U.S. patent application number 13/336386 was filed with the patent office on 2013-06-27 for shoe insole or midsole with a tri-dome configuration for foot rehabilitation.
This patent application is currently assigned to Park Global Footwear Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Robert Garfield Burke, Kwan Ho Park, Tae Soon Park. Invention is credited to Robert Garfield Burke, Kwan Ho Park, Tae Soon Park.
Application Number | 20130160331 13/336386 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 48653187 |
Filed Date | 2013-06-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130160331 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Burke; Robert Garfield ; et
al. |
June 27, 2013 |
Shoe Insole or Midsole with a Tri-Dome Configuration for Foot
Rehabilitation
Abstract
The present invention relates to a device to be integrated into
an article of footwear, normally as, but not limited to, a shoe
innersole or shoe midsole, to interact with the plantar surface of
the wearer's foot, in the region of the foot's main first layer
intrinsic muscles. The present invention produces benefits to
address gait related issues associated with weakened foot structure
and faulty gait biomechanics.
Inventors: |
Burke; Robert Garfield;
(Barrie, CA) ; Park; Kwan Ho; (Richmond Hill,
CA) ; Park; Tae Soon; (Toronto, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Burke; Robert Garfield
Park; Kwan Ho
Park; Tae Soon |
Barrie
Richmond Hill
Toronto |
|
CA
CA
CA |
|
|
Assignee: |
Park Global Footwear Inc.
|
Family ID: |
48653187 |
Appl. No.: |
13/336386 |
Filed: |
December 23, 2011 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
36/25R ;
36/43 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A43B 1/0081 20130101;
A43B 7/142 20130101; A43B 7/144 20130101; A43B 7/1465 20130101;
A43B 7/143 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
36/25.R ;
36/43 |
International
Class: |
A43B 13/14 20060101
A43B013/14; A43B 13/38 20060101 A43B013/38 |
Claims
1) An insole or midsole or integrated unit sole, for use with an
article of footwear, which has a characteristic raised area wherein
said raised area sits plantar to the foot and rises upwardly from
the invention, to interface with the plantar aspect of the foot,
and wherein; said raised area is characterized by the presence of 3
elongated domes running generally parallel to the long axis of the
device and wherein the orientation and positioning of the domes
creates an arrangement possessing a medial most dome, a central
dome and a lateral most dome.
2) An insole or midsole or integrated unit sole, for use with an
article of footwear, which has a characteristic raised area wherein
said raised area sits plantar to the foot and rises upwardly from
the invention, to interface with the plantar aspect of the foot,
and wherein; said raised area is characterized by the presence of 3
elongated domes running generally parallel to the long axis of the
device and wherein the orientation and positioning of the domes
creates an arrangement possessing a medial most dome, a central
dome and a lateral most dome and wherein said device has a
characteristic upwardly directed dome on raising upward from the
surface of the device and is positioned to be aligned with the
calcaneus of the human foot.
3) An insole or midsole or integrated unit sole, for use with an
article of footwear, which has a characteristic raised area wherein
said raised area sits plantar to the foot and rises upwardly from
the invention, to interface with the plantar aspect of the foot,
and wherein; said raised area is characterized by the presence of 3
elongated domes running generally parallel to the long axis of the
device and wherein the orientation and positioning of the domes
creates an arrangement possessing a medial most dome, a central
dome and a lateral most dome and wherein: said medial dome is
specifically positioned to be aligned generally with the medial
arch of the human foot, and wherein; said lateral dome is
specifically positioned to be aligned generally with the lateral
arch of the human foot, and wherein; said central dome is
specifically positioned to be aligned and positioned parallel with
the 3.sup.rd ray of the human foot.
4) A device as disclosed in claim 1 wherein; said medial most dome
when measured from the top surface of the device has a minimum
height equivalent to 1% of the length of the device and has a
maximum height equivalent to 4% of the length of the device, and
wherein: said central dome when measured from the top surface of
the device has a minimum height equivalent to 1% of the length of
the device and has a maximum height equivalent to 5% of the length
of the device, and wherein: said lateral dome when measured from
the top surface of the device has a minimum height equivalent to
0.5% of the length of the device and has a maximum height
equivalent to 3% of the length of the device, and wherein:
5) A device as disclosed in claim 2 wherein; said medial most dome
when measured from the top surface of the device has a minimum
height equivalent to 1% of the length of the device and has a
maximum height equivalent to 4% of the length of the device, and
wherein: said central dome when measured from the top surface of
the device has a minimum height equivalent to 1% of the length of
the device and has a maximum height equivalent to 5% of the length
of the device, and wherein: said lateral dome when measured from
the top surface of the device has a minimum height equivalent to
0.5% of the length of the device and has a maximum height
equivalent to 3% of the length of the device.
6) A device as disclosed in claim 3 wherein; said medial most dome
when measured from the top surface of the device has a minimum
height equivalent to 1% of the length of the device and has a
maximum height equivalent to 4% of the length of the device, and
wherein: said central dome when measured from the top surface of
the device has a minimum height equivalent to 1% of the length of
the device and has a maximum height equivalent to 5% of the length
of the device, and wherein: said lateral dome when measured from
the top surface of the device has a minimum height equivalent to
0.5% of the length of the device and has a maximum height
equivalent to 3% of the length of the device, and wherein:
7) A device as disclosed in claim 3 wherein; said medial most dome
is specifically positioned to be aligned with the Abductor Hallucis
Brevis muscle of the user's foot and said medial most dome
introduces an upwardly directed pressure onto the Abductor Hallucis
Brevis muscle, and wherein; said central dome is specifically
positioned to be aligned with the Flexor Digitorum Brevis muscle of
the user's foot and wherein; said lateral most dome introduces an
upwardly directed pressure onto the Abductor Digiti Minimi
muscle.
8) A device as disclosed in claim 7 wherein; said medial most dome
when measured from the top surface of the device has a minimum
height equivalent to 1% of the length of the device and has a
maximum height equivalent to 4% of the length of the device, and
wherein: said central dome when measured from the top surface of
the device has a minimum height equivalent to 1% of the length of
the device and has a maximum height equivalent to 5% of the length
of the device, and wherein: said lateral dome when measured from
the top surface of the device has a minimum height equivalent to
0.5% of the length of the device and has a maximum height
equivalent to 3% of the length of the device, and wherein:
9) A device as disclosed in claim 1 wherein said insole or midsole
or integrated unit sole, for use with an article of footwear, which
has a characteristic raised area wherein said raised area sits
plantar to the foot and rises upwardly from the invention, to
interface with the plantar aspect of the foot, and wherein said
raised area is designed with openings or cavities to receive
inserts corresponding in size and shape to the 3 domes for the
purpose of allowing interchange ability.
