Splints and methods of treatment
OwnerPranesh Kumarinventor
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Abstract
A splint is provided for treating a patient's joint having an axis of rotation, such as the carpometacarpal (CMC) joint of the thumb. The splint includes a cradle and an anchor positioned respectively distal and proximal to the joint's axis of rotation. In use, the cradle and anchor bear against corresponding body surfaces to position the bones forming the treated joint in a desired orientation and at least partially restrict undesired movement. The cradle and anchor together define a lever arm that produces a traction force on muscle contraction, aiding in joint alignment and stabilization. The splint may further include a fastener, liner, flexible bridge, and sling region to improve comfort, fit, and controlled flexibility.
Claims17
A splint to treat a patient's joint (“the treated joint”), wherein the treated joint has an axis of rotation, wherein
- the splint includes a cradle and an anchor, and wherein
- the splint is, in use, positioned with respect to the treated joint so that:
- the cradle is adjacent to and bears against a surface of a patient's body that is distal to the axis of rotation, and
- the anchor is adjacent to and bears against a portion of the patient's body that is proximal to the axis of rotation;
- and
- the splint is configured to position bones forming the treated joint in a desired orientation and at least partially restrict movement at the bones away from the desired orientation;
- and further wherein
- the cradle and the anchor together define a lever arm based on the points of the patient's body with which the anchor and cradle bear which provides a traction force to the treated joint on contraction of muscles in the patient's body.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.