Knee orthoses and leg orthoses

Abstract

This invention provides a knee orthosis and a leg orthosis. In this knee orthosis, a medial thigh link and a medial calf link are rotatably connected together on the medial side of the user's knee joint. The lateral unit is configured such that, as the user's knee joint extends, the lateral calf link moves away from the lateral thigh link along its length direction, and is pulled forward relative to the lateral thigh link in a direction orthogonal to the length direction of the lateral calf link. The medial unit is configured such that, as the user's knee joint extends, the medial calf link moves away from the medial thigh link along its length direction, and is pulled forward relative to the medial thigh link in a direction orthogonal to the length direction of the medial calf link.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a knee orthosis and a leg orthosis. Background Technology

[0002] Patent document 1 (Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 5-29707) discloses a knee orthosis having a structure extending from the thigh to the calf, and preventing knee joint deformity by controlling the movement of the knee joint. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0004] However, most people with gonarthrosis of the knee also suffer from knee flexion contractures. Knee flexion contractures are characterized by a narrowing of the range of motion on the extension side of the knee joint, and cause pain at the knee joint when trying to extend it.

[0005] exist Figure 1 The image shows a side view of a healthy and normal knee joint. Figure 1 As shown, the femoral condyle of the femur and the superior articular surface of the tibia are positioned vertically opposite each other. Figure 1 In the context of the Chinese language, "front" refers to the area in front of the patient, while "back" refers to the area behind the patient.

[0006] exist Figure 2 The image shows a side view of a knee joint suffering from flexion contracture. (See image for reference.) Figure 2 As shown, in cases of knee flexion contracture, the superior articular surface of the tibia is displaced posteriorly relative to the femoral condyle of the femur. In this state, proper gliding between the superior articular surface of the tibia and the femoral condyle is impeded when the knee is extended, resulting in pain at the knee joint. This pain during extension becomes the primary cause, making it difficult for patients to undergo rehabilitation exercises aimed at expanding the range of motion on the extension side of the knee.

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to provide a technique for relieving pain during extension of a knee joint suffering from flexion contracture.

[0008] Methods for solving problems

[0009] According to the present invention, a knee orthosis is provided, comprising: a thigh wearing portion worn on the user's thigh; a calf wearing portion worn on the user's calf; an outer unit connecting the thigh wearing portion and the calf wearing portion and disposed on the lateral side of the user's lower limb; and an inner unit connecting the thigh wearing portion and the calf wearing portion and disposed on the medial side of the user's lower limb. In the knee orthosis, the outer unit has: a lateral thigh link extending along the thigh and fixed to the thigh via the thigh wearing portion; and a lateral calf link extending along the calf and fixed to the calf via the calf wearing portion. The lateral thigh link and the lateral calf link are rotatably connected together on the lateral side of the user's knee joint. The inner unit has: an inner thigh link. The thigh extension extends along the thigh and is fixed to the thigh via the thigh wearing part; the inner calf extension extends along the calf and is fixed to the calf via the calf wearing part. The inner thigh extension and the inner calf extension are rotatably connected together on the inner side of the user's knee joint. The outer and inner units are configured such that, as the user's knee joint extends, the outer calf extension moves away from the outer thigh extension in the length direction of the outer calf extension and is pulled forward relative to the outer thigh extension in a direction orthogonal to the length direction of the outer calf extension. Similarly, the inner calf extension moves away from the inner thigh extension in the length direction of the inner calf extension and is pulled forward relative to the inner thigh extension in a direction orthogonal to the length direction of the inner calf extension. Based on the above structure, it is possible to relieve pain during extension of the knee joint in patients with knee flexion contracture.

[0010] Preferably, a thigh cam is formed on the outer thigh link, and a calf pin is formed on the outer lower leg link. The calf pin engages with the thigh cam in a manner that moves along the thigh cam. The thigh cam extends rearward as it moves away from the lower leg wearing portion. The thigh cam is configured such that as the knee joint extends, the lower leg wearing portion moves away from the thigh pin. Based on this structure, the relative movement of the outer lower leg link with respect to the outer thigh link can be achieved with a simple structure.

[0011] Preferably, a thigh cam is formed on the inner thigh link, and a calf pin is formed on the inner calf link. The calf pin engages with the thigh cam in a manner that moves along the thigh cam. The thigh pin engages with the calf cam in a manner that moves along the calf cam. The calf cam extends rearward as it moves away from the calf wearing portion. The thigh cam is configured such that as the knee joint extends, the calf wearing portion moves away from the thigh pin. Based on the above structure, the relative movement of the outer calf link with respect to the outer thigh link can be achieved with a simple structure.

[0012] Preferably, when the knee joint angle is defined as 0 degrees when the knee joint is in an extended state, and the knee joint angle increases as the knee joint flexes, the thigh cam is configured to move the lower leg wearing portion away from the thigh pin during the period when the knee joint angle changes from 90 degrees to 0 degrees. Based on the above structure, pain can be effectively relieved when pain occurs during extension of the knee joint in patients with knee flexion contracture.

[0013] Preferably, the thigh cam is configured to move the lower leg wearing portion away from the thigh pin during the period when the knee joint angle changes from 60 degrees to 30 degrees. According to the above structure, pain can be effectively relieved when pain occurs during extension of the knee joint in patients with knee flexion contracture.

[0014] Preferably, a thigh cam is formed on the outer thigh link, and a calf pin is formed on the outer lower leg link. The calf pin engages with the thigh cam in a manner that moves along the thigh cam. The thigh cam extends forward as it moves away from the thigh wearing portion, and the calf cam is configured such that the lower leg wearing portion moves away from the thigh pin as the knee joint extends. Based on this structure, the relative movement of the outer lower leg link with respect to the outer thigh link can be achieved with a simple structure.

[0015] Preferably, a thigh cam is formed on the inner thigh link, and a calf pin is formed on the inner calf link. The calf pin engages with the thigh cam in a manner that moves along the thigh cam. The thigh cam extends forward away from the thigh wearing portion, and the calf cam is configured such that the calf wearing portion moves away from the thigh pin as the knee joint extends. Based on the above structure, the relative movement of the outer calf link with respect to the outer thigh link can be achieved with a simple structure.

[0016] Preferably, when the knee joint angle is defined as 0 degrees when the knee joint is in an extended state, and the knee joint angle increases as the knee joint flexes, the lower leg cam is configured to move the lower leg wearing portion away from the thigh pin during the period when the knee joint angle changes from 90 degrees to 0 degrees. Based on the above structure, pain can be effectively relieved when pain occurs during extension of the knee joint in patients with knee flexion contracture.

[0017] Preferably, the calf cam is configured to move the calf wearing portion away from the thigh pin during the period when the knee joint angle changes from 60 degrees to 30 degrees. According to the above structure, pain can be effectively relieved when pain occurs during extension of the knee joint in patients with knee flexion contracture.

[0018] Preferably, a leg orthosis incorporating the above-described knee orthosis is provided.

[0019] Invention Effects

[0020] According to the present invention, pain caused by knee extension in patients with knee flexion contracture can be relieved.

[0021] The above and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will be more fully understood from the detailed description given below and the accompanying drawings, which are given by way of illustration only, and should therefore not be regarded as limitations on the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 A side view of a healthy and normal knee joint.

[0023] Figure 2 A side view of a knee joint with flexion contracture.

[0024] Figure 3 A side view illustrating a method for relieving pain when extending a knee joint suffering from flexion contracture.

