Cross-strap tensioner for osteoarthritis braces

Abstract

A cross-strap tensioning device for use with a brace having a proximal portion engageable above a joint of a user and an opposing distal portion engageable below the joint is disclosed. In at least one embodiment, the device provides a first cross-strap and a second cross-strap, each of which extends between and interconnects the proximal and distal portions of the brace. The ends of each of the first front strap portion and the spaced-apart first rear strap portion of the first cross-strap, together with the second front strap portion and the spaced-apart second rear strap portion of the second cross-strap, provide a rope channel configured to allow a rope from a tensioning mechanism to extend in series therethrough. During use, when the tensioning mechanism is selectively tightened, the rope urges each of the first front strap portion, the first rear strap portion, the second front strap portion, and the second rear strap portion closer together.

Description

[0001] Related Applications

[0002] This application claims priority to and enjoys the filing date of U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 210,911, filed on June 15, 2021. The contents of the above application are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] background

[0004] The subject matter of this provisional patent application relates generally to osteoarthritis braces, and more particularly to a cross-strap tensioning apparatus for an osteoarthritis brace that is configured to join a pair of cross-straps of the brace opposite a hinge of the brace and allow the cross-straps to move independently while maintaining loads directly through the center of a user's joint during joint movement.

[0005] Applicants hereby incorporate by reference any and all patents and published patent applications cited or mentioned in this application.

[0006] By way of background, braces are widely used to treat a variety of conditions, including osteoarthritis. Such braces may be configured to apply force or leverage on a limb around a joint in order to relieve compressive forces within a portion of the joint, or to reduce the load on the joint. In addition, braces may stabilize, protect, support, or repair joints in situations where ligaments are fragile and weak.

[0007] It is well known that the knee is one of the most vulnerable joints in the body. Knee instability caused by cartilage damage, ligament strain and other reasons is relatively common because the knee joint is subjected to significant loads during almost any kind of physical activity that requires the use of the legs. A knee disease that many people are prone to is unicompartmental osteoarthritis. Unicompartmental osteoarthritis may occur when the pressure distribution in one of the medial and lateral compartments of the knee is persistently uneven. Knee bracing helps to reduce the load on the compartment by applying opposite external valgus or varus moments around the knee joint, thereby relieving compartment pain. Unloading knee braces have been shown to significantly reduce osteoarthritis knee pain while improving knee function.

[0008] There are many known unloading knee braces. Typically, this type of brace is designed to apply a moment around the knee by two mechanisms. The first mechanism is to cause a bending moment at the hinge by the angle of the hinge member. The second mechanism is provided by a three-point bending system via a pair of force straps that circle around the knee while crossing each other, thereby applying force to a specified aspect of the knee. However, it has been found that if the brace requires more knee unloading than normal belt tensioning, and if the force strap is further tightened, the knee is pulled toward the hinge and may hit the hinge. This causes the hinge to apply a force to the knee that offsets the force applied by the force strap. In turn, the additional tightening of the force strap is mitigated or offset by the force applied to the knee by the hinge. In addition, although a certain amount of movement from the force strap may be beneficial, it has been found that the force strap has a tendency to move too far out of position unintentionally, and the force strap slides above, below or to the side of the knee. Therefore, there is still a need for a device that allows the force strap to move independently while maintaining the load directly through the center of the knee joint during gait.

[0009] Aspects of the present invention meet these needs and provide other related advantages, as described in the following summary.

[0010] It should be noted that the above background description includes information that may be helpful in understanding aspects of the present invention. No admission is made that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, nor is an admission made that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.

[0011] Overview

[0012] Aspects of the present invention teach certain benefits of making and using aspects of the present invention, which result in the exemplary advantages described below.

[0013] The present invention solves the above problems by providing a cross-strap tensioning device for use with a brace having a proximal portion engageable above a user's joint and an opposing distal portion engageable below the joint. In at least one embodiment, the device provides a first cross-strap and a second cross-strap, each cross-strap extending between and interconnecting the proximal and distal portions of the brace, the first cross-strap and the second cross-strap being oriented substantially transversely relative to each other and positioned to intersect each other in an overlapping manner at a cross-strap intersection substantially located at the joint. The first cross-strap provides a first front strap portion and a first rear strap portion spaced apart from the first front strap portion, while the second cross-strap provides a second front strap portion and a second rear strap portion spaced apart from the second front strap portion. The tensioning mechanism is configured to selectively urge each of the first front strap portion, the first rear strap portion, the second front strap portion, and the second rear strap portion closer together. The ends of each of the first front belt portion, the first rear belt portion, the second front belt portion, and the second rear belt portion provide a rope channel configured to allow a rope from the tensioning mechanism to extend in series therethrough. Thus, during use of the device, when the tensioning mechanism is selectively tightened, the rope urges each of the first front belt portion, the first rear belt portion, the second front belt portion, and the second rear belt portion closer together.

[0014] Other features and advantages of aspects of the present invention will become apparent from the following more detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of aspects of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] The accompanying drawings illustrate various aspects of the invention. In these drawings:

[0017] Figure 1 and Figure 2 is a perspective view of an exemplary cross-strap tensioning device engaged with an exemplary osteoarthritis brace according to at least one embodiment;

[0018] Figure 3 is a partial top plan view of a pair of exemplary intersecting straps of an apparatus according to at least one embodiment;

[0019] Figure 4 is a partial top plan view of a pair of alternative exemplary cross straps of an apparatus according to at least one embodiment;

[0020] Figure 5 is a partial top plan view of an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus according to at least one embodiment, with a cover portion omitted; and

[0021] Figure 6is a partial top plan view of a device including an exemplary cover portion of the device according to at least one embodiment.

[0022] The above-mentioned accompanying drawings show various aspects of the present invention in at least one of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, and the exemplary embodiments of the present invention are further defined in detail in the following description. According to one or more embodiments, the features, elements and aspects of the present invention represented by the same numbers in different drawings represent the same, equivalent or similar features, elements or aspects.

[0023] Detailed Description

[0024] Now turn to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a cross-strap tensioning device 20 engaged with an exemplary osteoarthritis brace 22 is shown. First, it should be noted that while the device 20 is discussed herein in the context of a knee brace in at least one embodiment, in other embodiments, the device 20 may be used in combination with any other type of brace now known or later developed (i.e., a knee brace, elbow brace, hip brace, ankle brace, spinal brace, etc.) so long as the brace is configured to utilize a pair of cross-straps. Thus, the use of the present invention should not be construed as being limited to only knee braces, nor should even the particular brace 22 depicted in the accompanying drawings for purposes of illustration be construed as being limited to only knee braces.

