Rear-entry walker

Abstract

A housing for a walker is provided. The housing includes: a base configured to receive a user's foot on the base; at least one body extending upward from the base, the at least one body configured to cover at least one of a portion of the user's foot, a portion of the ankle, and a portion of the lower leg when the user's foot is received by the base; and a tibia body, the tibia body being rigid and fixed to the at least one body, the tibia body being configured to cover the user's tibia when the user's foot is received by the base.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 070,569, filed October 14, 2020, with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a walker, particularly a rear-entry walker. Background Technology

[0004] As a treatment for forefoot injuries, walking devices (including walking boots) have been designed to restrict ankle movement and reduce plantar pressure. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Existing walker designs include stirrup walker designs and fixed / closed calf walker designs. Stirrup walker designs may include rigid side supports for the user's ankle and lower leg, with straps wrapped around the side supports and the user's lower leg to secure the user's leg within the walker. That is, stirrup walker designs do not include a fixed calf portion or a fixed tibia portion. Fixed / closed calf walker designs may include a fixed / closed calf component and a non-fixed tibia body. For example, the tibia component of a fixed / closed calf walker design can be easily held in place to support the user's tibia using straps wrapped around the tibia component and the fixed / closed calf component.

[0006] Stirrup-type walker designs can still allow unintended ankle movements, leading to increased forefoot pressure and reducing treatment effectiveness. Due to the fixed size of the fixed / closed calf component, fixed / closed calf walker designs can only accommodate calf sizes. Furthermore, due to the non-fixed nature of the tibial component, fixed / closed calf walker designs can also allow unintended ankle movements.

[0007] Some embodiments of the present invention solve the above-mentioned and other problems of the prior art.

[0008] For example, some embodiments of the present invention provide a walker and walker housing that are lighter in weight and have a more robust structure, while reducing plantar pressure by restricting ankle movement and providing pressure relief. Furthermore, some embodiments of the present invention provide a walker and walker housing that can be applied to users with a wide range of calf sizes. Therefore, embodiments of the present invention can provide advantageous treatment options in cases involving, forefoot surgery, forefoot trauma, and diabetic foot problems.

[0009] According to one or more embodiments, a housing for a walker is provided. The housing includes: a base configured to receive a user's foot on the base; a pair of side bodies extending upward from the base, the pair of side bodies configured to respectively cover the left and right sides of at least one of a portion of the user's lower leg and ankle when the user's foot is received by the base; and a tibia body that is rigid and fixed to each side body of the pair of side bodies, the tibia body configured to cover the user's tibia when the user's foot is received by the base.

[0010] According to one embodiment, the tibial body is integrally formed with each of the pair of lateral bodies.

[0011] According to one embodiment, the pair of side bodies are integrally formed with the base.

[0012] According to one embodiment, the housing is configured to receive the user's foot at the rear of the housing via an opening located between the rear sides of the pair of side bodies.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the pair of side bodies or the tibia body is configured to connect to a strap that extends across the user's calf by extending through the opening.

[0014] According to one embodiment, at least one of the tibial body and the pair of lateral bodies is configured to be connected to the tibial liner.

[0015] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the tibial body is rigidly fixed to each of the pair of lateral bodies.

[0016] According to one embodiment, at least one of the base and the pair of side bodies is configured to connect to a strap that extends across the top side of the user's foot or the front side of the user's ankle.

[0017] According to one or more embodiments, a walker is provided. The walker includes: a liner configured to surround a portion of a user's foot and a portion of a user's lower leg; and a housing including: a base configured to receive the user's foot within the liner on the base; a pair of side bodies extending upward from the base, the pair of side bodies configured to respectively cover the left and right sides of at least one of a portion of the user's lower leg and ankle when the user's foot is received by the base; and a tibia body that is rigid and fixed to each of the pair of side bodies, the tibia body being configured to cover the user's tibia when the user's foot is received by the base.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the tibial body is integrally formed with each of the pair of lateral bodies.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the pair of side bodies are integrally formed with the base.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the housing is configured to receive the user's foot at the rear of the housing via an opening located between the rear sides of the pair of side bodies.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the walker further includes a strap, wherein the pair of side bodies or the tibia body is configured to be connected to the strap such that the strap extends across the user's calf by extending through the opening.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the walker further includes a tibial liner, wherein at least one of the tibial body and the pair of lateral bodies is configured to be connected to the tibial liner.

