Device and method for stabilizing human anatomical joints

Abstract

The present invention provides a wearable brace elastic garment configured to stabilize a wearer's articulated joint. The elastic garment includes a tensioning member, which is arranged in a pipe on the elastic garment or in the elastic garment along a three-dimensional spatial path arranged around the joint. The tensioning member includes a plurality of strands that are substantially inextensible in the longitudinal direction. The elastic garment also includes a fiber mesh portion, which includes transversely extending strands, each of which is arranged in a corresponding strand pipe. A tensioner is arranged on the elastic garment and is arranged to adjust the tension in the tensioning member. A tension equalizer is arranged on the elastic garment in tension with the tensioner and in communication with the strands of the tensioning member. The tension equalizer is arranged to make the tension between the plurality of inextensible strands of the tensioning member in the fiber mesh portion uniform. The tension equalizer may include a crossbar portion. In some embodiments, the crossbar portion may be a multi-stage crossbar portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the medical field exemplified by IPC Class A61, and more particularly to devices and related methods for stabilizing articulated joints in the human body, including apparatus adapted to facilitate walking. In one aspect, the present invention relates to a device for stabilizing a human knee, and the operation of such a device, the device being configured and arranged for treating damaged ligaments in the knee. Background Art

[0002] In the case of damage to a joint or to a limb that is articulated around a joint, orthotics are used to stabilize the joints between limbs of the human anatomy. Braces have been used in this way to stabilize knees, ankles, elbows, and wrists. Braces are applied to reduce the strain on the injured limb or joint while allowing the limb or joint to still function, thereby minimizing the risk of further damage.

[0003] Several knee brace products have been developed to more specifically protect the ligaments of the knee, including the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), and medial collateral ligament (MCL). These ligaments are most often damaged when the knee is overstretched, especially in people who engage in strenuous exercise. The lateral collateral ligament (LCL) may also be stretched at times. Brace products that protect these ligaments vary widely in technology, function, and efficacy. Such products are disclosed in International Patent Publication Nos. WO / 2019 / 113700 and WO / 2020 / 093160, both of which are assigned to the assignee of the present application.

[0004] Some products focus on providing a mechanical package that still allows articulation. Such products tend to involve fairly heavy hinge mechanisms and are generally cumbersome and not particularly aesthetically pleasing. At the other extreme, there are several products in the form of elastic garments, different forms of which use different techniques to generate compression forces approximately near the knee in an attempt to stabilize the knee and protect the above-mentioned ligaments. Some elastic garments fall short in providing sufficient compression. Other elastic garments provide sufficient overall compression, but fail to direct the compression to key anatomical areas.

[0005] Knee brace products have been developed to address osteoarthritis, focusing on unloading pressure on the medial compartment cartilage. There are two main types of unloader knee braces: condylar pads and force bands. Condylar pad designs use a three-point bending mechanism centered on the pressure applied to the condylar pad to unload the moment to the knee. Force band designs use a strap wrapped around the knee to apply the moment. In both cases, the increased pressure from the condylar pad or strap can cause discomfort and restrict blood circulation. Braces configured to unload the medial compartment are also known to apply pressure to the peroneal nerve, causing numbness or pain. Studies have shown that more than half of patients stop using these braces due to these problems. Unloader knee braces also suffer from many of the same problems as traditional braces, including movement, comfort, bulk, and weight that lead to reduced compliance.

[0006] There remains a need for an unloader knee brace that achieves a valgus moment and does not interfere with blood circulation in the popliteal artery. Also, avoids pain and discomfort due to prolonged use. There is also a need for a brace that does not apply condylar forces to the lateral condyle. There remains a need for an unloader brace that addresses the additional issues cited to reduce compliance with these devices. Summary of the invention

[0007] In a first aspect, an elastic garment is provided, which is configured to at least partially wrap an articulated joint of a human body, the elastic garment comprising one or more tension members, each tension member being longitudinally disposed within or on a matrix of the elastic garment material along a respective predetermined curved three-dimensional spatial path, the respective predetermined path spatially associating the one or more tension members with at least one natural ligament of the joint. The one or more tension members may each comprise one or more strands of a material that is substantially longitudinally inextensible; and the elastic garment material may comprise conduits disposed within or on the elastic garment, and the conduits are arranged to receive the one or more strands of each tension member. The coefficient of friction of each conduit relative to the strand may be lower than the coefficient of friction of the elastic garment material relative to the strand. Each conduit may comprise one or more tubes of a material different from the elastic garment material, the tubes being longitudinally disposed along the predetermined three-dimensional spatial path of the respective tension member.

[0008] The elastic garment may further include at least one tensioner disposed in line with at least one of the one or more tensioning members for tensioning the at least one tensioning member. At least one of the one or more tensioning members may further include at least one tensioning adjuster disposed to balance the tension difference between different strands of the at least one tensioning member.

[0009] When the articulation joint is a knee having a patella in a human leg, the path of at least one of the one or more tension members may include a lateral section disposed to extend approximately vertically proximate the lateral side of the patella and a medial section disposed to extend approximately vertically proximate the medial side of the patella. The elastic garment may further include at least a portion of a non-stretchable fabric that connects the medial section of at least one tension member to the lateral section of the at least one tension member around the back of the leg.

[0010] The outer section and the inner section of the at least one tension member may be further arranged to cross each other at an upper crossing point and a lower crossing point, respectively, above or below the knee. The elastic garment may further include at least one of a portion of non-stretchable fabric connecting the inner section of the at least one tension member to the outer section of the at least one tension member in front of the knee above the upper crossing point, and a portion of non-stretchable fabric connecting the inner section of the at least one tension member to the outer section of the at least one tension member in front of the knee below the lower crossing point.

[0011] Typically, where the joint is the knee, the elastic garment may include a portion of non-stretchable fabric that transversely joins the two sections of the tensioning member to stretch them horizontally relative to each other on the leg.

[0012] The elastic garment may further comprise a waistband arranged for tightening the elastic garment around a waist of a person and a stabilizing connector connecting the at least one tensioning member to the waistband, wherein the stabilizing connector is constructed of a substantially non-stretchable material.

[0013] The three-dimensional spatial path of the at least one tension member may extend around the limb that joins the joint. The three-dimensional spatial path of the at least one tension member may be arranged so that tension in the at least one tension member creates or applies a compressive force near the joint. At least one longitudinal portion of the one or more tension members may include a length of substantially non-stretchable fabric.

[0014] In another aspect, an elastic garment is provided, the elastic garment comprising a closed tensionable loop arranged to move freely along a conduit in or on the elastic garment, wherein the conduit is arranged to cross itself between the outside and the inside on the front of the user's leg at least one of above or below the knee of the leg. In some embodiments, the conduit is arranged to cross itself between the outside and the inside on the front of the user's leg above and below the knee of the leg. The tensionable loop is arranged in or on the elastic garment for applying pressure to at least one of the user's lateral collateral ligament and medial collateral ligament when the user wears the elastic garment and the tensioning loop is tensioned. The elastic garment may further include a tensioner arranged to tension the tensionable loop. The elastic garment may further include a waistband arranged to fit around the user's waist, and the tensionable loop may be anchored to the waistband. The conduit is arranged along a path around the leg at a distal region of the triceps surae of the leg.

[0015] The elastic garment may further include an anchoring member, and the tensioning member and the anchoring member may at least partially or mostly surround the thigh together. In other embodiments, the tensioning member at least partially or mostly surrounds the thigh.

[0016] The tensionable ring may include a tensioning member extending along a conduit sandwiched between layers of low friction material. The elastic garment may be made of an elastic garment material, the conduit may be contained within the elastic garment material and may be laterally delimited by sutures. The sutures may include low friction fibers. The tensionable ring may include a tensioning member extending along the conduit, and the conduit may include a low friction tubing, which may be a composite tube. The tensionable ring may be made of a material that is substantially longitudinally inextensible, and the inextensible material may be flexible.

[0017] In another aspect, a method for stabilizing the knee of a human user's leg is presented, the method comprising: applying a wearable elastic garment around the user's knee, the wearable elastic garment comprising an elastic garment leg, an elastic garment knee, a tensioner and a closed tensionable loop, the closed tensionable loop being arranged around the elastic garment leg to freely move longitudinally along a tube within or on the elastic garment, wherein above and below the elastic garment knee, the tube is arranged to cross itself between an outer side and an inner side on a front face of the elastic garment leg, and the tensioner is configured and arranged for adjusting the tension of the loop; and operating the tensioner to adjust the tension in the loop.

[0018] The application may include: placing the elastic garment on the user to position the first portion of the loop against the distal region of the triceps surae of the user's leg; positioning the second portion of the loop on or above the thigh of the user's leg; and positioning the third and fourth portions of the loop on the medial and lateral sides of the patella of the user's leg near the two collateral ligaments of the user's knee, with the third and fourth portions of the loop located on the loop between the first and second portions. Positioning the second portion of the loop may include positioning the second portion of the loop against the back of the thigh of the user's leg.

[0019] In another aspect, a method of manufacturing a wearable elastic garment for stabilizing a user's knee is provided, the method comprising: forming an elastic garment that covers at least the knee, an adjacent triceps surae, and an adjacent distal portion of the thigh; constructing a tube at least one of in or on the elastic garment to receive a tensionable loop, the tube being arranged to cross itself between an outer side and an inner side on a front face of the elastic garment at least one of above or below the knee; threading a tensionable member along a path through the tube; and constructing a tensioner at one of in and on the loop for adjusting the tension of the loop.

[0020] Threading the tensionable member may include threading a substantially non-retractable tensionable member. Threading the tensionable member may include threading a flexible and substantially non-retractable tensionable member. Threading the tensionable member may include threading a tensionable member made of one or more of: PTFE, stainless steel, One or more ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene-based fibers, fibers having a diamond pattern. Threading a tensionable member made of fibers having a diamond pattern may include threading a tensionable member made of cotton, polyester, polypropylene, and A tensionable member made of one of the above is threaded.

[0021] Constructing the duct may include arranging the duct to cross itself above and below the knee. Forming the elastic garment may include extending the elastic garment to the user's waist, forming a belt around the waist. Constructing the tensioner may include constructing the tensioner on the belt. Constructing the tensioner in or on the loop may include constructing the tensioner on the thigh of the elastic garment.

[0022] In another embodiment, a wearable elastic garment for stabilizing a user's knee is provided, the elastic garment comprising: a closed tensionable loop arranged to move freely along a tube disposed in or on the elastic garment, the tube extending along a tube path having a lateral portion and a medial portion relative to the knee; and an adjustable tensioner in or on the loop, the adjustable tensioner being used to adjust the tension, wherein the lateral portion and the medial portion of the tube path pass through the patella of the user's knee near the lateral collateral ligament and the medial collateral ligament of the user's knee, respectively, and wherein the lateral portion and the medial portion of the tube path are in close proximity to each other at at least one point, the at least one point being at least one of below and above the user's knee.

[0023] The lateral and medial portions of the conduit path may be adjacent to each other at a first point below the user's knee and at a second point above the user's knee. The tensionable ring may be configured to apply pressure to at least one of the user's lateral collateral ligament and medial collateral ligament when the user is wearing an elastic garment and the tensionable ring is tensioned. The conduit may be arranged along a path that substantially encircles the leg at a distal region of the triceps surae of the leg. The tensionable ring may include a tensioning member extending along the conduit. The tensioner may be disposed on the user's thigh. The tensioning member may be made of a material that is substantially inelastic in the longitudinal direction, and the material may be flexible. The conduit may include low friction tubing, and the tubing may be combined.

[0024] In another aspect, a method of making a wearable elastic garment for stabilizing a user's knee is provided, the method comprising: forming an elastic garment that covers at least the knee, an adjacent triceps surae, and an adjacent distal portion of the thigh; constructing a conduit at least one of in and on the elastic garment for receiving a tensionable loop, the conduit extending along a conduit path having an outer side and an inner side relative to the knee, the outer side and the inner side of the conduit path being in close proximity to each other at at least one point, the at least one point being at least one of below and above the user's knee; threading a tensionable member along the path through the conduit; and constructing a tensioner at one of in and on the loop for adjusting the tension of the loop.

[0025] Threading the tensionable member may include threading a substantially non-retractable tensionable member. Threading the tensionable member may include threading a flexible and substantially non-retractable tensionable member. Threading the tensionable member may include threading a tensionable member made of one or more of: PTFE, stainless steel, One or more ultra high molecular weight polyethylene based fibers, fibers having a diamond pattern structure.

[0026] Threading a tensionable member made of fibers having a diamond pattern may include threading a tensionable member made of cotton, polyester, polypropylene, and The method may further comprise threading a tensionable member made of one of the foregoing embodiments. Constructing the duct may include arranging the duct so that the outer side and the inner side of the duct path are in close proximity to each other above and below the user's knees. Forming the elastic garment may include extending the elastic garment to the user's waist, forming a waistband around the waist, wherein constructing the tensioner includes constructing the tensioner on the waistband. Constructing the tensioner in or on the loop may include constructing the tensioner on the thigh of the elastic garment.