10) A device as disclosed in claim 2 wherein said insole or midsole
or integrated unit sole, for use with an article of footwear, which
has a characteristic raised area wherein said raised area sits
plantar to the foot and rises upwardly from the invention, to
interface with the plantar aspect of the foot, and wherein said
raised area is designed with openings or cavities to receive
inserts corresponding in size and shape to the 3 domes for the
purpose of allowing interchange ability.
11) A device as disclosed in claim 3 wherein said insole or midsole
or integrated unit sole, for use with an article of footwear, which
has a characteristic raised area wherein said raised area sits
plantar to the foot and rises upwardly from the invention, to
interface with the plantar aspect of the foot, and wherein said
raised area is designed with openings, or cavities, to receive
inserts corresponding in size and shape to the domes for the
purpose of allowing interchange ability.
12) A device as disclosed in claim 2 and wherein: said device has a
characteristic upwardly directed dome on raising upward from the
surface of the device and is positioned to be aligned with the
calcaneus of the human foot and wherein; said upwardly directed
dome may possess depressions, recesses or cavities.
13) A device as disclosed in claim 3 wherein said insole or midsole
or integrated unit sole, for use with an article of footwear, which
has a characteristic raised area wherein said raised area sits
plantar to the foot and rises upwardly from the invention, to
interface with the plantar aspect of the foot, and wherein said
raised area is designed with cavities or recesses, to receive
inserts corresponding in size and shape to the domes for the
purpose of allowing interchange ability, and wherein said cavities
or recesses may be located on the bottom surface of the device, or
wherein said cavities may be located on the top surface of the
device.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to a device to be integrated
into an article of footwear, normally as, but not limited to, a
shoe innersole or shoe midsole, to interact with the plantar
surface of the wearer's foot, in the region of the foot's main
first layer intrinsic muscles, and the present invention produces
benefits to address gait related issues associated with weakened
foot structure and faulty gait biomechanics.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] Patents for foot and gait correcting technologies go back
for more than a century and act as evidence that there is a
recognized link between a variety of pain and discomfort
conditions, and the faulty mechanics of the foot. The collected
data, and observations made, which has become the basis for
defining what "ideal" foot function is, have been derived from
populations whom have traditionally worn footwear. The repeated
exposure to the bracing designs and concepts, which have been
common place in the foot treatment and footwear industries for the
past 100 or so years, has been proposed to have detrimental effects
on the foot, and most notably a weakening of the foot's supporting
muscles and skeletal structure. Normal, or average, values have
been taken from these typically shoe-wearing populations and have
been used by those skilled in the art of biomechanics, podiatry and
related fields, as setting the definitions for "ideal". Demographic
and medical research indicates that some 85% of the population will
at some time in their life develop foot related pain. With such a
high rate of failure of the foot being able to attain pain-free
functioning, it is easy to see that the word "normal" should be
used as opposed to "ideal", and as such it is therefore normal to
expect to have sore feet. It is the position of the inventors that
this should not be case. It is the position of the inventors that
the atrophying of the foot's intrinsic muscles, prevent ideal foot
function and thus contribute to un-warranted strains and stresses
within the foot's structure. Such strain and stress can be seen as
a contributing factor to foot and gait related pain and discomfort
of both chronic and acute varieties. As the foot is simply muscle,
bone and connective tissue like the rest of the body it is logical
that introducing exercise to these muscles can strengthen and
rehabilitate them, allowing them to perform the functions
originally intended by nature. In other fields of medicine it has
been shown that the introduction of biofeedback and/or
proprioceptive based stimuli can be used to initiate neuromuscular
responses and muscle contractions. In the view of the inventors
this same approach can be introduced effectively in the field of
foot health and foot rehabilitation.
[0003] Over the past century numerous devices have been proposed to
address gait and foot related pathologies and discomfort. These
devices have tended to focus on 2 main theories; firstly that the
foot should be supported and braced; and secondly that the foot
should be comforted through cushioning. On the topic of the first
theory the disclosure of Ritchey in U.S. Pat. No. 2,660,814
provides for a mechanism wherein the lateral boundaries of the foot
are supported under the premise that the lateral and medial arches
of the foot should be braced, however the very nature of this
device, when inserted into conventional footwear results in a
inwardly directed compressive force being exerted on the foot and
thus potentially causing compression related pathologies and
symptoms on the nerves and soft tissue which reside between the
articulations of the foot. This is similar to the device proposed
by Schoenhaus et al, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,174,052. In a similar
approach the concept of simply supporting the foot's medial, or
primary arch, is detailed in inventions and devices such as that of
Olson et al in U.S. Pat. No. 2,943,405, Arnoff in U.S. Pat. No.
2,933,835, and Conrad in Canadian Patent 536654, to cite but a few
and going back numerous decades.
[0004] Insole and foot orthotic inventions focusing on comfort
through cushioning have been made in variety of forms and
incorporate the use of a variety of materials. Rudy in U.S. Pat.
No. 4,183,156 discloses the very popular approach of cushioning
through the implementation of an air bladder. This concept has seen
many variations through the years starting as far back as Farrimond
in U.S. Pat. No. 233,387 (circa 1924). Fluid insoles such as that
of Hall in U.S. Pat. No. 4,115,934 have also become very popular.
In addition there are numerous products, that have been, or are
currently being commercialized, which offer comfort to the foot
through cushioning approaches relying on the use of foams, such as
the device disclosed by Mattos in U.S. Pat. No. 3,414,988.
[0005] In what has been proposed to be a more holistic and ideal
approach, Burke, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,404,659, as well as Gardiner,
in U.S. Pat. No. 6,301,807 and U.S. Pat. No. 6,732,457, disclose
devices proposed to initiate muscle contractions through the
introduction of a proprioceptive stimulus to the plantar aspect of
the foot. Burke et al in recognizing the inherent short falls of
those approaches has further suggested a combination of support and
muscle stimulation in their recent USPTO application, US
2011099842(A1).
[0006] However in a continued analysis of the foot and gait, and
the role of the contributing muscles, it has been found by the
inventors, that when using these previously referenced devices of
Burke and those of Gardiner there are still considerable shortfalls
in promoting the proper rehabilitation of the foot's primary
intrinsic musculature, and in association, promoting proper
gait.