[0025] Continue to refer Figure 1 and Figure 2In at least one embodiment, the exemplary brace 22 itself provides a proximal portion 24 configured to engage above a user's joint 26 (e.g., such as a knee), and an opposing distal portion 28 configured to engage below the user's joint 26. In at least one embodiment, the device 20 provides at least one first cross-strap 30 and at least one second cross-strap 32, each of which extends between and interconnects the proximal portion 24 and the distal portion 28 of the brace 22. In at least one embodiment, each of the at least one first cross-strap 30 and the second cross-strap 32 is removably engaged with the proximal portion 24 and the distal portion 28 of the brace 22. In at least one alternative embodiment, each of the at least one first cross-strap 30 and the second cross-strap 32 is permanently engaged with the proximal portion 24 and the distal portion 28 of the brace 22. In at least one embodiment, at least one second cross-strap 32 is oriented substantially transversely relative to the first cross-strap 30 and is positioned to intersect the first cross-strap 30 in an overlapping manner at a cross-strap intersection 34 substantially located at the user's joint 26. In at least one embodiment, the first cross-strap 30 and the second cross-strap 32 are positioned on the lateral side 36 or medial side 38 of the brace 22 such that the cross-strap intersection 34 substantially contacts the lateral side 40 or medial side 42 of the user's joint 26. In at least one such embodiment, the brace 22 may also provide a hinge 44 extending between the proximal portion 24 and the distal portion 28 and positioned on the other side of the lateral side 40 or medial side 42 of the user's joint 26 opposite the cross-strap intersection 34.

[0026] In at least one embodiment, Figure 3 As best shown, at least one first cross-strap 30 includes a first front strap portion 48 and a spaced-apart first rear strap portion 50, while at least one second cross-strap 32 includes a second front strap portion 52 and a spaced-apart second rear strap portion 54. Thus, in at least one such embodiment, the first front strap portion 48, the first rear strap portion 50, the second front strap portion 52, and the second rear strap portion 54 are four separate straps. However, in at least one alternative embodiment, as Figure 4As best shown, the first rear belt portion 50 and the second rear belt portion 54 are integral with each other or otherwise fixed to each other. In at least one such embodiment in which the first rear belt portion 50 is integral with the second rear belt portion 54, the first rear belt portion 50 and the second rear belt portion 54 are folded against each other. In addition, in at least one such embodiment, the first rear belt portion 50 and the second rear belt portion 54 are connected by a connector 56 (e.g., such as a rivet), and the connector 56 is configured to allow the first rear belt portion 50 and the second rear belt portion 54 to selectively pivot relative to each other, thereby allowing the first rear belt portion 50 and the second rear belt portion 54 to move independently while substantially maintaining their overall arrangement relative to each other. Similarly, in at least one other alternative embodiment (not shown), the first front belt portion 48 and the second front belt portion 52 are integral with each other or otherwise fixed to each other. In at least one such embodiment in which the first front belt portion 48 is integral with the second front belt portion 52, the first front belt portion 48 and the second front belt portion 52 are folded against each other. In addition, in at least one such embodiment, the first front belt portion 48 and the second front belt portion 52 are connected by a connector 56, which is configured to allow the first front belt portion 48 and the second front belt portion 52 to selectively pivot relative to each other, thereby allowing the first front belt portion 48 and the second front belt portion 52 to move independently while substantially maintaining their overall arrangement relative to each other. It should be noted that the specific size, shape, dimensions and relative position of each of the first front belt portion 48, the first rear belt portion 50, the second front belt portion 52 and the second rear belt portion 54 depicted in the accompanying drawings are merely illustrative, so that in other embodiments, each of the first front belt portion 48, the first rear belt portion 50, the second front belt portion 52 and the second rear belt portion 54 can present any other size, shape, dimension and / or relative position now known or later developed, which depends at least in part on the type of brace 22 engaged with the device 20, as long as the device 20 can substantially perform the functions described herein.

[0027] In at least one embodiment, the device 20 also provides at least one tensioning mechanism 58 that is configured to selectively urge each of the first front strap portion 48, the first rear strap portion 50, the second front strap portion 52, and the second rear strap portion 54 closer together, as discussed further below. In at least one embodiment, the tensioning mechanism 58 is a rotary ratchet mechanism; however, in other embodiments, it can be replaced with any other mechanism (or combination of mechanisms) now known or later developed that can selectively urge each of the first front strap portion 48, the first rear strap portion 50, the second front strap portion 52, and the second rear strap portion 54 closer together. In at least one embodiment, the at least one tensioning mechanism 58 is located on the end 60 of one of the first front strap portion 48, the first rear strap portion 50, the second front strap portion 52, or the second rear strap portion 54. However, in other embodiments, the at least one tensioning mechanism 58 can be located elsewhere - on one of the first cross strap 30 or the second cross strap 32, or elsewhere on the device 20, or even on the brace 22. In this regard, it should be noted that the specific size, shape, dimensions, type, number and relative position of at least one tensioning mechanism 58 depicted in the accompanying drawings are illustrative only, such that in other embodiments, at least one tensioning mechanism 58 may present any other size, shape, dimension, type, number and / or relative position now known or later developed, so long as the device 20 is able to substantially perform the functions described herein.

[0028] In at least one embodiment, the end 60 of each of the first front belt portion 48, the first rear belt portion 50, the second front belt portion 52, and the second rear belt portion 54 provides a rope channel 62 that is configured to allow a rope 64 from the tensioning mechanism 58 to extend in series through the rope channel 62. In at least one such embodiment where at least one tensioning mechanism 58 is positioned on the end 60 of one of the first front belt portion 48, the first rear belt portion 50, the second front belt portion 52, or the second rear belt portion 54, the at least one tensioning mechanism 58 provides the rope channel 62 for the corresponding one of the first front belt portion 48, the first rear belt portion 50, the second front belt portion 52, or the second rear belt portion 54. Thus, as Figure 3 and Figure 4As best shown, the cord 64 from the at least one tensioning mechanism 58 extends in series through each of the cord passages 62 and forms a complete loop. Thus, during use of the device 20 and the corresponding brace 22, when the at least one tensioning mechanism 58 is selectively tightened, the cord 64 urges each of the first front strap portion 48, the first rear strap portion 50, the second front strap portion 52, and the second rear strap portion 54 closer together. It should be noted that the specific size, shape, dimensions, and relative position of each of the cord passages 62 depicted in the accompanying drawings are merely illustrative, such that in additional embodiments, each of the at least one cord passage 62 may assume any other size, shape, dimension, and / or relative position now known or later developed, so long as the device 20 is able to substantially perform the functions described herein.