[0027] In another embodiment, a wearable brace elastic garment for stabilizing a joint of a wearer is provided, the elastic garment being arranged to at least partially wrap the joint, the elastic garment comprising: a tensioning member, the tensioning member being arranged in a tube on or within the elastic garment around a spatial path of the joint, the tensioning member comprising a plurality of strands that are substantially inextensible in the longitudinal direction; a fiber mesh portion, the fiber mesh portion comprising strands extending transversely, each strand being arranged in a corresponding strand tube; a tensioner, the tensioner being arranged on the elastic garment and being arranged to adjust the tension in the tensioning member; a tension equalizer, the tension equalizer being arranged on the elastic garment, being in tensional communication with the tensioner and with the strands of the tensioning member, the tension equalizer being arranged to even out the tension between the plurality of inextensible strands of the tensioning member. The tension equalizer may comprise a crossbar portion, which may be a multi-stage crossbar portion. The crossbar portion may more specifically be a two-stage or three-stage crossbar portion.

[0028] The crossbar portion may employ pulleys and / or threadable members. The threadable members may include beads, rings, eyelets, blocks, rings made of non-retractable fabric, rings in non-retractable cables, and crossbars for engaging with the non-retractable strands of the tensioning member. The pulleys, threadable beads, rings, eyelets, blocks, and crossbars may be formed of any material capable of withstanding the applied tension, including wood, metal, plastic, and other suitable polymer materials. The polymer elements may be formed by injection molding or three-dimensional printing techniques.

[0029] The elastic garment can be made of an elastic garment material, and the coefficient of friction of each conduit relative to the strands can be lower than the coefficient of friction of the elastic garment material relative to the strands. Each conduit can include a tube of material different from the elastic garment material. The three-dimensional spatial path of the tensioning member can be arranged so that the tension in the tensioning member produces a compressive force near the joint. The tensioner can be engaged with a tension equalizer to provide a mechanical advantage when applying tension to the tension equalizer. The joint can be one of the following: an ankle, elbow, wrist, shoulder, hip, neck, spine, and one or more vertebrae of the wearer. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] The above and other features and purposes of the present invention and the methods for achieving them will become more apparent and the present invention can be better understood by referring to the following description of the embodiments of the present invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0031] Figure 1 is a view showing the general structure of a human left knee, with the patella and its adhesions removed for clarity.

[0032] Figure 2 is an illustration of a first embodiment of a brace elastic garment for supporting a person's left knee.

[0033] Figure 3 is a view of another embodiment of a brace elastic garment for supporting a person's left knee.

[0034] Figure 4 is a view of another embodiment of a brace elastic garment for supporting a person's left knee.

[0035] Figure 5 Shows an enlarged and more detailed Figure 2 The thigh part.

[0036] Fig. 6A An arrangement of tension members and conduits is shown in one embodiment.

[0037] Figure 6B Another embodiment of the arrangement of tension members and conduits is shown.

[0038] Figure 6C Another embodiment of the arrangement of tension members and conduits is shown.

[0039] Figure 7 is a flow chart of a method for stabilizing the knee of a person's leg.

[0040] Figure 8 is a flow chart of a method of manufacturing a brace elastic garment for supporting a person's knee.

[0041] Fig. 9 is a view of yet another embodiment of a brace elastic garment for supporting a person's left knee.

[0042] Fig.10 is a flow chart of another method of making a brace elastic garment for supporting a person's knee.

[0043] Fig.11 is a view of another embodiment of a brace elastic garment for supporting a person's left knee.

[0044] Fig.12 is shown with Figure 6B A view of an embodiment of a tensioning member for use with a tension adjuster.

[0045] Fig.13 is shown for adjusting Fig.11 A view of an embodiment of a tension adjuster for applying tension at both ends of a tensioning member.

[0046] Fig.14A and Fig. 14B are two perspective views of a brace elastic garment with a tensioner and a tension equalizer.

[0047] Fig.15 yes Fig.14A and Fig. 14B A cross-sectional view of a component of an elastic garment showing how multiple lines of a composite non-stretchable cable may be guided by tubes in the calf gripping portion of the elastic garment.

[0048] FIG. 16A to FIG. 16F It shows Fig.14A and Fig. 14B Schematic diagrams of different embodiments of a double-stage horizontal bar tension equalizer for an elastic garment.

[0049] FIG. 17A to FIG. 17C It shows Fig.14A and Fig. 14B Schematic diagrams of different embodiments of a three-stage horizontal bar tension equalizer for an elastic garment.

[0050] Fig.18A and Fig.18B is a perspective view showing an embodiment of a brace elastic garment for supporting a wearer's shoulder joint.

[0051] Fig.19A and Fig.19B is a perspective view showing another embodiment of a brace elastic garment for supporting a wearer's shoulder joint.

[0052] Fig. 20 Views showing embodiments of bracing elastic garments for supporting a wearer's ankle joint.

[0053] Fig.21A and Fig. 21B A view showing an embodiment of a brace elastic garment for supporting a wearer's wrist joint.

[0054] Fig.22A , Fig. 22B and Fig. 22C Different views of an embodiment of a brace elastic garment for supporting a wearer's elbow joint are shown.

[0055] In all of these several views, corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts. Although the drawings show embodiments of the present invention, the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and certain features may be enlarged to better illustrate and explain the present invention. The flow charts and screen shots are also representative in nature, and actual embodiments of the present invention may include other features or steps not shown in the drawings. The examples set forth herein illustrate embodiments of the present invention in a form, and these examples should not be interpreted in any way as limiting the scope of protection of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0056] The embodiments disclosed below are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed in the following detailed description. Rather, the embodiments are selected and described so that others skilled in the art can utilize their teachings.

[0057] The present invention relates to an elastic garment for human joint articulation in combination with a brace arrangement. The brace comprises tension members, each tension member being longitudinally arranged along a respective predetermined curved three-dimensional spatial path within or on a matrix of the elastic garment material, the respective predetermined path spatially associating one or more tension members with at least one natural ligament of the joint. For the purpose of describing the elastic garment and the brace, as Figure 1 As shown, we first consider the human knee.

[0058] Figure 1 The inner knee 100 of a person's left leg is shown as viewed from the front or front, but the patella or kneecap and its various adhesions are removed to clearly illustrate the internal structure of this particular joint. The major bones of the leg are shown as the femur 110, tibia 120 and fibula 130. The portions of these bones that contact each other during articulation are provided with articular cartilage 140, the two portions of cartilage on the tibia 120 being the medial meniscus 144 and the lateral meniscus 146. The bones are stabilized to each other by cleverly placed ligaments that hold the bones together. These ligaments include the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) 150 and the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) 160 that bind the interacting surfaces of the femur 110 and tibia 120 together, and the medial collateral ligament (MCL) 170 and the lateral collateral ligament (LCL) 180 that bind the tibia 120 and fibula 130 to the medial and lateral portions of the head of the femur 110, respectively.

[0059] In the following description, various embodiments of the inventive elastic garment are shown as being arranged on a person from the middle portion of the person's body and down along the legs, wherein the entire lower portion of the person's body, including the feet, is covered by the elastic garment. In actual embodiments, the elastic garment may or may not extend all the way to or beyond the waist, or completely cover the feet. Such variations in the configuration of the elastic garment according to the present invention may be determined by the style, manufacturing method and / or specific configuration for individual cases. Therefore, the detailed description of the following embodiments represents only a small part of the possible variations of such elastic garments.

[0060] Now go to Figure 2 The first embodiment of the brace elastic garment shown in , wherein, Figure 1 The knee joint of the wearer wears an elastic garment 200, which includes a belt 210, a tensioning member 220, an anchoring member 230 and a tensioner 240. The dotted rectangle 100 indicates Figure 1 The left leg region is shown. The tensioning member 220 advances along a predetermined path associated with the arrangement of the ligaments 150, 160, 170 and 180 described above. The path begins at the tensioner 240 at point A and proceeds to point B, where the tensioning member 220 splits in its path to form a single closed loop path. The path begins on the left lateral side, passes the patella 190 on the inside of the left leg, and then curves around again to reach the outside of the left leg at point C located at the distal portion of the triceps surae (a gathering point for human calf muscles), from which the path again travels around the back of the leg (shown in dotted lines) to the inside of the left leg at point D. The path then departs from point D and intersects with its own path at point E to travel along a curved path around the outside of the patella 190. After the path intersects with itself at point F, it curves sharply to the left lateral side to reach point B, where it reconnects with itself. At the intersections E and F, the lead-out portion and the lead-in portion of the tension member 220 are independent, are not coupled to each other and are arranged to move as freely as possible relative to each other.

[0061] The path of the anchor member 230 extends from the tensioner 240 at point G around the posterior side of the thigh (shown as a dotted line) to point H on the medial side and then to point I, where it terminates at point I near the tension member 220. The path of the tension member 220 forms a sharp curve at point I. The exact manner in which the anchor member 230 and the tension member 220 are arranged at point I will be described in more detail below. For this purpose, it is sufficient to point out that the path of the anchor member 230 and the path of the tension member 220 together form a closed loop around the thigh to anchor the brace elastic garment 200 to the thigh. That is, regardless of how the anchoring function between the tension member 220 and the anchor member 230 is allocated, the tension member 220 and the anchor member 230 together completely surround the thigh. The loop formed by the path of the tension member 220 at the calf of the leg from point C to point D to point E anchors the brace elastic garment 200 to the calf in a similar manner.

[0062] In operation, the wearer of the elastic garment 200 can adjust the tension of the tensioning member 220 via the tensioner 240. Similarly, in embodiments where the anchoring member 230 extends along its own path in a conduit, as described in more detail below, the tension of the anchoring member 230 can be adjusted via the tensioner 240. In other embodiments, the anchoring member 230 can be constructed of a longitudinally non-stretchable material, and in such embodiments, the tensioner 240 can be disposed on the non-stretchable material such that tensioning the tensioning member 220 also tensions the anchoring member 230.

[0063] The tensioner 240 may be implemented in a variety of embodiments including, but not limited to, a ratchet arrangement and a lug screw arrangement. Any arrangement capable of building longitudinal tension in the tensioning member 220 and compatible with human operation is suitable.

[0064] Figure 2 The embodiment specifically shows tension member 220 crossing over itself both above and below the knee. In a more general embodiment, tension member 220 need only cross over itself above or below the knee. However, it is advantageous for the downward portion and the upward portion of the path of tension member 220 to be close to each other on the opposite side of the knee from the side where tension member 220 actually crosses over itself.

[0065] A second embodiment of the elastic garment according to the present invention is Figure 32 is an elastic garment 200' having a waistband 210', a tension member 220' and a tensioner 240'. In this embodiment, the schematic path of the tension member 220' begins at point A' at the tensioner 240' on the right hip on the waistband 210'. The path then travels from point A' around the back of the wearer (shown in dashed lines) to point B' located on the outside of the left leg, where the tension member 220' splits in its path to form a single closed loop. The loop starts from the left outside, passes the left leg patella 190 on the inside, and then curves around again to reach the outside of the left leg at point C' at the distal portion of the triceps surae, from which the path travels again around the back of the leg (shown in dashed lines) to the inside of the left leg at point D'. It then departs from point D', intersects its path at point E' to follow a curved path around the outside of the patella 190, and then intersects its path again at point F'. The path then curves sharply to the left outside to reach point B', where it rejoins itself. At the intersections E' and F', the lead-out and lead-in portions of the tension member 220 are independent, they do not engage with each other and are arranged to move as freely as possible relative to each other.

[0066] In this configuration, the tension member 220', by coiling around the leg, not only creates or applies a steady compressive force on the knee region 100, but also creates or applies a force on the leg and elastic garment that allows the tension member to clamp the leg in the region C'-D'-E' around the calf. Thus, the tension member 220' acts as its own distal anchor to the leg and is anchored at the top of the waistband 210', while the tension member 220' completes at least a portion, and perhaps a major portion, of a circle around the body, as the case may be. In operation, the wearer of the elastic garment 200' can adjust the tension of the tension member 220' via the tensioner 240'. In other embodiments, the tensioner can be positioned further around the front of the torso so that the tension member 220' forms a circle around the thigh if viewed from the top looking down along the leg. In the present disclosure, the phrase "completely around the thigh" is used to describe the latter situation, even though the actual path may have a spiral. The tension member 220' is preferably disposed at a position 106 of the front of the torso, and the tension member 220' is preferably disposed at a position 107 of the front of the torso, and the tension member 220' is preferably disposed at a position 108 of the front of the torso, and the tension member 220' is preferably disposed at a position 109 of the front of the torso, and the tension member 220' is preferably disposed at a position 107 of the front of the torso, and the tension member 220' is preferably disposed at a position 108 of the front of the torso, and the tension member 220' is preferably disposed at a position 106 of the front of the torso, and the tension member 220' is preferably disposed at a position 108 of the front of the torso, and the tension member 220' is preferably disposed at a position 109 of the front Figure 3 The section extending from point A' to point B' in FIG. 1 can also be regarded as an anchor member because its function is similar to that of Figure 2 The anchoring member 230 in the embodiment is the same.

[0067] Figure 3The embodiment specifically shows a tension member 220' crossing itself both above and below the knee. In a more general embodiment, the tension member 220' need only cross itself above or below the knee. However, it is advantageous for the downward portion and the upward portion of the path of the tension member 220' to be close to each other on the side opposite the side of the knee where the tension member 220' actually crosses itself.