[0007] In regards to the foot there are 4 main layers of foot
muscles contributing to the functions of the foot, however the
4.sup.th or deepest layer are made up very small muscles and
tendons that are associated with muscles located outside of the
foot. With respect to the these muscles, when viewed from the top
or bottom, these muscles of the foot can be seen to be arranged
into three columns or sections with each column running parallel to
the long axis of the foot and there being a medial most column, a
central column and a lateral most column. Key design features of
the present invention are strategically introduced to the plantar
aspect with the foot specific to these regions. Although the
proprioceptive and biofeedback benefits to be offered by the
present invention are likely to cause a main reaction in the
muscles of the first layer, the net effect of rehabilitation will
not be limited to the first layer and will transcend the other
layers to offer benefits to the muscles of the 2.sup.nd, 3.sup.rd
and 4.sup.th layer also.
[0008] The breakdown of the first 3 layers of muscles is as
follows:
[0009] The key muscles of the first layer, which the present
invention primarily interfaces with are: [0010] Abductor Digiti
Minimi, which originates on the lateral process of the tuberosity
of the calcaneus and inserts on the lateral side of the base of the
proximal phalanx of the 5.sup.th toe. Contractions of this muscle
spread the 5.sup.th toe away from the fourth toe. [0011] Flexor
Digitorum Brevis which originates on the medial process of the
calcaneus, the central part of the plantar aponeurosis, and the
intermuscular septa and it inserts into the middle phalanges of 2nd
to 5th toes. The entire muscle belly is firmly united with the
plantar aponeurosis. The contraction of the Flexor Digitorum Brevis
plantar flexes the middle phalanges on the proximal phalangeal
articulation. [0012] The Abductor Hallucis which originates on the
medial process of the calcaneus, flexor retinaculum, plantar
aponeurosis and intermuscular septum, and inserts on the plantar
half of the medial side of the base of the proximal phalanx of the
great toe. Contractions of this muscle result in Abduction of the
great toe from the medial line of the foot
[0013] More intrinsic to the foot are the muscles of the 2 and
3.sup.rd layer which lay deeper within the foot in comparison to
the first layer muscles.
[0014] The key muscles of the 2.sup.nd layer are: [0015] Quadratus
Plantae which has 2 heads that originates on the medial surface and
the lateral border of the inferior surfaces of the calcaneus and
inserts or fuses with the tendon of the flexor digitorum longus
muscle. As it contracts it flexes the 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th toes.
[0016] The Foot Lumbricals which originate from the tendons of the
flexor digitorum and insert onto the medial side of the proximal
phalanx, and into the expansions of the tendons to the extensor
digitorum longus of the 2nd to 5th toes. As they contract they flex
the proximal phalanges on the metatarsals and extend the 2 distal
phalanges of the 2nd to 5th toes [0017] Also in the second layer
are tendons to key muscles which are located outside of the foot
such as the Flexor Hallucis Longus and the Flexor Digitorum Longus
muscles.
[0018] Deeper into the foot are the muscles defined collectively as
the third layer. The key muscles in this layer are: [0019] Flexor
Digiti Minimi Brevis which originates on the proximal end of the
5th metatarsal bone and inserts on the lateral side of the proximal
end of the proximal phalanx of the little toe. As it contracts in
results in flexion of the proximal phalanx of the 5th toe. [0020]
Adductor Hallucis that has two origin heads; the oblique Head which
originates at the proximal ends of the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th
metatarsals, and the transverse head which originates at the
metatarsophalangeal ligaments of the 3rd, 4th, and 5th toes. The
muscle then inserts on the lateral sesamoid bone of the big toe and
into the proximal phalanx of the big toe. As it contracts it
results in drawing the big toe towards the 2.sup.nd toe. [0021]
Flexor Hallucis Brevis which originates from the medial part of the
under surface of the cuboid bone, from the contiguous portion of
the third cuneiform, and from the prolongation of the tendon of the
Tibialis posterior. The muscle then splits into two and inserts
into the medial and lateral sides of the base of the first phalanx
of the great toe
[0022] Figures accompany the patent disclosure to aid in
understanding and visualizing the location, positioning and
functioning of these muscles.
[0023] The earlier inventions disclosed by Burke and those of
Gardiner approach the foot from an engineering point of view
focusing on the centralized area about which the foot is capable of
performing ideal tri-planar functions, and attempt to rehabilitate
the foot about this centralized point. However through the
anatomical analysis of the muscle locations, and their resulting
biomechanical contributions to the stabilization of the foot it is
clear that the main supporting musculature located within the foot
is under-stimulated by the devices of Burke and those of Gardiner,
and thus potentially these devices are ineffective in addressing
the main foot muscles responsible for foot stabilization and proper
gait.
[0024] It is the intent of the present invention to introduce a
device capable of primarily promoting a strengthening of the key
intrinsic muscles of the first layer of the foot and secondarily an
associated strengthening of the muscles of the other three layers.
The present invention discloses specific raised areas, engineered
to potentially receive removable and replaceable inserts, designed
and configured to achieve the desired functions of muscular
rehabilitation of the foot's muscles and the simultaneous control
of harmful excess pronation during walking, running or other such
activities.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0025] The present invention discloses a device designed to
interact with the plantar surface of the wearer's foot, most
notably in the form of a shoe insole, a shoe midsole, or similar,
wherein a shoe is collectively used to define a multitude of foot
covering articles including, but not limited to, shoes, boots,
sandals, slippers, and socks. The present invention is most
distinctively characterized by a dominant or primary area rising
upwardly from the body of the device. Said primary area, when
viewed from the dorsal aspect is characterized most notably by the
presence of three anteriorally directed elongations. Said
elongations originate in the rearfoot aligning with the central
axis of the calcaneus and marginally distal to the anterior most
edge of the calcaneus, and radiate outwardly and anteriorally
towards the forefoot. Said primary area, and its three elongations,
may be defined when using the dorsal or plantar view of the human
foot as a frame of reference, as having a medial most elongation, a
central elongation and a lateral most elongation. Said primary area
may also be characterized by a defined rearfoot area aligned to the
entirety of the calcaneus of the human foot, although this aspect
is not essential to the functioning of the present invention it
presence allows for rearfoot comfort and customization of the
present invention as seen fit by those skilled in the art and as
appropriate for the symptoms of patients and consumers. Said
primary area, when viewed from the sagittal aspect, can be defined
as being an elongated dome or being esker-like, in that there is a
noticeable vertically raised area which may take the form of a true
apex or of a flatter plateau type surface, and the dome is rather
long and slender as opposed to more circular or oval shaped. Herein
after said elongations, of the primary area will be referred to
taking into account the perimeter shape and domed cross sectional
characteristics and as such will be termed the "primary domed
elongations" collectively in reference to all three and
individually through specifying the lateral most and/or central
and/or medial most domed elongation.
