Knee-stretching Device and Treatment Methods

Abstract

A knee-stretching device and methods of increasing knee range of motion in extension are disclosed. The knee-stretching device allows a patient to self-stretch and acts as a first class lever, applying force supplied by the patient's arms to the knee through the distal portion of the leg. The knee-stretching device can apply traction, varus, and valgus forces in addition knee extension force. Disclosed treatment methods include the use of the knee-stretching device before surgical intervention.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60 / 758,182, filed on Jan. 10, 2006, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]The invention relates generally to the fields of rehabilitation and physical therapy and, more specifically, to rehabilitation devices and methods for the knee.[0004]2. Description of Related Art[0005]The knee joint is one of the more complex and important joints in the human musculoskeletal system. Together, the knees essentially support the entire body weight during most types of upright movement. In particular, knee strength, stability, and range of motion are very important for proper standing, walking, and running.[0006]There are a number of ways in which the normal function of the knee joint may be impaired. For example, one or both of the anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments tha...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0010]Another aspect of the invention relates to a method of increasing knee strength, function, or range of motion in a patient. The method comprises causing the patient to simultaneously apply a knee extension force and one or more forces selected from the group consist...

Problems solved by technology

There are a number of ways in which the normal function of the knee joint may be impaired.

For example, one or both of the anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments that stabilize the knee may be torn or damaged.

Tears in the menisci between the femur and the tibia may cause those bones to grind together.

Years of use may result in wear on the menisci, the articular cartilages, and the bones themselves, sometimes requiring a knee replacement (i.e., a total knee arthroplasty).

Any of these problems may cause a loss of knee stability and / or range of motion, resulting in an inability to stand or move properly.

Other orthopedic and neurological conditions may also cause loss of knee range of motion, abnormal knee wear, and loss of knee stability.

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