[0068] Another embodiment of the elastic garment is Figure 4 ” is shown as an elastic garment 200” having a waistband 210”, a tensioning member 220” and a tensioner 240”. In this embodiment, the schematic path of the tensioning member 220” starts at point A” at the tensioner 240”. The path then starts from point A”, passes through the left leg patella 190 on the inside, and then curves around again to reach the outside of the left leg at point C” at the distal portion of the triceps surae. The path travels from the outside of the left leg at point C” around the back of the leg (shown in dotted lines) to the inside of the left leg at point D”. The path then starts from point D” and intersects with its own path at point E” so as to travel along a curved path around the outside of the patella 190, and then intersects with its own path again at point F”. The path curves around the inner thigh at point G" and travels behind the thigh around the posterior thigh (shown in phantom) to the tensioner 240" at point H". At intersections E" and F", the lead-out and lead-in portions of the tensioning member 220" are disengaged from one another and are arranged to move as freely as possible relative to one another.

[0069] In this configuration, the tensioning member 220" by coiling around the leg not only creates or applies a steady compressive force on the knee region 100, but also creates or applies a force on the leg and the elastic garment that allows the tensioning member to clamp the leg in the region C"-D"-E" around the calf. Thus, the tensioning member 220" acts as its own distal anchor to the leg. Similarly, by coiling around the leg around the thigh, the tensioning member 220" anchors the elastic garment to the thigh. In operation, the wearer of the elastic garment 200 can adjust the tension of the tensioning member via the tensioner 240".

[0070] Figure 4 The embodiment specifically shows a tension member 220" crossing itself both above and below the knee. In a more general embodiment, the tension member 220" need only cross itself above or below the knee. However, it is advantageous for the downward portion and the upward portion of the path of the tension member 220" to be close to each other on the opposite side of the knee from the side where the tension member 220" actually crosses itself.

[0071] exist Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4In the embodiments of the present invention, the tensioning members 220, 220', 220" in each case describe a tensionable ring, even though the tensionable ring is not circular and even though in some cases the tensioners 240, 240', 240" are in the ring. Moreover, in various embodiments, the tensioning members 220, 220', 220" and the anchoring members 230 individually or collectively, fully or mostly or at least partially, encircle the thigh.

[0072] exist Figure 2 and Figure 4 In the embodiment shown, the elastic garment need not take the form of a full lower body elastic garment, but need only cover the relevant portion of the leg that is being stabilized. Figure 2 and Figure 4 The anchoring arrangement eliminates the waist belt 210, 210". Thus, Figure 2 and Figure 4 The illustrated embodiment may be implemented in the form of a hose for the affected leg, which extends from the upper thigh to below the calf. For aesthetic reasons, the wearer may prefer to use a wider elastic garment. Even if the elastic garment adopts the general style of a complete lower body elastic garment, the self-anchoring style of the tensioning members 220, 220" makes it possible that the elastic garment does not have to extend to the foot or beyond the foot. The elastic garment 200, 200' or 200" may fully or only partially wrap around the knee. For example, the elastic garment 200, 200' or 200" may not cover the back of the knee or patella in principle.

[0073] The exact path of the tension members 220, 220', 220" is determined by the force required to stabilize the knee, which in turn is determined by the above-discussed Figure 1 The knee is shaped and arranged in a manner that is determined by the support and compression required for the four ligaments in the knee as shown. In this regard, it will be noted that the tension members 220, 220', 220" pass in the vicinity of the two lateral ligaments MCL and LCL to compress the knee in those areas. Thus, the path of the tension members 220, 220', 220" is predetermined by the location of the ligaments. Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 In the present invention, a single tensioning member disposed longitudinally along a predetermined path is used. That is, the tension is directed longitudinally along the path. The elastic garment may generally include one or more tensioning members, each tensioning member being longitudinally arranged along a respective predetermined curved three-dimensional spatial path within or on a matrix of the elastic garment material, the respective predetermined path spatially associating the one or more tensioning members with at least one natural ligament of the anatomical joint.

[0074] We now turn to the nature of the tension member 220, 220', 220" and its interaction with the material matrix from which the elastic garment 200, 200', 200" is made. Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 The paths of the tension members 220, 220', 220" are schematically shown, but how the tension members 220, 220', 220" are contained or retained within or on the elastic garment 200, 200', 200" is not shown. The tension members 220, 220', 220" must move freely within the elastic garment 200, 200', 200" without causing the elastic garment to wrinkle or significantly deform. To achieve this, the tension members 220, 220', 220" follow their paths within conduits in the material matrix from which the elastic garment 200, 200', 200" is made. The conduits may include natural channels within the weave of the elastic garment material. In other embodiments, the conduits may be tubular in nature and may be disposed within the material matrix of the elastic garment 200, 200', 200", or external to but attached to the material matrix. In yet further embodiments, the conduit may include sections of tubing, which are also described in the present disclosure using the term "collated tubing." The use of collated tubing allows for varying degrees of friction between the tensioning members 220, 220', 220" and the base material of the elastic garment 200, 200', 200". In yet further embodiments, the conduit may be made from a garment material that is different from the elastic garment material of the base of the elastic garment 200, 200', 200". In yet further embodiments, the conduit may be made from a stitch pattern that defines a tensioning member path on either side of the tensioning members 220, 220', 220". A special case of this stitch configuration is where the materials of the elastic garment are stitched together in a seam and the tensioning members 220, 220', 220" extend longitudinally within the seam.

[0075] The tensioning members 220, 220', 220" may include a plurality of individual strands extending along separate conduits that are joined together prior to entering the tensioner 240, 240', 240". The tensioning members 220, 220', 220" may be formed from a material that is substantially less stretchable than the elastic garment material matrix. Suitable materials for the tensioning members 220, 220', 220" may be longitudinally non-stretchable, but flexible. Suitable materials for the tensioning members 220, 220', 220" include, but are not limited to, stainless steel; nylon; Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene fibers (e.g. ); and a variety of fibers including cotton, polyester and polypropylene having a diamond pattern or a basket weave, such as but not limited to (Kevlar is a registered trademark of E.I. DuPont de Nemours & Company, Chestnut Run Place, Delaware, 974 Center Road, Wilmington, Delaware 19805, U.S.A.; Teflon is a registered trademark of CHEMOURS LLC, Delaware, 1209 Citrus Street, Wilmington, Delaware 19801, U.S.A.; Dyneema is a registered trademark of DSM IP Assets BV, Het Overloon 1 HEERLENNETHERLANDS NL 6411 TE, The Netherlands; and Technora is a registered trademark of TEIJIN CORPORATION, TEIJIN CO., LTD., 1-6-7 Minamihommachi, Chuo-ku, Osaka, Japan). The conduit may be formed of the same material as the base material of the elastic garment and lined internally with a conduit material having a low coefficient of friction relative to the tension member material to allow the tension members 220, 220', 220" to move as freely as possible. The conduit material may be in the form of a tube or a collated tube. There are no particular structural limitations on the cross-section of the tube. A collated tube is useful because it allows the selection of a very low friction tube material even if it is not stretchable because when the tension members 220, 220', 220" are under tension, the collated sections may be brought close to each other without excessively wrinkling the elastic garments 200, 200', 200". Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, tensioners 240, 240', 240" may be considered to be located within or on the loop formed by tensioning members 220, 220', 220", respectively.

[0076] Considering that the tension members 220, 220', 220" are free to move in their respective pipes, in order to clarify the relationship between the anchor member 230 and the tension member 220 at point I, we now return to Figure 2 To this end, Figure 2 The thigh area is shown enlarged in Figure 5222 of the tensioning member 220. In one embodiment, the anchor member 230 may extend from point G to point I along a conduit 232 similar to the conduit 222 of the tensioning member 220. In order for the conduit 222 to be configured for use as an anchor, the anchor member 230 is attached to the end 234 of the conduit 232 near point I. It is noted that at point I, the anchor member 230 is not attached to the tensioning member 220 because the tensioning member 220 needs to remain free to move in the conduit 222. In this configuration, the portion of the tensioning member 220 that extends from point A at the tensioner 240 to point I, together with the entire anchor member 230, forms an anchor that extends around the thigh. Since the tensioning member 220 needs to be able to move freely past point I, the curvature of the path of the tensioning member 220 at point I has an upper curvature limit that is determined by the flexibility of the tensioning member 220. This facilitates material selection for the tensioning member 220, which requires a substantially longitudinally inextensible, but highly flexible material. This allows a variety of fibers including cotton, polyester and polypropylene to be used with diamond or basket weaves. Figure 2 and Figure 5 The specific embodiments in are useful.

[0077] Any portion 250 of the elastic garment 200 located between the anchor member 230 and the tensioning member 220 may be made of a non-stretchable material to ensure that any tension applied to the anchor member 230 by the tensioner 240 does not easily stretch the portion 250 of the elastic garment 200 located near the area between the anchor member 230 and the tensioning member 220. In other embodiments, the end of the anchor member 230 near point I may be annular so as to spread the force acting on the end of the anchor member 230 over a larger area to prevent the fabric of the elastic garment 200 from being twisted or deformed. Figure 5 Also shown is tensioning member 220 entering tensioner 240 via tensioner port 242 .

[0078] There is a great deal of freedom in choosing the base material or fabric of the elastic garment 200, 200', 200". There are advantages to using a material that is relatively elastic, such as but not limited to spandex, or a blend of spandex with other fibers, including for example but not limited to cotton. This allows the elastic garment to be made to be intentionally snug fitting. This reduces the likelihood of shrinkage when the tensioning member 220, 220', 220" is in a tensioned state.

[0079] Fig. 6A , Figure 6B and Figure 6C Different implementations of conduits for use with tension members are shown. Figure 2 and Figure 5 As an example, Fig. 6AA seam in the material matrix of the elastic garment 200 is shown formed by a seam 224, wherein in this embodiment, a conduit 222 extends along the seam in the form of a tube. The tension member 220 extends longitudinally through the conduit 222. The material of the conduit 222 is selected to have a low coefficient of friction with the tension member 220. In a more general case, there may be a plurality of seams, each seam having a conduit 222 extending longitudinally along the seam, and each conduit 222 having a strand of the tension member 220 extending longitudinally along the conduit 222. Fig. 6A In the embodiment, the cross-section of the tube 222 is shown as circular, but in other embodiments, the tube 222 can have any suitable cross-section that allows the strands of the tensioning member 220 to move substantially freely while making the tube 222 conform to the ergonomic requirements of the elastic garment. One suitable cross-section is a semicircular, or a smaller arc segment of a circle, which has sufficient curvature to accommodate the strands of the tensioning member 220, while one side is flat so as to be easily incorporated into the elastic garment material 200. It has been explained that the tube 222 can be combined, which allows very low friction, but uses a non-retractable tube. Example materials for the tube include, but are not limited to and silica. In a related embodiment, the strands of tension member 220 are simply sandwiched between two strips of low friction material within a stitched seam. In another embodiment, adjacent material substrates may be joined together by adhesive, heat sealing or other joining mechanisms to form seams, and conduits may be formed between appropriately spaced seams. The conduits may be Figure 3 and Figure 4 It is implemented in a similar manner in the embodiments of.

[0080] Figure 6B Another embodiment of a manner of incorporating a tension member 220 into the base material of an elastic garment 200 is shown. This figure is a side view of the weaving of an elastic garment 200. It shows four rows 260 of stitching or weaving on either side of each of the three strands of the tension member 220 within the base material of the elastic garment 200. The three strands of tension member 220, 220A, 220B and 220C, are sandwiched between two longitudinal strips 270 of low friction material held by the stitches 260. In this figure, the material of the elastic garment 200 is shown as two pieces. This should be considered to be presented schematically for clarity, as the material is actually woven. The stitching fibers can be a low friction material, so that the tension member 220 slides on all sides against the low friction material. In this embodiment, the conduit 222' is formed by the low friction material strips 270 and the low friction material stitches 260. This embodiment can be implemented at the seams of the elastic garment 200, or the sandwich of the elastic garment material 200 with the low friction material 270 can be implemented over the entire area of ​​the tension member 220. The duct can be Figure 3 and Figure 4It is implemented in a similar manner in the embodiments of.

[0081] Figure 6C An embodiment is shown in which a conduit 222" is attached to the surface of the elastic garment 200 in the form of a combined semi-cylindrical tube, and the tensioning member 220 travels through the conduit 222". In some embodiments, the base of the tube can be closed or lined with a low friction material. Fig. 6A , Figure 6B and Figure 6C In the figure, the profile or cross-section of the tension members 220, 220', 220" is shown as a circle. In general embodiments, there is no limitation on the profile or cross-section of the tension members 220, 220', 220".

[0082] exist Figure 7 In another aspect, shown in a flow chart of , a method

[700] for stabilizing the knee of a human user's leg is provided, the method comprising: applying

[710] a wearable elastic garment 200, 200', 200" around the user's knee, the elastic garment 200, 200', 200" comprising an elastic garment leg portion, an elastic garment knee portion, a tensioner 240, 240', 240" and a closed tensionable ring, the tensionable ring being arranged around the leg portion of the elastic garment 200, 200', 200" to be positioned along a portion within or on the elastic garment 200, 200', 200". The pipes 222, 222', 222" are free to move longitudinally, wherein, at at least one of the positions above (points F, F', F") and below (points E, E', E") the knee of the elastic garment 200, 200', 200", the pipes 222, 222', 222" are arranged to cross themselves between the outer side and the inner side of the front of the leg of the elastic garment, and the tensioners 240, 240', 240" are set and arranged to adjust the tension of the loop; and operate

[720] the tensioners 240, 240', 240" to adjust the tension in the loop. In some embodiments, the elastic garment 200, 200', 200" may be applied so that the tubes 222, 222', 222" are arranged to cross themselves between the outside and inside of the front of the leg of the elastic garment both above (points F, F', F') and below (points E, E', E") the knee of the elastic garment 200, 200', 200".