[0029] In at least one embodiment, Figure 3 and Figure 4As best shown, the first front strap portion 48 is interconnected with the first rear strap portion 50 by a first tether 66 that is sized and configured to prevent the first front strap portion 48 and the first rear strap portion 50 from being separated too far from each other during use of the device 20. Similarly, in at least one embodiment, the second front strap portion 52 is interconnected with the second rear strap portion 54 by a second tether 68 that is sized and configured to prevent the second front strap portion 52 and the second rear strap portion 54 from being separated too far from each other during use of the device 20. Thus, in at least one such embodiment, the second tether 68 is oriented substantially transversely relative to the first tether 66 and is positioned to intersect the first tether 66 in an overlapping manner at the cross-strap intersection 34 that is substantially located at the user's joint 26. In at least one embodiment, the first tether 66 is joined proximally to the end 60 of each of the first front strap portion 48 and the first rear strap portion 50, and the second tether 68 is joined proximally to the end 60 of each of the second front strap portion 52 and the second rear strap portion 54. However, in other embodiments, each of the first tether 66 and the second tether 68 may be joined elsewhere on the respective first front strap portion 48, first rear strap portion 50, second front strap portion 52, and second rear strap portion 54. In at least one embodiment, the first tether 66 and the second tether 68 are constructed of an elastic or other resilient material, which allows the first front strap portion 48, the first rear strap portion 50, the second front strap portion 52, and the second rear strap portion 54 to move independently when the user moves the joint 26, while always biasing the first front strap portion 48, the first rear strap portion 50, the second front strap portion 52, and the second rear strap portion 54 back to their original neutral positions. It should be noted that the specific size, shape, dimensions, and relative position of each of the first tether 66 and the second tether 68 depicted in the accompanying drawings are merely illustrative, such that in additional embodiments, each of the first tether 66 and the second tether 68 may present any other size, shape, dimension, and / or relative position now known or later developed, depending at least in part on the type of brace 22 engaged with the device 20, so long as the device 20 is able to substantially perform the functions described herein.

[0030] In at least one embodiment, Figure 5As best shown, the device 20 also provides a mounting plate 70 that is positioned substantially adjacent to the first tether 66 and the second tether 68 at the cross-strap intersection 34. In at least one such embodiment, the first tether 66 and the second tether 68 are secured to the mounting plate 70 substantially at the cross-strap intersection 34 using stitching, adhesive, welding, or any other technique (now known or later developed to secure the first tether 66 and the second tether 68 to the mounting plate 70). Thus, in such embodiments, the mounting plate 70 helps to resiliently maintain the position of the cross-strap intersection 34 relative to the first tether 66 and the second tether 68 and, in turn, relative to the first cross-strap 30 and the second cross-strap 32, which allows the first cross-strap 30 and the second cross-strap 32 to move independently as the user moves the joint 26, while always biasing the first cross-strap 30 and the second cross-strap 32 back to their original positions. In other words, in at least one embodiment, the device 20 acts as a locator to find the center of rotation of the joint 26 for ease of use. In addition, in at least one embodiment, the mounting plate 70 provides at least one additional cord channel 72 that is positioned and configured to allow the cord 64 from the tensioning mechanism 58 to extend in series therethrough and through the cord channel 72 and the cord channels 62 provided by each of the first front strap portion 48, the first rear strap portion 50, the second front strap portion 52, and the second rear strap portion 54, thereby helping to maintain the cord 64 in place during use of the device 20. It should be noted that the specific size, shape, dimensions, and relative position of each of the at least one additional cord channel 72 depicted in the accompanying drawings are merely illustrative, such that in further embodiments, each of the at least one additional cord channel 72 may assume any other size, shape, dimension, and / or relative position now known or later developed, depending at least in part on the type of brace 22 that is engaged with the device 20, so long as the device 20 is able to substantially perform the functions described herein. Similarly, the specific size, shape, dimensions, and relative position of the mounting plate 70 depicted in the figures are merely illustrative, such that in further embodiments, the mounting plate 70 may take on any other size, shape, dimension, and / or relative position now known or later developed, depending at least in part on the type of brace 22 to be engaged with the device 20, so long as the device 20 is able to substantially perform the functions described herein. In at least one embodiment, the mounting plate 70 is constructed of a semi-flexible rubber or other resilient material. However, in further embodiments, the mounting plate 70 may be constructed of any other material (or combination of materials) now known or later developed, so long as the device 20 is able to substantially perform the functions described herein.

[0031] In at least one embodiment, continue to refer to Figure 5, the device 20 also provides a mounting plate pad 74 that is positioned adjacent to the rear surface of the mounting plate 70, substantially between the mounting plate 70 and the user's joint 26, so as to provide additional comfort during use of the device 20. In at least one such embodiment, the mounting plate pad 74 is constructed of a soft and / or padded material (e.g., such as foam). However, in other embodiments, the mounting plate pad 74 can be constructed of any other material (or combination of materials) now known or later developed, so long as the device 20 is able to substantially perform the functions described herein. In addition, the mounting plate pad 74 can take on any other size, shape, dimension, and / or relative position now known or later developed, which depends at least in part on the size, shape, dimension, and relative position of the corresponding mounting plate 70, so long as the device 20 is able to substantially perform the functions described herein.

[0032] In at least one embodiment, Figure 2 and Figure 6As best shown, the device 20 also provides a cover portion 76 that is sized and configured to substantially enclose (or otherwise cover) the end 60 of each of the first front strap portion 48, the first rear strap portion 50, the second front strap portion 52, and the second rear strap portion 54 (along with each of the first tether 66 and the second tether 68 in at least one embodiment) within the cover portion 76. In at least one embodiment where the device 20 provides a mounting plate 70 and a mounting plate pad 74, the cover portion 76 is sized and configured to also substantially enclose (or otherwise cover) each of the mounting plate 70 and the mounting plate pad 74 within the cover portion 76. Additionally, in at least one embodiment, the cover portion 76 is constructed of a resilient material such as fabric, silicone, rubber, soft plastic, or any other material (or combination of materials) now known or later developed that has sufficient resilient properties to allow the cover portion 76 to substantially function as described herein. In at least one alternative embodiment, the cover portion 76 can be constructed of a non-resilient material. In at least one embodiment, the cover portion 76 provides a first front strap hole 78, a first rear strap hole 80, a second front strap hole 82, and a second rear strap hole 84, the first front strap hole 78 being positioned and configured to allow the end 60 of the first front strap portion 48 to extend therethrough, the first rear strap hole 80 being positioned and configured to allow the end 60 of the first rear strap portion 50 to extend therethrough, the second front strap hole 82 being positioned and configured to allow the end 60 of the second front strap portion 52 to extend therethrough, and the second rear strap hole 84 being positioned and configured to allow the end 60 of the second rear strap portion 54 to extend therethrough. In at least one embodiment, the cover portion 76 also provides at least one tensioning hole 86, the at least one tensioning hole 86 being positioned and configured to allow at least one tensioning mechanism 58 to extend therethrough. Thus, the specific size, shape, and dimensions of cover portion 76 will depend, at least in part, on the size, shape, dimensions, number, and relative positions of the various components of device 20. Accordingly, the cover portion 76 depicted in the figures is merely exemplary.

