitudinal direction. Providing two tongues increases the flexibility and adaptability of the arm in question.

In addition, it can be provided that, in the neutral position, the longitudinal distance between the pivot axis and the extreme edge of the opening of the anterior tongue located furthest from said pivot axis is substantially equal to the longitudinal distance between said pivot axis and the extreme edge of the opening of the posterior tongue located closest to said pivot axis. In other words, there is an offset of the openings along the longitudinal direction. Consequently, it is possible to dispense with a strap extending around the upper portion, or the lower portion, of the limb equipped with the orthosis, and thus to avoid creating a vascular and muscular tourniquet.

According to a possible embodiment, the anterior tongue has a base linked to the main part of the arm in the vicinity of the pivot axis and extends towards the free end of the main part, and the posterior tongue has a base linked to the main part of the arm in the vicinity of the free end of the main part and extends towards the pivot axis. The reverse arrangement is however conceivable. The first strap, and/or respectively the second strap, can be engaged in an opening arranged on the first arm of each of the supports, respectively arranged on the second arm of each of the supports.

Such an arrangement allows an adjustment of the tension of the strap at each of the supports, for example by folding and attaching on itself of each extreme part of the strap, on either side of the opening. Alternatively, the first strap could be attached to the first arm of a support, and engaged in an opening arranged on the first arm of the other support, which would allow an adjustment to a single extreme part of the first strip. The arrangement for the second strip could be similar or not.

According to a possible embodiment, the system for holding the supports around the limb comprises:

- a first anterior strap linking the first arms of the supports, and a first posterior strap linking the first arms of the supports on the side opposite to the first anterior strap;

- and/or a second anterior strap linking the second arms of the supports, and a second posterior strap linking the second arms of the supports on the side opposite to the second anterior strap.

With such a configuration, each of the anterior strap and the posterior strap can typically form substantially one-half circumference of the limb.

For example, the first or second anterior strap is engaged in the opening of the anterior tongue of the corresponding arm(s), and the first or second posterior strap is engaged in the opening of the posterior tongue of the corresponding arm(s). In other words, the tongue is located on the side of the frontal plane where is located the strap that said tongue receives.

It can be provided that the first anterior strap and the first posterior strap are offset relative to one another along the longitudinal direction, and/or that the second anterior strap and the second posterior strap are offset relative to one another along the longitudinal direction.

Such an arrangement makes it possible to avoid creating a vascular and muscular tourniquet effect. In other words, the openings in which the straps are engaged on the same arm are also offset relative to each other along the longitudinal direction.

For example, the anterior strap is located closer to the pivot axis than the posterior strap cooperating with the same arm. Thus, the anterior straps contribute to "frame" the patella of the wearer. When a patellar ring is present, the anterior straps add their effect to that of the patellar ring in order to improve the holding of the patella.

According to a possible embodiment, the or each arm including the opening is made in one-piece, the or each tongue being secured to the main part by its base and can be elastically spaced apart from the main part.

The opening can be formed through the arm. This means that the opening is integrated into the arm structure - the arm being for example molded to form an opening - as opposed to an opening which would be composed of a ring-shaped separate piece attached on the arm.

It can be provided that the first arm and the second arm of a support are substantially symmetrical with respect to a transverse plane which is orthogonal to the longitudinal direction in the neutral position and which is adjacent to the joint of the limb, in the position of use.

Furthermore, it can be provided that the supports are substantially symmetrical with respect to a plane orthogonal to the pivot axis (this plane corresponding to the median plane of the limb of the person in the position of use). According to one embodiment, the first arms of the supports might be substantially identical, and the second arms of the supports might be substantially identical.

The or each arm including the opening may be made by molding a plastic material, such as polyamide. It may preferably include reinforcing ribs. Thus, the arm may have a relatively small thickness, for example in the order of 1 to 2 mm, which makes it lighter and more flexible, the ribs providing the required rigidity without much burdening the support. The ribs may be in the form of localized thicknesses, for example protruding outwardly of the person's limb, in the position of use.

The arms of the supports may have a curved shape about a longitudinal axis (in the manner of a flattened gutter), and not a completely flat shape, so as to better adapt to the morphology of the limb against which they are placed.