[0083] Application

[710] may include: placing the elastic garment 200, 200', 200" on the user to position the first portion of the loop (C, C', C" to D, D', D") against the distal area of ​​the triceps surae of the user's leg; positioning the second portion of the loop (the portion above points F, F', F") on or above the thigh of the user's leg; and positioning the third and fourth portions of the loop (both located between E, E', E" and F, F', F") on the medial and lateral sides of the two collateral ligaments of the patella of the user's leg near the user's knee, with the third and fourth portions of the loop located on the loop between the first and second portions. Positioning the second portion of the loop may include positioning the second portion of the loop against the back of the thigh of the user's leg (see Figure 4 ).

[0084] On the other hand, as in Figure 8 As described in a flowchart of , a method

[800] for manufacturing a wearable elastic garment for stabilizing a user's knee is proposed, the method comprising: forming

[810] an elastic garment that at least partially covers at least the knee, adjacent to the triceps surae and adjacent to the distal portion of the thigh; constructing

[820] a tube at least one of inside and above the elastic garment for accommodating a tensionable ring, and at least one of above and below the knee portion of the elastic garment, the tube is arranged to cross itself between the outer side and the inner side on the front of the elastic garment; threading a tensionable member along a path through the tube

[830] ; and constructing

[840] a tensioner at one of inside and above the ring for adjusting the tension of the ring.

[0085] Threading the tensionable member

[830] may include threading a substantially non-retractable tensionable member. Threading the tensionable member

[830] may include threading a flexible and substantially non-retractable tensionable member. Threading the tensionable member

[830] may include threading a tensionable member made of one or more of: PTFE, stainless steel, nylon; One or more of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene-based fibers; fibers having a diamond pattern structure. Threading a tensionable member made of fibers having a diamond pattern structure may include threading a tensionable member made of cotton, polyester, polypropylene, and A tensionable member made of one of the above is threaded.

[0086] Constructing the duct

[840] may include arranging the duct to cross itself above and below the knee. Forming the elastic garment

[810] may include extending the elastic garment to the waist of the user, forming a belt around the waist. Constructing the tensioner may include constructing the tensioner on the belt. Constructing the tensioner in or on the loop

[840] may include constructing the tensioner on the thigh of the elastic garment.

[0087] exist Fig. 9In another embodiment shown, a wearable elastic garment 900 for stabilizing a user's knee 100 is provided, the elastic garment 900 comprising: a closed tensionable ring 920, the tensionable ring 920 being arranged to move freely along a pipe 930 disposed in or on the elastic garment 900; the pipe 930, the pipe 930 extending along a pipe path having an outer side and an inner side relative to the knee 100; and an adjustable tensioner 940 in or on the ring 920, the tensioner 940 being used to adjust the tension in the ring 920, wherein the outer side and the inner side of the pipe path pass through the inner side of the pipe path, respectively. Figure 1 The patella 190 of the user's knee 100 is located near the lateral collateral ligament 170 and the medial collateral ligament 180 of the user's knee, and wherein the lateral and medial portions of the conduit path are in close proximity to each other at one or more points, the at least one point being at least one of below (point X) and above (point Y) the user's knee 100. Fig. 9 The dotted lines in the figure indicate that the pipe and tensionable ring are located behind the leg.

[0088] The outer and inner portions of the conduit path may be in close proximity to each other at a first point (point X) below the user's knee 100 and at a second point (point Y) above the user's knee 100. It should be noted that although the actual conduit portions may overlap at points X and Y, the outer and inner portions of the tensionable ring inside the conduit are not connected at points Y or X. When the user wears the elastic garment 900 and tightens the tensionable ring by operating the tensioner 940, the tensionable ring 920 may be configured to apply pressure to at least one of the user's lateral collateral ligament 170 and medial collateral ligament 180. As shown in FIG. Fig. 9 As shown, the tube 930 can be arranged along a path that substantially encircles the leg at the distal region of the triceps surae of the leg. This anchors the elastic garment 900 to the triceps surae. The tensionable ring 920 can include a tensioning member extending along the tube 930. The tensioner 940 can be placed on the thigh of the user. The tensioning member can be made of a material that is substantially non-stretchable in the longitudinal direction, and the material can be flexible. The ring 920 can be arranged in a manner similar to Fig. 6A , Figure 6B and Figure 6C and in the same manner as shown in the text referring to these figures, arranged in or on the material of the elastic garment 900. The conduit 930 may comprise a low friction tube, and the tube may be combined. Figure 4 The same as the example, Fig. 9 The tensionable loop 920 in the elastic garment 900 extends substantially around the thigh, thereby anchoring the elastic garment 900 to the thigh.

[0089] exist Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4The anchoring arrangement on the user's thigh used in the embodiment shown can also be applied to Fig. 9 To ensure that the material of the elastic garment 900 does not deform and stretch, and thereby not fail, the force applied by the tensionable ring 920, the portion 950 of the elastic garment may be made of a suitable non-stretchable material. Fig. 9 The embodiments can be viewed as Figure 4 The situation is very similar to , but there is no tensionable ring 920 overlapping itself.

[0090] On the other hand, as in Fig.10 As described in, a method

[100] for manufacturing a wearable elastic garment 900 for stabilizing a user's knee 100 is proposed, the method comprising: forming an elastic garment that covers at least a portion of the knee 100, an adjacent triceps surae, and an adjacent distal portion of the thigh

[1010] ; constructing a conduit 930 at at least one of within and above the elastic garment for receiving a tensionable ring 920

[1020] , the conduit 930 extending along a conduit path having an outer side and an inner side relative to the knee 100, the outer side and the inner side of the conduit path being in close proximity to each other at at least one point, the at least one point being at least one of below and above the user's knee 100; threading a tensionable member along a path passing through the conduit 930

[1030] ; and constructing a tensioner 940 at one of within and above the ring 920 for adjusting the tension of the ring

[1040] .

[0091] Threading the tensionable member

[1030] may include threading a substantially non-retractable tensionable member. Threading the tensionable member

[1030] may include threading a flexible and substantially non-retractable tensionable member. Threading the tensionable member

[1030] may include threading a flexible and substantially non-retractable tensionable member. Threading the tensionable member

[1030] may include threading a tensionable member made of one or more of PTFE, stainless steel, nylon; The tension member made of one or more ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene-based fibers and a diamond-shaped fiber structure may be threaded. Threading the tension member made of a diamond-shaped fiber structure may include threading a tension member made of cotton, polyester, polypropylene and Constructing the duct 930

[1020] may include arranging the duct 930 such that the lateral and medial portions of the duct path are in close proximity to each other above and below the user's knee 100. Forming the elastic garment 900

[1010] may include extending the elastic garment 900 to the user's waist, forming a belt around the waist, wherein constructing the tensioner 940 includes constructing the tensioner 940 on the belt. Constructing the tensioner 940

[1040] in or on the loop may include constructing the tensioner on the thigh of the elastic garment.

[0092] exist Figure 4In a variation of the embodiment of , a portion of the tensioning member 220" may include a length of substantially longitudinally inextensible fabric incorporated into the fabric of the elastic garment 200". Figure 4 In the embodiment, the relevant portion of the tensioning member 220" composed of a substantially longitudinally inextensible material may be, for example, the segments G" to H. As already mentioned above, the remainder of the tensioning member 220" may include an inextensible strand within a conduit. The inextensible strand is anchored at both ends to the segments G" to H. The tensioner 240" may be mounted on or at one end of the segments G" to H. Figure 4 In a variation of the embodiment of the invention, the tensioner 240" is mounted at the end H" of the section G" to H" of substantially longitudinally inextensible material. In the same manner, Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Fig. 9 Portions of the tension members 220, 220', 920 of the embodiments may be constructed of a substantially longitudinally non-stretchable material.

[0093] In this specification, the term "substantially non-stretchable fabric" is used to describe a two-dimensionally extending fabric that is substantially non-stretchable in at least a first direction. The fabric may or may not have a limited rate of stretch in a direction perpendicular to the first direction. Non-limiting examples of such materials include, but are not limited to, so-called 2-way-stretch fibers having a material blend including spandex, nylon, polyester ... Polyester, Olefin fibers, lyocell and / or cotton (Ingeo is a registered trademark of NATUREWORKS LLC, Delaware, USA, located at 15305 MINNETONKA Avenue, Minnesota, 55345). "Biaxial" stretch herein means stretching in two opposite directions in a first dimension while remaining substantially inextensible in any direction perpendicular to the first dimension. Other "substantially inextensible fabrics" include, but are not limited to, fabrics that include a two-dimensional grid embedded in a second fabric or sandwich structure. The fiber material may have substantially no stretchability in any direction. This instretchability is considered "substantially" compared to the instretchability of the base material of the fabric of the elastic garment 200", which is stretchable or stretchable compared to the "substantially instretchable fabric".

[0094] Another aspect of a wearable elastic garment for stabilizing a user's knee 100 may be Fig.11 is best described in Fig.11 Shows Figure 4 A variation of elastic clothing. Figure 4 The mark remains in Fig.11 Stabilizing connector 280" connects tensioning member 220" to waist belt 210" to prevent elastic garment 200" from being pulled down when adjusting the tension in tensioning member 220". Stabilizing connector 280" can be implemented in many different ways, all of which follow the principle of connecting tensioning member 220" to waist belt 210". Fig.11 In the embodiment, the stabilizing connector 280" is implemented as a waistband of a substantially non-stretchable fabric that exhibits non-stretchability in at least the longitudinal direction so as to maintain tension in that direction. Fig.11 , the stabilizing connector 280" is shown as extending across the front of the elastic garment 200", but it may also extend from the tensioning member 220" across the rear of the elastic garment 200" to the waistband 210". In other embodiments, the stabilizing connector 280" may include a substantially non-retractable tensionable member disposed within a conduit and, therefore, may be constructed the same as the tensioning member 220".

[0095] To help ensure that the elastic garment 200" does not deform or collapse excessively when the tension in the tensioning member 220" is adjusted, stabilizers 250", 260", and / or 270" of substantially non-stretchable fabric are incorporated into the base material or fabric of the elastic garment 200" and attached to the conduit 222 of the tensioning member 220" (see FIG. Fig. 6A , Figure 6B and Figure 6C ) or elastic clothing material or fabric adjacent to the tube 222. The substantially non-stretchable fabric used for the stabilizing portion 250", 260" and / or 270" adopts at least a horizontal direction selected as the non-stretchable direction.

[0096] The stabilizer 250" at the front of the leg, near and below the intersection E", exerts a force on the sections E" to C" and E" to D" of the tension member 220", wherein the main component of the force is perpendicular to the path of the tension member 220" along the two sections E" to C" and E" to D". The stabilizer 250" can be fixed to the pipe carrying the tension member 220" along the two sections E" to C" and E" to D". Fig.11 , the stabilizing portion 250" is shown as extending in a generally triangular shape to a majority of below the intersection E" between the segments E" to C" and the segments E" to D" on the front of the leg. In general, the stabilizing portion 250" can extend to any portion below the intersection E" between the segments E" to C" and the segments E" to D" on the front of the leg to build lateral tension below the intersection E" between the segments E" to C" and the segments E" to D" on the front of the leg.

[0097] The stabilizer 270" may be disposed in front of the leg near and above the intersection F", and exerts a force on the sections F" to A" and F" to G" of the tension member 220", wherein the main component of the force is perpendicular to the path of the tension member 220" along the two sections F" to A" and F" to G". The stabilizer 270" may be fixed to a pipe carrying the tension member 220" along the two sections F" to A" and F" to G". Fig.11 , the stabilizing portion 270" is shown as extending in a generally triangular shape to a majority of the area below the intersection F" between the segments F" to A" and the segments F" to G" on the front of the leg. In general, the stabilizing portion 270" can extend to any portion above the intersection F" between the segments F" to A" and the segments F" to G" on the front of the leg to build lateral tension above the intersection F" between the segments F" to A" and the segments F" to G" on the front of the leg.

[0098] The stabilizer 260" on the rear most portion of the leg near and above the intersection F" exerts a force on the medial and lateral sections E" to F" of the tension member 220", with the main component of the force perpendicular to the path of the tension member 220" along the lateral and medial sections E" to F". The stabilizer 260" can be fixed to the pipe carrying the tension member 220" along the lateral and medial sections E" to F". Fig.11 , the stabilizing portion 260" is shown as extending in a generally rectangular shape to a portion below the patella 190 between the lateral and medial segments E" to F" on the posterior side of the leg. In general, the stabilizing portion 260" can extend to any portion below the intersection F" and above the intersection E" between the lateral and medial segments E" to F" on the posterior side of the leg to build lateral tension below the intersection F" and above the intersection E" between the lateral and medial segments E" to F" on the posterior side of the leg. Considering the need for freedom of the knee joint, the area between the intersections E" and F" covered by the stabilizing portion 260" can be limited, resulting in Fig.11 Example arrangement shown.