[0033] In at least one embodiment, the cover portion 76 provides at least one first engagement mechanism 88 positioned and configured to engage with the first cross-band 30 and at least one second engagement mechanism 90 positioned and configured to engage with the second cross-band 32 to maintain the position of the cover portion 76 relative to the cross-band intersection 34 so that the cross-band intersection 34 is substantially unable to move relative to the cover portion 76. In at least one embodiment, as Figure 6As best shown, the cover portion 76 provides a pair of first engagement mechanisms 88 and a pair of second engagement mechanisms 90, the pair of first engagement mechanisms 88 being positioned on opposing edges of the cover portion 76 proximal to the first front belt hole 78 and the first rear belt hole 80, and the pair of second engagement mechanisms 90 being positioned on other opposing edges of the cover portion 76 proximal to the second front belt hole 82 and the second rear belt hole 84. In at least one embodiment, each of the first engagement mechanism 88 and the second engagement mechanism 90 is a permanent engagement mechanism (e.g., such as stitching or adhesive). In at least one alternative embodiment, each of the first engagement mechanism 88 and the second engagement mechanism 90 is a non-permanent engagement mechanism (e.g., such as hook and loop fasteners, buttons, snaps, or magnets) that is positioned and configured to cooperate with a corresponding non-permanent engagement mechanism provided by each of the first cross strap 30 and the second cross strap 32. It should be noted that the specific sizes, shapes, dimensions, types, quantities, and relative positions of the first engagement mechanisms 88 and the second engagement mechanisms 90 depicted in the drawings are merely exemplary and are shown for purposes of illustration. In further embodiments, the first engagement mechanism 88 and the second engagement mechanism 90 may present any other size, shape, dimension, type, number and / or relative position now known or later developed that allows the device 20 to substantially perform the functions described herein. In at least one such further embodiment, the first engagement mechanism 88 and the second engagement mechanism 90 are the same engagement mechanism, that is, a single engagement mechanism is positioned and configured to engage with each of the first cross-strap 30 and the second cross-strap 32 to maintain the position of the cover portion 76 relative to the cross-strap intersection 34 so that the cross-strap intersection 34 cannot substantially move relative to the cover portion 76. In at least one further embodiment, the first tether 66 and the second tether 68 may be omitted so that the cover portion 76 instead performs the functions of the first tether 66 and the second tether 68. In at least one such further embodiment, the cover portion 76 is configured to be similar to the resilient hub portion described in Applicant's International Application No. PCT / US2021 / 016489, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0034] Thus, in at least one embodiment, the device 20 can allow independent movement of the first cross-strap 30 and the second cross-strap 32 while maintaining load directly through the center of the user's joint 26 during movement of the joint 26. Thus, in at least one embodiment where the brace 22 is a knee brace, the device 20 can offload the knee joint 26 to alleviate unicompartmental osteoarthritis; although the device 20 can also be used for other purposes, such as for preventing hyperextension of the elbow or knee, or scoliosis stabilization, for example.

[0035] Various aspects of this specification may also be described as follows:

[0036] 1. A cross-strap tensioning device for use with a brace having a proximal portion engageable above a joint of a user and an opposing distal portion engageable below the joint, the device comprising: at least one first cross-strap and at least one second cross-strap, each cross-strap extending between and interconnecting the proximal and distal portions of the brace, the first cross-strap and the second cross-strap being oriented substantially transversely relative to each other, and the first cross-strap and the second cross-strap being positioned to intersect each other in an overlapping manner at a cross-strap intersection point substantially located at the joint; at least one first cross-strap comprising a first front strap portion and a first rear strap portion spaced apart from the first front strap portion; at least one second cross-strap comprising a first rear strap portion and a first rear strap portion spaced apart from the first front strap portion; The device further comprises a plurality of straps, each of which is provided with ...

[0037] 2. The cross-strap tensioning device of embodiment 1, wherein each of the at least one first cross-strap and the at least one second cross-strap is removably engaged with the proximal portion and the distal portion of the brace.

[0038] 3. The cross-belt tensioning device according to embodiments 1-2, wherein the first rear belt portion of at least one first cross-belt and the second rear belt portion of at least one second cross-belt are connected by a connector.

[0039] 4. The cross-band tensioning device according to embodiments 1-3, wherein the first front band portion of at least one first cross-band and the second front band portion of at least one second cross-band are connected by a connector.

[0040] 5. The cross-belt tensioning device of embodiments 1-4, wherein at least one tensioning mechanism is a rotary ratchet mechanism.

[0041] 6. A cross-band tensioning device according to embodiments 1-5, wherein at least one tensioning mechanism is positioned on an end of one of the first front band portion, the first rear band portion, the second front band portion, or the second rear band portion.

[0042] 7. The cross-band tensioning device according to embodiments 1-6 also includes: a first tether, which extends between the first front band portion and the first rear band portion of at least one first cross band and connects the first front band portion and the first rear band portion of at least one first cross band to each other; and a second tether, which extends between the second front band portion and the second rear band portion of at least one second cross band and connects the second front band portion and the second rear band portion of at least one second cross band to each other; whereby the first tether and the second tether are oriented substantially transversely relative to each other, and the first tether and the second tether are positioned to intersect each other in an overlapping manner at the intersection point of the cross bands.

[0043] 8. A cross-band tensioning device according to embodiments 1-7, wherein: the first tether is engaged proximal to the end of each of the first front band portion and the first rear band portion of at least one first cross-band; and the second tether is engaged proximal to the end of each of the second front band portion and the second rear band portion of at least one second cross-band.

[0044] 9. The cross-belt tensioning device according to embodiments 1-8, wherein the first tether and the second tether are made of stretchable material or other elastic material.

[0045] 10. The cross-band tensioning device according to embodiments 1-9 further comprises a mounting plate, and the first tether and the second tether are fixed on the mounting plate at a position substantially at the intersection point of the cross-bands.

[0046] 11. A cross-band tensioning device according to embodiments 1-10, wherein the mounting plate provides at least one additional rope channel, which is positioned and configured to allow a rope from at least one tensioning mechanism to extend in series through the at least one additional rope channel and the rope channel provided by each of the first front band portion, the first rear band portion, the second front band portion, and the second rear band portion.

[0047] 12. A cross-belt tensioning device according to embodiments 1-11, wherein the mounting plate is made of semi-flexible rubber or other elastic material.

[0048] 13. The cross-strap tensioning device of embodiments 1-12, further comprising a mounting plate pad positioned adjacent to a rear surface of the mounting plate, substantially between the mounting plate and a user's joint.

[0049] 14. A cross-belt tensioning device according to embodiments 1-13, wherein the mounting plate pad is composed of a soft and / or padded material.

[0050] 15. The cross-band tensioning device according to embodiments 1-14 further includes a covering portion that is sized and configured to substantially encapsulate or otherwise cover within the covering portion an end of each of the first front band portion, the first rear band portion, the second front band portion, and the second rear band portion, the covering portion providing: a first front band hole that is positioned and configured to allow the end of the first front band portion to extend through the first front band hole; a first rear band hole that is positioned and configured to allow the end of the first rear band portion to extend through the through the first rear belt hole; a second front belt hole, the second front belt hole is positioned and configured to allow the end of the second front belt portion to extend through the second front belt hole; a second rear belt hole, the second rear belt hole is positioned and configured to allow the end of the second rear belt portion to extend through the second rear belt hole; at least one first engagement mechanism, the at least one first engagement mechanism is positioned and configured to engage with the first cross-belt proximal to the intersection of the cross-belts; and at least one second engagement mechanism, the at least one second engagement mechanism is positioned and configured to engage with the second cross-belt proximal to the intersection of the cross-belts.

[0051] 16. A cross-band tensioning device according to embodiments 1-15, wherein: the covering portion provides a pair of first engaging mechanisms, which are positioned on opposite edges of the covering portion near the first front band hole and near the first rear band hole; and the covering portion also provides a pair of second engaging mechanisms, which are positioned on other opposite edges of the covering portion near the second front band hole and near the second rear band hole.