In addition, each of the supports may comprise a connecting piece arranged between the first and second arms, the first arm being pivotally mounted relative to the connecting piece about a first pivot axis and the second arm being pivotally mounted relative to the connecting piece about a second pivot axis, the pivot axes being substantially parallel and located in the same plane containing the longitudinal direction, in the neutral position. Said plane corresponds to the frontal plane of the person wearing the orthosis. A lateral cover can also be removably mounted on the connecting piece, to hide and protect the pivot axes. The orthosis may comprise an anterior stop arranged between the first and second arms of at least one support, and/or a posterior stop arranged between the first and second arms of at least one support. Such stops may serve to prevent a displacement of the area of the support located in the vicinity of the pivot axis in the anterior-posterior direction.

It would be further possible to provide a stop limiting the relative movement of the first and second arms towards the flexion, below a predetermined angle between the first and second arms, and/or a stop limiting the relative movement of the first and second arms beyond the neutral position, along the direction opposite to the flexion.

The orthosis may further comprise a tubular element made of elastic material intended to be put on the person's limb, the supports being removably assembled on the tubular element. The assembling can be carried out by hooking by a Velcro° system.

A possible embodiment of the invention will now be described by way of non- limiting example with reference to the appended figures:

Figure 1 is a perspective view of an orthosis according to one embodiment of the invention, including two lateral supports linked by straps;

Figures 2a and 2b are cross-sectional views of a person's leg equipped with the orthosis of Figure 1, respectively at the thigh and at the lower portion of the leg;

Figure 3 is a plan view of a support of the orthosis of Figure 1, in the neutral position;

Figure 4 illustrates the support of Figure 3 in the neutral position and in the flexed position;

Figures 5 and 6 show the orthosis of Figure 1 placed on the person's leg, respectively substantially in extension, and in flexion;

Figure 7 is a perspective view of a tubular element for use with the orthosis of Figure 1;

Figures 8a and 8b are schematic views of the tubular element of Figure 7 and of a support of the orthosis of Figure 1, to illustrate their assembly;

Figures 9 and 10 are views of the orthosis of Figure 1 placed on a person's leg, to show other features of the orthosis.

Figure 1 represents a knee 100 orthosis 1, in the neutral position, and this orthosis 1 is represented in the same position, placed on a person's leg 101 in Figure 5. The "neutral position" corresponds to the position occupied by the orthosis 1 when the latter is in place, correctly, on a person, the person standing, as in Figure 5. In the neutral position, the person has the legs substantially outstretched, and more precisely in very slight flexion, the angle between the axes of the thigh and of the lower portion of the leg being in the order of 175° and not 180°, which corresponds to a natural position.

In general, the positioning terms such as "sagittal plane", "lateral", "anterior", "posterior" and the like are used relative to the anatomy reference system.

More specifically, as shown in Figures 1 and 5, the median plane PI is defined as the plane of symmetry separating the left half of the right half of the body, and a sagittal plane as a plane parallel to the median plane PI. A transverse plane is defined as a horizontal plane separating the body into an upper part and a lower part. Figures 1 and 5 show the transverse plane P2 which is adjacent to the knee 100 joint. A frontal plane is also defined as a plane perpendicular to the median plane PI and to any transverse plane P2.

In addition, are defined:

- the anterior-posterior direction X as the direction substantially perpendicular to a frontal plane, relative to which the terms "anterior" and "posterior" will be used;

- the transverse direction Y as the direction substantially perpendicular to a sagittal plane, that is to say to the median plane PI, relative to which the term

"lateral" will be used;

- and the direction Z as the direction substantially perpendicular to a transverse plane, this direction being therefore substantially vertical in the neutral position of use. The term "longitudinal" will be used with reference to this direction Z.

Figures 1 and 5 illustrate the frontal plane P3 which contains the substantially centered longitudinal direction of the leg 101.

As seen in Figure 1, the orthosis 1 comprises two lateral supports 2 intended to be placed on either side of the person's leg 101, as well as a system for holding the supports around the leg 101, including straps.

Each support 2 is arranged generally in a plane which, in the position of use, is substantially parallel to the median plane PI of the wearer. According to a possible embodiment, the supports 2 are substantially symmetrical with respect to the median plane PI.