[0023] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the tibial body is rigidly fixed to each of the pair of lateral bodies.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the walker further includes a strap, wherein at least one of the base and the pair of side bodies is configured to be connected to the strap, such that the strap extends across the top side of the user's foot or the front side of the user's ankle.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the walker further includes a rigid body that covers the outer portion of the liner, and the rigid body is configured to support the user's lower leg when the foot is located within the liner and separated from the housing, so as to hold the lower leg in a position.

[0026] According to one or more embodiments, a rear-entry walker is provided. The rear-entry walker includes: a housing comprising: a base configured to receive a user's foot on the base; a pair of side bodies extending upward from the base, the pair of side bodies configured to respectively cover the left and right sides of at least one of a portion of the user's lower leg and ankle when the user's foot is received by the base; and a tibia body, the tibia body being rigid and fixed to each of the pair of side bodies, the tibia body being configured to cover the user's tibia when the user's foot is received by the base, wherein the housing is configured to receive the user's foot on a rear side of the housing via an opening disposed between the rear sides of the pair of side bodies.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the rear-entry walker further includes a tibial liner disposed on the inner surface of the tibial body.

[0028] According to one embodiment, at least one of the tibial body and the pair of lateral bodies is connected to the tibial liner.

[0029] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the tibial body is rigidly fixed to each of the pair of lateral bodies.

[0030] According to one or more embodiments, a housing for a walker is provided. The housing includes: a base configured to receive a user's foot on the base; at least one body extending upward from the base, the at least one body configured to cover at least one of a portion of the user's foot, a portion of the ankle, and a portion of the lower leg when the user's foot is received by the base; and a tibia body, the tibia body being rigid and fixed to the at least one body, the tibia body being configured to cover the user's tibia when the user's foot is received by the base. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Other features, properties, and various advantages of the disclosed subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description and accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0032] Figure 1 A walking device worn by a user according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0033] Figure 2 A perspective view of a walker according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0034] Figure 3 It shows Figure 2The image shows a side view of a walker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 4 It shows Figure 2 The image shows a front view of the walker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 5 It shows Figure 2 The rear view of the walker according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0037] Figure 6 It shows Figure 2 The diagram shows a top view of the walker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 7 It shows Figure 2 The image shows a bottom view of the walker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 8 It shows Figure 2 An exploded view of the walker according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0040] Figure 9 A perspective view of the housing of the walker according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0041] Figure 10 It shows Figure 9 The image shows a side view of the housing of the walker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 11 It shows Figure 9 The front view of the housing of the walker according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0043] Figure 12 It shows Figure 9 The rear view of the housing of the walker according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0044] Figure 13 This is a first schematic diagram illustrating the force applied when a user wears the walker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 14 This is a second schematic diagram illustrating the force applied when a user wears the walker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 15 This is a third schematic diagram illustrating the force applied when a user wears the walker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 16 A perspective view of a walker according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0048] Figure 17An exploded perspective view of a walker according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0049] Figure 18 A perspective view of a walker according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0050] Figure 19 An exploded perspective view of a walker according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0051] Figure 20 An exploded perspective view of a walker according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0052] Figure 21 A perspective view of a walker according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0053] Figure 22 A perspective view of a walker according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0054] Figure 23 A perspective view of a walker according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0055] Figure 24 A perspective view of a walker according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0056] Figure 25 A perspective view of a walker according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0057] Figure 26 A perspective view of a walker according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0058] Figure 27 A perspective view of a walker according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0059] Figure 28 It shows Figure 27 The image shows a side view of a walker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Figure 29 It shows Figure 27 The image shows a front view of the walker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] Figure 30 It shows Figure 27 The rear view of the walker according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0062] Figure 31 It shows Figure 27 The image shows a bottom view of the walker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] Figure 32 It shows Figure 27 An exploded view of the walker according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0064] Figure 33A perspective view of the housing of a walker according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0065] Figure 34 A first perspective view of the housing of a walker according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0066] Figure 35 It shows Figure 34 The second perspective view of the housing of the walker according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0067] Figure 36 A front view of the housing of a walker according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0068] Figure 37 It shows Figure 36 The image shown is a first perspective view of the housing of a walker according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] Figure 38 It shows Figure 36 The second perspective view of the housing of the walker according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0070] Figure 39 A perspective view of the housing of a walker according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0071] Figure 40 A first perspective view of the housing of a walker according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0072] Figure 41 It shows Figure 40 The second perspective view of the housing of the walker according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0073] According to an embodiment of the present invention, referring to Figure 1 A walker 10 may be provided. The walker 10 may be applied to the user's feet 920 and lower legs 910. The walker 10 may correspond to the walker of the present invention. For example, the walker 10 may correspond to the walker 100 described below.

