U.S. patent application number 11/223863 was filed with the patent office on 2007-01-04 for joint alignment and compression assembly and method for performing a rehabilitative treatment regimen.
Invention is credited to Rafael Gonzalez.
Application Number | 20070004571 11/223863 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37836477 |
Filed Date | 2007-01-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070004571 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Gonzalez; Rafael |
January 4, 2007 |
Joint alignment and compression assembly and method for performing
a rehabilitative treatment regimen
Abstract
A joint alignment and compression assembly including a plurality
of alignment members structured to be removably secured to a
patient in an operative configuration, the plurality of alignment
members being interconnected via a plurality of adjustable uniform
compression members. At least one of the alignment members
comprises a pelvic alignment member having at least one pair of
interconnection members arranged in a horizontal arrangement and
structured to facilitate stabilization of the patient's hips when
interconnected by adjustable uniform compression members. The
assembly also provides for a foot alignment member having a foot
securing element, a foot supporting element, and a toe securing
element. In addition, a head alignment member is provided to permit
alignment and compression of the joints in the patient's head and
neck region. A method for performing a rehabilitative treatment
regimen utilizing a joint alignment and compression assembly is
presented.
Inventors: |
Gonzalez; Rafael; (Hiram,
GA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MALLOY & MALLOY, P.A.;Historic Coral Way
2800 S.W. Third Avenue
Miami
FL
33129
US
|
Family ID: |
37836477 |
Appl. No.: |
11/223863 |
Filed: |
September 9, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60608215 |
Sep 9, 2004 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/124 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 21/4005 20151001;
A63B 21/0555 20130101; A61H 1/006 20130101; A63B 2208/0204
20130101; A63B 21/4025 20151001; A63B 21/0407 20130101; A63B
21/0004 20130101; A63B 21/4011 20151001; A63B 21/0557 20130101;
A63B 21/055 20130101; A63B 21/4007 20151001; A63B 21/4019 20151001;
A63B 21/4009 20151001; A63B 21/4017 20151001; A63B 21/4003
20151001; A63B 21/0552 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/124 |
International
Class: |
A63B 21/02 20060101
A63B021/02 |
Claims
1. A joint alignment and compression assembly comprising: a
plurality of alignment members structured to be removably secured
to a patient in an operative configuration, at least some of said
plurality of alignment members having a plurality of
interconnection members securely fastened thereto and disposed in a
spaced relation with one another, at least one adjustable uniform
compression member structured to be removably interconnected to
different ones of said plurality of interconnection members, each
of said different ones of said plurality of interconnection members
being secured to a different one of each of a corresponding pair of
said plurality of alignment members, and said adjustable
compression member structured to provide a uniform compression
along a length thereof when disposed in an elongated
disposition.
2. The assembly as recited in claim 1 wherein said operative
configuration is at least partially defined by said plurality of
alignment members removably secured about the patient in a spaced
apart arrangement.
3. The assembly as recited in claim 1 wherein at least some of said
plurality of alignment members are constructed of a plurality of
layers of a stretchable and breathable material.
4. The assembly as recited in claim 1 wherein at least some of said
plurality of alignment members are constructed of a water resistant
material structured to facilitate implementation of a water based
rehabilitative treatment regimen.
5. The assembly as recited in claim 1 wherein at least some of said
plurality of alignment members comprise an adjustable quick release
fastener to facilitate removably securing said alignment member
about the patient in said operative configuration.
6. The assembly as recited in claim 5 wherein said adjustable quick
release fastener comprises a hook and loop fastener.
7. The assembly as recited in claim 1 wherein said plurality of
alignment members comprises a chest alignment member structured to
substantially encircle the patient's chest area when disposed in
said operative configuration.
8. The assembly as recited in claim 7 wherein said chest alignment
member comprises at least one expandable attachment member
structured to provide a substantially form-fitting relationship of
said chest alignment member about the patient's chest area when
disposed in said operative configuration.
9. The assembly as recited in claim 7 wherein said plurality of
alignment members comprises a pelvic alignment member structured to
substantially encircle the patient's pelvic area when disposed in
said operative configuration.
10. The assembly as recited in claim 9 wherein said pelvic
alignment member comprises at least one expandable attachment
member structured to provide a substantially form-fitting
relationship of said pelvic alignment member about the patient's
pelvic area when disposed in an operative configuration.
11. The assembly as recited in claim 9 wherein said plurality of
alignment members comprises a head alignment member structured to
substantially encircle at least a portion of the patient's head
when disposed in said operative configuration.
12. The assembly as recited in claim 9 wherein said plurality of
alignment members comprises at least one elbow alignment member
structured to substantially encircle one of the patient's elbows
when disposed in said operative configuration.
13. The assembly as recited in claim 9 wherein said plurality of
alignment members comprises at least one hand alignment member
structured to substantially encircle one of the patient's hands
when disposed in said operative configuration.
14. The assembly as recited in claim 9 wherein said plurality of
alignment members comprises at least one knee alignment member
structured to substantially encircle one of the patient's knees
when disposed in said operative configuration.
15. The assembly as recited in claim 9 wherein said plurality of
alignment members comprises at least one foot alignment member
structured to substantially encircle one of the patient's feet when
disposed in said operative configuration.
16. The assembly as recited in claim 15 wherein said foot alignment
member comprises a foot securing element structured to be secured
overtop a corresponding one of the patient's ankles when disposed
in said operative configuration.
17. The assembly as recited in claim 15 wherein said foot alignment
member comprises a foot supporting element structured to be
positioned underneath a corresponding one of the patient's arches
when disposed in said operative configuration to facilitate
alignment of the patient's foot.
18. The assembly as recited in claim 15 wherein said foot alignment
member comprises a toe securing element structured to substantially
encircle one of the patient's great toes when disposed in said
operative configuration to facilitate alignment of the patient's
foot.
