Circumferential walker

Abstract

An orthopedic device in the form of a circumferential walker (2100) includes a first member (2120) (posterior shell) and a second member (2102) (dorsal shell) corresponding to the first member (2120). An outsole (2148) or plantar shell portion (2144) is attached to, or formed on or with the posterior shell (2120). An expansion joint (2126) is positioned in the posterior shell (2120) or dorsal shell (2102) to expand to accommodate larger sized lower legs. The dorsal and posterior shells (2102, 2120) may include flexible or resilient edge portions (1110, 2124) to reduce pressure points and to further accommodate users having larger sized lower legs. The dorsal shell (2102) also includes a flexible or resilient connecting portion (2114) to accommodate users having larger ankles and feet and to reduce or eliminate the formation of a pressure point along the dorsal shell (2102). Quick-connecting buckle assemblies (1148, 1250) can be provided to allow a user to quickly don and doff the orthopedic device.

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention relates generally to the field of orthopedic or prosthetic devices, and more particularly to annular orthopedic devices that provide easy donning, doffing, and adjustment with the advantage of having hoop or wraparound support and stability of the supported limb . In particular, an exemplary looped calf walker is disclosed that provides support and stability to the calf, ankle, and foot with improved donning, removal, and lacing around the calf of the looped walker. Background technique [0002] Commonly, people, especially those who are physically active and frail older adults, experience a variety of lower leg, ankle and foot injuries. For example, sprains of the calcaneofibular and anterior talofibular ligaments afflict many professional and amateur athletes. Other injuries may include moderate to severe ankle sprains, stable foot and ankle fractures, or other trauma, such as surgery. [0003] To aid in the proper healing an...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

[0008] Alternatively, existing walkers may be one-size-fits-all, such that the walker is designed for an average-sized calf, ankle, and foot, but cannot be larger than an average-sized calf, ankle, and foot or smaller size calves, ankles and feet provide a comfortable fit

In particular, the hard edges and surfaces of existing walkers can create pressure points that can cause pain and discomfort to the user, and can also cause injury to the user

Images