[0099] In a general embodiment, the stabilizing portion 250", 260", and / or 270" is constructed of a fabric that is substantially inextensible in a generally horizontal direction, and the stabilizing portion 250", 260", and / or 270" is arranged to extend between horizontally opposed inner and outer portions of the tensioning member 220", and when the tensioning member 220" is placed under longitudinal tension by operating the tensioner 240", the outer and inner portions of the tensioning member 220" exhibit lateral tension relative to each other in the elastic garment. Fig.11It will be appreciated that lateral tension is generated around the back of the leg between intersections E" and F" in the overall area of ​​the patella 190, while lateral tension is generated in the front of the leg below and above intersections E" and F". In general, the elastic garment 200" includes a portion of non-stretchable fabric that laterally connects the two sections of the tensioning member 220" to each other in horizontal tension on the leg.

[0100] exist Fig.12 On the other hand, referring to Fig.11 and Figure 6B , the elastic garment 200" may include a tension adjuster 290" to balance the tension between at least two strands within the tension member 220". For example, we may consider the tension member 220" to include Figure 6B In the plurality of strands 220A, 220B and 220C. Fig.12 In FIG. 1 , we show one end of tensioning member 220″ and thereby one end of strands 220A, 220B, and 220C. By way of non-limiting example, Fig.12 One end of the tension member 220" shown in FIG. 1 may be located near a tension adjuster 290" disposed at the distal end of the tension member 220" (see FIG. Fig.11 ). When a user wears the elastic garment and moves their legs, the tension member 220" will flex and, without the adjuster 290", may result in significantly different tensions in different strands of the tension member 220". The presence of the adjuster 290" allows the tension member 220" to flex without causing a tension imbalance, which could compromise the functionality of the elastic garment 200" and the user's comfort by warping the tension member 220".

[0101] exist Fig.11 , the tension adjuster 290" is shown as being disposed outside the left leg at point C and includes both ends of the tension member 220". In alternative embodiments, the tension adjuster 290" may be placed in other locations of the tension member 220", such as above point F". Fig.12 As shown in more detail in FIG. 2 , within the tension adjuster 290″, the two outer strands 220a and 220c may be coupled so as to form a single strand arranged to move freely on a pulley 292″. For clarity, Fig.126 has been removed, and only one end of the tension member 220" is shown, the other end being identical but rotated 180 degrees relative to the end shown. The pulley 292" is rotatable about the pulley axis 294". The tension adjuster 290" can be disposed on a base 296" of a substantially non-stretchable fabric, wherein the non-stretchable direction is parallel to the strands 220A, 220B, and 220C of the tension member 220". When the tension member 220" includes an odd number of strands, such as Fig.12 As shown in FIG. 1 , the unpaired center strands may terminate near or in the tension adjuster 290″. A variety of ways to terminate the center strand 220B are contemplated, and may be used in conjunction with FIG. Fig.12 This is shown as generally terminal 298". Fig.13 2 shows how both ends of the tension member 220" terminate in a tension adjuster 290", wherein two pulleys 292" are arranged side by side to balance the tension between the strands 220A and 220C at both ends of the tension member 220". Although the tension adjuster at one end of the tension member 220" may have only one pulley 292", Fig.11 The fact that the pulley 292" must adjust the tension at both ends of the tension member 220" means that Fig.11 The tension regulator 292" has Fig.13 The tension adjuster 292" has a two-pulley arrangement.

[0102] Figure 6B and Fig.12 Only one pair of coupled strands within the tension member 220" is shown, but there may generally be multiple pairs of strands coupled in this manner. Such strands may Fig.12 Arranged in a generally symmetrical manner as shown, each pair of strands has suitable pulleys to balance the tension between the two coupled strands in each pair. Fig.12 An odd number of strands is shown, i.e., three strands. In other embodiments, the total number of strands in the tensioning member 220" can be an even number, such that only pairs of strands are present. Generally speaking, the pairs of strands will be arranged in a coupled state so that the pair of strands are arranged roughly and substantially mirror-symmetrically around the centerline of the entire tensioning member. Each pair of strands balances the tension between its two constituent strands by moving around suitable pulleys as described above.

[0103] In other embodiments, the adjuster can have any other mechanical arrangement that allows the tension of two strands in a pair that are approximately equidistant from the centerline of the tensioning member 220" to be balanced. As a non-limiting example, this includes a curved tube (not shown) that allows the connecting strands to slide freely within the curved tube.

[0104] In other embodiments, tension adjuster 290" may be disposed adjacent to tensioner 240". In yet another embodiment, tension adjuster 290" may be incorporated into tensioner 240". In such an embodiment, the following modifications may be employed: Fig.13 The adjustment function is maintained by the rotation of the strands about the pulleys, and as a non-limiting example, the adjustment can be made by moving the two pulley axes 294" closer or farther away from each other to increase and decrease the tension, respectively. This allows Fig.13 The arrangement has the overall combined functions of a tensioner and a tension regulator.

[0105] exist Fig.14A and Fig. 14B In another embodiment shown, Figure 1 The left knee joint of the patient is treated by a medial collateral ligament brace elastic garment 1900, which includes a waist belt 1910, a tensioner 1940A for the left leg and a tensioner 1940B for the right leg, and tensioning members in the form of composite cables 1930A and 1930B for the left leg and for the right leg, wherein the composite cables 1930A and 1930B are arranged to move in tubes 1928A and 1928B, respectively, and the tubes 1928A and 1928B are partially located within or on a non-stretchable fiber web of material. Cables 1930A and 1930B can each include a plurality of strands of a substantially non-stretchable material, such as, but not limited to, PTFE, stainless steel, One or more ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene-based fibers and fibers having a diamond pattern structure. The fibers having a diamond pattern structure can be, for example but not limited to, cotton, polyester, polypropylene, and The dotted rectangle 100 indicates Figure 1 . In this embodiment, the tensioned composite cables 1930A and 1930B are the mechanism for generating the desired force on the knee joint, while the webs of non-stretchable material act as anchors to the torso or thigh, or they transfer the force generated by the tension in the cables to the knee joint. To perform their function, the strands of the cables are substantially non-stretchable, making composite cables 1930A and 1930B non-stretchable.

[0106] exist Fig.14A and Fig. 14B, now focusing on applying pressure to the left knee, the four strands of the non-stretch composite cable 1930A expand laterally relative to each other as they travel through the left leg calf clamp 1926A. Cable 1930A otherwise extends inside tube 1928A. Non-stretch fiber mesh 1924A that applies pressure to the inside of the left knee is attached to tube 1928A at its two horizontal ends. When the tension in cable 1930A increases, the pressure on the inside of the left knee increases accordingly via fiber mesh 1924A as the two portions of tube 1928A are pulled away from each other.

[0107] exist Fig.14A and Fig. 14B In one embodiment shown, the tube 1928A surrounds the waist delivery cable 1930A within the waist belt 1910. The upper non-stretchable material fiber web 1922A (see Fig. 14B ) ensures the positioning of the pipe 1928A. The tensioner 1940A is arranged in the line of the cable 1930A to adjust the tension in the cable 1930A. The tensioner 1940A thus controls the pressure on the left knee, and in this embodiment, is arranged on the right hip. In other embodiments, the tensioner 1940A can be arranged elsewhere along the route of the pipe 1928A in the line of the cable 1930A. The tension equalizer 1942A described in more detail below can be arranged somewhere along the route of the pipe 1928A in the line of the cable 1930A, so that the tension applied by the tensioner 1940A is transmitted to all the strands of the composite cable 1930A via the tension equalizer 1942A. This arrangement enables the tension equalizer 1942A to communicate with the tensioner 1940A and with the strands of the tensioning member 1930A in a tension manner. In the following example, we will describe the tension equalizer 1942A arranged to be adjacent to the tensioner 1940A. In general, the tension equalizer 1942A can be located remote from the tensioner 1940A, but in tensional communication with the tensioner 1940A. The role of the tension equalizer 1942A is to ensure that each strand of the composite cable 1930A is subjected to the same tension, even though the different strands follow different individual paths, such as around the triceps surae. How this tension equalization is achieved will be described in more detail below.

[0108] Targeted Figure 1 The medial collateral ligament (MCL) 170 applies appropriate force, Fig.14AThe non-stretchable mesh 1924A is configured to exert a force on the medial side of the joint 100 that is generally directed toward the outside of the left knee. This stabilizes the left knee joint against medial displacement due to problems with the medial collateral ligament 170 of the left knee. Correspondingly, the non-stretchable mesh 1924B is configured to exert a force on the medial side of the right knee that is generally directed toward the outside of the right knee. This stabilizes the right knee joint against medial displacement due to problems with the medial collateral ligament of the right knee. The composite cable 1930A exits the conduit 1928A to partially surround the triceps surae in a separate conduit passing through the calf clamp 1926A. After having surrounded a portion of the triceps surae, the individual strands of the composite cable 1930A resume their collective path through the conduit 1928A.

[0109] We now turn to the tension equalizer 1942A and refer to Fig.14A , Fig. 14B , Fig.15 and Fig.16A Describe its work. Fig.15 In Figure 6B The basic piping layout will Fig.14A and 14B The four strands of composite cable 1930A are routed through the calf clamp 1926A. In other embodiments, a different number of strands may be employed in the composite cable 1930A. The conduit 1923 within the calf clamp 1926A is defined by a plurality of rows of stitches 1960 defining the lateral limits of the conduit and two layers of low friction material strips 1970 defining inner and outer limits perpendicular to the user's skin. The fabric 1970 of the calf clamp 1926A may include two layers, such as Fig.15 As shown, or in some embodiments may include a single layer. Fig.15 In FIG. 1 , the stitching is shown as being parallel. In general, the tubes 1923 are not limited to being parallel, and can follow diverging and converging paths through the fabric 1970 of the calf clamp 1926A. Their paths can be selected to improve the grip of the calf clamp 1926A on the triceps surae. In other embodiments, the tubes used can be Fig. 6A and Figure 6C The types shown in .

[0110] The fabric 1970 of the calf clamping portion 1926A can be the same as the general fabric of the elastic garment. In other embodiments, the fabric 1970 of the calf gripping portion 1926A can be different from the general fabric of the brace elastic garment 1900. Fig.14A , Fig. 14B , Fig.15 and Fig.16AThe arrangement shown in FIG. 1 has a first end of the composite cable 1930A extending clockwise around the waist on the waist belt 1910 (toward the feet when looking down) near the tensioner 1940A and a second end of the composite cable 1930A extending counterclockwise around the waist on the waist belt 1910 near the tensioner 1940A. Thus, the first end of the composite cable 1930A extends from Fig.14A The right side of the figure is close to the tensioner 1940A, and the second end is from Fig.14A The left side of the figure is close to tensioner 1940A.

[0111] Fig. 14B Some aspects of the right leg of elastic garment 1900 are shown more clearly. It uses the same arrangement as the left leg described above. The elements on the right side differ from those belonging to the left leg by the simple change of being labeled with a "B" instead of an "A" after the relevant number. The tensioner 1940B and tension equalizer 1942B for the right leg of elastic garment 1900 are arranged at Fig. 14B on the user's left hip.

[0112] In one embodiment, in a counterclockwise manner (from Fig.14A The second end of the composite cable 1930A approaching the tensioner 1940A (left side in the figure) can be simply fixed directly or indirectly to the tensioner 1940A in a stable configuration. In this embodiment, all four counterclockwise approaching strands of the second end of the composite cable 1930A are fixed to the tensioner 1940A.

[0113] We now turn to Fig.14A The four strands of the first end of the composite cable 1930A approaching the tensioner 1940A are shown on the right side of the figure and are fed through the calf clamp 1926A and thence to the tension equalizer 1942A. FIG. 16A to FIG. 16E In the illustrated embodiment, the tensioner 1940A is configured to allow the elements of the tension equalizer 1942 (e.g., Fig.16A and Fig. 16B The pulley 1943A of the tension equalizer 1942 and any element attached to the element of the tension equalizer 1942 move in the direction indicated by the double-headed arrow 1949A. This is achieved by retracting or extending the non-retractable cable 1941A. To this end, one of the two ends of the non-retractable cable 1941A may be fixedly attached to the tensioner 1940A, while the other end is retracted or extended by operating the tensioner 1940A. In other embodiments, the two ends of the non-retractable cable 1941A may be retracted or extended by operating the tensioner 1940A.

[0114] Fig.16AAn embodiment of a tension equalizer 1942A is shown in more detail. The tension equalizer 1942A includes a crossbar portion (crossbar portion) 1935A, which is a well-known device from the era of horse-drawn carts and the subject of several patents granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office. In the 21st century, one of its most common uses is to even out the pressure on automobile windshield wipers. A non-retractable cable 1948A connects a pulley 1943A to the fulcrum or pivot point of the main pivot rod 1944A of the crossbar portion 1935A. The term "whipple bar" is used herein to describe the pivot rod of the crossbar portion. The term "swingle" has also been used in some quadrants to describe the type of pivot rod used in the crossbar portion. In other embodiments, the non-retractable cable 1941A can be directly engaged with the crossbar portion 1935A, which is an embodiment in which the pulley 1943A is omitted. The crossbar portion 1935A is described in more detail below. Various arrangements of pulleys and non-retractable cables may be used to move the crossbar portion 1935A closer to and further away from the tensioner 1940A.