19. A joint alignment and compression assembly comprising: a
plurality of alignment members structured to be removably secured
to a patient in an operative configuration, at least some of said
plurality of alignment members having a plurality of
interconnection members securely fastened thereto and disposed in a
spaced relation with one another, at least one of said plurality of
alignment members comprising a pelvic alignment member structured
to substantially encircle the patient's pelvic area, said pelvic
alignment member comprising at least one expandable attachment
portion to provide a substantially form-fitting relationship of
said pelvic alignment member about the patient's pelvic area when
disposed in said operative configuration, a plurality of adjustable
uniform compression members each structured to be removably
interconnected between at least two different ones of said
plurality of interconnection members, at least some of said
plurality of adjustable uniform compression members structured to
interconnect corresponding ones of said plurality of alignment
members when disposed in said operative configuration, and said
pelvic alignment member having at least one corresponding pair of
interconnection members disposed in a horizontal arrangement along
each side of said pelvic alignment member to facilitate
stabilization of the patient's hips when one of said plurality of
adjustable uniform compression members is removably interconnected
thereto.
20. The assembly as recited in claim 19 wherein said plurality of
alignment members comprises a chest alignment member structured to
substantially encircle the patient's chest area when disposed in
said operative configuration, said chest alignment member
comprising a pair of oppositely disposed shoulders each having at
least one interconnection member disposed in a horizontal
arrangement secured thereto.
21. The assembly as recited in claim 20 wherein said chest
alignment member comprises a pair of integral shoulder pads
structured to provide a comfortable fit to the patient.
22. The assembly as recited in claim 20 wherein said chest
alignment member comprises at least one expandable attachment
member structured to provide a substantially form-fitting
relationship of said chest alignment member about the patient's
chest area when disposed in said operative configuration.
23. The assembly as recited in claim 20 wherein said plurality of
alignment members comprises a head alignment member structured to
substantially encircle at least a portion of the patient's head
when disposed in said operative configuration, said head alignment
member comprising a plurality of loops to facilitate
interconnection with at least one of said interconnection members
disposed in a horizontal arrangement and secured to one of said
shoulders of said chest alignment member via at least one of said
adjustable uniform compression members.
24. The assembly as recited in claim 23 further comprising at least
one free hook to facilitate interconnection of said at least one of
said adjustable uniform compression members to at least one of said
plurality of loops.
25. The assembly as recited in claim 19 wherein said plurality of
alignment members comprises at least one foot alignment member
structured to substantially encircle at least a portion of one of
the patient's feet when disposed in said operative configuration,
said foot alignment member comprising a plurality of loops to
facilitate interconnection to at least one other of said plurality
of alignment members via at least one of said adjustable uniform
compression members.
26. The assembly as recited in claim 25 further comprising at least
one free hook to facilitate interconnection of said at least one of
said adjustable uniform compression member to at least one of said
plurality of loops.
27. The assembly as recited in claim 19 wherein at least some of
said plurality of interconnection members are constructed of a
nylon material.
28. The assembly as recited in claim 27 wherein said nylon material
comprises a dye structured to prevent drying and cracking of said
plurality of interconnection members.
29. The assembly as recited in claim 19 wherein at least some of
said plurality of adjustable uniform compression members comprise a
vulcanized rubber material structured to provide a uniform
compression along a length thereof when disposed in an elongated
disposition and a memory such that each of said plurality of
adjustable uniform compression members returns to an original shape
when disposed in a relaxed disposition.
30. The assembly as recited in claim 19 wherein said pelvic
alignment member comprises at least one expansion notch structured
to facilitate disposing said pelvic alignment member about the
waist and pelvic region of a different one of each of a plurality
of patients having different physical configurations in a
form-fitting relationship when disposed in said operative
configuration.
31. A method for performing a rehabilitative treatment regimen
utilizing a joint alignment and compression assembly comprising the
steps of: removably securing a plurality of alignment members to a
patient in an operative configuration, removably interconnecting
corresponding ones of the plurality of alignment members to one
another via a plurality of adjustable uniform compression members,
positioning each of the plurality of adjustable uniform compression
members to align the joints of the patient in an operative
orientation, adjusting the tension of each of the plurality of
adjustable uniform compression members to provide a preselected
compressive force to the joints of the patient, and executing a
predetermined exercise schedule structured to produce a desired
therapeutic effect while the plurality of alignment members are
disposed in the operative configuration and the plurality of
adjustable uniform compression members are adjusted to provide the
preselected compressive force to the joints of the patient while
aligned in the operative orientation.
32. The method as recited in claim 31 further comprising the step
of executing the predetermined exercise schedule including a daily
exercise period of between substantially about one to four hours
per day.
33. The method as recited in claim 32 further comprising the step
of executing the predetermined exercise schedule including a daily
exercise period on each of five days per week.
34. The method as recited in claim 33 further comprising the step
of executing the predetermined exercise schedule including a daily
exercise period on each of five days per week for a period of
between substantially about three to four weeks.
Description
CLAIM OF PRIORITY
[0001] The present application is based on and a claim to priority
is made under 35 U.S.C. Section 119(e) to provisional patent
application currently pending in the U.S. Patent and Trademark
Office having Ser. No. 60/608,215, and having a filing date of Sep.
9, 2004.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] An assembly comprising a plurality of alignment members
structured to be worn by a patient in an operative configuration.
Each alignment member is operatively interconnected to at least one
other alignment member by one or more adjustable uniform
compression members in such a manner so as to properly align the
patient's joints, to the extent possible, as well as to provide a
uniform compressive force to the patient's joints to facilitate a
therapeutic effect of a rehabilitative treatment regimen while the
assembly is worn by the patient. A method for performing a
rehabilitative treatment regimen utilizing a joint alignment and
compression assembly is also provided.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] A number of rehabilitation programs are structured to
address various physical and/or psychological disorders or a
person. It is common for a physical rehabilitation program to
include a series of repetitive physical actions or exercises
structured to develop or redevelop certain physical attributes of a
person's body, often times employing specialized equipment to
facilitate the impact of a particular exercise.