[0025] Figure 4 A three-dimensional diagram of a leg orthosis. (First embodiment)

[0026] Figure 5 This is an exploded side view of the outer unit. (First Embodiment)

[0027] Figure 6 This is a partial side view of the lateral unit when the knee joint angle is 0 degrees. (First Embodiment)

[0028] Figure 7 This is a partial side view of the lateral unit when the knee joint angle is 30 degrees. (First Embodiment)

[0029] Figure 8 This is a partial side view of the lateral unit when the knee joint angle is 60 degrees. (First Embodiment)

[0030] Figure 9 This is a partial side view of the lateral unit when the knee joint angle is 90 degrees. (First Embodiment)

[0031] Figure 10 This is a partial side view of the lateral unit when the knee joint angle is 120 degrees. (First Embodiment)

[0032] Figure 11 This is a side view of the connecting rod on the outer side of the lower leg. (First Embodiment)

[0033] Figure 12 A graph showing the relationship between knee joint angle and displacement.

[0034] Figure 13 This is an exploded side view of the outer unit. (Second Embodiment)

[0035] Figure 14 This is a partial side view of the lateral unit when the knee joint angle is 0 degrees. (Second Embodiment)

[0036] Figure 15 This is a partial side view of the lateral unit when the knee joint angle is 30 degrees. (Second Embodiment)

[0037] Figure 16 This is a partial side view of the lateral unit when the knee joint angle is 60 degrees. (Second Embodiment)

[0038] Figure 17 This is a partial side view of the lateral unit when the knee joint angle is 90 degrees. (Second Embodiment)

[0039] Figure 18 This is a partial side view of the lateral unit when the knee joint angle is 120 degrees. (Second Embodiment)

[0040] Figure 19 This is a side view of the lateral thigh link. (Second Embodiment) Detailed Implementation

[0041] The inventors of this invention, through dedicated research, have arrived at the following insight: When performing rehabilitation training aimed at expanding the range of motion of the extension side of the knee joint suffering from flexion contracture, such as... Figure 3 As shown, consciously pulling the tibia downwards and forwards when the knee is extended can relieve knee pain during rehabilitation training.

[0042] In other words, such as Figure 3 As shown, by pulling the tibia downwards during knee extension, the gap between the femoral condyle of the femur and the superior articular surface of the tibia can be expanded. Here, "pulling the tibia downwards during knee extension" means pulling the tibia towards the foot along its length during knee extension.

[0043] Furthermore, by pulling the tibia forward during knee extension, the typically inappropriate positional relationship of the superior articular surface of the tibia relative to the femoral condyle is temporarily restored to an appropriate positional relationship for knees suffering from knee flexion contracture. Here, "pulling the tibia forward during knee extension" means pulling the tibia forward in a direction orthogonal to the length direction of the tibia during knee extension.

[0044] In this way, by consciously pulling the tibia downward and forward during knee extension, a suitable gap can be formed between the femoral condyle of the femur and the superior articular surface of the tibia, and the positional relationship of the superior articular surface of the tibia can be improved by targeting the femoral condyle of the leg bone, so that the two do not physically interfere with each other. As a result, knee pain caused by rehabilitation training aimed at expanding the range of motion on the extension side of the knee joint can be relieved.

[0045] However, the above insights are based on the premise of pulling the tibia downward and forward when the knee is extended. Performing these three movements simultaneously is quite difficult and ultimately hard to achieve in manual therapy.

[0046] Therefore, the inventors of this application have invented a knee orthosis that allows anyone to easily perform the above three actions, and furthermore, even the patient can perform the above three actions independently.

[0047] Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the invention is not limited to the following embodiments. Furthermore, for clarity, the following description and drawings have been appropriately simplified.

[0048] (First Implementation)

[0049] First, refer to Figure 4 The leg orthosis 1 of the first embodiment will be described.

[0050] exist Figure 4 The image shows a leg orthosis 1 worn on the user's left leg L. Figure 4 In the image, the user's left leg L is shown with a double-dotted line, and the shoes worn by the user are shown with a single-dotted line.

[0051] like Figure 4 As shown, the leg orthosis 1 includes a knee orthosis 2 and a calf support device 3. The knee orthosis 2 is worn on the left leg L of a person suffering from osteoarthritis of the knee and relieves pain during extension of the knee joint, which suffers from flexion contracture. When worn on the left leg L, the knee orthosis 2 flexes and extends in accordance with the flexion and extension of the knee joint. The calf support device 3 suppresses the thrust on the user's knee joint. Description of the calf support device 3 will be omitted. Furthermore, the calf support device 3 is configured to be detachable from the knee orthosis 2. Therefore, the calf support device 3 can be removed from the knee orthosis 2, and the knee orthosis 2 can be used independently.

[0052] The knee orthosis 2 includes: thigh wearing part 4, calf wearing part 5, lateral unit 6, and medial unit 7.

[0053] The thigh-wearing part 4 is worn on the user's left thigh L1. The thigh-wearing part 4 includes a thigh brace 4a and a thigh strap 4b.

[0054] The thigh brace 4a is configured to face the front surface of the user's thigh L1. The thigh brace 4a is bent so as to bulge forward when viewed from above. The thigh strap 4b secures the thigh brace 4a to the user's thigh L1 by wrapping it around the user's thigh L1 while simultaneously wrapping around the thigh brace 4a.

[0055] The calf support 5 is worn on the lower leg L2 of the user's left leg L. The calf support 5 includes a calf cuff 5a and a calf strap 5b.

[0056] The calf cuff 5a is configured to face the front surface of the user's calf L2. The calf cuff 5a is bent so as to bulge forward when viewed from above. The calf band 5b is wrapped around the user's calf L2 in a manner that simultaneously wraps around the user's calf L2 and the calf cuff 5a, thereby securing the calf cuff 5a to the user's calf L2.

[0057] The outer unit 6 connects to the thigh wearing part 4 and the calf wearing part 5, and is positioned on the lateral side of the user's left leg L (lower limb).

[0058] The outer unit 6 has a thigh lateral link 6a and a calf lateral link 6b. The thigh lateral link 6a extends along the thigh L1 and is fixed to the thigh L1 through the thigh wearing part 4. The calf lateral link 6b extends along the calf L2 and is fixed to the calf L2 through the calf wearing part 5. The thigh lateral link 6a and the calf lateral link 6b are rotatably connected to each other on the outer side of the user's knee joint.

[0059] The inner unit 7 connects the thigh wearing part 4 and the calf wearing part 5, and is positioned on the inner side of the user's left leg L (lower limb).

[0060] The inner unit 7 has an inner thigh link 7a and an inner calf link 7b. The inner thigh link 7a extends along the thigh L1 and is fixed to the thigh L1 via the thigh wearing part 4. The inner calf link 7b extends along the calf L2 and is fixed to the calf L2 via the calf wearing part 5. The inner thigh link 7a and the inner calf link 7b are rotatably connected to each other on the inner side of the user's knee joint.

[0061] Furthermore, the outer unit 6 is configured such that, as the user's knee joint extends, the outer lower leg link 6b moves away from the outer thigh link 6a along its length direction, and the outer lower leg link 6b is pulled forward relative to the outer thigh link 6a in a direction orthogonal to its length direction. Similarly, the inner unit 7 is configured such that, as the user's knee joint extends, the inner lower leg link 7b moves away from the inner thigh link 7a along its length direction, and the inner lower leg link 7b is pulled forward relative to the inner thigh link 7a in a direction orthogonal to its length direction. The specific details are as follows.