[0026] The location of the primary domed elongations are positioned
such that the highest portion of the elongations, which main take
the form of a plateau, ridge or singular apex, are aligned with the
muscle bellies of the three main muscles present in the first layer
of the plantar musculature and as such the three columns of muscles
previously referred to earlier. More specifically the plateau,
ridge or apex of the medial most domed elongation is alignable to
the muscle belly of the Abductor Hallucis, the plateau, ridge or
apex of the central domed elongation is alignable to the muscle
belly of the Flexor Digitorium Brevis, and the ridge or apex of the
lateral most domed elongation is alignable to the muscle belly of
the Abductor Digiti Minimi. Prior inventions and research into
muscle physiology and neuromuscular science suggest that the
introduction of a strain-stress mechanism to a muscle will create a
response in the form of contractions to create an avoidance
reaction. These are most noticeably a bio-feedback
neuro-physiological function of the Pacinian Corpuscles, Merkel's
Discs, Ruffini Cells, Muscle Spindles and the Nociceptors, all of
which provide feedback to the brain of the presence of various
stimuli including texture, pressure, pain/discomfort and tension.
The forced introduction of any extrinsic strain or stress to the
body of any muscle will create any combination of muscular
reactions initiated by these bio-feedback components. In the
present invention the introduction of the primary domed
elongations, to the muscle bellies of the muscles previously
described, creates an upwardly directed pressure stimuli to which
the respective muscles react through an avoidance contraction. The
resulting physiological and morphological changes in the muscles of
the first layer will lead a structural organization of the foot and
thus also create strains and stresses onto the muscles of the
deeper layers thus initiating contractions and avoidances responses
in those groups also.
[0027] In the present invention the primary domed elongations may
be an integrated part of the shoe insole, the shoe midsole, or
similar; wherein the device is constructed as one integrated unit.
In other forms of the present invention the primary domed
elongations may be separate from the shoe insole, shoe midsole, or
similar; wherein the primary domed elongations, as one unit, may be
detached from the shoe insole or midsole device for the purpose of
being replaced by another similar primary domed elongation offering
differing levels of stimulation, pressure or the like. This may be
achieved by varying the materials of fabrication, the density of
said materials, the heights of the domed elongations, etc., or a
combination thereof.
[0028] In another aspect of the present invention the medial,
central, and lateral domed elongations and the domed heel area may
each be individually separate from the shoe insole, shoe midsole,
or similar; wherein any of the 3 primary domed elongations may be
detached individually from the shoe insole or midsole device for
the purpose of being replaced by another similar domed elongation,
designed to fit and replace the domed elongation having been
removed, and offering differing levels of stimulation, pressure or
the like. This may be achieved by varying the materials of
fabrication, the density of said materials, the heights of the
domed elongations, etc., or a combination thereof. The use of the
invention in this manner will allow those skilled in the art of
foot health, foot mechanics, customized foot wear development or
similar, to tailor or customize the present invention to address
abnormalities specific to the feet or foot of an individual
customer or patient.
[0029] In another embodiment of the present invention the primary
domed elongations, individually or as a singular unit, may have
their surface, which engages the plantar aspect of the foot,
equipped with a series of upwardly extending nodules. These nodules
are designed, positioned, and made of such materials, as to
introduce an additional massaging stimulus to the muscle bellies of
the Abductor Hallicus, the Flexor Digitorum Brevis and the Abductor
Digiti Minimi muscles. These nodules may stimulate said muscles
collectively or individually depending on the incorporation of the
nodules being applied to all primary domed elongations or to simply
to one or two of the domed elongations.
[0030] In another embodiment of the present invention the primary
domed elongations, collectively or individually, may have design
provisions intended to provide specific biomechanical functions as
typically desired by those skilled in the art when addressing the
individual gait characteristics or symptoms of the patient or
customer. In this aspect of the present invention, the base or
bottom most surface, of any of the primary domed elongations may be
tilted or have a wedge shaped base when viewed in the frontal
plane, and as such may be used by those skilled in the art to
provide additional motion control or guidance to the feet of the
user for the purpose of further enhancing the user's gait
biomechanics. In a similar manner the rearfoot area previously
described, if removable, may be designed to accommodate desired
motion control or guidance requirements of the user and/or may be
designed to provide for accommodations to address symptoms or
pathologies specific to the heel region of the user, for example,
for those skilled in the art, the rearfoot area may be designed to
act as a varus wedge or have a recess to address a heel spur
formation, or both.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0031] FIG. 01 is a dorsal aspect perspective view of the present
invention from the lateral to the medial aspect, illustrating the
presence of the 3 primary domed elongations and a raised heel area.
Also shown is a sectional view highlighting the three primary domed
elongations wherein the present invention is constructed as an
integrated one-piece unit.
[0032] FIG. 02 is a dorsal aspect perspective view of the present
invention from the lateral to the medial aspect, illustrating the
presence of the 3 primary domed elongations with a standard heel
area typical of insoles, foot orthotics and similar, as currently
used in the footwear and footcare industries.
[0033] FIG. 03 is a dorsal view of the present invention
illustrating the size, shape and periphery boundaries of the
present invention relative to the human skeletal foot. (Right
foot--dorsal aspect shown). Wherein the perimeter of the present
invention is depicted by a dashed and dotted line, the perimeter of
the primary domed elongations are defined by a solid line, and a
central ridge of each elongation is depicted by a dashed line. Also
shown in the heel area is a perimeter for a rearfoot raised area to
be located corresponding to the location of the calcaneus of the
human foot. Also highlighted, by dotted lines, is a region
encompassing the foot's Metatarsal Phalangeal Joint.
[0034] FIG. 04a-b-c are planter aspect views of the present
invention relative to the first layer muscles of a right human foot
wherein; [0035] FIG. 04a shows the location of the ridge of the
lateral most domed elongation in a bold dashed line, relative to
the anatomical location of the Abductor Digiti Minimi muscle belly,
as well as the ridges of the medial and central domed elongations
shown in a finer dashed line, and; [0036] FIG. 04b shows the
location of the ridge of the central domed elongation in a bold
dashed line, relative to the anatomical location of the Flexor
Digitorum Brevis muscle belly, as well as the ridges of the lateral
and medial domed elongations shown in a finer dashed line and:
[0037] FIG. 04c shows the location of the ridge of the medial
elongation in a bold dashed line, relative to the anatomical
location of the Abductor Hallucis muscle belly, as well as the
ridges of the central and medial elongations shown in a finer
dashed line.