[0006] In the case of a person with a neurological disorder which
subsequently affects their ability to function physically, for
example, persons having cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis,
developmental delays, as well as victims of stroke and brain
trauma, exercises may be structured to train or retrain the
person's motor responses to improve the person's ability to
physically function. One way to accomplish this training or
retraining of the person's motor responses is by having the person
perform a series of repetitive exercises while the associated
joints and muscles are maintained in a properly aligned orientation
and a resistive force is applied which the person must overcome
while performing the exercise. Although a number of devices are
available which provide resistive force for exercising various
portions of the body, only a few devices are know which further
attempt to effect proper alignment of the associated joints and
muscles.
[0007] One such device employs a plurality of supports which a
person wears about various portions of their body, at least one of
the supports being a cup-shaped shoulder harness. The support
members are interconnected by elastic tie members which may be made
of rubber, plastic, or metallic springs, and are arranged on the
body in accordance with the anatomical arrangement of the skeletal
muscles. One end of each tie member is connected to a tension
adjuster which comprises a band, the adjuster being held in a lock
which is fastened to one of the supports. This arrangement requires
consideration of the elastic nature of both the tie member and the
adjuster in order to apply a desired force to a corresponding joint
and/or muscle. In addition, due to the potentially diverse elastic
properties of the tie members and the adjusters, an uneven force is
likely to be applied along the joint and/or muscle. This device
does not provide for any support or resistive force about the head
and neck of the user.
[0008] One other device includes at least a vest and a pant garment
each having a plurality of hooks attached to them. The vest and
pant garment are secured about a patient and are interconnected by
a plurality of elastic bands which extend between them. The elastic
bands may include a number of adjustment nodes or spaced openings
such that the tension may be adjusted by securing the different
nodes or openings to corresponding hooks on the vest and/or pant
garment. This device may include a cap which may be interconnected
to the vest portion by the elastic bands, as well as knee and shoe
supports which may be interconnected to one another or to the pant
garment, once again, via the elastic bands.
[0009] This device may include hook and loop type connectors to
facilitate securing the various supports to the person's body, the
supports being made of a thin layer of substantially non-elastic,
and non-breathable material. As a result, the supports are often
uncomfortable for the patient, who may be required to wear the
device for extended periods of time during treatment, as a result
of restricting airflow to the body. Additional discomfort may
result from the pressure of the hooks against the patient's body
through the thin layer of material as the elastic bands are secured
in place. In addition, this device employs a number of hooks and
clips to attach the elastic bands, the hooks and clips being made
of a polypropylene material which is prone to drying and breakage.
Also, the openings of the hooks and clips for this device are small
relative to the elastic bands thus making it difficult to properly
secure the plurality of elastic bands as required for proper
treatment.
[0010] Neither of aforementioned devices provide for hip
stabilization, which may be a critical aspect as a person's bones
are often compromised and weakened either as a direct result of a
medical ailment, or as a result of prolonged inactivity. In
addition, these devices do not provide adequate means for proper
alignment of joints of a person's foot or about the head and neck
regions.
[0011] As such, it would be helpful to provide an assembly which
may be utilized to quickly and easily align and uniformly compress
a patient's joints to facilitate a therapeutic effect from a
rehabilitative treatment regimen. More in particular, it would be
beneficial to provide such an assembly comprising adjustable
uniform compression members structured to removably interconnect
different ones of a plurality of alignment members such that a
uniform force may be applied along a patient's joints and muscles
requiring rehabilitation. A further benefit may be realized by
providing one or more alignment members with at least one
expandable attachment member structured to provide a form-fitting
relationship with a patient's body when the alignment member is
donned by the patient in an operative configuration. Additionally,
it would be preferable to provide an assembly including alignment
members comprising a soft breathable material to assure the comfort
of a patient who may be required to wear the assembly for prolonged
periods of time throughout the course of a rehabilitative treatment
regimen. Also, it would be beneficial for such an assembly to
comprise a waterproof material such that water based rehabilitative
treatment regimens may be conducted. It would also be extremely
beneficial for such an assembly to provide for the stabilization of
a patient's hips during a rehabilitative treatment regimen.
Further, any such assembly should provide for proper alignment of
the joints of a patient's foot, as well as to permit alignment of a
patient's head and neck region. Also, it would be helpful to
provide a method for positioning such an assembly on a patient in
an operative configuration, as well as for conducting a
rehabilitative treatment regimen.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0012] The present invention is directed to a joint alignment and
compression assembly and a method for performing a rehabilitative
treatment regimen utilizing such an assembly. In particular, the
joint alignment and compression assembly of the present invention
includes a plurality of alignment members structured to be
removably secured to a patient in an operative configuration. Each
of the plurality of alignment members, in one embodiment, comprise
at least one adjustable quick release fastener to facilitate
removably securing each alignment member to the patient. In at
least one further embodiment, one or more of the alignment members
comprise at least one expandable attachment member structured to
provide a form-fitting relationship with a patient's body when the
alignment member is donned by the patient in an operative
configuration. Additionally, each of the plurality of alignment
members includes a plurality of interconnection members securely
fastened thereto and disposed in a spaced relation with one
another.
[0013] A plurality of adjustable uniform compression members are
provided in the present invention, each of the adjustable uniform
compression members may be removably interconnected between
different ones of the plurality of interconnection members. Each
adjustable uniform compression member includes a plurality of
adjustment nodes being generally equally spaced along a length of
the member. Each adjustment node comprises an aperture sized such
the adjustable uniform compression members may be removably
interconnected to a portion of at least one of the alignment
members by way of the corresponding interconnection members. In
addition, the adjustment nodes allow the compressive force applied
along any particular portion of the patient's body to be adjusted
based upon the adjustment nodes selected to removably interconnect
the adjustable uniform compression member to one or more alignment
members.