[0074] Reference Figures 2 to 12 The walker 100 may include a housing 110, a liner 130, an air pump 140, an insole liner 150, an outer sole 160, a shin liner 170, a first strap 181, a second strap 184, and a third strap 187.

[0075] The housing 110 of the walker 100 can be configured to restrict the movement of the user's feet 920, ankles, and legs, and also to reduce the burden on the user's forefoot. (See reference...) Figure 9The housing 110 of the walker 100 may include a housing base 111, a left body 117, a right body 118, and a tibia body 120. The housing base 111 may be configured to receive a user's foot 920, and the housing base 111 may include a base plate 112, a front wall 113, a left wall 114, a right wall 115, and a rear wall 116. The housing base 111 may be configured to receive a user's foot 920 thereon. The left wall 114 of the housing base 111 may be connected to the left body 117, and the right wall 115 of the housing base 111 may be connected to the right body 118.

[0076] Each of the left body 117 and the right body 118 may be plate-shaped and extend upward from the left wall 114 and the right wall 115, respectively, so as to be configured to support the left and right sides of at least one of the user's lower leg 910 and ankle, respectively. The left body 117 and the right body 118 may be rigid.

[0077] On the anterior side (tibial side) of the left body 117 and the right body 118, a tibial body 120 may be disposed between the left body 117 and the right body 118. The tibial body 120 may be configured to support the user's tibia. The tibial body 120 may be connected to the left body 117 and the right body 118 for rigid fixation between them. When the tibial body 120 is fixed to the left body 117 and the right body 118, a portion of the tibial body 120 may be considered "rigidly fixed," such that even when the foot 920 is not in the walker 100, this portion of the tibial body 120 is prohibited from translation in at least one direction (e.g., the anterior-posterior direction) relative to the left body 117 and the right body 118. For example, the tibial body may be "rigidly fixed" when it is integrally disposed with or removably or non-removably attached to the side body, for example, as... Figure 9 , Figures 16 to 20 as well as Figures 22 to 25 As shown. Therefore, a rope system or non-rigid straps are not required to hold the tibia body 120 at least partially in place. Figure 9 As shown, the tibial body 120 can be integrally formed with the left body 117 and the right body 118. Alternatively, the tibial body 120 can be rigidly fixed to the left body 117 and the right body 118 via fasteners (e.g., screws, bolts, pins, clips, rivets, etc.). The tibial body 120 can be plate-like and can be rigid. Figure 12 As shown, the tibia body 120 may have a curved shape to circumferentially surround the user's tibia.

[0078] An opening 129 may be provided on the rear side (calf side) of the left main body 117 and the right main body 118. The housing 110 may be configured to receive the user's foot 920 through the opening 129. Therefore, the walker 100 may be configured as a rear-entry walker. Since the opening 129 allows the user's calf to protrude from the housing 110, the housing 110 may accommodate calves of different sizes.

[0079] The housing 110 may also include attachment portions capable of attaching other components of the walker 100 to the housing 110. For example, the base plate 112 of the housing base 111 may include holes 124 for attaching the outsole 160 to the left wall 114 and right wall 115 of the housing base 111. Alternatively or additionally, according to embodiments, the left body 117 and right body 118 may include one or more holes for attaching the insole liner 150 to the left body 117 and right body 118. Alternatively or additionally, the tibia body 120 may include one or more holes 126 for attaching the tibia liner 170. Alternatively or additionally, the housing 110 may include protrusions 127 for attaching one or more straps, such as a first strap 181, a second strap 184, and a third strap 187. The straps may be, for example, Velcro straps.