[0038] FIG. 05a-b-c-d-e are plantar aspect views of the present
invention illustrating 4 various perimeter shapes of the primary
domed area adapted to address symptoms or inefficiencies relating
to the foot and/or the gait of the user, wherein; [0039] FIG. 05a
presents a standard perimeter shape aligned and positioned such
that the interfacing of the primary domed elongations of the
present invention engage with the muscle bellies of the Abductor
Digiti Minimi, Flexor Digitorum Brevis and Abductor Hallucis
muscles and; [0040] FIG. 05b presents a modified perimeter shape
aligned and positioned such that the interfacing of the primary
domed elongations of the present invention engage with the muscle
bellies of the Abductor Digiti Minimi, Flexor Digitorum Brevis and
Abductor Hallucis muscles and the central domed elongation extends
anteriorally, medially and laterally to assist in supporting the
metatarsal arch of the human foot, and; [0041] FIG. 05c presents a
modified perimeter shape aligned and positioned such that the
interfacing of the primary domed elongations of the present
invention engage with the muscle bellies of the Abductor Digiti
Minimi, Flexor Digitorum Brevis and Abductor Hallucis muscles and
the central domed elongation extends medially and laterally to
assist in supporting the metatarsal arch of the human foot and the
medial aspect of the central domed elongation is further extended
such that it's positioning is located plantar to the first
metatarsal head for the purpose of simulating a medial forefoot
varus wedge as is common to those skilled in the art, and; [0042]
FIG. 05d presents a modified perimeter shape aligned and positioned
such that the interfacing of the primary domed elongations of the
present invention engage with the muscle bellies of the Abductor
Digiti Minimi, Flexor Digitorum Brevis and Abductor Hallucis
muscles and the medial domed elongation extends anteriorally and
laterally such that it's positioning is located plantar to the
first metatarsal head for the purpose of simulating a medial
forefoot varus wedge as is common to those skilled in the art.
[0043] FIG. 05e presents a modified perimeter shape aligned and
positioned such that the interfacing of the primary domed
elongations of the present invention engage with the muscle bellies
of the Abductor Digiti Minimi, Flexor Digitorum Brevis and Abductor
Hallucis muscles and the medial domed elongation extends
anteriorally and laterally such that its overall shape and
positioning is located plantar to the entirety of the first
metatarsal, medial cuneiform and navicular for the purpose of
simulating a medial arch support as is common to those skilled in
the art.
[0044] FIG. 06 is a dorsal aspect perspective view of the present
invention from the lateral to the medial aspect illustrating the
present invention such that the central domed elongation assists in
supporting the metatarsal arch of the human foot as described in
above 5b.
[0045] FIG. 07 is a dorsal aspect perspective view of the present
invention from the lateral to the medial aspect illustrating the
present invention such that the central domed elongation assists in
supporting the metatarsal arch of the human foot as described in
above 5b and the medial most elongation is configuration as
described in above 5d to function as a medial forefoot varus
wedge.
[0046] FIG. 08 is a plantar aspect view of the present invention
relative to the first layer muscles of a right human foot in
addition estimated cross sections are shown to indicate the general
dome like shapes and ridges present in the domed elongations of the
present invention, and the estimated cross sectional configuration
of the raised heel area. The estimated cross sections shown relate
to the construction of the present invention as a one piece
unit.
[0047] FIG. 09 is a dorsal aspect perspective view of the present
invention from the lateral to the medial aspect illustrating the
primary domed area such it may take the form of a removable
component intended to interface with, and lock into openings in the
insole, when introduced in a top-down manner. Also provided are
estimated cross sections of the domed elongations showing a
possible shape configuration to ensure that the removable primary
domed area is securely fastened into position.
[0048] FIG. 10 is a dorsal aspect perspective view of the present
invention from the lateral to the medial aspect illustrating the
primary domed area such it may take the form of a removable
component intended to interface with, and lock into openings in the
insole when introduced in a bottom-up manner. Also provided are
estimated cross sections of the domed elongations showing a
possible shape configuration to ensure that said primary domed area
is securely fastened into position.
[0049] FIG. 11 is a dorsal aspect perspective view of the present
invention from the lateral to the medial aspect illustrating the
primary domes area such each of the primary features; being the
raised heel, the medial, central and lateral domed elongations, may
take the form of individual removable components intended to
interface with, and lock into openings in the insole, when
introduced in a top-down manner.
[0050] FIG. 12 is a plantar aspect perspective view of the present
invention from the medial to the lateral aspect illustrating the
primary domed area such it may take the form of individual
removable components intended to be introduced into cavities
located on the plantar surface of the present invention and said
cavities are positioned to align with each of the primary features;
being the raised heel, the medial, central and lateral domed
elongations. Also provided are estimated cross sections of the
domed elongations showing the alignment of the individual removable
components with the respective cavities and domes. Also shown are
possible geometries wherein the removable components may sit flat
within the respective cavity and the shoe's interior, or may be
curved to provide a cantilever spring effect during the compression
and rebound which occurs during normal human gait.
[0051] FIG. 13 is a plantar aspect perspective view of the present
invention from the medial to the lateral aspect illustrating an
insert to be applied to the primary dome area such it may take the
form of a single removable component intended to be introduced into
a cavity located on the plantar surface of the present invention
and said cavity is positioned to align with each of the primary
features; being the raised heel, the medial, central and lateral
domed elongations. Also provided are estimated cross sections of
the elongations showing the alignment of the removable components
with the respective cavities and domes. Also shown are possible
geometries wherein the removable component may sit flat within the
respective cavity and the shoe's interior or may be curved to
provide a cantilever spring effect during the compression and
rebound which occurs during normal human gait.
[0052] FIG. 14 is a dorsal aspect perspective view of the present
invention from the medial to the lateral aspect illustrating the
primary domed area such it may take the form of a single removable
component intended to be introduced into a cavity located on the
plantar surface of the present invention and said cavity is
positioned to align with each of the primary features; being the
raised heel, the medial, central and lateral domed elongations.
Also provided are estimated cross sections of the elongations
showing the alignment of the removable component with the
respective cavities and domes. The insole body is shown to have a
multitude of openings aligned with upwardly extending nodules which
are integrated into the dorsal surface of the removable component.
Also shown is a cross section of the present invention assembled
wherein the nodules extend upwardly past the surface layer of the
insole for the purpose of providing a massage sensation to the
wearer's foot in the region of the domed elongations.
[0053] FIG. 15 is a dorsal aspect perspective view of the present
invention from the lateral to the medial aspect illustrating the
presence of the 3 primary domed elongations and a raised heel area,
wherein the 3 primary domed elongations have been modified to have
upwardly extending nodules the purpose of providing a massage
sensation to the wearers foot in the region of the elongations.