[0014] At least one of the plurality of alignment members comprises
a pelvic alignment member structured to substantially encircle the
patient's waist and pelvic area when disposed in an operative
configuration. The pelvic alignment member includes at least one
corresponding pair of interconnection members disposed in a
horizontal arrangement along each side of the pelvic alignment
member to facilitate stabilization of the patient's hips when the
adjustable uniform compression members are removably interconnected
between the interconnection members disposed in the horizontal
arrangement. In at least one embodiment, the pelvic alignment
member comprises an expandable attachment portion disposed along
either side each being structured to provide a form-fitting
relationship about the patient's pelvic region while the pelvic
alignment member is disposed in an operative configuration. In one
further embodiment, the pelvic alignment member may comprise one or
more expansion notches to further provide for a form-fitting
relationship with the patient's body.
[0015] In addition, one of the plurality of alignment members may
comprise a head alignment member structured to substantially
encircle at least a portion of the patient's head when disposed in
an operative configuration. The head alignment member comprises a
plurality of interconnection members disposed in a spaced apart
relation such that they are disposed about the patient's head, as
well as along a chin strap, to permit proper alignment and
compression of the joints in the patient's head and neck
region.
[0016] Also, one of the alignment members comprises a chest
alignment member structured to substantially encircle the patient's
chest area when disposed in an operative configuration, the chest
alignment member comprising at least one interconnection member
disposed in a horizontal arrangement along each shoulder to
facilitate alignment of the patient's arm, elbow, and hand regions.
In at least one embodiment, the chest alignment member comprises an
expandable attachment portion disposed along the front and back,
each of which are structured to provide a form-fitting relationship
about the patient's chest while the chest alignment member is
disposed in an operative configuration.
[0017] A further embodiment of the joint alignment and compression
assembly of the present invention also comprises at least one foot
alignment member. The foot alignment member is structured to
substantially encircle one of the patient's feet when disposed in
an operative configuration. In addition, the foot alignment member
includes a foot securing element structured to be secured overtop a
corresponding one of the patient's ankles when disposed in the
operative configuration. The foot alignment member also comprises a
foot supporting element structured to be disposed underneath a
corresponding one of the patient's arches when disposed in the
operative configuration to facilitate alignment of the patient's
foot. Also, the foot alignment member comprises a toe securing
element structured to substantially encircle one of the patient's
great toes when disposed in the operative configuration to
facilitate alignment of the patient's foot.
[0018] Additional alignment members which the joint alignment and
compression assembly of the present invention may comprise include,
for example, a knee alignment member, an elbow alignment member
and/or a hand alignment member.
[0019] The present invention further comprises a method for
performing a rehabilitative treatment regimen utilizing a joint
alignment and compression assembly. Specifically, the method
includes removably securing a plurality of alignment members to a
patient in an operative configuration, and removably
interconnecting corresponding ones of the plurality of alignment
members to one another via a plurality of adjustable uniform
compression members. In addition, the method provides for
positioning each of the plurality of adjustable uniform compression
members to align the joints of the patient in an operative
orientation, and adjusting the tension of each of the plurality of
adjustable uniform compression members to provide a preselected
compressive force to the joints of the patient. In addition, the
method of the present invention includes executing a predetermined
exercise schedule structured to produce a desired therapeutic
effect while the plurality of alignment members are disposed in the
operative configuration and the plurality of adjustable uniform
compression members are adjusted to provide the preselected
compressive force to the joints of the patient.
[0020] These and other objects, features and advantages of the
present invention will become apparent when the drawings as well as
the detailed description are taken into consideration.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0021] For a fuller understanding of the nature of the present
invention, reference should be had to the following detailed
description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings in
which:
[0022] FIG. 1 is a front elevation of a plurality of alignment
members of one preferred embodiment of a joint alignment and
compression assembly of the present invention removably secured to
a patient in an operative configuration.
[0023] FIG. 2 is a rear elevation of the embodiment of FIG. 1.
[0024] FIG. 3 is a right side elevation of one embodiment of a head
alignment member of the present invention.
[0025] FIG. 4 is a left side elevation of the head alignment member
of FIG. 3.
[0026] FIG. 5A is an elevation of one preferred embodiment of an
adjustable uniform compression member of the present invention.
[0027] FIG. 5B is a plan view of the embodiment of the adjustable
uniform compression member of FIG. 5A disposed in a relaxed
disposition.
[0028] FIG. 5C is a plan view of the embodiment of the adjustable
uniform compression member of FIG. 5A in an elongated
disposition.
[0029] FIG. 6 is a partial front elevation of an adjustable uniform
compression member securely interconnected via a terminal
adjustment aperture.
[0030] FIG. 7 is a partial side elevation of the embodiment of FIG.
6.
[0031] FIG. 8 is a partial front elevation of an adjustable uniform
compression member securely interconnected via an intermediate
adjustment aperture.
[0032] FIG. 9 is a partial side elevation of the embodiment of FIG.
8.
[0033] FIG. 10 is a partial front elevation of an adjustable
uniform compression member securely interconnected via a loop, a
free hook, and a hoop.
[0034] FIG. 11 is a partial side elevation of the embodiment of
FIG. 10.
[0035] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of one preferred embodiment of
a pelvic alignment member of the present invention.
[0036] FIG. 12A is a perspective view of one further preferred
embodiment of a pelvic alignment member illustrating an expandable
attachment portion disposed along one side.
[0037] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of one preferred embodiment of
a chest alignment member of the present invention.
[0038] FIG. 13A is a perspective view of one further preferred
embodiment of a chest alignment member illustrating an expandable
attachment portion disposed along the front.
[0039] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of one preferred embodiment of
a foot alignment member of the present invention.
[0040] FIG. 15 is a cutaway plan view of the foot alignment member
of FIG. 14 illustrating a foot securing element, a foot supporting
element, and a toe securing element disposed in respective
operative configurations.
[0041] FIG. 16 is a partial cutaway view the foot alignment member
of FIG. 14 illustrating one preferred embodiment of a foot securing
element.
[0042] FIG. 17 is a partial cutaway view the foot alignment member
of FIG. 14 illustrating one preferred embodiment of a foot
supporting element.
[0043] FIG. 18A is a front elevation of one preferred embodiment of
a knee alignment member of the present invention. FIG. 18B is a
rear elevation of the embodiment of FIG. 18A illustrating a
plurality of adjustable quick release fasteners.