[0080] Reference Figures 2 to 12 The outer sole 160 can be configured to provide traction, shock absorption, and unloading during walking. The outer sole 160 may include a base 162 and one or more protrusions 168 projecting from the lower surface of the base 162. When assembled in the walker 100, the lower surface of the base 162 may be configured to contact the upper surface of the base plate 112 of the housing base 111. That is, the base 162 may be located inside the housing base 111, between the front wall 113, left wall 114, right wall 115, and rear wall 116 of the housing base 111. The protrusions 168 of the outer sole 160 may be configured to fit through holes 124 in the base plate 112 of the housing base 111, such that the protrusions 168 extend below the lower surface of the base plate 112 of the housing base 111. Therefore, the outer sole 160 can be connected to the housing 110, and the protrusion 168 can be configured as the outermost layer of the sole of the walker 100. In an embodiment, the protrusion 168 can be configured to engage with the hole 124.

[0081] The insole liner 150 can be configured to provide padding across the sole of a user's foot 920. The insole liner 150 may include a bottom 152, sidewalls 153, and a rear wall 154. When assembled in the walker 100, the lower surface of the bottom 152 may be positioned to contact the upper surface of the base 162 of the outsole 160. The upper surface of the bottom 152 may be configured to receive the user's foot 920 thereon. One of the sidewalls 153 of the insole liner 150 may be configured to cover the inner side of the left wall 114 of the housing 110 and / or the inner side of the left body 117 of the housing 110. The other sidewall 153 of the insole liner 150 may be configured to cover the inner side of the right wall 115 of the housing 110 and / or the inner side of the right body 118 of the housing 110.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the outer side of each sidewall 153 of the insole liner 150 may include one or more protrusions. The protrusions may be configured to extend into corresponding holes in the housing 110. Thus, the insole liner 150 can be connected to the housing 110, and the outer sole 160 can be further secured between the housing 110 and the insole liner 150. In this embodiment, the protrusions may be configured to snap-fit ​​with holes.

[0083] The tibial liner 170 may be configured to provide additional padding between the user's tibia and the housing 110 (e.g., the tibial body 120). The tibial liner 170 may include a body 172. The body 172 of the tibial liner 170 may be configured to line the inner surface 121 of the tibial body 120 and to provide cushioning for the tibia of the user of the walker 100. In one embodiment, the body 172 of the tibial liner may be attached to the left body 117 and right body 118 of the housing 110 and / or the tibial body 120 of the housing 110. According to one embodiment, a protrusion may project from the outer surface of the body 172 of the tibial liner, and the protrusion may be configured to extend from the inside of the housing 110 toward the outside of the housing 110 into a corresponding aperture 126. Thus, the tibial liner 170 may be attached to the housing 110. In one embodiment, the protrusion of the tibial liner 170 may be configured to snap-fit ​​into the aperture 126.

[0084] The liner 130 may be a padded cushioning pad configured to provide compression and padding to the user's lower leg 910. The liner 130 may be configured to receive and surround a portion of the user's lower leg 910 and foot 920. For example, this portion of the lower leg 910 and foot 920 may be inserted into a first opening 132 of the liner 130. In one embodiment, when the foot 920 is within the liner 130, the forefoot portion (e.g., toes) of the user's foot 920 may protrude from a second opening 134 of the liner 130. When the liner 130 is provided in the walker 100, the bottom portion of the liner 130 may directly contact, for example, the upper surface of the bottom 152 of the insole liner 150, the inner surfaces of the sidewalls 153 and rearwall 154 of the insole liner 150, and the inner surface 121 of the tibia body 120 of the housing 110. In one embodiment, the liner 130 may be provided with an air pump 140 configured to change the air pressure of the liner 130. For example, the air pump 140 may be configured to inflate and contract the air bladder of the liner 130 to control the level of compression.

[0085] The user’s lower leg 910 and foot 920 within the liner 130 can be secured within the walker 100 by one or more straps (e.g., first strap 181, second strap 184 and / or third strap 187).

[0086] For example, the first strap 181 may be configured to cover and secure the front portion (e.g., toes) of the user's foot 920 within the liner 130, and the second strap 184 may be configured to cover and secure the front portion of the user's ankle within the liner 130. According to one embodiment, the walker 100 may include a front body 191 configured to cover the top of the foot 920, and the first strap 181 and the second strap 184 may be configured to hold the front body 191 in place on a portion of the tibial liner 170. For example, this portion of the tibial liner 170 may extend to the front portion (e.g., toes) of the foot 920, such as... Figure 3 As shown. According to one embodiment, the front body 191 may be rigid.