[0115] like Fig.16A The crossbar portion 1935A shown in the particular embodiment of the present invention is a "double tree" crossbar portion, which is composed of two levels of crossbars, rod 1944A in the first level, and rods 1945A and 1946A in the second level, so as to accommodate Fig.14A and Fig.15 The four strands of the composite cable 1930A described in Fig.16A , the four strands of composite cable 1930A are shown connected to Fig.16A In a more general embodiment, the crossbar portion 1935A can have other numbers of crossbars and be joined with more strands of the composite cable. The term "multi-level crossbar portion" is used herein to describe a crossbar portion having multiple levels of crossbars.

[0116] Crossbar 1944A is free to rotate about its fulcrum or pivot point, as indicated by the rotation arrow associated with crossbar 1944A. If the tension in cable 1947A' should be higher than the tension in cable 1947A, then crossbar 1946A on crossbar 1944A will be harder to pull than crossbar 1945A, and crossbar 1944A will pivot clockwise about its pivot point to a degree of rotation that evens out the difference in tension. The same action occurs if the two strands 1930A attached to crossbar 1945A are under different amounts of tension. Crossbar 1945A will pivot about its indicated pivot point to a degree of rotation where the tension in the two strands attached to crossbar 1945A is equal. The same behavior applies to crossbar 1946A with respect to any difference in tension between the two strands 1930A attached thereto.

[0117] exist Fig.14A , Fig. 14B , Fig.15 and Fig.16A , a total of four strands of composite cable 1930A are shown. In general, any number N>1 of strands may be connected to crossbar equalizer 1942A to balance tension in this general manner. To employ three strands 1930A, two strands 1930A may be attached to crossbar 1945A, crossbar 1946A may be omitted, and the third strand 1930A attached directly to crossbar 1944A. To employ more than four strands, Fig.16A Another level of crossbars can be provided between the strands 1930A and the crossbars 1945A and 1946A, creating a "tripletree" crossbar section. There is no conceptual limit to the number of strands of the composite cable 1930A, which can have their tension balanced by a generalized crossbar section equalizer.

[0118] exist Fig.16A In the embodiment of the invention, the crossbar portion 1935A based on the lever fulcrum is used to describe the concept, but in other embodiments of the tension equalizer 1942A, arrangements of other instruments that allow strands to move or slide on or through them can be used, including instruments with holes through which the strands can pass. Suitable instruments of this type include, but are not limited to, pulleys, threaded beads, rings, eyelets, blocks, rings made of non-retractable fabrics, and rings in other cables or strands. The term "block" is used herein to specifically describe a single-hole block or a double-hole block as used in "blocks and solution tools". These instruments can have a connecting mechanism that allows them to engage with other functionally similar instruments. The mechanism that connects them to other functionally similar instruments can be a substantially non-retractable cable or line or strand. In some embodiments, the connecting mechanism can be a cable of the same material as the strands of the composite cable 1930A or cable 1930A.

[0119] While the calf clamp 1926A can be made of a stretchable material, including, for example, rubber, to thereby avoid the use of composite cables 1930A and laterally extending strands and tension equalizers 1942A, this attempted solution to proper clamp behavior does not overcome the problem of having to customize the stretchable material to the wearer of the brace elastic garment 1900. The use of laterally extending strands of composite cables 1930A and tension equalizers 1942A overcomes this limitation.

[0120] exist Fig. 16B , we turn to Fig.16A An alternative embodiment of the concept of the tension equalizer 1942A. Fig. 16BIn the embodiment of the present invention, the tensioner 1940A is configured to move the assembly of pulleys 1943A, 1944A, 1945A and 1946A in the direction indicated by the double-headed arrow 1949A. This is achieved by retracting or extending the non-retractable cable 1941A. To this end, one of the two ends of the non-retractable cable 1941A may be fixedly attached to the tensioner 1940A, while the other end is retracted or extended by operating the tensioner 1940A. In other embodiments, the two ends of the non-retractable cable 1941A may be retracted or extended by operating the tensioner 1940A. The non-retractable cable 1948A couples the pulley 1943A to the pulley 2044A. In other embodiments, the non-retractable cable 1941A may be directly engaged with the pulley 2044A to slide on a portion of the pulley 2044A, which is an embodiment in which the pulley 1943A is omitted. Various arrangements of pulleys and non-retractable cables may be used to move pulley 2044A closer to and further away from tensioner 1940A.

[0121] The four strands of the non-retractable composite cable 1930A are Fig. 16B 2044A. The strand 1930A is shown as actually two looped strands, each looped strand folded back on itself, one strand looped around pulley 2045A and the other strand looped around pulley 2046A. When the strand that has traveled the entire predetermined path of the composite cable 1930A around the user's left leg and body as described above and has approached the tensioner 1940A in a clockwise direction reaches the tensioner 1940A, both ends of each of the two strands are fastened to the tensioner 1940A. The pulleys 2045A and 2046A are connected by a non-retractable cable 2047A that engages with the pulley 2044A. If the tension in the strand 1930A folded around the pulley 2045A is not equal in the two portions of the strand 1930A on either side of the pulley 2045A, then the strand 1930A will be moved around the pulley 2045A by sliding or by rotating the pulley 2045A until the tension is uniform. The same is true for strand 1930A which is folded around pulley 2046A.

[0122] When the resolved tension in strand 1930A around pulley 2045A and the resolved tension in strand 1930A around pulley 2046A are unbalanced with each other, the two pulleys will move relative to each other as cable 2047A slides over pulley 2044A or pulley 2044A is rotated to equalize the tension in strand 1930A. This tension equalization arrangement acts like Fig.16A The degree of rotation of the multiple pulleys is determined by the tension difference described above and the radius of the pulleys. Fig. 16B The difference in the embodiment is that Fig.16AThe crossbars 1944A, 1945A and 1946A are replaced here by pulleys 2044A, 2045A and 2046A, and the cables 1947A and 1947A' are replaced by a single cable 2047A. Fig. 16B A specific embodiment in the embodiment is also a "double tree" (double level) crossbar portion 2035A. Fig.16A The layout, Fig. 16B The embodiments of can be similarly extended to include more stages of pulleys and larger or odd numbers of strands. In general, Fig. 16B The crossbar portion embodiment in is another example of a multi-stage crossbar portion.

[0123] Fig. 16C Another embodiment of a tension equalizer 1942A is shown in FIG. Fig. 16B The pulley is replaced by a ring, through which the cables and strands are looped. The ring can be any suitable material that can withstand the applied tension, including but not limited to metal rings, plastic rings, and fabric rings or rings made of fabric. More specifically, Fig. 16B The cable 2047A is replaced by a looped, non-retractable cable 2147A. Fig. 16B In the embodiment, two strands 1930A are used which are wound back on themselves and passed through rings 2045' and 2046' provided at both ends of the inelastic cable 2147A, thereby omitting the pulleys 2045A and 2046A. The inelastic cable 1941A to which tension is applied by the tensioner 1940A passes directly through the ring 2044', and the cable 2147A passes directly through the ring 2044'. Fig. 16B The pulley 1943A and Fig. 16B The cable 1948A is thus omitted. In this embodiment, the tension equalizer 1942A and the crossbar portion 2035A' do not include pulleys or crossbars, and the operation of the device is based solely on cables and strands sliding within a ring of the type described above. However, this function is similar to Fig. 16B As similar to Fig.16A and Fig. 16B The layout, Fig. 16C The embodiments of can be similarly extended to include more stages of rings and larger or odd numbers of strands. In general, Fig. 16C The ring-based crossbar portion implementation example in is another example of a multi-stage crossbar portion.

[0124] Fig.16D The Fig. 16C Another embodiment of the arrangement of the tension equalizer 1942A, wherein, Fig. 16C The rings are replaced by loops in cables and strands. Fig. 16CIn the embodiment, two strands 1930A are used that are wrapped back on themselves and passed through the ends of the non-retractable cable 2147A, thereby omitting the loops 2045A' and 2046A'. Cable 2147A passes directly through cable 1941A. In this embodiment, the tension equalizer 1942A and crossbar portion 2035A' do not include rings, pulleys or crossbars, and the operation of the device is based solely on the cables and strands sliding within the loops of other strands or cables. However, this function is similar to Fig. 16C As similar to Fig.16A , Fig. 16B and Fig. 16C The layout, Fig.16D The embodiments of can be similarly extended to include more levels of cable loops and larger or odd numbers of strands. In general, Fig.16D The ring-based crossbar portion embodiment in is another example of a multi-level crossbar portion.

[0125] Alternative embodiments of the tension equalizer 1942A and its interaction with the tensioner 1940A include Fig.16E For clarity, we use Fig. 16B 2248A is used to securely attach pulley 2244A to tensioner 1940A. Fig. 16B As shown, cable strand 1930A is also engaged with pulleys 2245A and 2246A. Fig. 16B and Fig. 16C A comparison of shows that this arrangement is equivalent to omitting cables 2047A and 2147A, respectively, and assigning their tension equalization functions to cable 1941A in crossbar section 2135A. In this embodiment, the movement of cable 1941A and strand 1930A may be a combination of sliding and rotation of the pulleys at which they engage. This arrangement is still an example of a double-stage crossbar section, and therefore also a multi-stage crossbar section. As similar to Fig.16A , Fig. 16B , Fig. 16C ,and Fig.16D The layout, Fig.16E The embodiments can be similarly extended to include more stages of pulleys and larger or odd numbers of strands.

[0126] exist Fig.16F In the Fig.16E A variation of the embodiment in which Fig.16EThe cable 2248A and pulley 2244A are simply replaced with eyelets 2344A, with specific markings selected to indicate that the eyelets 2344A are in the Fig.16E The pulley 2244A Fig.16D The eyelet 2344A can be made of any material that can withstand the tension applied to it. Fig.16A , Fig. 16B , Fig. 16C , Fig.16D ,and Fig.16E The layout, Fig.16E The embodiments of the present invention can be similarly extended to include more stages of pulleys and larger or odd numbers of strands. For example, an additional eyelet 2344A can be added to the tensioner 1940, and the cable 1941A can be engaged with a third pulley disposed between pulleys 2245A and 2246A, which is engaged with another strand 1930A, thereby allowing six strands (i.e., two more double strands) to pass through. Fig.14A and Fig. 14B The calf clamping portion 1926A. Fig.16F The arrangement 2235A in FIG. 1 and its extended arrangement described herein are still examples of a double-stage crossbar section, and therefore also an example of a multi-stage crossbar section. Fig.16D In relative to Fig.16A , Fig. 16B and Fig. 16C As shown, Fig.16D and Fig.16E The pulleys may be replaced by appropriately arranged cable loops. Some embodiments, such as Fig.16E The embodiment shown in , may have a mechanical advantage in that a force applied to the cable 1941A at the tensioner 1940A produces a greater force on the cable strands 1930A.

[0127] Fig.17A 1942A including a three-stage crossbar portion 2335A can be used to equalize the tension in the eight strands. The eight strands 1930A originate from four strands that wrap around a pulley at one end of the composite cable 1930 and then travel through the conduit 1928A to each pass through the Fig.14A and Fig. 14B The calf clamping portion 1926A is then subsequently routed as a composite cable 1930A through a conduit 1928A to engage with a tensioner 1940A at the other end of the cable 1930A in the various extendable and fixed manners already described above. The three-stage crossbar portion can be in the manner described above. FIG. 16A to FIG. 16F For clarity, we choose to build on Fig. 16BIn this embodiment, two inextensible cables 1932A are fixed at their four ends to four pulleys 1934A. The eight strands 1930A engage the pulleys 1934A. The tension equalization function of this embodiment is performed as already described, except that Fig.17A There are additional stages of pulleys 1934A and cables 1932A to balance the tension in strand 1930A. In all other respects, Fig.17A Examples and Fig. 16B The remaining components are the same as those of Fig. 16B The same mark in .

[0128] Fig. 17B Shown based on Fig.17A Another embodiment of the three-stage crossbar arrangement 2335A' of the crossbar arrangement. Fig. 17B In the embodiment of , pulley 1934A is not present. Instead, two of the four pulleys 1934 are functionally replaced by interloops 1934A' of pairs of continuous strands 1930A, which are routed over pulleys 2045A and 2046A. This is still a three-stage crossbar section, albeit with Fig.17A Different, but the third stage has only two pivot points. Fig. 17B The embodiment is transformed into a third stage by having a crossbar equalizer with four pivot points, which can be rotated around each pulley 2045A and 2046A using the same method as for Fig. 16C The same arrangement of cables 2147A. In this arrangement, no cables 1930A will engage the pulleys, and each cable will have a loop arrangement 1934A', for a total of four.

[0129] Fig. 17C Shown based on Fig.16D The horizontal bar is arranged and adopted Fig. 17B Another embodiment of the looped strand 1930A configuration and the three-stage crossbar arrangement 2335' of the loop 1934A'. For the rest of the structure, we adopt Fig.16D , because it is the same as the embodiment.