[0044] FIG. 19A is a front elevation of one preferred embodiment of
an elbow alignment member of the present invention.
[0045] FIG. 19B is a rear elevation of the embodiment of FIG. 19A
illustrating a plurality of adjustable quick release fasteners.
[0046] FIG. 20A is a schematic representation of a front elevation
of one embodiment of a joint alignment and compression assembly of
the present invention illustrating one arrangement of a plurality
of adjustable uniform adjustment members relative to a plurality of
alignment members.
[0047] FIG. 20B is a schematic representation of a side elevation
of the embodiment of FIG. 20A.
[0048] FIG. 20C is a schematic representation of a rear elevation
of the embodiment of FIG. 20A.
[0049] Like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the
several views of the drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0050] As previously indicated, the present invention is directed
to a joint alignment and compression assembly, generally as shown
at 10 throughout the figures. More in particular, the joint
alignment and compression assembly 10 of the present invention is
structured to facilitate the performance of specific rehabilitative
treatment regimens to provide therapeutic benefits to persons
suffering from a wide variety of debilitating conditions including,
but by no means limited to, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis,
brain trauma, developmental delays, and post stroke conditions.
Specifically, the joint alignment and compression assembly 10 of
the present invention permits a therapist to properly align a
patient's joints, to the extent possible, and to apply a
preselected compressive force along portions of the patient's body,
to effect training or retraining of the patient's motor responses
by way of a rehabilitative treatment regimen, as discussed more
fully below.
[0051] To begin, the joint alignment and compression assembly 10 of
the present invention includes a plurality of alignment members,
generally as shown at 11, each structured to be removably secured
to a patient in an operative configuration, wherein the operative
configuration is at least partially defined by a substantially
encircling disposition about at least one portion of the patient's
body such as, by way of example only, the patient's chest, pelvic
region, head, feet, elbows, knees, etc., by a corresponding one of
the plurality of alignment members 11. At least some of the
alignment members 11 are constructed of a plurality of layers of a
stretchable and breathable material, such as cotton or a cotton
blend, to assure the comfort of the patient who may be required to
wear the alignment members 11 for extended periods of time in a
specific rehabilitative treatment regimen. In at least one
embodiment, the alignment members 11 comprise a waterproof or water
resistant material of construction, such as, by way of example
only, synthetic material as is utilized to fabricate wet suits and
the like, to facilitate usage of the joint alignment and
compression assembly 10 of the present invention to perform water
based rehabilitative treatment regimens.
[0052] In one embodiment of the present invention, each of the
plurality of alignment members 11 comprise at least one, but
preferably a plurality of adjustable quick release fasteners 12, as
illustrated throughout the figures, to facilitate removably
securing each of the plurality of alignment members 11 to the
patient. In one preferred embodiment, the adjustable quick release
fastener 12 comprises a hook and loop type fastener, such as
Velcro, however, it is understood to be within the scope and intent
of the present invention to utilize other adjustable quick release
fasteners 12 such as, snaps, zippers, laces, ties, and/or clips,
just to name a few.
[0053] In addition to one or more adjustable quick release
fasteners 12, each alignment member 11 includes a plurality of
interconnection members, generally as shown at 20, at least some of
which are securely fastened to an outer surface of the alignment
member 11 to permit adjustable interconnection of the plurality of
alignment members 11 to one another, as discussed below. In one
preferred embodiment, at least some of the plurality of
interconnection members 20 are disposed in a spaced relation with
one another along the outer surface of the corresponding alignment
member 11. More specifically, the spaced relation is at least
partially defined by an array of interconnection members 20
disposed in a generally vertical arrangement 22 as illustrated in
the figures. At least some of the interconnection members 20
comprise a fixed hook 21 securely fastened to the outer surface of
the alignment member 11. As illustrated in the figures, the fixed
hooks 21 comprise a generally open end to facilitate
interconnection of the alignment members 11, as discussed below,
and may be constructed of any sufficiently rigid material so as to
withstand the preselected compressive forces applied to the
assembly 10 under normal usage without bending or breaking.
[0054] In one preferred embodiment, the fixed hooks 21 are
constructed of Nylon 66 which is dyed to trap moisture, thereby
decreasing breakage or complete failure due to drying and cracking.
In addition, in a further preferred embodiment, the fixed hooks 21
are between approximately 0.14 and 0.15 inches thick and between
approximately 0.90 to 1.00 inches wide. Of course, other materials
of construction and/or dimensions may be utilized within the scope
and intent of the present invention provided the foregoing
requirements with regard to bending and/or breaking under the
compressive forces of normal usage are met.
[0055] A plurality of adjustable uniform compression members,
generally as shown at 30 throughout the figures, are also provided
in the present invention. Each of the adjustable uniform
compression members 30 may be removably interconnected between
different ones of the plurality of interconnection members 20 which
are securely fastened to different ones of the plurality of
alignment members 11, thereby permitting interconnection of the
plurality of alignment members 11 to one another. Furthermore, the
adjustable uniform compression members 30 are interconnected
between the different ones of the plurality of interconnection
members 20 in such a manner so as to guide the joints of the
patient into a proper alignment, at least to the extent possible
without causing undue discomfort to the patient. As is clearly
illustrated throughout the figures, and specifically with reference
to FIGS. 20A through 20C, the plurality of interconnection members
20 may be disposed along the various alignment members 11 to permit
any of a large number of arrangements of the plurality of
adjustable uniform compression members 30 to guide a patient's
joints into proper alignment regardless of the degree of
misalignment with which the patient may be afflicted. As will be
seen below, however, in one preferred embodiment, the adjustable
uniform compression members 30 are securely fastened to the same
alignment member 11, specifically to stabilize the patient's
hips.