Each support 2 includes a first arm 11 and a second arm 12. In the embodiment shown, the first arms 11 are located in the upper part of the orthosis 1 and are intended to be placed on either side of the thigh 102 of the wearer, while the second arms 12 are located in the lower part of the orthosis 1 and are intended to be placed on either side of the lower portion of the wearer's leg 103.

As seen in Figures 2a and 2b, according to a possible embodiment, the first arms 11 and second arms 12 are not completely planar but have a curved shape about a longitudinal axis, their concavity being directed towards the plane PI. Thus, these arms 11, 12 have a shape whose curvature matches the surface of the thigh 102, respectively of the lower portion of the wearer's leg 103.

The arms 11, 12 are assembled to one another so as to be movable relative to each other between a neutral position, in which the arms 11, 12 are substantially aligned along the longitudinal direction Z (Figures 3 and 5), and a flexed position, in which the arms 11, 12 form together an angle a, for example of less than 100° (Figures 4 and 6). The flexed position of the arms corresponds to a flexed position of the leg 101.

In the embodiment shown, each of the supports 2 further comprises a connecting piece 3 arranged between the first and second arms 11, 12. The first arm 11 is pivotally mounted relative to the connecting piece 3 about a first transverse pivot axis 21 and the second arm 12 is pivotally mounted relative to the connecting piece 3 about a second transverse pivot axis 22. The pivot axes 21, 22 are adjacent to the knee 100 joint, in the position of use. In addition, they are located substantially in a same frontal plane (that is to say a same plane parallel to P3), as seen in particular in Figure 3.

Each support 2 may also comprise stops to limit the movement of the arms 11, 12.

More specifically, in the embodiment shown, a support 2 comprises an anterior stop 4 and a posterior stop 5. These stops can serve to prevent the displacement of the part of the arms 11, 12 located in the vicinity of the plane P2 in the anterior-posterior direction X.

In addition, an anterior stop 4 could be provided, limiting the relative movement of the first and second arms 11, 12 beyond the neutral position, along the direction opposite to the flexion. Such an anterior stop 4 is intended to prevent a knee 100 recurvatum. It can also limit the angle a between the first and second arms 11, 12 to a predetermined value amax of less than 170°. A support 2 could also comprise a posterior stop 5 limiting the relative movement of the first and second arms 11, 12 towards the flexion, below a predetermined angle amin between the first and second arms 11, 12. A cover 10 may be placed on the connecting piece 3, as illustrated in figures 1 and 5.

The arms 11, 12 are now described in more detail in the neutral position as illustrated in Figure 3.

According to a possible embodiment, the first arm 11 and the second arm 12 of a support 2 are substantially symmetrical with respect to the plane P2.

The arm 11, 12 comprises a main part 30 which has an axis 31 extending substantially along the longitudinal direction Z, in the neutral position. The main part 30 has an end 32 located in the vicinity of the plane P2, and a free end 33.

The arm 11, 12 also comprises an anterior tongue 34 which has a base 35 linked to the main part 30 of the arm in the vicinity of the first pivot axis 21. The anterior tongue 34 extends substantially parallel to the main part 30 towards the free end 33 of the main part 30, by being separated from the main part 30 by a slot 50. The anterior tongue 34 further has a free end 36 located closer to the plane P2 than the free end 33 of the main part 30 of the arm 11, 12.

In the vicinity of its free end 33, the main part 30 may have an anterior protuberance 37 located in the extension - along the longitudinal direction Z - of the anterior tongue 34 but separated therefrom by a channel 51 extending the slot 50. A hole 38 may be provided at least in part in the protuberance 37. The protuberance 37 and the hole 38 can increase the bearing surface of the support 2 on the lateral face of the leg 101 while providing a saving of material. Another advantage of the hole 38 will be explained later, with reference to Figures 9 and 10.

The anterior tongue 34 further comprises an opening 52 for the passage of a strap, as will be seen later. The opening 52 is oblong and extends generally along the longitudinal direction Z, in the neutral position.

