Custom-fitted ankle splint product

Abstract

An ankle splint product includes an ankle splint for being custom-formed to the shape of an ankle while flexible and upon hardening providing a rigid, supporting custom fit. The ankle splint product includes an outer container formed of moisture-impervious material, and first and second flexible ankle splint segments positioned in the container in substantially moisture-free conditions and sealed therein against entry of moisture until use. Each of the first and second ankle splint segments includes an elongate substrate and a reactive system impregnated into or coated onto the substrate. The system remains stable when maintained in substantially moisture-free conditions and hardens upon exposure to moisture to form a rigid, self supporting structure. An elongate, flexible protective pad is positioned on one side of the substrate along its length to provide a cushioning barrier between the substrate and the skin of a patient when the ankle splint is in use. An elongate outer cover covers the substrate on the side opposite the protective pad. A flexible cushion insert has a first major surface overlying the protective pad and an opposing second major surface adapted for residing adjacent an ankle bone of the patient. The cushion insert cooperates with the protective pad to further protect and cushion the ankle of the patient when the ankle splint is in use. At least one elasticized strap is provided to hold the splint segments in place on the lower leg and ankle. The strap provides enhanced conformance to the leg, and reduces edema and increases blood flow by providing controlled pressure to the leg as the patient walks or otherwise exercises the injured limb.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.