[0056] Each adjustable uniform compression member 30 includes a
plurality of adjustment nodes 32 which are generally equally spaced
along a length of the compression member 30. Each adjustment node
32 comprises an aperture sized such the adjustable uniform
compression members 30 may be securely yet removably interconnected
to a portion of at least one of the alignment members 11 by way of
the corresponding interconnection members 20. More in particular,
the adjustment nodes 32 include a pair of oppositely disposed
terminal adjustment apertures 34 and, in at least one preferred
embodiment, a plurality of intermediate adjustment apertures 36
being equally spaced along the length of the compression member 30
between the oppositely disposed terminal adjustment apertures 34,
as shown best in FIGS. 5A through 5C.
[0057] The adjustable uniform compression members 30 are
constructed so as to provide a uniform elasticity along the length
of the compression member 30, whether the compression member 30 is
disposed in a relaxed disposition, as in FIG. 5B, or in an
elongated disposition, as illustrated in FIG. 5C, such as when
interconnected between interconnection members 20 to apply a
preselected compressive force therebetween. The uniform elasticity
facilitates an even application of compressive forces along
portions of the patient's body as may be required by various
rehabilitative treatment regimens, as discussed in further detail
below. In one preferred embodiment, the adjustable uniform
compression members 30 are constructed of a vulcanized rubber
material. It is, however, within the scope and intent of the
present invention for the adjustable uniform compression members 30
to comprise any material having the desired property of uniform
elasticity along its length regardless of whether the compression
member 30 is in a relaxed disposition or an elongated
disposition.
[0058] The plurality of adjustment nodes 32 allow the compressive
force applied along any particular portion of the patient's body to
be readily adjusted based upon the specific combination of
adjustment nodes 32 and interconnection members 20 selected for
removably interconnecting the adjustable uniform compression member
30 to one or more alignment member 11. Specifically,
interconnecting an adjustable uniform compression member 30 between
different ones of the interconnection members 20 via the terminal
adjustment apertures 34 located at its opposite ends, as partially
illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, provides a minimum amount of
compressive force to the portion of the patient's body between the
corresponding interconnection members 20. Conversely, removably
interconnecting the adjustable uniform compression member 30
between different ones of the interconnection members 20 via
intermediate adjustment apertures 36 which are directly adjacent to
one another provides a maximum amount of compressive force to the
portion of the patient's body between the corresponding
interconnection members 20. It is readily apparent that a wide
range of compressive forces may be preselected and provided to
various portions of the patient's body by simply selecting
adjustment nodes 32 which are closer or farther apart from one
another along the length of the adjustable uniform compression
member 30.
[0059] Looking now in further detail to the plurality of alignment
members 11, at least one of the alignment members 11 comprises a
pelvic alignment member 13 structured to substantially encircle the
patient's waist and pelvic area when disposed in an operative
configuration about the patient. The pelvic alignment member 13
includes at least one corresponding pair of interconnection members
20 disposed in a generally horizontal arrangement 24 along each
side, as illustrated in FIG. 2 and FIG. 12. Specifically, the
corresponding interconnection members 20 disposed in the generally
horizontal arrangement 24 provide a means for horizontal hip
stabilization for the patient when an adjustable uniform
compression member 30 is removably interconnected between the
corresponding interconnection members 20 disposed in the horizontal
arrangement 24. This is an important consideration as often times
the patient's muscles are weakened as a result of their ailment or
because they are not a physically active as they would be under
normal circumstances, and as a result, the bones are often in a
compromised and weakened condition, which puts patient's at greater
risk for bone fractures. Thus, the present invention specifically
provides for corresponding pairs of fixed hooks 21 disposed in such
a generally horizontal arrangement 24 to reinforce the stability
and integrity of the hip joints, thus making the joint alignment
and compression assembly 10 of the present invention safer for the
patient to use relative to other devices. As illustrated in FIG.
12, in one preferred embodiment, the pelvic alignment member 13
comprises a plurality of elongated adjustable quick release
fasteners 12' to facilitate secure interconnection with a chest
alignment member 14, as discussed more fully below.
[0060] In one further preferred embodiment, as illustrated in FIG.
12A, the pelvic alignment member 13 further comprises at least one
expandable attachment portion, as at 40. The expandable attachment
portion 40 provides for a substantially form-fitting relationship
of the pelvic alignment member 13 about the patient's pelvic region
while the pelvic alignment member 13 is disposed in an operative
configuration. It will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in
the art that a form fitting garment provides a significantly
greater degree of comfort, which is very important for a patient
who must don the joint compression and alignment assembly 10 for
extended periods of time, versus a "one-size-fits-all" garment. It
will further be appreciated that given the specialized nature of
the alignment members 11 of the present invention, and the
significant expense associated in the manufacture therewith, the
ability to utilize a single alignment member 11 for a broad range
of patients will result in a more affordable treatment regimen
which will likely result in greater utilization of the invention by
those who may benefit from it.
[0061] More specifically, the expandable attachment portion 40
comprises at least one adjustable fastener 42 structured to draw
oppositely disposed segments 43 of the expandable attachment
portion 40 towards one another as the adjustable fastener 42 is
tightened. As illustrated in the figures, the adjustable fastener
42 may comprise an elongated tie or lace threaded through a
plurality of loops 25 affixed along the edge of each oppositely
disposed segment 43. As will be appreciated, by tightening the
adjustable fastener 42, the oppositely disposed segments 43 of the
expandable attachment member 40 will be drawn closer to one
another, providing a snugger, secure fit, as may be required by
some patients. Alternatively, by loosening the adjustable fastener
42, the oppositely disposed segments of the expandable attachment
member 40 may be spread apart from one another, as may be required
by other patients having larger waists and/or thighs. It will be
appreciated that the use of a tie or lace threaded through a
plurality of loops 25 is merely illustrative of an adjustable
fastener 42, and that alternate types of fasteners may be employed
within the scope and intent of the present invention including, as
just one example, a hook and loop type of fastener, as described
above.
[0062] FIG. 12A also illustrates the expandable attachment member
40 further comprising an expansion panel 44. More in particular,
the expansion panel 44 is attached to each of the oppositely
disposed segments 43 of the expandable attachment member 40,
preferably along a length of each. As such, the expansion panel 44
prevents the oppositely disposed segments 43 of the expandable
attachment member 40 from becoming completely detached from one
another, and at least partially defines a maximum range of
expansion of the member 40. In addition, the expansion panel 44
provides a buffer between the patient's body and the adjustable
fastener 42, for the patient's further comfort. At least one
embodiment of the expandable attachment member 40 of the present
invention does not comprise an expansion panel 44, as discussed in
greater detail below.