The arm 11, 12 further comprises a posterior tongue 39 which has a base 40 linked to the main part 30 of the arm in the vicinity of the free end 33 of the main part 30. The posterior tongue 39 extends substantially parallel to the main part 30 towards the plane P2, on the side opposite to the anterior tongue 34, by being separated from the main part 30 by a slot 53. The posterior tongue 39 has a free end 41.

The posterior tongue 39 further comprises an opening 54 for the passage of a strap, as will be seen later. The opening 54 is oblong and extends generally along the longitudinal direction Z, in the neutral position. The opening 54 may be slightly inclined towards the plane P3 when the opening 54 is crossed towards the plane P2. The opening 52 of the anterior tongue 34 has an extreme edge 55 located in the proximity of the free end 36 of the anterior tongue 34. The opening 54 of the posterior tongue 39 has an extreme edge 56 located in the proximity of the free end 41 of the posterior tongue 39.

In neutral position, as seen in Figure 3, and according to a possible embodiment, the longitudinal distance between the plane P2 and the extreme edge 55 of the opening 52 of the anterior tongue 34 is substantially equal to the longitudinal distance between the plane P2 and the extreme edge 56 of the opening 54 of the posterior tongue 39. Thus, there is an offset of the openings 52, 54 along the longitudinal direction Z.

Each arm 11, 12 may be made in one piece, for example by molding a plastic material, such as polyamide. The openings 52, 54 as well as the slots 50, 53 are made during the molding operation. It is specified that "slot" means a narrow and elongated opening made in the entire thickness of the arm, i.e. opening on either side of the arm along the direction Y.

The arm 11, 12 is designed so that, under the effect of a traction of the strap(s) engaged in the openings 52, 54, the anterior tongue 34 and/or the posterior tongue 39 can deviate from the main part 30 of the arm, in a reversible manner. More particularly, an elastic deformation of the arm 11, 12 is produced at the base 35, 40 of the anterior 34 and posterior 39 tongue, which allows this spacing but also the return to the unconstrained position when the stress exerted by the straps stops.

It is furthermore possible to provide that the arm 11, 12 comprises reinforcing ribs 45. These may be formed of a localized over-thickness of the arm 11, 12, especially around the slots 50, 53, and/or on at least one part of the periphery of the main part 30.

The system for holding the supports 2 around the leg 101 is now described. This system comprises:

- a first anterior strap 61a engaged in the openings 52 of the anterior tongues 34 of the first arms 11 of the supports 2, in order to link said first arms 11;

- a first posterior strap 61b engaged in the openings 54 of the posterior tongues 39 of the first arms 11 of the supports 2, in order to link said first arms 11 on the side opposite to the first anterior strap 61a;

- a second anterior strap 62a engaged in the openings 52 of the anterior tongues 34 of the second arms 12 of the supports 2, in order to link said second arms 12; - a second posterior strap 62b engaged in the openings 54 of the posterior tongues 39 of the second arms 12 of the supports 2, in order to link said second arms 12 on the side opposite to the second anterior strap 62a.

Concretely, each strap may have a lateral extreme part engaged in the corresponding opening 52, 54, then folded back and attached to the part of the strap located between the two supports 2. To this end, the strap can be made of one self- gripping material, for example using a Velcro -type system. Each strap can be more or less tight, acting on one or both of its extreme parts. In practice, each strap - in its folded position - covers substantially one half-circumference of the thigh 102 or of the lower portion of the leg 103.

Due to the offset of the openings 52 in the anterior tongue 34 and 54 in the posterior tongue 39, along the longitudinal direction Z:

- the first anterior strap 61a and the first posterior strap 61b are offset relative to one another along the longitudinal direction;

- and the second anterior strap 62a and the second posterior strap 62b are offset relative to each other along the longitudinal direction.

As seen clearly in Figure 5, this avoids any risk of creating a circular tightening area around the leg 101 (at the level of the thigh 102 or of the lower portion of the leg 103), and therefore of avoiding creating a tourniquet effect.

In the embodiment shown, the anterior strap 61a or 62a is located closer to the plane P2 than the posterior strap 61b or 62b cooperating with the same arm 11, 12.

Figures 5 and 6 show the deformation of the orthosis 1, and more precisely the arms 11, 12, under the effect of the traction of the straps.