[0052] 17. The cross-belt tensioning device of embodiments 1-16, wherein each of the first engagement mechanism and the second engagement mechanism is a permanent engagement mechanism.

[0053] 18. The cross-belt tensioning device of embodiments 1-17, wherein each of the first engagement mechanism and the second engagement mechanism is a non-permanent engagement mechanism.

[0054] 19. A cross-band tensioning device according to embodiments 1-18, wherein the cover portion further provides at least one tensioning hole, and the at least one tensioning hole is positioned and configured to allow at least one tensioning mechanism to extend through the at least one tensioning hole.

[0055] 20. A cross-band tensioning device according to embodiments 1-19, wherein the covering portion is made of an elastic material.

[0056] 21. A cross-strap tensioning device for use with a brace having a proximal portion engageable above a joint of a user and an opposing distal portion engageable below the joint, the device comprising: at least one first cross-strap and at least one second cross-strap, each cross-strap extending between and interconnecting the proximal and distal portions of the brace, the first cross-strap and the second cross-strap being oriented substantially transversely relative to each other, and the first cross-strap and the second cross-strap being positioned to intersect each other in an overlapping manner at a cross-strap intersection point substantially located at the joint; at least one first cross-strap comprising: a first front strap portion; a first rear strap portion, the first rear strap portion being spaced apart from the first front strap portion; and a first elastic tether, the first elastic tether extending between and interconnecting the ends of the first front strap portion and the ends of the first rear strap portion; at least one second cross-strap comprising: a second front strap portion; a second rear strap portion, the second rear strap portion being spaced apart from the first front strap portion; The device further comprises a plurality of elastic tethers, each of which is spaced apart from the second front strap portion; and a second elastic tether extending between and interconnecting the ends of the second front strap portion and the ends of the second rear strap portion, the second tether being oriented substantially transversely relative to the first tether and positioned to intersect the first tether in an overlapping manner at a cross-strap intersection point; at least one tensioning mechanism, the at least one tensioning mechanism being configured to selectively urge each of the first front strap portion, the first rear strap portion, the second front strap portion, and the second rear strap portion closer together; and an end of each of the first front strap portion, the first rear strap portion, the second front strap portion, and the second rear strap portion, the end providing a rope channel, the rope channel being configured to allow a rope from the at least one tensioning mechanism to extend in series through the rope channel; thereby, during use of the device, when the at least one tensioning mechanism is selectively tightened, the rope urges each of the first front strap portion, the first rear strap portion, the second front strap portion, and the second rear strap portion closer together.

[0057] 22. A cross-strap tensioning device for use with a brace having a proximal portion engageable above a joint of a user and an opposing distal portion engageable below the joint, the device comprising: at least one first cross-strap and at least one second cross-strap, each cross-strap extending between and interconnecting the proximal and distal portions of the brace, the first cross-strap and the second cross-strap being oriented substantially transversely relative to each other, and the first cross-strap and the second cross-strap being positioned to intersect each other in an overlapping manner at a cross-strap intersection point substantially located at the joint; at least one first cross-strap comprising a first front strap portion and a first rear belt portion, the first rear belt portion being spaced apart from the first front belt portion; at least one second cross-belt comprising a second front belt portion and a second rear belt portion, the second rear belt portion being spaced apart from the second front belt portion; at least one tensioning mechanism, the at least one tensioning mechanism being configured to selectively cause each of the first front belt portion, the first rear belt portion, the second front belt portion, and the second rear belt portion to be closer together; an end of each of the first front belt portion, the first rear belt portion, the second front belt portion, and the second rear belt portion, the end providing a rope channel, the rope channel being configured to allow a rope from the at least one tensioning mechanism to extend in series through the rope channel a channel; an elastic covering portion sized and configured to substantially encapsulate or otherwise cover within the covering portion an end of each of the first front strap portion, the first rear strap portion, the second front strap portion, and the second rear strap portion, the covering portion providing: a first front strap aperture positioned and configured to allow the end of the first front strap portion to extend through the first front strap aperture; a first rear strap aperture positioned and configured to allow the end of the first rear strap portion to extend through the first rear strap aperture; a second front strap aperture positioned and configured to allow the end of the second front strap portion to extend through the second rear strap aperture a second front strap hole; a second rear strap hole, which is positioned and configured to allow the end of the second rear strap portion to extend through the second rear strap hole; at least one first engagement mechanism, which is positioned and configured to engage with the first cross-strap proximal to the cross-strap intersection; and at least one second engagement mechanism, which is positioned and configured to engage with the second cross-strap proximal to the cross-strap intersection; whereby, during use of the device, when at least one tensioning mechanism is selectively tightened, the rope urges each of the first front strap portion, the first rear strap portion, the second front strap portion, and the second rear strap portion to be closer together.

[0058] 23. A combination of a cross-strap tensioning device and a brace, comprising: a brace having a proximal portion engageable above a joint of a user and an opposing distal portion engageable below the joint; and a cross-strap tensioning device comprising: at least one first cross-strap and at least one second cross-strap, each cross-strap extending between and interconnecting the proximal and distal portions of the brace, the first cross-strap and the second cross-strap being oriented substantially transversely relative to each other, and the first cross-strap and the second cross-strap being positioned to intersect each other in an overlapping manner at a cross-strap intersection point substantially located at the joint; at least one first cross-strap comprising: a first front strap portion; and a first rear strap portion spaced apart from the first front strap portion; at least one second cross-strap comprising: The two-cross strap includes: a second front strap portion; and a second rear strap portion spaced apart from the second front strap portion; at least one tensioning mechanism, which is configured to selectively urge each of the first front strap portion, the first rear strap portion, the second front strap portion, and the second rear strap portion to be closer together; and an end of each of the first front strap portion, the first rear strap portion, the second front strap portion, and the second rear strap portion, which provides a rope channel at the end, and the rope channel is configured to allow a rope from the at least one tensioning mechanism to extend in series through the rope channel; thereby, during use of the device, when the at least one tensioning mechanism is selectively tightened, the rope urges each of the first front strap portion, the first rear strap portion, the second front strap portion, and the second rear strap portion to be closer together.

[0059] 24. The combination of a cross-band tensioning device and a brace according to embodiment 23, wherein each of the at least one first cross-band and the at least one second cross-band is removably engaged with the proximal portion and the distal portion of the brace.

[0060] 25. The combination of a cross-strap tensioner and a brace according to embodiments 23-24, wherein the first rear strap portion of at least one first cross-strap and the second rear strap portion of at least one second cross-strap are connected by a connector.

[0061] 26. The combination of a cross-strap tensioner and a brace according to embodiments 23-25, wherein the first front strap portion of at least one first cross-strap and the second front strap portion of at least one second cross-strap are connected by a connector.

[0062] 27. The cross-strap tensioner and brace combination of embodiments 23-26, wherein at least one tensioning mechanism is a rotary ratchet mechanism.