[0063] At least one embodiment of the pelvic alignment member 13
comprises a plurality of expandable attachment members 40,
preferably along either side of the member 13, thus providing even
greater flexibility to form-fit the pelvic alignment member 13
about the body of the patient in an operable configuration. In yet
one further preferred embodiment, the pelvic alignment member 13 of
the present invention comprises at least one expansion notch 46
disposed along the bottom of each side, as illustrated in FIG. 12A,
which, as above, provides further flexibility for form-fitting the
pelvic alignment member 13 to a plurality of patients having
different physical configurations. FIG. 12A also illustrates that
in at least one embodiment, the pelvic alignment member 13 may
further comprise a closure member 48, for example, a zipper, which
serves to aid patients in donning and removing the member 13, as
well as for allowing patients access to relieve themselves without
requiring removal of the entire pelvic alignment member 13.
[0064] As illustrated in FIG. 13, and noted above, at least one
embodiment of the present invention also comprises a chest
alignment member 14 structured to substantially encircle the
patient's chest area when disposed in an operative configuration. A
plurality of adjustable quick release fasteners 12 are provided
along the front and under each arm to facilitate removably securing
the chest alignment member 14 to the patient. The chest alignment
member 14 preferably includes a V-shaped neckline to facilitate
patients requiring external devices, such as a tracheotomy
connection. In one preferred embodiment, the chest alignment member
14 comprises at least one interconnection member 20 disposed in a
horizontal arrangement 24 along each shoulder to facilitate
interconnection to alignment members 11 disposed along the
patient's arms, in particular, the patient's elbows and hands, as
discussed in greater detail below. In one further preferred
embodiment, the chest alignment member 14 comprises a plurality of
interconnection members 20 disposed in a horizontal arrangement 24,
such as, for example, one (1) interconnection member 20 anterior to
the patients shoulder and two (2) interconnection members 20
positioned posterior to the patients shoulders when the chest
alignment member 14 is disposed in an operative configuration.
[0065] Additionally, the chest alignment member 14 comprises a pair
of integral shoulder pads 14' structured to further provide a
comfortable fit to the patient, as well as to eliminate potential
entanglement with one or more of the adjustable uniform compression
members 30 which may be interconnected thereto. Also, as
illustrated in FIG. 13, the chest alignment member 14 includes a
plurality of hoops 28 to facilitate additional interconnection with
the pelvic alignment member 13 via the elongated adjustable quick
release fasteners 12' affixed thereto.
[0066] FIG. 13A illustrates a preferred embodiment of a chest
alignment member 14 further comprising a plurality of expandable
attachment members 40. Specifically, the chest alignment member 14
of FIG. 13A comprises an expandable attachment member 40 disposed
along each of the front and back of the member 14, generally along
the center of each. The expandable attachment members 40 disposed
on the chest alignment member 14 are similar in structure and
function as the members 40 described above with respect to the
pelvic alignment member 13, thereby permitting the chest alignment
member 14 to be disposed about the patient in an operative
configuration about the patient's chest area in a substantially
form-fitting relationship. In at least one embodiment, as
illustrated in FIG. 13A, the expandable attachment member 40
disposed along the front of the chest alignment member 14 does not
comprise an expansion panel 44 thereby allowing the oppositely
disposed edges 43 to be opened a substantially greater distance
from one another without limitation by an expansion panel 44, to
further facilitate the donning and removal of the chest alignment
member 14 by a patient.
[0067] At least one embodiment of the present invention comprises a
head alignment member 15, as best illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4,
structured to substantially encircle at least a portion of the
patient's head when disposed in an operative configuration. The
head alignment member 15 comprises a chin strap 15' to facilitate
removably securing the head alignment member 15 to the patient in
the operative configuration. As further illustrated in FIG. 4, the
chin strap 15' comprises an adjustable quick release fastener 12 to
facilitate removably securing the head alignment member 15 to the
patient in the operative configuration.
[0068] FIGS. 3 and 4 also illustrate a further embodiment of an
interconnection member 20 of the present invention. Specifically,
the interconnection members 20 of the head alignment member 15
comprise a plurality of loops 25 affixed along the periphery of the
head alignment member 15, as well as along one side of chin strap
15', as illustrated in the figures. The adjustable uniform
compression members 30 are interconnected to one or more of the
loops 25 via a free hook 26, the free hook 26 preferably comprising
a C-shaped configuration. One end of the "C" of the free hook 26 is
interconnected through one of the apertures 34 or 36 of the
adjustable uniform compression member 30, and the other end of the
"C" is interconnected through one of the plurality of loops 25
disposed on the head alignment member 15. As with the fixed hooks
21, in one preferred embodiment, the free hooks 26 are constructed
of Nylon 66 which includes a dye to entrap moisture to prevent
drying and cracking. Once again, however, it is understood that the
free hooks 26 may comprise any material that will resist bending
and/or breaking under normal compressive forces associated with use
of the assembly 10 of the present invention.
[0069] As will be appreciated, the plurality of loops 25 around the
periphery of the head alignment member 15, as well as along the
chin strap 15', provide total control of the alignment and
compressive forces applied about the head and neck regions of the
patient, via interconnection of one or more adjustable uniform
compression members 30 between the head alignment member 15 and the
chest alignment member 14, while the head alignment member 15 and
the chest alignment member 14 are disposed in their respective
operative configurations about the corresponding portions of the
patient's body.