In Figure 5, where the leg 101 is in the neutral position, that is to say almost in extension, the support 2 is shown in the unconstrained state in dotted lines, that is to say when the traction on the straps is not sufficient to deform the support 2.

When the traction on the straps 61a-b, 62a-b increases, typically because the user exerts a greater tightening, the anterior 34 and posterior 39 tongues deviate from the main part 30 of the arm 11, 12 in question, respectively in the anterior direction and in the posterior direction. This is made possible by the existence of the slots 50, 53 and the elasticity of the arm 11, 12 particularly at the base 35, 40 of the anterior 34 and posterior 39 tongue. The thus deformed support 2 is shown in solid line.

This results in an increase in the overall bearing surface on the leg, resulting in a better distribution of efforts to reduce locally the tightening, and increased holding. The wearing comfort is thus improved, without compromising the quality of tightening and the proper holding in position of the orthosis.

In Figure 6, the leg 101 is shown in the flexed position. The dots represent the orthosis 1 in the unconstrained state, that is to say when the leg was in the neutral position, while the solid lines represent the orthosis 1 deformed following the flexion of the leg. Indeed, even without the wearer acting on the traction of the straps 61a-b, 62a-b, these are tighter due to the increase in volume of the quadriceps, in particular, during the flexion of the leg 101.

As explained above, this increased traction on the straps leads to the spacing of the anterior 34 and posterior 39 tongues relative to the main part 30 of the corresponding arm 11, 12. The resulting advantages of the invention are detailed above.

In addition, the elasticity of the arms 11, 12 allows automatic return of the arms in the unconstrained state when the traction on the straps 61a-b, 62a-b is decreased, by return of the leg 101 to the neutral position.

In other words, the orthosis 1 according to the invention is automatically adapted to the movements of the wearer, without the latter having to tighten or loosen the straps to keep from feeling a discomfort when its movements result in an increase in the traction exerted on the straps.

The orthosis 1 as represented in Figure 1 can be placed alone on the leg 101.

However, the orthosis 1 may further include a tubular element 6 made of elastic material, for example textile, as shown in Figure 7. This element may have an initial tubular shape and be put on the leg, or may be made from a generally planar strip that the wearer places around his leg to form a tubular piece. The tubular element 6 preferably includes an anterior opening 7 to accommodate the knee 100, and/or a substantially central orifice 8 which will be placed behind the knee so as not to hinder the flexion. Various reinforcing elements 9a may be further provided, as well as a patellar ring 9b.

The supports 2 are placed over the tubular element 6 and held by tightening the straps 61a-b, 62a-b. This assembly is removable, so that the person can choose to wear, according to his needs and according to the circumstances:

- the tubular element 6 alone

- the orthosis 1 of Figure 1 alone, that is to say including the supports 2 and the straps 61a-b, 62a-b but not the tubular element 6;

- or the whole orthosis 1, including the tubular element 6 and, above, the supports 2 and the straps 61a-b, 62a-b. According to a possible embodiment, the supports 2 can be attached on the tubular element 6 by means of a Velcro -type system.

Thus, the tubular element 6 may include three areas of self-gripping fabric (Velcro° loop part) located substantially in the frontal plane P3, on each side, namely: a central area 70a (located substantially in the transverse plane P2 which is adjacent to the knee 100 joint), an upper area 70b and a lower area 70c (Figure 8a). These areas 70a, 70b, 70c may consist of fabric coupons sewn on the tubular element 6.

In a complementary manner, each support 2 may include three areas of self- gripping fabric (Velcro° hook part), respectively, central area 71a located at the connecting piece 3, upper area 71b and lower area 71c, disposed so as to match the areas 70a, 70b, 70c (see Figure 8b).

It is therefore possible to attach or disengage the supports 2 and the associated straps of the tubular element 6, depending on the activity.

Another feature of orthosis 1 according to the invention is illustrated in Figures 9 and 10.

As seen in these figures, the holes 38 made in the first arms 11 and second arms 12 of the support 2 can serve as gripping areas allowing the user to put on the orthosis 1 (Figure 9) or remove the orthosis 1 (Figure 10), but also to adjust its position on the limb, here the leg 101.

