Orthotic Device

Abstract

An orthotic device having a plantar support surface to support the plantar (sole) of the forefoot portion of the foot. The plantar support surface has two walls on opposing sides. One wall supports the outer portion of the big toe and the other wall supports the outer portion of the small toe. These walls act immobilize the forefoot region of the foot and more importantly immobilize the big toe effectively eliminating or reducing pain associated with movement of the big toe due to conditions such as hallux limitus or hallux rigidus.

Description

[0001]This application claims priority to U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 61 / 634,535 filed Mar. 2, 2012, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.FIELD OF INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates generally to the field of orthotic devices. More particularly, the subject matter is directed to an orthotic device to eliminate or reduce pain to those suffering from a foot disorder in the first metatarsal such as hallux limitus or hallux rigidus.BACKGROUND[0003]Disorders of the big toe joint are common. Such disorders include hallux limitus and hallux rigidus. These disorders are known to be extremely painful and can even be disabling since we use our big toe whenever we walk, climb stairs or just stand. In some cases these disorders require surgery to eliminate or reduce the pain. In other cases, non-surgical treatment can be used to eliminate or reduce the pain.[0004]A number of non-surgical methods have been used to treat these conditions including use of ph...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0009]Provided is an orthotic device to eliminate or reduce pain in the foot, specifically the first metatarsal, due to conditions associated with functional limitation of the hallux such as hallux limitus or hallux rigidus. The device may also be used with other foot conditions including posttraumatic arthritis, osteoarthritis, turf toe hyperextension injuries, occupational overuse injuries, gouty arthritis, and bunion (hallux valgus). The orthotic device of the present invention immobilizes the big toe thereby eliminating or reducing pain in the foot due to conditions associated with functional limitation of the hallux such as hallux limitus or hallux rigidus. The immobilization can be either full or partial immobilization of the big toe.

Problems solved by technology

These disorders are known to be extremely painful and can even be disabling since we use our big toe whenever we walk, climb stairs or just stand.

This can be uncomfortable as such a device places the toe in an unnatural position.

This may also severely interfere with the flexing that is required for a normal walking gate leading to a limp which can cause other injuries to form.

One disadvantage is that they require the individual to apply the immobilizing device by wrapping with the proper tension which can be difficult.

If wrapped too tight it can lead to decreased blood circulation in the foot and if wrapped too loosely it may not be effective.

Another disadvantage is that the wrap may loosen over time as it is worn and thus becoming less effective and requiring the user to rewrap during the day.

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