[0070] A further embodiment of the joint alignment and compression
assembly 10 of the present invention also comprises at least one
foot alignment member 16, as best illustrated in FIGS. 14 through
17. In one preferred embodiment, the assembly 10 of the present
invention comprises a pair of foot alignment members 16. The foot
alignment member 16 is structured to substantially encircle one of
the patient's feet when disposed in an operative configuration. In
addition, the foot alignment member 16 includes a foot securing
element 16' structured to be disposed overtop a corresponding one
of the patient's ankles, as illustrated best in FIGS. 15 and 16,
and to securely maintain the foot alignment member 16 in the
operative configuration about the patient's foot. The foot
alignment member 16 may also comprise a foot supporting element
16'' structured to be disposed underneath a corresponding one of
the patient's arches, as illustrated best in FIGS. 15 and 17, to
facilitate proper alignment of the patient's foot as well as to
further secure the foot alignment member 16 about the patient's
foot in the operative configuration. Additionally, the foot
alignment member 16 comprises a toe securing element 16'''
structured to substantially encircle one of the patient's great
toes, as in FIG. 15, to further facilitate alignment of the
patient's foot and secure the foot alignment member 16 to the
patient's foot in the operative configuration.
[0071] Additional alignment members 11 which the joint alignment
and compression assembly 10 of the present invention may comprise
include, for example, knee alignment members 17, elbow alignment
members 18 and hand alignment members 19. As illustrated in FIGS.
18A and 18B, the knee alignment member 17 comprises a plurality of
adjustable quick release fasteners 12 to facilitate removably
securing the knee alignment member 17 about the patient's knee
region in an operative configuration. Additionally, the figures
show that in one preferred embodiment, the knee alignment member 17
comprises a hoop 28 on either side. The hoop 28 is positioned to
facilitate interconnection of a foot alignment member 16 to the
pelvic alignment member 13 with the adjustable uniform compression
member 30 passing through the hoop 28 to prevent entanglement with
the patient, or other components of the assembly 10.
[0072] Similarly, the elbow alignment member 18 illustrated in
FIGS. 19A and 19B also comprises a plurality of adjustable quick
release fasteners 12 to facilitate removably securing the elbow
alignment member 18 about the patient's elbow region in an
operative configuration. The elbow alignment member 18 may also
include hoops 28 along each side to facilitate interconnection of a
hand alignment member 19 to the chest alignment member 14, in the
manner described above with regard to the knee alignment member
17.
[0073] The present invention further comprises a method for
performing a rehabilitative treatment regimen utilizing a joint
alignment and compression assembly 10. Specifically, the method
includes removably securing a plurality of alignment members 11 to
a patient in an operative configuration, such as is illustrated,
for example, in FIG. 1. The method further provides for removably
interconnecting corresponding ones of the plurality of alignment
members 11 to one another via a plurality of adjustable uniform
compression members 30, as illustrated in FIGS. 20A through 20C. In
addition, the method provides for positioning each of the plurality
of adjustable uniform compression members 30 to align the joints of
the patient in an operative orientation. More in particular,
positioning the plurality of adjustable compression members 30 to
interconnect the plurality of alignment members 11 so as to place
the patient's joints in proper alignment, to the extent possible
without causing undue discomfort to the patient, at least partially
defines the operative orientation.
[0074] Additionally, the method of the present invention provides
for adjusting the tension of each of the plurality of adjustable
uniform compression members 30 to provide a preselected compressive
force to the joints of the patient. As indicated above, the
compressive force exerted by any of the adjustable uniform
compression members 30 may be readily adjusted to provide a
preselected compressive force by interconnecting the compressions
member 30 to the interconnection members 20 via the terminal
adjustment apertures 34, to provide less compressive force, or via
the intermediate adjustment apertures 36, to provide varying
degrees of increased compressive force.
[0075] In addition, the method of the present invention includes a
patient executing a predetermined exercise schedule structured to
produce a desired therapeutic effect while the plurality of
alignment members 11 are disposed in the operative configuration
and the plurality of adjustable uniform compression members 30 are
adjusted to provide the preselected compressive force to the joints
of the patient. In one preferred embodiment of the rehabilitative
treatment regimen, the predetermined exercise schedule includes a
daily exercise period of between substantially about 1 to 4 hours
per day for 5 days per week. In addition, in this preferred
embodiment, the predetermined exercise schedule requires that the
daily exercise period 5 days per week is maintained for a period of
between substantially about 3 to 4 weeks. Of course, it is
understood to be within the scope and intent of the present
invention to utilize any of a variety of predetermined exercise
schedules allowing longer or shorter daily exercise periods, as
well as the overall duration of the rehabilitative treatment
regimen, as may be required by the specific needs, limitations,
and/or abilities of any particular patient.
[0076] The rehabilitative treatment regimen of the present
invention, when executed utilizing the joint alignment and
compression assembly 10, provides an increased weight bearing load
distributed across the patient's body, as well as providing
resistance to specific muscle groups. As is apparent from the
foregoing, the load and/or resistance may be readily varied as
required to target the patient's specific weaknesses via placement
of the adjustable uniform compression members 30. The
rehabilitative treatment regimen aids in the training or retraining
of the patient's motor functions by providing greater body
awareness and increased strength, while the patient's joints are
maintained in proper alignment.
[0077] Specifically, the rehabilitative treatment regimen of the
present invention is structured to provide improved normal
alignment of the patient's body. In addition, the preselected
compressive forces applied to the patient via the joint alignment
and compression assembly 10 builds strength to specific muscle
groups of the patient's body, and the increased weight bearing on
the patient's body improves the patient's body awareness, strength,
and motor function. Specifically, the rehabilitative treatment
regimen acts to train or retrain the patient's brain to move in a
corrected manner by maintaining the patient's joints in correct
alignment while increasing strength and gaining a better awareness
of how their body is moving in space, as well as learning new motor
patterns in the brain through repetitive exercises. Additionally,
pathological reflexes are reduced as a result of the weight bearing
load distributed across the patient's body.
[0078] Since many modifications, variations and changes in detail
can be made to the described preferred embodiment of the invention,
it is intended that all matters in the foregoing description and
shown in the accompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrative
and not in a limiting sense. Thus, the scope of the invention
should be determined by the appended claims and their legal
equivalents.
[0079] Now that the invention has been described,
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