Also shown is a sectional view wherein the present invention is
constructed as a one piece unit, and the dorsal aspect of the
primary domed area illustrates possible nodule placement relative
to the perimeter of the primary domed area.
[0054] FIG. 16 is a sectional view, through the frontal plane, of
the medial domed elongation, however the concept shown is
applicable to any of the 3 domed elongations, and the rearfoot
domed area, wherein the applicable region is shown to be
manufactured and designed such that the domed structure sits
horizontally on a support surface, as well and in contrast, is the
same domed structure wherein the medial aspect of the domed
structure has been elevated relative to the lateral aspect and as
such functions as a varus wedge, as used by those skilled in the
art.
[0055] FIG. 17 is an illustration depicting the Cardinal Planes of
reference when referring to the anatomical structures of the foot
to assist in understanding the text of this disclosure.
[0056] FIG. 18 is an illustration showing the key osseous
structures of the foot and landmarks on the human foot to assist in
understanding the text of this disclosure.
[0057] FIG. 19 is an illustration included to provide more detail
in understanding the muscles of the first 3 layers of the foot and
the compartmentalization of them as medial, central and lateral
columns.
[0058] FIG. 20 is a dorsal aspect perspective view of the present
invention from the lateral to the medial aspect illustrating the
present invention such that the medial domed elongation assists in
supporting the medial arch of the human foot as described in above
5e. A proposed frontal plane cross-section of the present invention
through the midfoot is also provided illustrating the 3 domed
elongations, their highest points and in particular the cross
sectional modification to the medial most domed elongation.
[0059] Key features designated in the drawings relating
specifically to the present invention:
TABLE-US-00001 Part Description 1 Present Invention 2 Primary Domed
Area 3 Elongations (3) 4 Calcaneus 5 Medial Elongation Anterior End
6 Central Elongation Anterior End 7 Lateral Elongation Anterior End
8 Rearfoot Area 9 Vertically Raised Area 10 Top Surface 11 Lateral
Most Dome Elongation 12 Central Domed Elongation 13 Medial Most
Domed Elongation 14 Plateau, Ridge or Apex 15 Adductor Hallucis 16
Flexor Digitorium Brevis 17 Adbductor Digiti Minimi 18 Nodules 19
Metatarsal Phalangeal Joint 20 Metatarsal Provision 21 Metatarsal
and Forefoot Varus Wedge Provision 22 Forefoot Varus Wedge
Provision 23 Unified Primary Area Removable Insert 24
Insole/Midsole Opening 25 Locking System Provisions 26
Individualized Removable Inserts 27 Rearfoot Area Removable Insert
28 Medial Domed Elongation Removable Insert 29 Central Domed
Elongation Removable Insert 30 Lateral Domed Elongation Removable
Insert 31 Opening to Receive the Rearfoot Area Removable Insert 32
Opening to Receive Medial Domed Elongation Removable Insert 33
Opening to Receive Central Domed Elongation Removable Insert 34
Opening to Receive Lateral Domed Elongation Removable Insert 35
Cavity to Receive the Rearfoot Area Removable Insert 36 Cavity to
Receive Medial Domed Elongation Removable Insert 37 Cavity to
Receive Central Domed Elongation Removable Insert 38 Cavity to
Receive Lateral Domed Elongation Removable Insert 39 Cavity to
Receive Unified Primary Area Removable Insert 40 Opening to Receive
Nodules 41 Elongations (3) Equipped with Nodules 42 Medial Wedge 43
Accommodation for Heel Spur 44 Insole or Midsole Body 45 Bottom
Surface 46 Medial Arch 47 Lateral Arch 48 3.sup.rd ray
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
[0060] The present invention 1 provides for a device in the form of
a shoe insole and/or midsole and/or integrated shoe
outsole-midsole-insole unit, capable of providing a catalyst for
muscle stimulation, muscle strengthening and muscular adaptation to
most notably, but not limited to, the primary muscles of the first
layer of the foot. In addition the present invention 1 will be
shown to include optional provisions to address the individual
comfort and gait biomechanical requirements which would be
diagnosed and serviced by one skilled in the art of trades
including, but not limited to, orthopaedics, podiatry, chiropody,
gait biomechanics, custom footwear manufacture, and footwear design
and development, herein after referred to collectively as those
skilled in the art.
[0061] The present invention may be constructed of materials of a
semi-pliable and compressible nature such that it is comfortable to
the plantar surface of the foot during weight bearing and walking,
running, and sports related activities. The materials of choice may
include, but are not limited to, polyurethane and its derivatives,
ethyl vinyl acetate and its derivatives, visco-elastic polymers,
natural sponge rubbers and its derivatives, and other materials
displaying similar characteristics. As such the present invention 1
may be constructed through a number of varying manufacturing means
including, but not limited to, compression molding, vacuum forming,
and injection molding and pouring. The present invention may also
be constructed in a manner wherein removable components may be
manufactured from the aforementioned materials and from the
aforementioned techniques, or they may take the form of bladders or
similar, filled with either gaseous, liquid or semi-liquid
substrates, or a combination thereof, or they may be designed and
constructed of such materials as to act as mechanical devices such
as but not limited to spring devices.
[0062] More specifically, and as shown in FIGS. 01 through 04, the
present invention 1 has a dorsal top surface 10 upon which the
primary domed area 2 extends upwardly for the purpose of engaging
the plantar aspect of the wearer's foot. As shown clearly in FIGS.
01 through 03, the primary domed area 2 is most notably
characterized by 3 elongations 3 which can be referred to in an
anatomical manner as a medial elongation, a central elongation, and
a lateral elongation. Each elongation extends upwardly from the
surface of the present invention 1 for the purpose of introducing
pressure to a specific muscle located superior to the respective
elongation. The medial most domed elongation 13 is characterized as
a domed structure which radiates upwardly, medially and outwardly
from the rearfoot area 8 such that it's alignment, relative to the
human foot of the wearer, is alignable with the medial aspect of
the foot, or as commonly referred to as the medial arch 46, and
more specifically is oriented to run parallel to and inferior to
the location of the Adbuctor Hallucis 15 muscle. The central domed
elongation 12 is characterized as a domed structure which radiates
upwardly and centrally outward from the rearfoot area 8 such that
it's alignment, relative to the human foot of the wearer, is
alignable with the central region of the foot, or as commonly
referred to as the "3.sup.rd Ray" 48, and more specifically
oriented to run parallel to and inferior to the location of the
Flexor Digitorium Brevis 16 muscle. The lateral most domed
elongation 11 is characterized as a domed structure which radiates
upwardly, laterally and outwardly from the rearfoot area 8 such
that it's alignment, relative to the human foot, of the wearer is
alignable with the lateral aspect of the foot, or as commonly
referred to as the lateral arch 47, and more specifically oriented
to run parallel to and inferior to the location of the Adbuctor
Digiti Minimi 17 muscle. Each of the 3 elongations 3 has a
vertically raised area 9, as shown in FIGS. 01 and 02, and the
respective vertically raised area 9 extends in parallel with each
of the 3 elongations 3 such that it forms a highest region as a
plateau, ridge, or apex 14. From a three-dimensional perspective
the present invention can be regarded as possessing a lateral most
domed elongation 11, a central domed elongation 12 and a medial
most domed elongation 13.