[0062] (Outer Unit 6)

[0063] The following is for reference Figures 5 to 11 The connection between the outer thigh link 6a and the outer calf link 6b is described in detail.

[0064] exist Figure 5 The image shows the lower leg lateral link 6b detached from the thigh lateral link 6a. Figure 6 The image shows the state in which the lower leg outer link 6b is mounted on the thigh outer link 6a.

[0065] like Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 As shown, a thigh cam 10 is formed on the outer thigh link 6a. A calf pin 11 is formed on the outer calf link 6b, engaging with the thigh cam 10 in a manner that moves along the thigh cam 10. A calf cam 12 is formed on the outer calf link 6b. A thigh pin 13 is formed on the outer thigh link 6a, engaging with the calf cam 12 in a manner that moves along the calf cam 12.

[0066] like Figure 6 As shown, the lateral lower leg link 6b is positioned on the outer side of the lateral thigh link 6a (facing outwards towards the paper). However, the lateral lower leg link 6b can also be positioned on the inner side of the lateral thigh link 6a (facing inwards towards the paper).

[0067] like Figure 5 As shown, the calf pin 11 protrudes inward, and the thigh pin 13 protrudes outward.

[0068] The thigh cam 10 is formed as a groove that does not penetrate the outer thigh link 6a in the thickness direction of the outer thigh link 6a. However, the thigh cam 10 may also be formed as a slit that penetrates the outer thigh link 6a in the thickness direction of the outer thigh link 6a.

[0069] The lower leg cam 12 is formed as a slit that extends through the lower leg outer link 6b in the plate thickness direction. However, the lower leg cam 12 may also be formed as a groove that does not extend through the lower leg outer link 6b in the plate thickness direction.

[0070] In this structure, such as Figures 6 to 10 As shown, when the lateral lower leg link 6b is rotated relative to the lateral thigh link 6a, the thigh pin 13 moves along the lower leg cam 12, and the lower leg pin 11 moves along the thigh cam 10. That is, through the coordinated operation of the thigh cam 10, the lower leg pin 11, the lower leg cam 12, and the thigh pin 13, the lateral unit 6 is configured to flex and extend in accordance with the flexion and extension of the knee joint.

[0071] The following description, in explaining the configuration or shape of the thigh cam 10, calf pin 11, calf cam 12, and thigh pin 13, will be as follows: Figure 5 As shown, the outer thigh link 6a and the outer calf link 6b are both positioned to extend in the vertical direction.

[0072] like Figure 5As shown, the calf cam 12 extends rearward as it moves away from the calf wearing portion 5. The calf cam 12 extends rearward as it moves upward. The calf cam 12 is inclined relative to its length direction. The calf cam 12 extends in a straight line. However, the calf cam 12 can be bent either forward or backward. The calf cam 12 has an extension end portion 12ex and a flexion end portion 12bn. The extension end portion 12ex is the end where the thigh pin 13 is located when the knee joint is extended and the knee joint angle is 0 degrees. The flexion end portion 12bn is the end where the thigh pin 13 is located when the knee joint is flexed and the knee joint angle is 120 degrees. Therefore, when the knee joint is extended, the thigh pin 13 moves from the flexion end portion 12bn toward the extension end portion 12ex. Conversely, when the knee joint is flexed, the thigh pin 13 moves from the extension end 12ex toward the flexion end 12bn.

[0073] The calf pin 11 is positioned lower than the calf cam 12. The calf pin 11 is also positioned near the calf wearing portion 5 compared to the calf cam 12. Therefore, when the thigh pin 13 is located at the flexed end 12bn of the calf cam 12, the thigh pin 13 is closest to the calf pin 11. Conversely, when the thigh pin 13 is located at the extended end 12ex of the calf cam 12, the thigh pin 13 is furthest from the calf pin 11.

[0074] Continue as Figure 5 As shown, the thigh cam 10 is configured to move the lower leg wearing portion 5 away from the thigh pin 13 as the knee joint extends. In other words, the thigh cam 10 is configured to function as moving the lower leg wearing portion 5 away from the thigh pin 13 as the knee joint extends.

[0075] Specifically, the thigh cam 10 bends and extends to surround the thigh pin 13. The thigh cam 10 bends into a U-shape that opens forward. The thigh cam 10 has an extension end 10ex and a flexion end 10bn. The extension end 10ex is the end where the lower leg pin 11 is located when the knee joint is extended and the knee joint angle is 0 degrees. The flexion end 10bn is the end where the lower leg pin 11 is located when the knee joint is flexed and the knee joint angle is 120 degrees. Therefore, when the knee joint is extended, the lower leg pin 11 moves from the flexion end 10bn toward the extension end 10ex. Conversely, when the knee joint is flexed, the lower leg pin 11 moves from the extension end 10ex toward the flexion end 10bn. The thigh cam 10 includes a flexion cam portion 10a, a transition straight cam portion 10b, a transition bending cam portion 10c, and an extension cam portion 10d. The buckling cam portion 10a includes a buckling-side end portion 10bn. The extending cam portion 10d includes an extending-side end portion 10ex. The buckling cam portion 10a, the transition straight cam portion 10b, the transition curved cam portion 10c, and the extending cam portion 10d are connected in the order described herein. Therefore, the buckling cam portion 10a, the transition straight cam portion 10b, the transition curved cam portion 10c, and the extending cam portion 10d are connected in the order described herein, from the buckling-side end portion 10bn toward the extending-side end portion 10ex. Figure 5 In the diagram, the boundaries of the buckling cam portion 10a and the transition straight cam portion 10b, the boundary of the transition straight cam portion 10b and the transition curved cam portion 10c, and the boundary of the transition curved cam portion 10c and the extension cam portion 10d are shown by double-dotted lines.

[0076] The flexing cam portion 10a is positioned above the thigh pin 13 and extends in an arc shape centered on the thigh pin 13. That is, the flexing cam portion 10a is bent in an upward convex manner.

[0077] The transition straight cam portion 10b is disposed behind the thigh pin 13 and extends in a straight line. The transition straight cam portion 10b extends rearward as it tends downward. Therefore, the transition straight cam portion 10b is formed to move away from the thigh pin 13 as it tends from the flexed end 10bn side to the extended end 10ex side.

[0078] The transition bending cam portion 10c is disposed below and behind the thigh pin 13, and extends in an arc shape centered on a bending center 10cc located below the thigh pin 13. That is, the transition bending cam portion 10c protrudes in a direction away from the thigh pin 13, in other words, it bends downward and backward. Therefore, the transition bending cam portion 10c is formed to move away from the thigh pin 13 as it approaches the extension end 10ex from the flexed end 10bn side.

[0079] The extension cam portion 10d is disposed below the thigh pin 13 and extends in a straight line. The extension cam portion 10d extends in the front-rear direction. Therefore, the extension cam portion 10d approaches the thigh pin 13 slightly from the flexed end 10bn side to the extension end 10ex side, and then moves slightly away from the thigh pin 13.

[0080] Next, refer to Figures 6 to 10 The text explains how the thigh cam 10, calf pin 11, calf cam 12, and thigh pin 13 work together according to the knee joint angle.

[0081] (Knee joint angle: 0 degrees)

[0082] like Figure 6 As shown, when the knee joint angle is 0 degrees, that is, when the knee joint and the outer unit 6 are in an extended state, the thigh pin 13 is located at the extended end 12ex of the lower leg cam 12, and the lower leg pin 11 is located at the extended end 10ex of the extended cam portion 10d of the thigh cam 10.