Thus, the invention provides a decisive improvement to the prior art, by providing a modular orthosis, easy to set up, providing a wearing comfort and an increased holding in position, and following the movements of the wearer.

It goes without saying that the invention is not limited to the embodiment described above by way of example but that it comprises all the technical equivalents and variants of the means described as well as their combinations.

In particular, although the description has been made in the case of a knee orthosis, the invention concerns more generally an orthosis for a joint of a person's limb, and could in particular equip the elbow of a person.

Claims

1. An orthosis for a joint of a person's limb (102), particularly a knee orthosis, comprising:

- two lateral supports (2), each arranged generally in a plane, and intended to be placed on either side of the limb (102), each support (2) including a first arm (11) and a second arm (12) assembled to one another via at least one pivot axis (21, 22) which is orthogonal to the plane of the support (2) and which is adjacent to the joint of the limb (102), in the position of use, so that the arms (11, 12) are movable between a neutral position, in which they are substantially aligned in a longitudinal direction (Z), and a flexed position, in which they form together an angle (a) of less than 100° ;

- a system for holding the supports (2) a round the limb (102), including at least a first strap (61a, 61b) linking the first arms (11) and a second strap (62a, 62b) linking the second arms (12), each strap being engaged in an opening (52, 54) a rranged on at least one of the corresponding arms (11, 12).

characterized in that the or each arm (11, 12) including the opening (52, 54) comprises:

- a main part (30) which extends substantially along the longitudinal direction (Z), in the neutral position, and which has an end (32) linked to the pivot axis (21, 22) and a free end (33);

- at least one tongue (34, 39) which has a base (35, 40) linked to the main part (30) and which extends substantially parallel to the main part (30) by being separated from the main part (30) by a slot (50, 53), the opening (52, 54) being arranged on the tongue (34, 39), so that the tongue (34, 39) can deviate from the main part (30) under the effect of a traction of the strap (61a-b, 62a-b), in a reversible manner.

2. The orthosis according to claim 1, characterized in that the or each arm (11, 12) including the opening (52, 54) comprises:

- an anterior tongue (34) which has a base (35) linked to the main part (30) of the arm (11, 12) and which extends substantially parallel to the main part (30) by being separated from the main part (30) by a slot (50), an opening (52) intended to receive a strap (61a, 62a) being arranged on the anterior tongue (34);

- a posterior tongue (39) which has a base (40) linked to the main part (30) of the arm (11, 12) and which extends substantially para llel to the main part (30), on the side opposite to the anterior tongue (34), by being separated from the main part (30) by a slot (53), an opening (54) intended to receive a strap (61b, 62b) being arranged on the posterior tongue (39).

3. The orthosis according to claim 2, characterized in that, in the neutral position, the longitudinal distance between the pivot axis (21, 22) and the extreme edge (55) of the opening (52) of the anterior tongue (34) located furthest from said pivot axis (21, 22) is substantially equal to the longitudinal distance between said pivot axis (21, 22) and the extreme edge (56) of the opening (54) of the posterior tongue (39) located closest to said pivot axis (21, 22).

4. The orthosis according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the anterior tongue (34) has a base (35) linked to the main part (30) of the arm (11, 12) in the vicinity of the pivot axis (21, 22) and extends towards the free end (33) of the main part (30), and in that the posterior tongue (39) has a base (40) linked to the main part (30) of the arm (11, 12) in the vicinity of the free end (33) of the main part (30) and extends towards the pivot axis (21, 22).

5. The orthosis according to any of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the first strap (61a, 61b), and/or respectively the second strap (62a, 62b), is engaged in an opening (52, 54) arranged on the first arm (11) of each of the supports (2), respectively arranged on the second arm (12) of each of the supports (2).

6. The orthosis according to any of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the system for holding the supports (2) around the limb (102) comprises:

- a first anterior strap (61a) linking the first arms (11) of the supports (2), and a first posterior strap (61b) linking the first arms (11) of the supports (2) on the side opposite to the first anterior strap (61a);

- and/or a second anterior strap (62a) linking the second arms (12) of the supports (2), and a second posterior strap (62b) linking the second arms (12) of the supports (2) on the side opposite to the second anterior strap (62a).

