Sock donning device

Abstract

The sock donning device is an apparatus that allows an individual of limited ability of movement to put on a sock. The device includes a pair of laterally spaced, hinged, telescoping rods that are connected to a substantially ovoid or circular hoop assembly, with rollers positioned about its circumference. The device is mounted to a base that may be made from wood or similar material. The rollers and hoop assembly hold an upper portion of the sock open as the user inserts his or her feet into the sock.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60 / 996,315, filed Nov. 9, 2007.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]The present invention relates to garment applicators, and particularly to a sock donning device that allows an individual to put a sock or stocking on his or her foot without the necessity of bending over.[0004]2. Description of the Related Art[0005]Many persons suffer from disabilities that prevent them from bending over without either pain or the risk of injury. Persons suffering from arthritis, rheumatism and other joint ailments, inner ear and other equilibrium problems, or simply individuals suffering from various infirmities of old age can find that the contortions required to put on a stocking or sock are beyond their physical abilities. Women who are in the later stages of pregnancy often cannot bend without extreme discomfort or are physically unable to b...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0008]The rods may be telescopic to accommodate various lengths of stockings, and can be attached at their lower ends to a hinge that can swivel 45° from the vertical. Two non-slip surfaces on either side of the sock donning device provide a secure footrest and prevent the device from sliding while in use. A sock or stocking is placed over the oval hoop assembly, and when the foot is inserted into the sock, the surrounding beads roll the sock up and over the foot.

[0009]The sock donning device described herein provides a painless way for a person who has limited movement to put on a sock or stocking without assistance, and can accommodate both varying stocking lengths and varying degrees of motion.

Problems solved by technology

Persons suffering from arthritis, rheumatism and other joint ailments, inner ear and other equilibrium problems, or simply individuals suffering from various infirmities of old age can find that the contortions required to put on a stocking or sock are beyond their physical abilities.

Women who are in the later stages of pregnancy often cannot bend without extreme discomfort or are physically unable to bend at all.

Considering that it is often medically necessary for individuals with circulatory or vascular problems to have appropriate socks or other foot coverings, an inability to put on these items without assistance can have an adverse effect on an individual's health, independence and emotional well being.

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