[0063] 28. The combination of a cross-strap tensioner and brace of embodiments 23-27, wherein at least one tensioning mechanism is positioned at an end of one of the first front strap portion, the first rear strap portion, the second front strap portion, or the second rear strap portion.

[0064] 29. The combination of a cross-band tensioning device and a brace according to embodiments 23-28, further comprising: a first tether extending between a first front band portion and a first rear band portion of at least one first cross-band and interconnecting the first front band portion and the first rear band portion of at least one first cross-band; and a second tether extending between a second front band portion and a second rear band portion of at least one second cross-band and interconnecting the second front band portion and the second rear band portion of at least one second cross-band; whereby the first tether and the second tether are oriented substantially transversely relative to each other, and the first tether and the second tether are positioned to intersect each other in an overlapping manner at the intersection point of the cross-bands.

[0065] 30. A combination of a cross-strap tensioning device and a brace according to embodiments 23-29, wherein: a first tether is engaged proximal to the end of each of a first front strap portion and a first rear strap portion of at least one first cross-strap; and a second tether is engaged proximal to the end of each of a second front strap portion and a second rear strap portion of at least one second cross-strap.

[0066] 31. A combination of a cross-strap tensioner and a brace according to embodiments 23-30, wherein the first tether and the second tether are made of a stretchable material or other elastic material.

[0067] 32. The cross-strap tensioner and brace combination of embodiments 23-31, further comprising a mounting plate to which the first tether and the second tether are secured at locations substantially at the intersection of the cross-straps.

[0068] 33. A combination of a cross-strap tensioning device and a brace according to embodiments 23-32, wherein the mounting plate provides at least one additional rope channel, which is positioned and configured to allow ropes from at least one tensioning mechanism to extend in series through the at least one additional rope channel and the rope channels provided by each of the first front strap portion, the first rear strap portion, the second front strap portion, and the second rear strap portion.

[0069] 34. The combination of a cross-strap tensioner and a brace according to embodiments 23-33, wherein the mounting plate is made of semi-flexible rubber or other elastic material.

[0070] 35. The cross-strap tensioner and brace combination of embodiments 23-34, further comprising a mounting plate pad positioned adjacent the rear surface of the mounting plate, substantially between the mounting plate and the user's joint.

[0071] 36. The combination of a cross-strap tensioner and a brace according to embodiments 23-35, wherein the mounting plate pad is constructed of a soft and / or padded material.

[0072] 37. The combination of a cross-strap tensioner and brace of Examples 23-36, further comprising a covering portion sized and configured to substantially encapsulate or otherwise cover within the covering portion an end of each of the first front strap portion, the first rear strap portion, the second front strap portion, and the second rear strap portion, the covering portion providing: a first front strap aperture positioned and configured to allow an end of the first front strap portion to extend through the first front strap aperture; a first rear strap aperture positioned and configured to allow an end of the first rear strap portion to extend through the first front strap aperture; The end of the second front strap portion extends through the first rear strap hole; the second front strap hole is positioned and configured to allow the end of the second front strap portion to extend through the second front strap hole; the second rear strap hole is positioned and configured to allow the end of the second rear strap portion to extend through the second rear strap hole; at least one first engagement mechanism, the at least one first engagement mechanism is positioned and configured to engage with the first cross-strap proximal to the intersection of the cross-straps; and at least one second engagement mechanism, the at least one second engagement mechanism is positioned and configured to engage with the second cross-strap proximal to the intersection of the cross-straps.

[0073] 38. A combination of a cross-band tensioning device and a brace according to embodiments 23-37, wherein: the covering portion provides a pair of first engaging mechanisms, which are positioned on opposite edges of the covering portion proximal to the first front band hole and proximal to the first rear band hole; and the covering portion also provides a pair of second engaging mechanisms, which are positioned on other opposite edges of the covering portion proximal to the second front band hole and proximal to the second rear band hole.

[0074] 39. The cross-strap tensioner and brace combination of embodiments 23-38, wherein each of the first engagement mechanism and the second engagement mechanism is a permanent engagement mechanism.

[0075] 40. The cross-strap tensioner and brace combination of embodiments 23-39, wherein each of the first engagement mechanism and the second engagement mechanism is a non-permanent engagement mechanism.

[0076] 41. The cross-strap tensioner and brace combination of embodiments 23-40, wherein the covering portion further provides at least one tensioning hole positioned and configured to allow at least one tensioning mechanism to extend through the at least one tensioning hole.

[0077] 42. The combination of a cross-strap tensioner and a brace according to embodiments 23-41, wherein the covering portion is made of an elastic material.

[0078] Finally, with respect to the exemplary embodiments of the invention shown and described herein, it should be understood that an osteoarthritis brace incorporating a cross-strap tensioning device is disclosed. Since the principles of the invention may be practiced in a variety of configurations other than those shown and described, it should be understood that the invention is not limited in any way by the exemplary embodiments, but rather generally relates to an osteoarthritis brace incorporating a cross-strap tensioning device and can be implemented in a variety of forms without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It should also be understood by those skilled in the art that the invention is not limited to the specific geometries and materials of the disclosed constructions, but may alternatively require other functionally equivalent structures or materials now known or later developed without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0079] Certain embodiments of the present invention are described herein, including the best mode known to the inventor for carrying out the present invention. Of course, variations of these described embodiments will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art after reading the foregoing description. The inventor expects the skilled person to use such variations as appropriate, and the inventor intends to practice the present invention in a manner other than that specifically described herein. Therefore, the present invention includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the appended claims as permitted by applicable law. In addition, any combination of the above-described embodiments in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the present invention, unless otherwise stated herein or otherwise clearly contradictory to the context.

[0080] The grouping of alternative embodiments, elements or steps of the present invention should not be construed as limiting. Each group member can be referenced and claimed individually or in any combination with other group members disclosed herein. For convenience and / or patentability, it is contemplated that one or more members of the group may be included in the group or deleted from the group. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the specification is deemed to include the modified group, thereby satisfying the written description of all Markush groups used in the appended claims.

[0081] Unless otherwise stated, all numbers representing the characteristics, terms, amounts, parameters, attributes, terms, etc. used in this specification and claims should be understood to be modified by the term "about" in all cases. As used herein, the term "about" means that the characteristics, terms, amounts, parameters, attributes or terms so defined include a range of positive or negative ten percent above and below the value of the stated characteristics, terms, amounts, parameters, attributes or terms. Therefore, unless otherwise indicated, the numerical parameters set forth in the specification and the appended claims are approximate values ​​that may vary. At least rather than attempting to limit the application of the principle of equivalents within the scope of the claims, each digital indication should be interpreted at least according to the number of reported significant figures and by applying common rounding techniques. Although the numerical ranges and values ​​of the wide range of the present invention are approximate, the numerical ranges and values ​​set forth in the specific examples are reported as accurately as possible. However, any numerical range or value inherently contains certain errors caused by the standard deviation found in its respective test measurements. The reference to the numerical range of the value of this article is intended only as a shorthand method for individually referring to each separate numerical value falling within the range. Unless otherwise indicated herein, each individual value of a numerical range is incorporated into the specification as if individually recited herein. Similarly, as used herein, unless indicated to the contrary, the term "substantially" is a term of degree and is intended to indicate the approximation of the characteristic, term, amount, parameter, property or term so defined, encompassing a range that can be understood and interpreted by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0082] The use of the terms "may" or "can" with reference to an embodiment or aspect of an embodiment also carries the alternative meaning of "may not" or "cannot." Thus, if the specification discloses that an embodiment or aspect of an embodiment may or could be included as part of the subject matter of the present invention, a negative limitation or exclusionary appendix is ​​also expressly indicated to mean that the embodiment or aspect of an embodiment may not or cannot be included as part of the subject matter of the present invention. In a similar manner, the use of the term "optionally" with reference to an embodiment or aspect of an embodiment means that such embodiment or aspect of an embodiment may or may not be included as part of the subject matter of the present invention. Whether such a negative limitation or exclusionary appendix applies will be based on whether the negative limitation or exclusionary appendix is ​​recited in the subject matter claimed.