[0087] The third strap 187 can be configured to cover and secure the back of the user's leg (e.g., calf) within the liner 130. According to one embodiment, as... Figure 5 and Figure 8 As shown, the walker 100 may include a rear body 192 configured to cover the rear side of the user's lower leg 910, and a third strap 187 may be configured to hold the rear body 192 in place on the liner 130. According to one embodiment, the rear body 192 may be rigid.

[0088] Each of the first strap 181, the second strap 184, and the third strap 187 may have a corresponding connector 189 at both ends, wherein each connector 189 is configured to connect to a corresponding one of the protrusions 127 in the housing 110. In one embodiment, each connector 189 may include at least one hole configured to snap into one of the protrusions 127. In one embodiment, the outer side of the housing 110 is where the protrusions 127 are located. According to one embodiment, the housing 110 may include holes instead of protrusions 127, and each connector 189 may include a protrusion configured to snap into the hole in the housing 110.

[0089] Reference Figure 13 When a user walks, a downward force A is generated, which produces forefoot pressure. This forefoot pressure increases with increased ankle joint movement. In one embodiment of the invention, the tibia body 120 of the walker 10 reduces ankle joint movement and is able to unload the pressure via a force F (including components Fx and Fy) to distribute it to the user's shinbone, rather than as forefoot pressure. See, for example, [link to relevant documentation]. Figures 14 to 15 The inner surface 121 of the tibia body 120 can transmit pressure P to the area of ​​the user's lower leg 910, including area 930. For example... Figure 14 As shown, when viewed from a top view, the inner surface 121 of the tibia body 120 may have a slightly triangular shape (or a curved shape). Referring to an imaginary line B extending away from the center of the inner surface 121, this shape prevents the tibia body 120 from directly contacting the tibia of the leg. Alternatively, referring to... Figure 15 The muscles on the sides of the leg can support the inner surface 121 of the tibia to absorb the applied force, so that no force is applied directly to the tibia. For example, pressure P can be applied to the region 930 corresponding to the gastrocnemius muscle, and pressure P can also be applied to another region on the medial side of the leg corresponding to the tibialis anterior muscle. According to the above, plantar pressure can be reduced by unloading, and tibial discomfort can be avoided. Compared with the design of existing stirrup walkers, embodiments of the present invention have been measured to reduce plantar pressure by 22% to 24%.

[0090] As another example of an embodiment of the present invention Figure 16 A walker 200 is shown. Aside from a few differences, walker 200 may be identical to walker 100. For example, walker 200 may include a tibial body 220 instead of a tibial body 120. The tibial body 220 may be secured to a side body 217 (corresponding to the left side body 117 and the right side body 118) via fasteners 223. Fasteners 223 may be any type of fastener, including, for example, screws, bolts, pins, clips, rivets, etc.

[0091] According to one embodiment, any number of components of the walker 100 and walker 200 may be made of, for example, nylon, polypropylene, polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), aluminum, and / or steel. For example, the housing 110, which includes the housing base 111, the left body 117, the right body 118, and the tibia body 120, may be made of such materials.

[0092] The following is for reference Figures 17 to 26 Other exemplary embodiments of the invention are described below. The exemplary embodiments described below may combine any number of aspects of walker 100 and walker 200.

[0093] According to some embodiments, a walker may be provided having a fully removable tibial plate with a fixed angle. For example, the tibial plate (e.g., tibial body), stirrups (e.g., left and right bodies), and insole (e.g., base of the housing) of the walker housing may not be entirely integrally molded together, and the walker may be configured such that the angle of the tibial plate cannot be changed to improve patient comfort or transfer unloading.

[0094] In one exemplary embodiment, see Figure 17 The stirrup walker 300 may be modified to include a tibial body 320 (e.g., a tibial plate) configured to slide on stirrups (e.g., left body 317 and right body 318). According to one embodiment, the tibial body 320 may include an internal space configured to receive the stirrups. The tibial body 320 can be rigidly secured to the stirrups by inserting the stirrups into it.