[0063] Shown clearly in FIGS. 01 through 03, the medial most domed
elongation 13 radiates upwardly, medially and anteriorally, such
that it has a vertically raised area 9, which may take the form of
a plateau, ridge or apex 14 which aligns with the Abductor
Hallucis, and the medial most domed elongation 13 does not extend
in anteriorally to a location wherein the medial elongation
anterior end 5 of the medial most domed elongation 13 interferes
with the flexion of the foot as defined by the Metatarsal
Phalangeal Joint 19.
[0064] Also shown in FIG. 01 through 03 the central domed
elongation 12 radiates upwardly, centrally and anteriorally such
that that it has a vertically raised area 9, which may take the
form of a plateau, ridge or apex 14, aligning with the Flexor
Digitorum Brevis and the central domed elongation 12 does not
extend anteriorally to a location wherein the central elongation
anterior end 6 of the central domed elongation 12 interferes with
the flexion of the foot as defined by the Metatarsal Phalangeal
Joint 19.
[0065] The lateral most domed elongation 11 shown in FIGS. 01
through 03 radiates upwardly, laterally and anteriorally such that
that it has a vertically raised area 9, which may take the form of
a plateau, ridge or apex 14, aligning with the Abductor Digiti
Minimi and the lateral most domed elongation 11 does not extend in
anteriorally to a location wherein the lateral elongation anterior
end 7 of the lateral most domed elongation 11 interferes with the
flexion of the foot as defined by the Metatarsal Phalangeal Joint
19.
[0066] In respect to the maximum height at the plateau, ridge or
apex 14 this parameter needs to be a function of the absolute
length of the present invention 1 as it will be a characteristic
that must be relative to the foot of the wearer. In consideration
thereof it is essential that the present invention 1 have
tolerances allowing it to comfortably interface with a variety of
foot types and body weights, and the combination of the two. As
such the vertically raised area 9, more clearly shown in the
cross-sectional aspect in FIG. 01, of the medial most domed
elongation 13, may extend vertically from the top surface 10 of the
invention, such that it has a minimum vertical height within the
tolerance equivalent to 1% of the length of the present invention
1, and such that it has a maximum vertical height within the
tolerance equivalent to 4% of the length of the present invention
1.
[0067] In addition to, and as such, the vertically raised area 9,
more clearly shown in the cross-sectional aspect in FIG. 01, of the
central domed elongation 12 may extend vertically from the top
surface 10 of the invention, such that it has a minimum vertical
height within the tolerance equivalent to 1% of the length of the
present invention 1, and such that it has a maximum vertical height
within the tolerance equivalent to 5% of the length of the present
invention 1.
[0068] In addition to, and as such, the vertically raised area 9,
more clearly shown in the cross-sectional aspect in FIG. 01, of the
lateral most domed elongation 11 may extend vertically from the top
surface 10 of the invention, such that it has a minimum vertical
height within the tolerance equivalent to 0.5% of the length of the
present invention 1, and such that it has a maximum vertical height
within the tolerance equivalent to 3% of the length of the present
invention 1.
[0069] Regardless of whether the 3 elongations 3 be designed and
manufactured such that the present invention 1 is a singular
integrated unit a shown in FIGS. 01, 02 and 15, or said 3
elongations 3 are separate components as shown in FIGS. 09 through
14, the heights of the vertically raised area 9, when measured from
the top surface 10 must fall within these tolerances.
[0070] In consideration of the fact that users of the present
invention 1 will often use a variety of footwear styles with
varying degrees of compatibility to a "full length insole" as would
be the definition given by those skilled in the art, to the present
invention 1. It must be noted that the overall geometric
characteristics of the present invention 1 maybe transferable or
applied to a "three-quarter length " or "half length" insole or
orthotic, and under such design the dimensions would be based on
the imaginary total insole length had the insole been made in a
full length version. In this manner the benefits of the present
invention 1 may be enjoyed users requiring the use of either a 3/4
or 1/2 insole.
[0071] As shown in FIG. 02, the present invention 1 maybe
constructed so as to offer support and stimulation solely through
the introduction of the 3 elongations 3 and the present invention
may be constructed as to not include a rearfoot area 8 provision.
The present invention 1 may however have the rearfoot area 8,
wherein special design features such as a heel spur accommodation
43 may be incorporated for the purpose of increasing the wearer's
comfort level. In either option the rearfoot area 8 maybe designed
and used in the present invention 1 in such a manner as to allow it
to be incorporated as an integrated part of a unified primary area
removable insert 23, as shown in FIG. 09 and FIG. 10, or as a
separate rearfoot removable insert 27, as shown in FIGS. 11 and
12.
[0072] As shown in FIGS. 05b, 05c, 05d and 05e as well as FIGS. 06
and 07, the 3 elongations 3 and in particular the central domed
elongation 6 and the medial most domed elongation 13 have the
geometry and dimensions of their anterior most ends modified to
address specific foot pathologies and/or gait inefficiencies.
[0073] As shown in FIG. 05b the central domed elongation 12 has its
central elongation anterior end 5 widened in the medial and lateral
directions such that it is capable of adding additional support in
the form of a metatarsal provision 20 synonymous to a metatarsal
arch support by those skilled in the art. In this design
application the medial most edge of the metatarsal provision 20
should not extend in the medial direction to such an extent as it
becomes located inferior to the head of the 1.sup.st metatarsal,
the metatarsal provision 20 should not extent in the anterior
direction to the extent that it interferes with Metatarsal
Phalangeal Joint 19, and the metatarsal provision 20 should not
extend in the lateral direction to the extent that it becomes
located inferior to the head of the 5.sup.th metatarsal.