[0083] In this way, since the lower leg pin 11 is located at the extension cam portion 10d when the knee joint angle is 0 degrees, and the extension cam portion 10d extends in the anterior-posterior direction, the lower leg pin 11 will not move toward the transition bending cam portion 10c of the thigh cam 10 due to the ground reaction force when the affected leg wearing the knee orthosis 2 lands. Therefore, when the affected leg wearing the knee orthosis 2 lands, the extension state of the knee joint and the lateral unit 6 is maintained.

[0084] (Knee joint angle: 30 degrees)

[0085] like Figure 7 As shown, when the knee joint angle is 30 degrees, the thigh pin 13 is located at the extension end 12ex of the calf cam 12, and the calf pin 11 is located at the transition curved cam portion 10c of the thigh cam 10.

[0086] (Knee joint angle: 60 degrees)

[0087] like Figure 8 As shown, when the knee joint angle is 60 degrees, the thigh pin 13 is located at the flexion end 12bn of the lower leg cam 12, and the lower leg pin 11 is located at the boundary between the flexion cam portion 10a and the transition straight cam portion 10b of the thigh cam 10.

[0088] (Knee joint angle: 90 degrees)

[0089] like Figure 9 As shown, when the knee joint angle is 90 degrees, the thigh pin 13 is located at the flexion end 12bn of the lower leg cam 12, and the lower leg pin 11 is located at the flexion cam portion 10a of the thigh cam 10.

[0090] (Knee joint angle: 120 degrees)

[0091] like Figure 10 As shown, when the knee joint angle is 120 degrees, the thigh pin 13 is located at the flexion end 12bn of the lower leg cam 12, and the lower leg pin 11 is located at the flexion end 10bn of the flexion cam portion 10a of the thigh cam 10.

[0092] (Knee joint angle: 120 degrees → 60 degrees)

[0093] like Figures 8 to 10 As shown, during knee extension, which causes the knee joint angle to change from 120 degrees to 60 degrees, the calf pin 11 moves away from the flexion-side end 10bn along the flexion cam portion 10a of the thigh cam 10. On the other hand, the flexion cam portion 10a of the thigh cam 10 extends in an arc shape centered on the thigh pin 13. Therefore, as... Figures 8 to 10 As shown, during the period when the knee joint is extended, thereby changing the knee joint angle from 120 degrees to 60 degrees, the thigh pin 13 remains constrained to the flexion-side end 12bn of the lower leg cam 12. That is, the lateral lower leg link 6b rotates 60 degrees about the thigh pin 13.

[0094] (Knee joint angle: 60 degrees → 30 degrees)

[0095] like Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 As shown, during knee extension, which causes the knee angle to change from 60 degrees to 30 degrees, the calf pin 11 moves away from the flexion-side end 10bn along the transition straight cam portion 10b and the transition curved cam portion 10c of the thigh cam 10. On the other hand, the thigh cam 10 is formed such that it moves away from the thigh pin 13 as it moves from the transition straight cam portion 10b towards the transition curved cam portion 10c. Therefore, as... Figure 7 as well as Figure 8As shown, during the period when the knee joint is extended, thus changing from 60 degrees to 30 degrees, the thigh pin 13 moves from the flexion end 12bn of the lower leg cam 12 to the extension end 12ex. As a result, instead of simply rotating 30 degrees around the thigh pin 13, the lower leg lateral link 6b is also pulled away from the thigh lateral link 6a along its length direction during the period when the knee joint is extended, and is pulled forward relative to the thigh lateral link 6a in a direction orthogonal to its length direction. Here, "forward" can be expressed as "towards the direction in which the lower leg L2 of the left leg L is swung out when the left leg L changes from a standing position to a raised position" or "towards the toes."

[0096] exist Figure 11 The figure shows the displacement Δy of the lateral lower leg link 6b away from the lateral thigh link 6a in the length direction of the lateral lower leg link 6b during the period when the knee joint is extended, thereby changing the knee joint from 60 degrees to 30 degrees, and the displacement Δx of the lateral lower leg link 6b being pulled forward relative to the lateral thigh link 6a in a direction orthogonal to the length direction of the lateral lower leg link 6b.

[0097] The displacement Δy is equivalent to the difference between the center point 13bn of the thigh pin 13 when it is located at the flexion end 12bn and the center point 13ex of the thigh pin 13 when it is located at the extension end 12ex in the length direction of the outer link 6b of the lower leg.

[0098] In contrast, the displacement Δx is equivalent to the difference between the center point 13bn of the thigh pin 13 when it is located at the flexion end 12bn in a direction orthogonal to the length direction of the lateral link 6b of the lower leg, and the center point 13ex of the thigh pin 13 when it is located at the extension end 12ex.

[0099] according to Figure 11 By adjusting the tilt angle of the lower leg cam 12 relative to the length direction of the lower leg outer connecting rod 6b, the ratio of displacement Δx and displacement Δy can be adjusted. Furthermore, by adjusting the length of the lower leg cam 12, the displacement Δx and displacement Δy can be increased or decreased while maintaining the original ratio.

[0100] exist Figure 12 The figure shows a graph illustrating the relationship between knee joint angle and displacement Δx and displacement Δy. Figure 12As shown, when the knee joint is extended, the displacements Δx and Δy increase during the period when the knee angle changes from 60 degrees to 30 degrees. Specifically, within the aforementioned range, the displacement Δx becomes 8.5 mm and the displacement Δy becomes 23.5 mm. Furthermore, in Figure 12 In the example, preferably, when the knee joint angle is 90 degrees, typically when the user is sitting in a chair, the leg orthosis 1 is worn on the user's left leg L. Figure 12 The range of knee joint angles or their displacements, as shown by the displacement amounts Δx and Δy, and the aforementioned knee joint angles when the leg orthosis 1 is worn on the user's left leg L, are ultimately just examples and are not limited to these contents.

[0101] (Knee joint angle: 30 degrees → 0 degrees)

[0102] like Figure 6 as well as Figure 7 As shown, during the period when the knee joint extends, causing the knee joint angle to change from 30 degrees to 0 degrees, the calf pin 11 moves towards the extension end 10ex along the extension cam portion 10d of the thigh cam 10. On the other hand, the distance between the extension cam portion 10d of the thigh cam 10 and the thigh pin 13 remains almost unchanged throughout the entire area of ​​the extension cam portion 10d. Therefore, as... Figure 6 as well as Figure 7 As shown, during the period when the knee joint is extended, thus changing from 30 degrees to 0 degrees, the thigh pin 13 remains substantially constrained to the extension end 12ex of the lower leg cam 12. That is, the lateral lower leg link 6b rotates 30 degrees about the thigh pin 13.

[0103] (Inner Unit 7)

[0104] because Figure 4 The structure of the inner unit 7 shown is symmetrical to that of the outer unit 6 relative to the center of the left leg L, therefore its detailed description is omitted.

[0105] In summary, the inner unit 7 is configured as follows: A thigh cam is formed on the inner thigh link 7a. A calf pin is formed on the inner calf link 7b, which engages with the thigh cam in a manner that moves along the thigh cam. A calf cam is formed on the inner calf link 7b. A thigh pin is formed on the inner thigh link 7a, which engages with the calf cam in a manner that moves along the calf cam. The calf cam extends rearward as it moves away from the calf wearing portion 5. The thigh cam is configured such that as the knee joint extends, the calf wearing portion moves away from the thigh pin.