7. The orthosis according to claim 6, when dependent on claim 2, characterized in that the first or second anterior strap (61a, 62a) is engaged in the opening (52) of the anterior tongue (34) of the corresponding arm(s) (11, 12), and in that the first or second posterior strap (61b, 62b) is engaged in the opening (54) of the posterior tongue (39) of the corresponding arm(s) (11, 12).

8. The orthosis according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that the first anterior strap (61a) and the first posterior strap (61b) are offset relative to one another along the longitudinal direction (Z), and/or the second anterior strap (62a) and the second posterior strap (62b) are offset relative to one another along the longitudinal direction (Z).

9. The orthosis according to claim 8, characterized in that the anterior strap (61a, 62a) is located closer to the pivot axis (21, 22) than the posterior strap (61b, 62b) cooperating with the same arm (11, 12).

10. The orthosis according to any of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the or each arm (11, 12) including the opening (52, 54) is made in one piece, the or each tongue (34, 39) being secured to the main part (30) by its base (35, 40) and being able to be elastically spaced apart from the main part (30).

11. The orthosis according to any of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the opening (52, 54) is formed through the arm (11, 12).

12. Orthosis according to any of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the first arm (11) and the second arm (12) of a support (2) are substantially symmetrical with respect to a transverse plane (P2) which is orthogonal to the longitudinal direction (Z) in the neutral position and which is adjacent to the joint of the limb (102), in the position of use.

13. The orthosis according to any of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the or each arm (11, 12) including the opening (52, 54) is made by molding a plastic material, such as polyamide, and includes preferably reinforcing ribs (45).

14. The orthosis according to any of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that each of the supports (2) further comprises a connecting piece (3) arranged between the first and second arms (11, 12), the first arm ( 11) being pivotally mounted relative to the connecting piece (3) about a first pivot axis (21) and the second arm (12) being pivotally mounted relative to the connecting piece (3) about a second pivot axis (22), the pivot axes (21, 22) being substantially parallel and located in the same plane (P3) containing the longitudinal direction (Z), in the neutral position.

15. Orthosis according to any of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that it comprises an anterior stop (4) arranged between the first and the second arm (11, 12) of at least one support (2), and/or a posterior stop (5) arranged between the first and the second arm (11, 12) of at least one support (2).

16. The orthosis according to any of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that it further comprises a tubular element (6) made of elastic material intended to be put on the person's limb (102), the supports (2) being removably assembled on the tubular element (6).

17. An orthosis for a joint of a person's limb, comprising: at least one lateral support arranged generally along a plane, the at least one lateral support including a first arm and a second arm connected by at least one pivot axis orthogonal to the plane, so that the first and second arms are movable between a neutral position, in which they are substantially aligned in a longitudinal direction, and a flexed position, in which they form together an angle of less than 100°; at least one of the first and second arms defining an opening; a system for holding the at least one lateral support around the limb, the system including at least a first strap connected to the first arm, and a second strap connected to the second arm, at least one of the first and second straps being engaged in the opening defined by the at least one of the first and second arms; wherein the at least one of the first and second arms defining the opening further comprises: a main part extending substantially along the longitudinal direction, in the neutral position, and having an end linked to the at least one pivot axis and a free end; at least one tongue having a base linked to the main part and extending substantially parallel to the main part by being separated from the main part by a slot, the opening defined on the at least one tongue, wherein the at least one tongue deviates from the main part under an effect of a traction of the at least one of the first and second straps.

18. The orthosis according to claim 17, wherein the at least one tongue of the at least one of the first and second arms comprises: an anterior tongue having a base linked to the main part of the at least one of the first and second arms and extending substantially parallel to the main part by being separated from the main part by a slot, an anterior opening intended to receive the at least one of the first and second straps and arranged on the anterior tongue; a posterior tongue having a base linked to the main part of the at least one of the first and second arms and extending substantially parallel to the main part, on a side of the at least one of the first and second arms opposite to the anterior tongue, by being separated from the main part by a slot, a posterior opening intended to receive the at least one of the first and second straps and arranged on the posterior tongue.

19. The orthosis according to claim 18, wherein, in the neutral position, a longitudinal distance between the at least one pivot axis and an extreme edge of the anterior opening located furthest from the at least one pivot axis is substantially equal to a longitudinal distance between the at least one pivot axis and an extreme edge of the posterior opening located closest to the at least one pivot axis.