[0130] If you have already seen FIG. 16B to FIG. 16F The three-stage arrangement explained with respect to the two-stage crossbar portion may also be implemented in other mechanical variations, including loops, eyelets or blocks of suitable material for carrying tension, including fabric, in order to perform the same function. Fig.17A , Fig. 17B and Fig. 17C Embodiments also rely on a multi-stage crossbar tension equalizer.

[0131] FIG. 16A to FIG. 16F and FIG. 17A to FIG. 17C Describes the use of Fig.14Aand Fig. 14B The multi-stage crossbar tension equalizer is arranged for the left leg of the elastic garment 1900 in FIG. The same basic arrangement can be made for the multi-stage crossbar tension equalizer 1942B for use with right leg tensioning. Fig.14A and Fig. 14B Non-stretchable webs 1924A and 1924B are shown arranged to apply pressure to the inside of the left and right knees, respectively. Similar non-stretchable webs can be arranged with suitable tensioning members, tubing, non-stretchable cables, tensioners, and tension equalizers to apply pressure to the outsides of both knees. These tensioner-equalizer pairs can be individually configured. FIG. 16A to FIG. 16F and FIG. 17A to FIG. 17C In some elastic garments, it may be necessary to implement only individual FIG. 16A to FIG. 16F and FIG. 17A to FIG. 17C As described above, some embodiments of elastic garments may include lateral and medial arrangements of non-stretchable webs to apply pressure to the lateral and medial sides of one or both knees simultaneously.

[0132] The example of a human knee has been used above to describe brace elastic garments 200, 200", and 1900 for stabilizing a human knee. However, the concepts described herein are not limited to a human knee and may be applied to any anatomical joint to be stabilized, including, for example, but not limited to, a human ankle, elbow, wrist, shoulder, hip, neck, spine, and one or more vertebrae. Fig.18A and Fig.18B An example of a right shoulder joint is shown which is stabilized by a shoulder brace elastic garment 2400 which envelops the upper portion of the wearer's torso and the adjacent portion of the upper arm, thereby enveloping the shoulder. The non-stretchable web 2424 provides compression on the selected injured or unstable shoulder joint under the action of a tensioning member in the form of a non-stretchable cable 2430 which follows a path around the torso so as to anchor and grasp the wearer's thorax on the side of the torso opposite to the side on which the non-stretchable web 2424 is disposed. As shown in Fig.14A and Fig. 14B In the embodiment, the non-retractable cable 2430 can be divided into a plurality of component strands extending transversely relative to each other. Fig.18A and Fig.18B Four strands 2430 are used, and these four strands 2430 are already referred to Fig.14A and Fig. 14B The strands are routed through the clamping portion 2426A as described. The fabric of the clamping portion 2426A can be the same as the general fabric of the elastic garment 2400. In other embodiments, the fabric of the clamping portion 2426 can be different from the general fabric of the brace elastic garment 2400. The tensioner 2440 can be connected to the Fig.14A and Fig. 14B The tension equalizer 2442 may be the same as the tensioner in the embodiment shown in FIG. FIG. 16A to FIG. 16F The tension equalizer 2442 is in tension with the tensioner and is connected to the strands of the tensioning member. FIG. 16A to FIG. 16F and FIG. 17A to FIG. 17C As described with respect to the tension equalizer, the number of strands may be any number equal to or greater than 2, and the tension equalizer 2442 may include a crossbar portion which may be a multi-stage crossbar portion.

[0133] Fig.19A and Fig.19B Another embodiment of a right shoulder joint is shown, which is stabilized by a shoulder brace elastic 2600 that wraps around the upper portion of the wearer's torso and the adjacent portion of the upper arm, thereby wrapping the shoulder. The shoulder portion 2622 of the shoulder brace elastic 2600 provides compression on the selected injured or unstable shoulder joint under the action of a composite tension member that follows a path around the torso to anchor and grasp the wearer's thorax on the side of the torso opposite the side of the torso on which the shoulder portion 2622 is disposed. In this embodiment, the tension member includes the shoulder portion 2622, straps 2610A, 2610B, 2620A and 2620B, crossbar equalizers 2642A and 2642B; and a tensioner that includes two interengaging portions of hook and loop fibers 2626 and 2640. Tension is applied by pulling portions 2626 and 2640 over each other in generally opposite directions and engaging them. The crossbar equalizers 2642A and 2642B balance tension along the described path through the straps 2610A and 2620A on the one hand and straps 2610B and 2620B on the other hand and through movement of the crossbars through substantially inextensible wires acting as eyelets 2644 that act as threadable members. The elastic garment 2600 is shown as wrapping the entire upper torso, but need not wrap the unsupported left shoulder. In principle, the brace elastic garment 2600 need not include a plurality of braces such as the brace elastic garment 2600 and the brace elastic garment 2600. Fig.19A and Fig.19B The T-shirt shown may include only the other components numbered above. Fig.18A and Fig.18B The embodiments are different. Fig.19A and Fig.19B The embodiment in does not require the use of any conduits for the tensioning members, nor does it have independent local tensioners or independent local tension adjusters. The tensioning is distributed, as is the tension equalization. In other embodiments, the hook and loop tensioners depicted by fabric portions 2626 and 2640 may be replaced by other tensioning arrangements to engage with crossbar equalizers 2642A and 2642B. The tensioner may be coupled to Fig.14A and Fig. 14BThe tensioners in the illustrated embodiment are identical. The crossbar equalizers 2642A and 2642B may be composed of FIG. 16A to FIG. 16F Any crossbar equalizer or replaced by any tension equalizer that can engage with the tensioner and engage with the straps 2610A, 2610B, 2620A and 2620B.

[0134] Fig. 20 A wearable brace elastic garment 3100 for a person's ankle is shown. In this example embodiment, the left foot is used as an example, but a mirror image of the structure of the wearable brace elastic garment 3100 would be suitable for a right foot (not shown). The outside of the foot is shown, and the inside has the same arrangement, with non-stretchable fiber meshes 3150 and 3151 extending from the outside to the inside under the foot, non-stretchable fiber mesh 3152 extending from the outside to the inside of the foot, non-stretchable fiber mesh 3153 extending from the outside to the inside of the leg across the front of the lower leg, and non-stretchable fiber mesh 3154 extending from the outside to the inside of the leg across the back of the calf. Therefore, the tensioning member explained below is arranged on the inside of the leg with Fig. 20 The outside shown is essentially the same.

[0135] In addition to the non-stretchable webs 3150, 3151, 3152, 3153, and 3154 already described, non-stretchable web 3155 (and its equivalent on the inside of the leg) may be combined with web 3150, or may be a separate non-stretchable web that is joined to non-stretchable web 3150 by hook and loop or other arrangement. Anchor strap 3110 is adapted to encircle the calf above the ankle and may be secured by including Fig. 20 Any of the multiple arrangements of overlapping hook and loop arrangements shown is tightened around the leg.The non-stretchable mesh 3155 (and its equivalent on the inside of the leg) can be attached to the anchoring strap 3110 via a hook and loop arrangement or any other stable attachment mechanism.

[0136] In order to apply the appropriate stabilizing force to the ankle joint, a tensioner 3120 is provided on the anchoring band 3110. The tensioner 3120 applies the required force to the non-stretchable webs 3150, 3151, 3152, 3153 and 3154 through two loops of substantially non-stretchable wire that engage in a crossbar arrangement with the non-stretchable wire 3160. The loop on the outside of the ankle is labeled 3170. The loop on the inside is labeled 3171. Fig. 203150, 3151, 3152, 3153, and 3154 to balance the tension between the ring 3170 and its equivalent on the inside of the leg. This also balances the forces applied between the lateral and medial sides of the ankle joint. The wearable brace elastic garment 3100 may include a sock 3190 to which the aforementioned elements are attached. The sock 3190 may be a full sock or a toeless sock.

[0137] Fig.21A and Fig. 21B A wearable brace elastic garment 3300 for a person's wrist is shown. The brace elastic garment 3300 includes a hand anchoring strap 3310 and an arm anchoring strap 3350, wherein the hand anchoring strap 3310 is fastened around the hand by a hook and loop or other releasable fastening arrangement, and the arm anchoring strap 3350 is fastened around the forearm by a hook and loop or other releasable fastening arrangement. Back straps 3330A and 3330B are attached at their distal ends to the hand anchoring strap 3310 on the back side of the hand. The attachment can be permanent or can be removable by hook and loop type fastening. Back straps 3330A and 3330B can be non-retractable. Palm straps 3330C and 3330D are attached at their distal ends to the hand anchoring strap 3310 on the palm side of the hand. The attachment can be permanent or can be removable by hook and loop type fastening. Palm straps 3330C and 3330D can be non-retractable. All four strips 3330A, 3330B, 3330C, and 3330D may have respective rings or tubes 3344A, 3344B, 3344C, 3344D at their proximal ends.

[0138] The tensioner 3320 is disposed on the back side of the arm anchoring strap 3350 and is engaged with the straps 3330A, 3330B, 3330C and 3330D by substantially inextensible cables or wires 3342A and 3342B. The cable 3342A passes through loops or threadable members 3344A and 3344B, and a loop or threadable member 3344H disposed on the back side of the arm anchoring strap 3350. One end of the cable 3342A is tied to the arm anchoring strap 3350. The other end of the cable 3342A can be tied to the tensioner 3320. When the tension in cable 3342A is increased by operating tensioner 3320, the crossbar tension equalizer formed by cable 3342A and threadable members 3344A, 3344B and 3344H ensures that the tension in back strap 3330A is the same as the tension in back strap 3330B.

[0139] One end of cable 3342B can be tied to arm anchor strap 3350 and the other end of cable 3342B is tied to tensioner 3320 to allow tensioner 3320 to adjust the tension in cable 3342B. The crossbar equalizer formed by cable 3342B in conjunction with threadable members 3344C, 3344D, 3344E, 3344F and 3344G on the palm side of brace elastic 3300 ensures that the tension in palm strap 3330C is the same as the tension in palm strap 3330D. Markings a, b, c and d help keep track of the tension around Fig.21A and Fig. 21B 3342 near the wrist on both sides of the anchor strap 3350 shown in FIG. Adjustment of the tensioner 2230 applies force to the wrist to stabilize it. The brace elastic garment 3300 may include a glove 3310 to which the above arrangement may be attached. The glove 3310 may be a full glove or may be a fingerless glove.

[0140] Fig.22A , Fig. 22B and Fig. 22C A wearable brace elastic garment 3500 for stabilizing a person's elbow is shown. Fig.22A , Fig. 22B and Fig. 22C , a brace elastic garment 3500 is shown in different aspect views for application to the right elbow of a human wearer. Fig.22A shows an anterior view of the right elbow and a palmar view of the right hand, and Fig. 22B A posterior view of the same elbow and a dorsal view of the right hand are shown. Fig. 22C The same right arm and right hand are shown in a third perspective view with the biceps contracted. The forearm anchoring strap 3510 and the upper arm anchoring strap 3550 are releasably fastened to the forearm and upper arm, respectively. To this end, the two anchoring straps may be provided with hook and loop fastening facilities or other arrangements that facilitate easy attachment to the two parts of the arm. Fig. 22B and Fig. 22C As shown, the tensioner 3520 is disposed on the back side of the forearm anchoring strap 3510. One end of the substantially inextensible cable 3560 is attached to the forearm anchoring strap 3510, and the other end of the cable 3560 is engaged with the tensioner 3520 at its other end, thereby allowing the tensioner 3520 to adjust the tension in the cable 3560. The substantially inextensible cables 3570A and 3570B each have their two ends attached to the upper arm anchoring strap 3550. The cables 3570A and 3570B are each looped through the cable 3560. In order to guide the cable 3570A, the cable 3570A is additionally looped through the threadable member 3544A on the forearm anchoring strap 3510. In order to guide the cable 3570B, the cable 3570B is additionally looped through the threadable member 3544B on the forearm anchoring strap 3510.

[0141] The cables 3570A and 3570B may be routed along conduits extending between the forearm anchoring strap 3510 and the upper arm anchoring strap 3550. In some embodiments, the brace elastic garment 3500 may further include a tubular elastic garment 3590 extending from a proximal end at the upper arm anchoring strap 3550 to a distal end at the forearm anchoring strap 3510. Conduits for the cables 3570A and 3570B may be disposed on or within the tubular elastic garment 3590. These conduits may be individually configured. Fig. 6A , Figure 6b or Figure 6C The arrangement described above is implemented.

[0142] Cables 3570A and 3570B together with cable 3560 and threadable members 3544A and 3544B constitute a crossbar equalizer that is used to equalize the tension in cables 3570A and 3570B. Adjusting the tensioner 3520 causes a tension adjustment in cables 3570A and 3570B, and the crossbar equalizer automatically ensures that the tension in each of the two cables 3570A and 3570B is the same. The tension in cables 3570A and 3570B generates the force required to stabilize the user's elbow joint.

[0143] FIG. 14A to FIG. 22C Aspects and embodiments of a wearable brace elastic garment 1900, 2400, 2600, 3100, 3300, 3500 for stabilizing an articulated joint of a wearer are described, the elastic garment being arranged to at least partially wrap around the joint. The elastic garment may include a tensioning member disposed about the joint along a three-dimensional spatial path. The tensioning member varies between embodiments, but may include a plurality of strands that are substantially inextensible in a longitudinal direction. The brace elastic garment may further include a tensioner disposed on the elastic garment and arranged to adjust the tension in the tensioning member. The tensioner may vary between embodiments, but is exemplified as tensioners 1940A, 1940B, 2440, 3120, 3320, and 3520, and Fig.19A and 19B The brace elastic garment may further include tension equalizers 1942A, 1942B, 2442, 2642A, 2642B (and Figures 20 to 22C The cable arrangement of the tension equalizer is arranged on the elastic garment and is connected to the tensioner and the strands of the tensioning member in a tension manner, and the tension equalizer is arranged to make the tension between multiple inextensible strands of the tensioning member uniform.