[0106] Based on the above structure, simply wearing the leg orthosis 1 on the affected leg allows for the intentional downward and forward traction of the tibia during knee extension, thereby achieving the desired effect. Figure 3 As shown, a suitable gap is formed between the femoral condyle of the femur and the superior articular surface of the tibia, and the superior articular surface of the tibia does not physically interfere with the femoral condyle of the femur. As a result, knee pain during rehabilitation training is relieved.

[0107] Although the first embodiment has been described above, the above embodiment has the following characteristics.

[0108] The knee orthosis 2 includes: a thigh wearing part 4, which is worn on the user's thigh L1; a calf wearing part 5, which is worn on the user's calf L2; a lateral unit 6, which connects the thigh wearing part 4 and the calf wearing part 5 and is positioned on the lateral side of the user's left leg L (lower limb); and a medial unit 7, which connects the thigh wearing part 4 and the calf wearing part 5 and is positioned on the medial side of the user's left leg L. The lateral unit 6 includes: a lateral thigh link 6a, which extends along the thigh L1 and is fixed to the thigh L1 through the thigh wearing part 4; and a lateral calf link 6b, which extends along the calf L2 and is fixed to the calf L2 through the calf wearing part 5. The lateral thigh link 6a and the lateral calf link 6b are rotatably connected to each other on the lateral side of the user's knee joint. The inner unit 7 includes: an inner thigh link 7a, which extends along the thigh L1 and is fixed to the thigh L1 via the thigh wearing part 4; and an inner calf link 7b, which extends along the calf L2 and is fixed to the calf L2 via the calf wearing part 5. The inner thigh link 7a and the inner calf link 7b are rotatably connected to each other at the inner side of the user's knee joint. The outer unit 6 is configured such that, as the user's knee joint extends, the outer calf link 6b moves away from the outer thigh link 6a in its length direction, and the outer calf link 6b is pulled forward relative to the outer thigh link 6a in a direction orthogonal to the length direction of the outer calf link 6b. The medial unit 7 is configured such that, as the user's knee joint extends, the medial lower leg link 7b moves away from the medial thigh link 7a along its length, and the medial lower leg link 7b is pulled forward relative to the medial thigh link 7a in a direction orthogonal to its length. Based on this structure, pain during knee extension in patients with knee flexion contracture can be relieved.

[0109] In addition, such as Figure 5As shown, a thigh cam 10 is formed on the outer thigh link 6a. A calf pin 11 is formed on the outer calf link 6b, and the calf pin 11 engages with the thigh cam 10 in a manner that moves along the thigh cam 10. A calf cam 12 is formed on the outer calf link 6b. A thigh pin 13 is formed on the outer thigh link 6a, and the thigh pin 13 engages with the calf cam 12 in a manner that moves along the calf cam 12. The calf cam 12 extends rearward as it moves away from the calf wearing portion 5. The thigh cam 10 is configured such that as the knee joint extends, the calf wearing portion 5 moves away from the thigh pin 13. Based on the above structure, the relative movement of the outer calf link 6b with respect to the outer thigh link 6a can be achieved with a simple structure.

[0110] In addition, such as Figure 12 As shown, if defined as setting the knee joint angle to 0 degrees when the knee joint is in an extended state, and the knee joint angle increases as the knee joint flexes, then preferably, the thigh cam 10 is formed to move the lower leg wearing portion 5 away from the thigh pin 13 during the period when the knee joint angle changes from 90 degrees to 0 degrees. More specifically, preferably, the thigh cam 10 is formed to move the lower leg wearing portion 5 away from the thigh pin 13 during the period when the knee joint angle changes from 60 degrees to 30 degrees. As an example, it is desirable to focus on Figure 12 The displacement Δy. Based on the above structure, since the displacement Δy increases when pain occurs during extension of the knee joint in patients with knee flexion contracture, the pain can be effectively relieved.

[0111] (Second Implementation)

[0112] Next, refer to Figures 13 to 19 The leg orthosis 1 of the second embodiment will now be described. Hereinafter, the description will focus on the differences between this embodiment and the first embodiment described above, and repeated descriptions will be omitted.

[0113] Compared to the first embodiment described above, the connection between the outer thigh link 6a and the outer calf link 6b is different in this embodiment.

[0114] exist Figure 13 The image shows the lower leg lateral link 6b detached from the thigh lateral link 6a. Figure 14 The image shows the state in which the lower leg outer link 6b is mounted on the thigh outer link 6a.

[0115] like Figure 13 as well as Figure 14As shown, a thigh cam 20 is formed on the outer thigh link 6a. A calf pin 21 is formed on the outer lower leg link 6b, and the calf pin 21 engages with the thigh cam 20 in a manner that moves along the thigh cam 20. A calf cam 22 is formed on the outer lower leg link 6b. A thigh pin 23 is formed on the outer thigh link 6a, and the thigh pin 23 engages with the calf cam 22 in a manner that moves along the calf cam 22.

[0116] like Figure 14 As shown, the lower leg outer link 6b is positioned inside the thigh outer link 6a (facing the paper and towards the inside). However, the lower leg outer link 6b can also be positioned outside the thigh outer link 6a (facing the paper and towards the outside).

[0117] like Figure 13 As shown, the calf pin 21 protrudes outward, and the thigh pin 13 protrudes inward.

[0118] The thigh cam 20 is formed as a slit that extends through the outer thigh link 6a in the thickness direction of the outer thigh link 6a. However, the thigh cam 20 may also be formed as a groove that does not extend through the outer thigh link 6a in the thickness direction of the outer thigh link 6a.

[0119] The lower leg cam 22 is formed as a groove that does not penetrate the lower leg outer link 6b in the plate thickness direction. However, the lower leg cam 22 may also be formed as a slit that penetrates the lower leg outer link 6b in the plate thickness direction.

[0120] In this structure, such as Figures 14 to 18 As shown, when the lateral lower leg link 6b is rotated relative to the lateral thigh link 6a, the thigh pin 23 moves along the lower leg cam 22, and the lower leg pin 21 moves along the thigh cam 20. That is, through the coordinated operation of the thigh cam 20, the lower leg pin 21, the lower leg cam 22, and the thigh pin 23, the lateral unit 6 is configured to flex and extend in accordance with the flexion and extension of the knee joint.

[0121] The following description, in explaining the configuration or shape of the thigh cam 20, calf pin 21, calf cam 22, and thigh pin 23, will be as follows: Figure 13 As shown, the outer thigh link 6a and the outer calf link 6b are both positioned to extend in the vertical direction.

[0122] like Figure 13As shown, the thigh cam 20 extends forward as it moves away from the thigh wearing portion 4. The thigh cam 20 extends backward as it moves upward. The thigh cam 20 is inclined relative to its length direction. The thigh cam 20 extends in a straight line. However, the thigh cam 20 can bend either forward or backward. The thigh cam 20 has an extension end 20ex and a flexion end 20bn. The extension end 20ex is the end where the calf pin 21 is located when the knee joint is extended, resulting in a knee angle of 0 degrees. The flexion end 20bn is the end where the calf pin 21 is located when the knee joint is flexed, resulting in a knee angle of 120 degrees. Therefore, when the knee joint is extended, the calf pin 21 moves from the flexion end 20bn toward the extension end 20ex. Conversely, when the knee joint is flexed, the lower leg pin 21 moves from the extension end 20ex toward the flexion end 20bn.