[0083] The terms "a" and "an" and "the" and similar references used in the context of describing the present invention (particularly in the context of the appended claims) are interpreted as including both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise specified herein or clearly contradictory to the context. In addition, the order indicators used to identify elements, such as "first", "second", "third", etc., are used to distinguish elements, and do not indicate or imply the quantity required or restricted by such elements, and do not indicate the specific position or order of such elements, unless otherwise explicitly stated. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order, unless otherwise specified herein or clearly contradictory to the context. Any and all examples or exemplary languages ​​(e.g., "such as (such as)") used provided herein are only intended to better illustrate the present invention and do not constitute a limitation on the scope of the present invention, unless otherwise stated. Any language in this specification should not be interpreted as indicating that any unclaimed element is necessary for the practice of the present invention.

[0084] When used in the claims, whether submitted as amended or added as amended, the open transition term "comprising" (together with its equivalent open transition phrases, such as "including," "containing," and "having") encompasses all explicitly recited elements, limitations, steps, and / or features individually or in combination with unrecited subject matter; the named elements, limitations, and / or features are essential, but other unnamed elements, limitations, and / or features may be added and still form a structure within the scope of the claims. Specific embodiments disclosed herein may be further limited in the claims using the closed transition phrases "consisting of" or "consisting essentially of" in place of "comprising" or as a modification of "comprising." When used in the claims, whether submitted as amended or added as amended, the closed transition phrase "consisting of" does not include any element, limitation, step, or feature not explicitly recited in the claim. The closed transition phrase "consisting essentially of" limits the scope of the claim to the explicitly recited elements, limitations, steps and / or features and any other elements, limitations, steps and / or features that do not materially affect the basic and novel one or more characteristics of the claimed subject matter. Therefore, the meaning of the open transition phrase "comprising" is defined to cover all specifically recited elements, limitations, steps and / or features and any optional, additional unspecified elements, limitations, steps and / or features. The closed transition phrase "consisting of" is defined to include only those elements, limitations, steps and / or features specifically recited in the claim, while the closed transition phrase "consisting essentially of" is defined to include only those elements, limitations, steps and / or features specifically recited in the claim and those elements, limitations, steps and / or features that do not materially affect the basic and novel one or more characteristics of the claimed subject matter. Therefore, as a limitation, the open transition phrase "comprising" (together with its equivalent open transition phrases) includes within its meaning the claimed subject matter specified by the closed transition phrase "consisting of" or "consisting essentially of". Thus, embodiments described herein or so claimed having the phrase "comprising" are described, enabled, and supported herein with the phrases "consisting essentially of and "consisting of" expressly or inherently unambiguously.

[0085] Any claim intended to be addressed under 35 U.S.C. §112(f) will begin with the words "means for," but use of the word "for" in any other context is not intended to be addressed under 35 U.S.C. §112(f). Applicants therefore reserve the right to seek additional claims in this or a continuation application after filing this application.

[0086] It should be understood that the order of any method and the corresponding elements of each method is purely exemplary. According to the embodiment, any method and the corresponding elements of each method can be performed in any order or in parallel, unless otherwise indicated in the present disclosure.

[0087] All patents, patent publications or other publications cited and identified in this specification are individually and clearly incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for the purpose of description and disclosure, for example, the components and methods described in such publications that may be used in conjunction with the present invention. These publications are only provided for disclosure before the filing date of the present application. Any content in this respect should not be construed as admitting that the inventor has no right to disclose such disclosure in advance by virtue of previous inventions or for any other reason. All statements about the date of the content of these documents or the representation are based on the information available to the applicant and do not constitute any recognition of the correctness of the date or content of these documents.

[0088] Although aspects of the present invention have been described with reference to at least one exemplary embodiment, it should be clearly understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited thereto. Rather, the scope of the present invention will only be interpreted in conjunction with the appended claims, and it is clarified here that the inventor considers the subject matter claimed to be the present invention.

Claims

1. A cross-strap tensioning device for use with a brace having a proximal portion engageable over a joint of a user and an opposing distal portion engageable under the joint, the device comprising: at least one first cross-band and at least one second cross-band, each extending between and interconnecting the proximal and distal portions of the brace, the first cross-band and the second cross-band being oriented substantially transversely relative to each other and positioned to intersect each other in an overlapping manner at a cross-band intersection point substantially located at the joint; The at least one first cross-band comprises: a first front band portion; and a first rear belt portion, the first rear belt portion being spaced apart from the first front belt portion; the at least one second cross-belt comprising: a second front band portion; and a second rear belt portion spaced apart from the second front belt portion; at least one tensioning mechanism configured to selectively urge each of the first front belt portion, the first rear belt portion, the second front belt portion, and the second rear belt portion closer together; and a terminal end of each of the first front belt portion, the first rear belt portion, the second front belt portion, and the second rear belt portion, the terminal end providing a rope passage configured to allow a rope from the at least one tensioning mechanism to extend in series therethrough; whereby, during use of the device, when the at least one tensioning mechanism is selectively tightened, the cord urges each of the first front strap portion, the first rear strap portion, the second front strap portion, and the second rear strap portion closer together; Wherein, the cross-belt tensioning device further comprises: a first tether extending between and interconnecting the first front strap portion and the first rear strap portion of the at least one first cross-strap; and a second tether extending between and interconnecting the second front strap portion and the second rear strap portion of the at least one second crossover strap; As such, the first and second tethers are oriented substantially transversely relative to one another, and the first and second tethers are positioned to intersect one another in an overlapping manner at the cross-strap intersection point.

2. The cross belt tensioning device according to claim 1, wherein: Each of the at least one first cross-strap and the at least one second cross-strap is removably engaged with the proximal portion and the distal portion of the brace.

3. The cross belt tensioning device according to claim 1, wherein: The first rear belt portion of the at least one first cross belt and the second rear belt portion of the at least one second cross belt are connected by a connector.

4. The cross belt tensioning device according to claim 1, wherein: The first front belt portion of the at least one first cross belt and the second front belt portion of the at least one second cross belt are connected by a connector.

5. The cross belt tensioning device according to claim 1, wherein: The at least one tensioning mechanism is positioned on the end of one of the first front belt portion, the first rear belt portion, the second front belt portion, or the second rear belt portion.