20. The orthosis according to claim 18, wherein the base of the anterior tongue being linked to the main part of the at least one of the first and second arms in the vicinity of the at least one pivot axis and extends towards the free end of the main part, and wherein the base of the posterior tongue being linked to the main part of the at least one of the first and second arms in the vicinity of the free end of the main part and extends towards the at least one pivot axis.

21. The orthosis according to claim 17, wherein the at least a first strap is arranged on the first arm of a pair of supports of the at least one lateral support.

22. The orthosis according to claim 17, wherein the at least one lateral support includes a pair of supports, the system for holding the at least one support around the limb comprises: a first anterior strap linking the first arms of the pair of supports, and a first posterior strap linking the first arms of the pair of supports on a side opposite to the first anterior strap.

23. The orthosis according to claim 22, wherein the first anterior strap is engaged in an anterior opening of the anterior tongue located on an anterior side of the first arm.

24. The orthosis according to claim 22, wherein the first anterior strap and the first posterior strap are offset relative to one another along the longitudinal direction.

25. The orthosis according to claim 24, wherein the first anterior strap is located closer to the at least one pivot axis than the posterior strap linking the first arms of the pair of supports.

26. The orthosis according to claim 17, wherein the first arm including the opening consists of a single piece, the at least one tongue being secured to the main part by its base and configured to be elastically spaced apart from the main part.

27. The orthosis according to claim 17, wherein the at least one opening is formed through the first arm.

28. The orthosis according to claim 17 wherein the first arm and the second arm of the at least one lateral support are substantially symmetrical with respect to a transverse plane which is orthogonal to the longitudinal direction in the neutral position and arranged to be adjacent to the joint of the limb, in a position of use.

29. The orthosis according to claim 17, wherein the first arm having the opening is made by molding a plastic material, and includes reinforcing ribs.

30. The orthosis according to claim 17, wherein the at least one lateral support comprises a connecting piece arranged between the first and second arms, the first arm being pivotally mounted relative to the connecting piece about a first pivot axis and the second arm being pivotally mounted relative to the connecting piece about a second pivot axis, the first and second pivot axes being substantially parallel and located in a same plane containing the longitudinal direction, in the neutral position.

31. The orthosis according to claim 17, further comprising an anterior stop arranged between the first and the second arms of the at least one lateral support.

32. The orthosis according to claim 17, further comprising a posterior stop arranged between the first and the second arms of the at least one lateral support.

33. The orthosis according to claim 17, further comprising a tubular element made of elastic material arranged to be placed on the limb, the at least one lateral support removably assembled on the tubular element.

34. The orthosis according to claim 22, wherein the at least one lateral support includes a pair of lateral supports, the system for holding the at least one lateral support around the limb comprises: a second anterior strap linking the second arms of the pair of supports, and a second posterior strap linking the second arms of the pair of lateral supports on a side opposite to the second anterior strap, the second posterior strap being engaged in a posterior opening of a posterior tongue of the first arm, and the second anterior strap and the second posterior strap are offset relative to one another along the longitudinal direction.

35. An orthosis, comprising: at least one lateral support arranged generally along a plane, the at least one lateral support including a first arm defining an opening, the first arm including a main part extending substantially along a longitudinal direction of the orthosis, at least one tongue having a base linked to the main part and extending substantially parallel to the main part by being flexibly separated from the main part by a slot, the opening defined on the at least one tongue; a first strap connected to the first arm; wherein the at least one tongue deviates from the main part under an effect of a traction of the first strap.

36. The orthosis of claim 35, wherein the at least one lateral support defines first and second supports each having the first arms, the first strap secured to and extending between the at least one tongue of each of the first arms; wherein at least one of the first arms defining the opening further comprises: the main part extending substantially along the longitudinal direction, in a neutral position, and having an end linked to a pivot axis and a free end; at least one tongue having a base linked to the main part and extending substantially parallel to the main part by being separated from the main part by a slot, the opening defined on the tongue, wherein the at least one tongue deviates from the main part under an effect of a traction of at least one of the first straps.