[0123] The thigh pin 23 is positioned higher than the thigh cam 20. The thigh pin 23 is also positioned near the thigh wearing portion 4 compared to the thigh cam 20. Therefore, when the calf pin 21 is located at the flexed end 20bn of the thigh cam 20, the calf pin 21 is closest to the thigh pin 23. Conversely, when the calf pin 21 is located at the extended end 20ex of the thigh cam 20, the calf pin 21 is furthest from the thigh pin 23.

[0124] Continue as Figure 13 As shown, the calf cam 22 is configured to move the calf wearing portion 5 away from the thigh pin 23 as the knee joint extends. In other words, the calf cam 22 is configured to function as moving the calf wearing portion 5 away from the thigh pin 23 as the knee joint extends.

[0125] Specifically, the calf cam 22 bends and extends to surround the calf pin 21. The calf cam 22 bends into a U-shape that opens forward. The calf cam 22 has an extension end 22ex and a flexion end 22bn. The extension end 22ex is the end where the thigh pin 23 is located when the knee joint is extended and the knee joint angle is 0 degrees. The flexion end 22bn is the end where the thigh pin 23 is located when the knee joint is flexed and the knee joint angle is 120 degrees. Therefore, when the knee joint is extended, the thigh pin 23 moves from the flexion end 22bn toward the extension end 22ex. Conversely, when the knee joint is flexed, the thigh pin 23 moves from the extension end 22ex toward the flexion end 22bn. The calf cam 22 includes a flexion cam portion 22a, a bending cam portion 22b, and an extension cam portion 22c. The flexion cam portion 22a includes the flexion end 22bn. The extension cam portion 22c includes an extension-side end portion 22ex. The buckling cam portion 22a, the bending cam portion 22b, and the extension cam portion 22c are connected in the order described herein. Therefore, the buckling cam portion 22a, the bending cam portion 22b, and the extension cam portion 22c are connected in the order described herein, from the buckling-side end portion 22bn toward the extension-side end portion 22ex. Figure 13 In the figure, the boundaries of the buckling cam portion 22a and the bending cam portion 22b, and the boundaries of the bending cam portion 22b and the extension cam portion 22c are shown by double-dotted lines.

[0126] The flexing cam portion 22a is disposed behind the lower leg pin 21 and extends in a straight line. The flexing cam portion 22a extends in a manner that tends to move upward and rearward. Therefore, the flexing cam portion 22a is formed to move away from the lower leg pin 21 from the flexing side end 22bn side toward the extension side end 22ex side.

[0127] The curved cam portion 22b is disposed above and behind the lower leg pin 21, and extends in an arc shape centered on a bending center 22bc located above the lower leg pin 21. That is, the curved cam portion 22b protrudes in a direction away from the lower leg pin 21, in other words, it bends upward and backward. Therefore, the curved cam portion 22b is formed to move away from the lower leg pin 21 as it approaches the extension end 22ex from the flexed end 22bn side.

[0128] The extension cam portion 22c is disposed above the lower leg pin 21 and extends in a straight line. The extension cam portion 22c extends in the front-rear direction. Therefore, the extension cam portion 22c approaches the lower leg pin 21 slightly from the flexed end 22bn side toward the extension end 22ex side, and then moves slightly away from the lower leg pin 21.

[0129] Next, refer to Figures 14 to 18The document explains how the lower leg cam 22, thigh pin 23, thigh cam 20, and lower leg pin 21 work together according to the knee joint angle.

[0130] (Knee joint angle: 0 degrees)

[0131] like Figure 14 As shown, when the knee joint angle is 0 degrees, that is, when the knee joint and the outer unit 6 are in an extended state, the calf pin 21 is located at the extended end 20ex of the thigh cam 20, and the thigh pin 23 is located at the extended end 22ex of the extended cam portion 22c of the calf cam 22.

[0132] In this way, since the thigh pin 23 is located at the extension cam portion 22c when the knee joint angle is 0 degrees, and the extension cam portion 22c extends in the anterior-posterior direction, the thigh pin 23 will not move toward the bending cam portion 22b of the calf cam 22 due to the ground reaction force when the affected leg wearing the knee orthosis 2 touches the ground. Therefore, when the affected leg wearing the knee orthosis 2 touches the ground, the extension state of the knee joint and the lateral unit 6 is maintained.

[0133] (Knee joint angle: 30 degrees)

[0134] like Figure 15 As shown, when the knee joint angle is 30 degrees, the calf pin 21 is located at the extension end 20ex of the thigh cam 20, and the thigh pin 23 is located at the curved cam portion 22b of the calf cam 22.

[0135] (Knee joint angle: 60 degrees)

[0136] like Figure 16 As shown, when the knee joint angle is 60 degrees, the calf pin 21 is slightly away from the extension end 20ex of the thigh cam 20 towards the flexion end 20bn, and the thigh pin 23 is located at the boundary between the flexion cam portion 22b and the flexion cam portion 22a of the calf cam 22.

[0137] (Knee joint angle: 90 degrees)

[0138] like Figure 17 As shown, when the knee joint angle is 90 degrees, the lower leg pin 21 moves further toward the flexion end 20bn and away from the extension end 20ex of the thigh cam 20, and the thigh pin 23 is located at the flexion cam portion 22a of the lower leg cam 22.

[0139] (Knee joint angle: 120 degrees)

[0140] like Figure 18As shown, when the knee joint angle is 120 degrees, the calf pin 21 is located at the flexion end 20bn of the thigh cam 20, and the thigh pin 23 is located near the flexion end 22bn of the flexion cam portion 22a of the calf cam 22.

[0141] (Knee joint angle: 120 degrees → 30 degrees)

[0142] like Figures 15 to 18 As shown, during the period when the knee joint extends, causing the knee joint angle to change from 120 degrees to 30 degrees, the thigh pin 23 moves away from the flexion end 22bn along the flexion cam portion 22a and the bending cam portion 22b of the calf cam 22. On the other hand, the calf cam 22 is formed to move away from the calf pin 21 as it moves from the flexion cam portion 22a to the bending cam portion 22b of the calf cam 22. Therefore, as... Figures 15 to 18 As shown, during the period when the knee joint is extended, thus changing from 120 degrees to 30 degrees, the calf pin 21 moves from the flexion end 20bn of the thigh cam 20 to the extension end 20ex. As a result, instead of simply rotating 30 degrees around the calf pin 21, the calf lateral link 6b is also pulled away from the thigh lateral link 6a along its length direction during the period when the knee joint is extended, and is pulled forward relative to the thigh lateral link 6a in a direction orthogonal to its length direction. Here, "forward" can be expressed as "towards the direction in which the calf L2 of the left leg L is swung out when the left leg L changes from a standing position to a raised position" or "towards the toes."

[0143] exist Figure 19 The figure shows the displacement Δy of the lateral lower leg link 6b away from the lateral thigh link 6a in the length direction of the lateral lower leg link 6b during the period when the knee joint is extended, thereby changing the knee joint from 120 degrees to 30 degrees, and the displacement Δx of the lateral lower leg link 6b being pulled forward relative to the lateral thigh link 6a in a direction orthogonal to the length direction of the lateral lower leg link 6b.

[0144] The displacement Δy is equivalent to the difference between the center point 21bn of the lower leg pin 21 when it is located at the flexion end 20bn and the center point 21ex of the lower leg pin 21 when it is located at the extension end 20ex in the length direction of the outer thigh link 6a.

[0145] In contrast, the displacement Δx is equivalent to the difference between the center point 21bn of the lower leg pin 21 when it is located at the flexed end 20bn in a direction orthogonal to the length direction of the outer thigh link 6a, and the center point 21ex of the lower leg pin 21 when it is located at the extended end 20ex.