6. The cross-belt tensioning device according to claim 1, wherein: the first tether being joined proximal to the distal end of each of the first front strap portion and the first rear strap portion of the at least one first cross strap; as well as The second tether is joined proximal to the distal end of each of the second front strap portion and the second rear strap portion of the at least one second cross-strap.

7. The cross belt tensioning device according to claim 1, wherein: The first tether and the second tether are made of stretchable material or other elastic material.

8. The cross-strap tensioning device of claim 1 further comprising a mounting plate, the first tether and the second tether being secured to the mounting plate at locations substantially at the intersection of the cross-straps.

9. The cross-belt tensioning device according to claim 8, wherein: The mounting plate provides at least one additional rope channel positioned and configured to allow the rope from the at least one tensioning mechanism to extend in series through the at least one additional rope channel and the rope channel provided by each of the first front belt portion, the first rear belt portion, the second front belt portion, and the second rear belt portion.

10. The cross belt tensioning device according to claim 8, wherein: The mounting plate is made of semi-flexible rubber or other resilient material.

11. The cross-strap tensioning device of claim 8, further comprising a mounting plate pad positioned adjacent a rear surface of the mounting plate, substantially between the mounting plate and a joint of the user.

12. The cross-strap tensioning device of claim 1 , further comprising a cover portion sized and configured to substantially encapsulate or otherwise cover within the cover portion the ends of each of the first front strap portion, the first rear strap portion, the second front strap portion, and the second rear strap portion, the cover portion providing: a first front strap aperture, said first front strap aperture being positioned and configured to allow said end of said first front strap portion to extend therethrough; a first rear strap aperture positioned and configured to allow the distal end of the first rear strap portion to extend therethrough; a second front strap aperture, said second front strap aperture being positioned and configured to allow said end of said second front strap portion to extend therethrough; a second rear strap aperture positioned and configured to allow the end of the second rear strap portion to extend therethrough; at least one first engagement mechanism positioned and configured to engage said first cross-strap proximal to a point at which said cross-straps intersect; as well as At least one second engagement mechanism is positioned and configured to engage the second cross-strap proximal to the cross-strap intersection point.

13. The cross-belt tensioning device according to claim 12, wherein: The cover portion provides a pair of first engagement mechanisms positioned on opposing edges of the cover portion proximal to the first front belt aperture and proximal to the first rear belt aperture; and The cover portion further provides a pair of second engagement mechanisms positioned on further opposing edges of the cover portion proximal to the second front belt aperture and proximal to the second rear belt aperture.

14. The cross-belt tensioning device according to claim 12, wherein: Each of the first engagement mechanism and the second engagement mechanism is a permanent engagement mechanism.

15. The cross-belt tensioning device according to claim 12, wherein: Each of the first engagement mechanism and the second engagement mechanism is a non-permanent engagement mechanism.

16. The cross-belt tensioning device according to claim 12, wherein: The cover portion also provides at least one tensioning aperture positioned and configured to allow the at least one tensioning mechanism to extend therethrough.

17. The cross-belt tensioning device according to claim 12, wherein: The cover portion is composed of an elastic material.

18. A cross-strap tensioning device for use with a brace having a proximal portion engageable over a joint of a user and an opposing distal portion engageable under the joint, the device comprising: at least one first cross-band and at least one second cross-band, each extending between and interconnecting the proximal and distal portions of the brace, the first cross-band and the second cross-band being oriented substantially transversely relative to each other and positioned to intersect each other in an overlapping manner at a cross-band intersection point substantially located at the joint; The at least one first cross-band comprises: first front band portion; a first rear belt portion spaced apart from the first front belt portion; and an elastic first tether extending between and interconnecting an end of the first front strap portion and an end of the first rear strap portion; The at least one second cross-band comprises: second front band portion; a second rear belt portion spaced from the second front belt portion; and a second elastic tether extending between and interconnecting an end of the second front strap portion and an end of the second rear strap portion, the second tether being oriented substantially transversely relative to the first tether and positioned to intersect the first tether in an overlapping manner at the cross-strap intersection point; at least one tensioning mechanism configured to selectively urge each of the first front belt portion, the first rear belt portion, the second front belt portion, and the second rear belt portion closer together; and a terminal end of each of the first front belt portion, the first rear belt portion, the second front belt portion, and the second rear belt portion, the terminal end providing a rope passage configured to allow a rope from the at least one tensioning mechanism to extend in series therethrough; Thus, during use of the device, when the at least one tensioning mechanism is selectively tightened, the cord urges each of the first front strap portion, the first rear strap portion, the second front strap portion, and the second rear strap portion closer together.

19. A cross-strap tensioning device for use with a brace having a proximal portion engageable over a joint of a user and an opposing distal portion engageable under the joint, the device comprising: at least one first cross-band and at least one second cross-band, each extending between and interconnecting the proximal and distal portions of the brace, the first cross-band and the second cross-band being oriented substantially transversely relative to each other and positioned to intersect each other in an overlapping manner at a cross-band intersection point substantially located at the joint; The at least one first cross-band comprises: a first front band portion; and a first rear belt portion, the first rear belt portion being spaced apart from the first front belt portion; the at least one second cross-belt comprising: a second front band portion; and a second rear belt portion spaced apart from the second front belt portion; at least one tensioning mechanism configured to selectively urge each of the first front belt portion, the first rear belt portion, the second front belt portion, and the second rear belt portion closer together; a terminal end of each of the first front belt portion, the first rear belt portion, the second front belt portion, and the second rear belt portion, the terminal end providing a rope passage configured to allow a rope from the at least one tensioning mechanism to extend in series therethrough; an elastic cover portion sized and configured to substantially encapsulate or otherwise cover within the cover portion the ends of each of the first front strap portion, the first rear strap portion, the second front strap portion, and the second rear strap portion, the cover portion providing: a first front strap aperture, said first front strap aperture being positioned and configured to allow said end of said first front strap portion to extend therethrough; a first rear strap aperture positioned and configured to allow the distal end of the first rear strap portion to extend therethrough; a second front strap aperture, said second front strap aperture being positioned and configured to allow said end of said second front strap portion to extend therethrough; a second rear strap aperture positioned and configured to allow the end of the second rear strap portion to extend therethrough; at least one first engagement mechanism positioned and configured to engage the first cross-strap proximal to a point at which the cross-straps intersect; and at least one second engagement mechanism positioned and configured to engage the second cross-strap proximal to a point at which the cross-straps intersect; whereby, during use of the device, when the at least one tensioning mechanism is selectively tightened, the cord urges each of the first front strap portion, the first rear strap portion, the second front strap portion, and the second rear strap portion closer together; Wherein, the cross-belt tensioning device further comprises: a first tether extending between and interconnecting the first front strap portion and the first rear strap portion of the at least one first cross-strap; and a second tether extending between and interconnecting the second front strap portion and the second rear strap portion of the at least one second crossover strap; As such, the first and second tethers are oriented substantially transversely relative to one another, and the first and second tethers are positioned to intersect one another in an overlapping manner at the cross-strap intersection point.

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