[0074] As shown in FIG. 05c the central domed elongation 12 has its
central elongation anterior end 5 widened in the lateral direction
and widened significantly in the medial direction such that it is
capable of adding additional support to the metatarsal arch and in
addition it may also be designed such that it extends in the medial
direction to an extent where it lays directly inferior to the head
of the 1.sup.st metatarsal and acts to elevate the head of the
first metatarsal, and as such the central elongation anterior end 6
serves to act both as a metatarsal arch support and as a forefoot
medial varus wedge as used by those skilled in the art. In this
design application the medial most edge of the metatarsal and
forefoot varus wedge provision 21 should extend in the medial
direction to such an extent as it becomes located inferior to the
head of the 1.sup.st metatarsal, however the metatarsal and
forefoot varus wedge provision 21 should not extent in the anterior
direction to the extent that it interferes with Metatarsal
Phalangeal Joint 19, and the metatarsal and forefoot varus wedge
provision 21 should not extend in the lateral direction to the
extent that it becomes located inferior to the head of the 5.sup.th
metatarsal.
[0075] As shown in FIG. 05d the medial most dome elongation 13 has
the medial elongation anterior end 5 designed and manufactured such
that it forms a forefoot varus wedge provision 22. As such the
forefoot varus wedge provision 22 should be constructed in manner
known to those skilled in the art wherein the medial most aspect of
the forefoot varus wedge provision 22 is dimensioned to be thicker,
or sit higher, than the lateral most aspect of the forefoot varus
wedge provision 22. FIG. 16 illustrates this concept applicable to
both the metatarsal and forefoot varus wedge provision 21 and the
forefoot varus wedge provision 22, wherein, as shown here as a
cross section of a separate component, the medial domed elongation
removable insert 28 is shown in a neutral or no wedge effect
orientation, and in an orientation wherein a medial wedge 42 effect
has been integrated into the design. Wherein this is applicable to
the design and configuration of each of the 3 elongations 3, it is
also applicable to the rearfoot area 8 as shown also in FIG. 16,
where the rearfoot area removable insert 27 is shown in both a
neutral orientations as well as an orientation subjected to a
medial wedge 42 effect.
[0076] As shown in FIG. 05e the medial most dome elongation 13 has
the medial elongation lateral aspect designed and manufactured such
that it shape and positioning is located plantar to the entirety of
the first metatarsal, medial cuneiform and navicular for the
purpose of simulating a medial arch 46 support as is common to
those skilled in the art.
[0077] FIGS. 06 and 07 provide a perspective view of these modified
dome shaped concepts.
[0078] In another aspect of the present invention 1 provisions are
introduced to allow those skilled in the art to address individual
concerns of patients or customers as well as to introduce the
present invention 1 as a progressively increasing mode of therapy
for muscular rehabilitation. Shown in FIGS. 09 through 13 are
examples of the present invention 1 wherein it is comprised of an
insole or midsole body 44 wherein the insole or midsole body 44 may
have a single insole/midsole opening 24 for the purpose of
receiving a unified primary area removable insert 23. Shown in FIG.
09 and FIG. 10 said insert has been designed with locking system
provisions 25 to ensure the securing of the unified primary area
removable insert 23 into the insole/midsole opening 24. The
removability of the unified primary area removable insert 23 allows
those skilled in the art to introduce a variety of unified primary
area removable inserts 23 each of which may be an insert designed
and manufactured to be part of a progressive rehabilitative therapy
and/or each may be an insert of specific material and/or density
and/or geometry prescribed by those skilled in the art to address
patient and customer specific symptoms and gait inefficiencies. In
FIG. 13 this basic concept is shown wherein the unified primary
area removable insert 23 is shown to be an insert designed to be
affixed with a cavity molded or formed into the body of the insole
on either the top surface 10 or the bottom surface 45. The present
invention 1, when constructed in this manner, would incorporate
fastening and securing strategies such as hook and loop devices,
for example Velcro.TM., or two way tape, or interlocking design
strategies, such as tongue and groove flooring, designed and
integrated into the body of the insole or midsole 44 and
correspondingly designed into the appropriate removable component,
be it a singular component as in the unified primary area removable
insert 23 or as an individual removable inserts 26.
[0079] FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate the concept of the present
invention 1 wherein the 3 elongations 3 are applied to the insole
or midsole body 44 as individual removable inserts 26. As such
those skilled in the art may introduce variations in materials,
height, geometries and densities of the rearfoot area removable
insert 27, the medial domed elongation removable insert 28, the
central domed elongation removable insert 29, and the lateral domed
elongation removable insert 30, for the purpose of addressing
comfort, pathology or gait mechanics issues of the user. As shown
in FIG. 11 the individual removable inserts 26 maybe be designed to
interface with the insole or midsole body 44 by being inserted into
openings 31, 32, 33, 34 wherein portions of the removable inserts
26 must be deigned to have a locking system provisions 25 to ensure
their security to and removability from the insole or midsole body
44.
[0080] As shown in FIG. 12 the individual removable inserts 26
maybe be designed to interface with the insole or midsole body 44
by being inserted into cavities 35, 36, 37, 38 located on the top
surface 10 or the bottom surface 45 wherein the removable inserts
26 must be deigned such that they would incorporate fastening and
securing strategies such as hook and loop devices, for example
Velcro.TM., or two way tape, or interlocking design strategies,
such as tongue and groove flooring, to ensure their security to and
removability from the insole or midsole body 44.
[0081] In either design configuration the individualized removable
inserts 26 may be designed to have an orientation wherein their
base lays parallel, or flat, to the main body of the present
invention, or their base may have a medial wedge 42 effect as shown
in FIG. 16. For those skilled in the art, the inserts, be they
either individual or as part of a one piece unit, may also be
designed and manufactured such they display orientations
characteristic of a valgus wedge device, which simply is the
opposite angulation to that of the medial wedge 42.
[0082] In another provision of the present invention 1, the primary
area 2 and the 3 elongations 3, be they integrated into a unified
insole or midsole body 44, or a separate unified primary area
removable insert 23, or individualize removable inserts 26, may
have on their dorsal aspect, or the surface intended to engage the
wearer's foot, a plurality of nodules 18, for the purpose of
providing a reflexology or massage sensation to the wearers foot.
The application of this concept is shown in FIG. 14 wherein the
unified primary area removable insert 23 is shown to have a
plurality of nodules 18 which align and are inserted to openings
designed to receive said nodules 40 and wherein the nodules are
designed in a manner such that they provide the desired properties
to allow the security of, and replaceablity of, the insert, be they
a separate unified primary area removable insert 23, or
individualize removable inserts 26.
[0083] This concept is also shown in FIG. 15 wherein the nodules 18
are integrated into the design of the 3 elongations 3 such that
they are elongations equipped with nodules 41 in the construction
of the present invention as a single unified unit.
* * * * *