[0146] according to Figure 19 By adjusting the tilt angle of the thigh cam 20 relative to the longitudinal direction of the outer thigh link 6a, the ratio of displacement Δx and displacement Δy can be adjusted. Furthermore, by adjusting the length of the thigh cam 20, the displacement Δx and displacement Δy can be increased or decreased while maintaining the original ratio.

[0147] (Knee joint angle: 30 degrees → 0 degrees)

[0148] like Figure 14 as well as Figure 15 As shown, during the period when the knee joint extends, causing the knee joint angle to change from 30 degrees to 0 degrees, the thigh pin 23 moves towards the extension end 22ex along the extension cam portion 22c of the calf cam 22. On the other hand, the distance between the extension cam portion 22c of the calf cam 22 and the calf pin 21 remains almost unchanged throughout the entire area of ​​the extension cam portion 22c. Therefore, as... Figure 14 as well as Figure 15 As shown, during the period when the knee joint is extended, thus changing from 30 degrees to 0 degrees, the calf pin 21 remains substantially constrained at the extension end 20ex of the thigh cam 20. That is, the lateral calf link 6b rotates 30 degrees about the calf pin 21.

[0149] (Inner Unit 7)

[0150] because Figure 4 The structure of the inner unit 7 shown is symmetrical to that of the outer unit 6 relative to the center of the left leg L, therefore its detailed description is omitted.

[0151] In summary, the inner unit 7 is configured as follows: A thigh cam is formed on the inner thigh link 7a. A calf pin is formed on the inner calf link 7b, which engages with the thigh cam in a manner that moves along the thigh cam. A calf cam is formed on the inner calf link 7b. A thigh pin is formed on the inner thigh link 7a, which engages with the calf cam in a manner that moves along the calf cam. The thigh cam extends forward as it moves away from the thigh wearing portion 4. The calf cam is configured such that as the knee joint extends, the calf wearing portion moves away from the thigh pin.

[0152] Based on the above structure, simply wearing the leg orthosis 1 on the affected leg allows for the intentional downward and forward traction of the tibia during knee extension, thereby achieving the desired effect. Figure 3 As shown, a suitable gap is formed between the femoral condyle of the femur and the superior articular surface of the tibia, and the superior articular surface of the tibia does not physically interfere with the femoral condyle of the femur. As a result, knee pain caused by rehabilitation training is relieved.

[0153] Although the second embodiment has been described above, the second embodiment has the following characteristics.

[0154] like Figure 13 As shown, a thigh cam 20 is formed on the outer thigh link 6a. A calf pin 21 is formed on the outer calf link 6b, and the calf pin 21 engages with the thigh cam 20 in a manner that moves along the thigh cam 20. A calf cam 22 is formed on the outer calf link 6b. A thigh pin 23 is formed on the outer thigh link 6a, and the thigh pin 23 engages with the calf cam 22 in a manner that moves along the calf cam 22. The thigh cam 20 extends forward as it moves away from the thigh wearing part 4. The calf cam 22 is configured such that as the knee joint extends, the calf wearing part 5 moves away from the thigh pin 23. Based on the above structure, the relative movement of the outer thigh link 6a with respect to the outer calf link 6b can be achieved with a simple structure.

[0155] Furthermore, if defined as setting the knee joint angle to 0 degrees when the knee joint is in an extended state, and the knee joint angle increases as the knee joint flexes, then preferably, the lower leg cam 22 is configured to move the lower leg wearing portion 5 away from the thigh pin 23 during the period when the knee joint angle changes from 90 degrees to 0 degrees. More specifically, preferably, the lower leg cam 22 is configured to move the lower leg wearing portion 5 away from the thigh pin 23 during the period when the knee joint angle changes from 60 degrees to 30 degrees. According to the above structure, since the displacement Δy increases when pain occurs during extension of the knee joint with knee flexion contracture, the pain can be effectively relieved.

[0156] In addition, in the first embodiment described above, as Figure 5 as well as Figure 12 As shown, the thigh cam 10 is configured to move the lower leg wearing portion 5 away from the thigh pin 13 within a narrow range that extends the knee joint, thereby changing the knee joint angle from 60 degrees to 30 degrees. In contrast, in this embodiment, as... Figures 15 to 18As shown, the calf cam 22 is configured to move the calf wearing portion 5 away from the thigh pin 23 within a wider range, during which the knee joint angle changes from 120 degrees to 30 degrees when the knee joint is extended. In this way, by configuring the calf wearing portion 5 to gradually move away from the thigh pin 23 when the knee joint is extended, it is expected to suppress the anxiety of users who are using the leg orthosis 1 for the first time.

[0157] (Postscript 1)

[0158] A knee orthosis, comprising:

[0159] Thigh-wearing part, which is worn on the user's thigh;

[0160] Lower leg wearing part, which is worn on the user's lower leg;

[0161] An outer unit that connects the thigh wearing part and the calf wearing part and is positioned on the lateral side of the user's lower limb;

[0162] The inner unit connects the thigh wearing part and the calf wearing part, and is positioned on the medial side of the user's lower limb.

[0163] In the knee orthosis,

[0164] The outer unit has:

[0165] A lateral thigh link extends along the thigh and is secured to the thigh via the thigh wearing part;

[0166] The lateral lower leg connecting rod extends along the lower leg and is fixed to the lower leg through the lower leg wearing part.

[0167] The lateral thigh link and the lateral calf link are rotatably connected together on the lateral side of the user's knee joint.

[0168] The inner unit has:

[0169] An inner thigh link extends along the thigh and is secured to the thigh via the thigh wearing part;

[0170] The inner calf connecting rod extends along the calf and is fixed to the calf through the calf wearing part.

[0171] The inner thigh link and the inner calf link are rotatably connected together on the inner side of the user's knee joint.

[0172] The knee orthosis is configured such that, as the user flexes their knee, the lateral lower leg link moves away from the lateral thigh link along its length direction, and the lateral lower leg link is pulled forward relative to the lateral thigh link in a direction orthogonal to the length direction of the lateral lower leg link. Furthermore, the medial lower leg link moves away from the medial thigh link along its length direction, and the medial lower leg link is pressed backward relative to the medial thigh link in a direction orthogonal to the length direction of the medial lower leg link.

[0173] (Postscript 2)

[0174] As described in Appendix 1, the knee orthosis, wherein...

[0175] A thigh cam is formed on the outer thigh connecting rod.

[0176] A lower leg pin is formed on the outer connecting rod of the lower leg, and the lower leg pin engages with the thigh cam in a manner that allows it to move along the thigh cam.

[0177] A lower leg cam is formed on the outer connecting rod of the lower leg.

[0178] A thigh pin is formed on the outer thigh connecting rod, and the thigh pin engages with the lower leg cam in a manner that allows it to move along the lower leg cam.

[0179] The calf cam extends rearward as it moves away from the calf wearing part.

[0180] The thigh cam is configured to move the lower leg wearing portion away from the thigh pin as the knee joint flexes.

[0181] (Note 3)

[0182] As described in Appendix 1, the knee orthosis, wherein...

[0183] A thigh cam is formed on the inner thigh connecting rod.

[0184] A lower leg pin is formed on the inner side connecting rod of the lower leg, and the lower leg pin engages with the thigh cam in a manner that allows it to move along the thigh cam.

[0185] A lower leg cam is formed on the inner side connecting rod of the lower leg.

[0186] A thigh pin is formed on the inner thigh connecting rod, and the thigh pin engages with the lower leg cam in a manner that allows it to move along the lower leg cam.