[0144] The tension equalizer may include a crossbar portion, which may be a multi-stage crossbar portion. Fig.12 and Fig.13 as well as FIG. 16A to FIG. 17CA suitable crossbar portion for use as a tension equalizer for various embodiments is shown in FIG. The crossbar portion may include a pulley (e.g., 1943A, 2044A, 2045A, 2046A) arranged to engage with a substantially non-retractable strand of a tension member. The pulley may be made of one of wood, metal, and polymer. In some embodiments, the crossbar portion may include one of an injection molded pulley and a three-dimensionally printed pulley. The crossbar portion may include a threadable member arranged to engage with a substantially non-retractable strand of a tension member. The threadable member may be a bead, a block, a ring, an eyelet, and / or a crossbar, which is arranged to engage with a substantially non-retractable strand of a tension member. The bead, block, ring, eyelet, or crossbar may be made of one of wood, metal, and polymer. The threadable member may be injection molded or three-dimensionally printed. The crossbar portion may include a ring made of a substantially non-retractable fabric arranged to engage with a substantially non-retractable strand of a tension member. The crossbar portion may be configured to provide a mechanical advantage.

[0145] The brace elastic garment may include a web portion including laterally extending strands, each strand being disposed in a corresponding strand conduit on or within the elastic garment. The elastic garment may be made of an elastic garment material, and each conduit may have a coefficient of friction relative to the strands that is lower than a coefficient of friction of the elastic garment material relative to the strands. Each conduit may include a tube of material different from the elastic garment material. The three-dimensional spatial path of the tensioning member may extend around a limb attached at a joint. The three-dimensional spatial path of the tensioning member may be arranged so that the tension in the tensioning member produces a compressive force near the joint. The joint may be one of the following: an ankle, an elbow, a wrist, a shoulder, a hip, a neck, a spine, and one or more vertebrae of the wearer. The tensioner may be configured to provide a mechanical advantage when applying tension to the tension equalizer.

[0146] Fig.14A and Fig. 14B ,as well as Fig.18A and Fig.18BA wearable brace elastic garment 1900, 2400 for stabilizing an articulated joint of a wearer is described, the elastic garment 1900, 2400 being arranged to at least partially wrap the joint, the elastic garment comprising: a tensioning member arranged in a tube on or within the elastic garment 1900, 2400 along a three-dimensional spatial path around the joint, the tensioning member comprising a plurality of strands 1930A, 1930B, 2430 that are substantially inextensible in a longitudinal direction; a fiber mesh portion 1926A, 1926B, 2426 comprising transversely extending strands, each strand being arranged in a corresponding strand tube; a tensioner 1 940A, 1940B, 2440, the tensioner is arranged on the elastic garment 1900, 2400 and is arranged to adjust the tension in the tensioning member; the tension equalizer 1942A, 1942B, 2442, the tension equalizer is arranged on the elastic garment 1900, 2400 and is connected to the tensioner 1940A, 1940B, 2440 and the strands 1930A, 1930B, 2430 of the tensioning member in a tension manner, the tension equalizer 1942A, 1942B, 2442 is arranged to make the tension between the multiple inextensible strands 1930A, 1930B, 2430 of the tensioning member uniform.

[0147] The tension equalizer may include a crossbar portion 1935A, 2035A, 2035A', 2035A", 2135A, 2235A, 2335A, 2335A', 2335A", which may be a multi-stage crossbar portion. The crossbar portion may be more specifically a two-stage crossbar portion or a three-stage crossbar portion, and the crossbar portion may adopt one or more of a pulley and a threadable member. The threadable member may include one or more beads, rings, eyes, blocks, rings made of non-stretchable fabric, rings in non-stretchable cables, and crossbars for engaging with the non-retractable strands 1930A, 2430 of the tensioning member. The pulleys, threadable beads, rings, eyes, blocks, and crossbars may be formed of any material capable of withstanding the applied tension, including but not limited to wood, metal, plastic, and other suitable polymer materials. These elements may be formed by, for example, but not limited to, injection molding or three-dimensional printing techniques.

[0148] The elastic garment 1900, 2400 can be made of an elastic garment material, and each conduit can have a coefficient of friction relative to the strands 1930A, 2430 that is lower than the coefficient of friction of the elastic garment material relative to the strands 1930A, 2430. Each of the conduits can include a tube of material different from the elastic garment material. The three-dimensional spatial path of the tensioning member can be arranged so that the tension in the tensioning member produces a compressive force near the joint.

[0149] The tensioner 1940A, 2440 can be coupled to the tension equalizer 1942A, 2442 to provide a mechanical advantage when applying tension to the tension equalizer, such as Fig.16A , Fig. 16B , Fig. 16C and Fig.16D as well as Fig.17A , Fig. 17B and Fig. 17C The tensioner 1940A shown in FIG. The joint may be one of: an ankle, elbow, wrist, shoulder, hip, neck, spine, and one or more vertebrae of the wearer.

[0150] exist Figure 1 One of the applications of the brace elastic garment presented herein is best described in Figure 1 A person's left knee is shown with the patella or kneecap and its various adhesions removed for clarity of the internal structures. Osteoarthritis is a painful condition in which the cartilage on the tibia 120 (both the inside of the articular cartilage 140 and the outside of the articular cartilage 140) is worn away. The inside of the articular cartilage 140 generally tends to exhibit the condition more frequently. One possible treatment for this condition is to reduce the pressure exerted by the femur 110 on the remaining portion (if any) of the inside of the articular cartilage 140. This can be done by using Fig.14A The invention is accomplished by using a brace elastic garment of the type shown on the left leg, but the device is applied to the outer or lateral side of the left knee joint instead of to the Fig.14A The medial side shown. The force applied to the lateral side of the left knee joint "unloads" the pressure on the medial side of the articular cartilage 140 and reduces wear and pain. Similar arrangements may be implemented for other joints in the human anatomy.

[0151] Although the present invention has been described as having an exemplary design, further modifications may be made to the present invention within the spirit and scope of the present application. Therefore, the present application is intended to cover any variation, use or adaptation of the present invention using the general principles. In addition, the present application is intended to cover modifications in the known or customary practices in the art related to the present invention.

Claims

1. A wearable brace elastic garment for stabilizing a joint of a wearer, the wearable brace elastic garment being configured to at least partially wrap the joint, the wearable brace elastic garment comprising: a tensioning member configured for placement along a three-dimensional spatial path around the articulation joint, the tensioning member comprising a plurality of strands that are substantially inextensible in a longitudinal direction, the plurality of strands configured to extend around a lateral side and a medial side of the articulation joint; a tensioner disposed on the wearable brace elastic garment, the tensioner being arranged to adjust the tension applied to the tensioning member; as well as a tension equalizer disposed on the wearable brace elastic garment and in tension communication with the tensioner and all of the plurality of inextensible strands of the tensioning member, the tension equalizer being arranged to make the tension between the plurality of inextensible strands of the tensioning member uniform, wherein the tensioning member and the tension equalizer are configured to make the support force applied to the medial side and the lateral side of the joint uniform through the plurality of strands.

2. The elastic garment according to claim 1, wherein: The tension equalizer includes a crossbar portion.

3. The elastic garment according to claim 2, wherein: The crossbar portion is a multi-stage crossbar portion.

4. The elastic garment according to claim 2, wherein: The crossbar portion includes a pulley configured to engage the substantially non-stretchable strand of the tensioning member.

5. The elastic garment according to claim 4, wherein: The pulley is made of one of wood, metal and polymer.

6. The elastic garment according to claim 2, wherein: The crossbar portion includes one of an injection molded pulley and a 3D printed pulley.

7. The elastic garment according to claim 2, wherein: The crossbar portion includes a threadable member arranged for engagement with the substantially inextensible strands of the tensioning member.

8. The elastic garment according to claim 7, wherein: The threadable member includes one or more of a bead, a block, a ring, an eyelet, and a crossbar configured to engage with the substantially inextensible strands of the tensioning member.

9. The elastic garment according to claim 8, wherein: One or more of the beads, blocks, rings, eyes and crossbars are made from one of wood, metal and polymer.

10. The elastic garment according to claim 7, wherein: The threadable member is one of injection molded and three-dimensionally printed.

11. The elastic garment according to claim 2, wherein: The crossbar portion includes a loop of substantially non-stretchable fabric arranged for engagement with the substantially non-stretchable strands of the tensioning member.

12. The elastic garment according to claim 2, wherein: The crossbar portion includes a loop within the non-retractable cable, the loop being arranged for engagement with the substantially non-retractable strand of the tensioning member.

13. The elastic garment according to claim 2, wherein: The crossbar portion is configured to provide a mechanical advantage.

14. The elastic garment of claim 1 further comprising a web portion including transversely extending strands, each of the strands being disposed within a respective strand conduit on or within the elastic garment.

15. The elastic garment according to claim 14, wherein: The elastic garment is made of an elastic garment material having a friction coefficient, and wherein the friction coefficient of each of the tubes relative to the strands is lower than the friction coefficient of the elastic garment material relative to the strands.

16. The elastic garment according to claim 15, wherein: Each of the conduits comprises a tube made of a material different from that of the elastic garment.

17. The elastic garment according to claim 14, wherein: The tension equalizer includes a crossbar portion.

18. The elastic garment according to claim 1, wherein: The three-dimensional spatial path of the tension member extends around a limb joined at the joint.

19. The elastic garment according to claim 1, wherein: The three-dimensional spatial path of the tension member is arranged such that tension in the tension member produces a compressive force proximate the joint.

20. The elastic garment according to claim 1, wherein: The joint is one of: an ankle, an elbow, a wrist, a shoulder, a hip, a neck and a spine of the wearer.

21. The elastic garment according to claim 20, wherein: The tension equalizer includes a crossbar portion.

22. The elastic garment according to claim 1, wherein: The tensioner is configured to provide a mechanical advantage when applying tension to the tension equalizer.

23. A brace elastic garment wearable by a user, the brace elastic garment comprising a closed tensionable loop, a tensioner arranged to apply tension to the tensionable loop, and a tension equalizer, the tensionable loop comprising a tensioning member arranged to move substantially freely along one or more conduits within or on the brace elastic garment, wherein: The tensioning member includes a plurality of strands, the plurality of strands being flexible and substantially longitudinally inextensible, the plurality of strands being configured to extend around a lateral side and a medial side of a joint; The brace elastic garment includes a web portion, wherein the plurality of strands extend transversely and each strand is configured to move substantially freely within a respective strand conduit; The tensionable ring is configured to be disposed around a joint of the user to support ligaments of the joint on the medial side and the lateral side of the joint of the user when the user is wearing the brace elastic garment and the tensionable ring is tensioned; The tension equalizer is configured to engage in tension with all of the plurality of strands and is arranged to even out the tension applied by the tensioner among the plurality of strands; and The tensioner is in tension communication with the tension equalizer and is arranged to adjust the tension applied to the tension equalizer, wherein the tensioning member and the tension equalizer are configured to even out all support forces applied to the medial and lateral sides of the joint.

24. The elastic garment according to claim 23, wherein: The brace elastic garment is configured for a torso having a shoulder joint of the user, and the fiber mesh portion is configured to grip a portion of the torso opposite the shoulder joint of the user.

25. The elastic garment according to claim 24, wherein: The tension member surrounds the torso of the user.

26. The elastic garment according to claim 23, wherein: The tension equalizer includes a crossbar portion.

27. The elastic garment according to claim 26, wherein: The crossbar portion is a multi-stage crossbar portion.

28. The elastic garment according to claim 26, wherein: The crossbar portion includes a pulley configured to engage the substantially non-stretchable strand of the tensioning member.

29. The elastic garment according to claim 26, wherein: The crossbar portion includes a threadable member configured for engagement with the substantially inextensible strands of the tensioning member.

30. The elastic garment according to claim 29, wherein: The threadable member includes one or more of a bead, a block, a ring, an eyelet, and a crossbar configured to engage with the substantially inextensible strands of the tensioning member.

31. The elastic garment according to claim 30, wherein: One or more of the beads, the blocks, the rings, the eyelets, and the crossbars are made from one of wood, metal, and a polymer.

32. The elastic garment according to claim 31, wherein: One or more of the beads, the blocks, the rings, the eyelets and the crossbars made of polymer are made by one of injection molding and three-dimensional printing.

33. The elastic garment according to claim 26, wherein: The crossbar portion includes a loop of substantially non-stretchable fabric configured to engage the substantially non-stretchable strands of the tensioning member.

34. The elastic garment according to claim 26, wherein: The crossbar portion includes a loop within the non-retractable cable, the loop being configured for engagement with the substantially non-retractable strand of the tensioning member.

35. The elastic garment according to claim 23, wherein: The tensioner is configured to provide a mechanical advantage when applying tension to the tension equalizer.

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