[0187] The calf cam extends forward as it moves away from the calf wearing part.

[0188] The thigh cam is configured to move the lower leg wearing portion away from the thigh pin as the knee joint flexes.

[0189] (Note 4)

[0190] As described in Appendix 1, the knee orthosis, wherein...

[0191] A thigh cam is formed on the outer thigh connecting rod.

[0192] A lower leg pin is formed on the outer connecting rod of the lower leg, and the lower leg pin engages with the thigh cam in a manner that allows it to move along the thigh cam.

[0193] A lower leg cam is formed on the outer connecting rod of the lower leg.

[0194] A thigh pin is formed on the outer thigh connecting rod, and the thigh pin engages with the lower leg cam in a manner that allows it to move along the lower leg cam.

[0195] The thigh cam extends forward as it moves away from the thigh wearing part.

[0196] The calf cam is configured to move the calf wearing portion away from the thigh pin as the knee joint flexes.

[0197] (Note 5)

[0198] As described in Appendix 1, the knee orthosis, wherein...

[0199] A thigh cam is formed on the inner thigh connecting rod.

[0200] A lower leg pin is formed on the inner side connecting rod of the lower leg, and the lower leg pin engages with the thigh cam in a manner that allows it to move along the thigh cam.

[0201] A lower leg cam is formed on the inner side connecting rod of the lower leg.

[0202] A thigh pin is formed on the inner thigh connecting rod, and the thigh pin engages with the lower leg cam in a manner that allows it to move along the lower leg cam.

[0203] The thigh cam extends rearward as it moves away from the thigh wearing part.

[0204] The calf cam is formed such that the calf wearing portion moves away from the thigh pin as the knee joint flexes.

[0205] It will be apparent from this description that embodiments of the present disclosure can be modified in various ways. Such modifications should not be considered as departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and all such modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and their intent is included within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A knee orthosis, comprising: Thigh-wearing part, which is worn on the user's thigh; Lower leg wearing part, which is worn on the user's lower leg; An outer unit that connects the thigh wearing part and the calf wearing part and is disposed on the outer side of the user's lower limb; The inner unit connects the thigh wearing part and the calf wearing part, and is positioned on the inner side of the user's lower limb. In the knee orthosis, The outer unit has: A lateral thigh link extends along the thigh and is secured to the thigh via the thigh wearing part; The lateral lower leg connecting rod extends along the lower leg and is fixed to the lower leg through the lower leg wearing part. The lateral thigh link and the lateral calf link are rotatably connected together on the lateral side of the user's knee joint. The inner unit has: An inner thigh link extends along the thigh and is secured to the thigh via the thigh wearing part; The inner calf connecting rod extends along the calf and is fixed to the calf through the calf wearing part. The inner thigh link and the inner calf link are rotatably connected together on the inner side of the user's knee joint. The outer and inner units are configured such that, as the user's knee joint extends, the outer lower leg link moves away from the outer thigh link along its length direction, and the outer lower leg link is pulled forward relative to the outer thigh link in a direction orthogonal to the length direction of the outer lower leg link. Similarly, the inner lower leg link moves away from the inner thigh link along its length direction, and the inner lower leg link is pulled forward relative to the inner thigh link in a direction orthogonal to the length direction of the inner lower leg link. A thigh cam is formed on the outer thigh connecting rod. A lower leg pin is formed on the outer connecting rod of the lower leg, and the lower leg pin engages with the thigh cam in a manner that allows it to move along the thigh cam. A lower leg cam is formed on the outer connecting rod of the lower leg. A thigh pin is formed on the outer thigh connecting rod, and the thigh pin engages with the lower leg cam in a manner that allows it to move along the lower leg cam. The thigh cam is curved into a U-shape that opens forward. The thigh cam includes a flexion cam portion, a transition straight cam portion, a transition bending cam portion, and an extension cam portion. The buckling cam portion is positioned above the thigh pin and extends in an arc shape centered on the thigh pin. The transition linear cam portion is positioned behind the thigh pin and extends linearly in a manner that tends towards the lower and rearward direction. The transition curved cam portion is disposed below and behind the thigh pin, and extends in an arc shape centered on a curve center located lower than the thigh pin. The extension cam portion is positioned below the thigh pin and extends linearly in the front-back direction.

2. A knee orthosis, comprising: Thigh-wearing part, which is worn on the user's thigh; Lower leg wearing part, which is worn on the user's lower leg; An outer unit that connects the thigh wearing part and the calf wearing part and is disposed on the outer side of the user's lower limb; The inner unit connects the thigh wearing part and the calf wearing part, and is positioned on the inner side of the user's lower limb. In the knee orthosis, The outer unit has: A lateral thigh link extends along the thigh and is secured to the thigh via the thigh wearing part; The lateral lower leg connecting rod extends along the lower leg and is fixed to the lower leg through the lower leg wearing part. The lateral thigh link and the lateral calf link are rotatably connected together on the lateral side of the user's knee joint. The inner unit has: An inner thigh link extends along the thigh and is secured to the thigh via the thigh wearing part; The inner calf connecting rod extends along the calf and is fixed to the calf through the calf wearing part. The inner thigh link and the inner calf link are rotatably connected together on the inner side of the user's knee joint. The outer and inner units are configured such that, as the user's knee joint extends, the outer lower leg link moves away from the outer thigh link along its length direction, and the outer lower leg link is pulled forward relative to the outer thigh link in a direction orthogonal to the length direction of the outer lower leg link. Similarly, the inner lower leg link moves away from the inner thigh link along its length direction, and the inner lower leg link is pulled forward relative to the inner thigh link in a direction orthogonal to the length direction of the inner lower leg link. A thigh cam is formed on the inner thigh connecting rod. A lower leg pin is formed on the inner side connecting rod of the lower leg, and the lower leg pin engages with the thigh cam in a manner that allows it to move along the thigh cam. A lower leg cam is formed on the inner side connecting rod of the lower leg. A thigh pin is formed on the inner thigh connecting rod, and the thigh pin engages with the lower leg cam in a manner that allows it to move along the lower leg cam. The thigh cam is curved into a U-shape that opens forward. The thigh cam includes a flexion cam portion, a transition straight cam portion, a transition bending cam portion, and an extension cam portion. The buckling cam portion is positioned above the thigh pin and extends in an arc shape centered on the thigh pin. The transition linear cam portion is positioned behind the thigh pin and extends linearly in a manner that tends towards the lower and rearward direction. The transition curved cam portion is disposed below and behind the thigh pin, and extends in an arc shape centered on a curve center located lower than the thigh pin. The extension cam portion is positioned below the thigh pin and extends linearly in the front-back direction.

3. The knee orthosis as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein, The calf cam extends rearward as it moves away from the calf wearing part. The thigh cam is configured to move the lower leg wearing portion away from the thigh pin as the knee joint extends.

4. The knee orthosis as described in claim 3, wherein, When the knee joint angle is defined as 0 degrees when the knee joint is in extension, and the knee joint angle increases as the knee joint flexes, The thigh cam is configured to move the lower leg wearing portion away from the thigh pin during the period when the knee joint angle changes from 90 degrees to 0 degrees.

5. The knee orthosis as described in claim 4, wherein, The thigh cam is configured to move the lower leg wearing portion away from the thigh pin during the period when the knee joint angle changes from 60 degrees to 30 degrees.

6. A leg orthosis comprising the knee orthosis as described in any one of claims 1 to 5.

Images