[0095] In another exemplary embodiment, reference is made to Figure 18 The walker 400 may include fasteners 423 configured to secure the tibial body 420 (e.g., a tibial plate) to the left body 417 and the right body 418. Fasteners 423 may be, for example, rivets, nuts, and bolts, and may be removable or non-removable. In this configuration, the tibial body 420 can be rigidly secured to the left body 417 and the right body 418.

[0096] In another exemplary embodiment, see Figure 19The walker 500 may include a tibial body 520 (e.g., a tibial plate) integrally molded with stirrups (e.g., left body 517 and right body 518). The stirrups may be configured to attach to separate insole components (e.g., a housing base including a left side wall 514 and a right side wall 515). For example, fasteners 523 (e.g., protrusions) may be provided, configured to be inserted into holes 525 through the left side wall 514 and right side wall 515 and through the left body 517 and right body 518 when holes 525 and 524 are aligned, such that the stirrups (together with the tibial body 520) and the housing base are secured together. In this configuration, the tibial body 520 can be rigidly secured to the left body 517 and right body 518, and the left body 517 and right body 518 can be rigidly secured to the housing base.

[0097] In another exemplary embodiment, reference is made to Figure 20 The walker 600 may include a tibial body 620, which includes a filler plate 621 and a tibial plate frame 622. The tibial plate frame 622 may be configured to slide on stirrups (e.g., left body 617 and right body 618). According to one embodiment, the tibial plate frame 622 may include an internal space configured to receive the stirrups. The walker 600 may also include a fastener 623 (e.g., a protrusion) configured to be inserted through holes 624 in the left body 617 and right body 618 and through the tibial plate frame 622 (and / or filler plate 621) to secure the tibial plate frame 622 (and / or filler plate 621) to the stirrups. In this configuration, the tibial body 620 may be rigidly fixed to the left body 617 and right body 618.

[0098] The filler plate 621 may include a tibial plate completely surrounded by filler to form the filler plate 621. The filler plate 621 may include tibial support structures internally. The filler plate 621 may be attached to and removed from the tibial plate frame 622.

[0099] According to an embodiment, a walker with a fully removable tibial plate of adjustable angle can be provided. For example, the angle of the tibial plate can be adjustable to accommodate each patient and optimize the pressure transmitted from the user's tibia to the tibial plate. The tibial plate can also be completely removed from the body of the walker.

[0100] In one exemplary embodiment, reference is made to Figure 21The walker 700 may include a ratchet system 790 configured to attach a tibial plate 720 to a left body 717 and a right body 718 of the walker 700. For example, each of the left body 717 and the right body 718 may have two ratchet systems 790, and one or more ratchet systems 790 may be adjustable to adjust the angle between the top and bottom of the tibial plate 720. According to an embodiment, each ratchet system 790 may include a ratchet 791, a strap 792 having multiple stepped portions, and a fastener 793. The fastener 793 may secure a first end of the strap 792 to a portion of the tibial plate 720, and the ratchet 791 may be secured to one of the left body 717 and the right body 718, and may be configured to receive a second end of the strap 792 in the ratchet teeth 791. Ratchet 791 can be configured to hold one or more of the stepped portions of strap 792 such that strap 792 is fixed relative to ratchet 791 in at least one direction, and can be configured to be manipulated such that strap 792 can slide freely within ratchet 791 and / or be controlled by ratchet 791 to move to a predetermined position. For example, ratchet 791 can be configured to pull strap 792 further into ratchet 791 when manipulated, such that a first end of strap 792 is closer to ratchet 791, thereby adjusting the position of a portion of tibial plate 720. According to one embodiment, one or more ratchet systems 790 can be adjusted to adjust the angle of tibial plate 720. According to one embodiment, ratchet system 790 can allow tibial plate 720 to be completely removed and reattached. According to one or more embodiments, each strap 792 of ratchet system 790 can be flexible, and through the configuration of ratchet system 790, tibial plate 720 can be non-rigidly fixed to left body 717 and right body 718.

[0101] In another exemplary embodiment, reference is made to Figure 22The walker 800 may include a knob system 890 configured to secure a tibial body 820 (e.g., a tibial plate) to a left body 817 and a right body 818 of the walker 800. For example, each of the left body 817 and the right body 818 may have two knob systems 890, and one or more knob systems 890 may be adjusted to adjust the angle of the tibial body 820 to set options. According to an embodiment, each knob system 890 may include a knob 891 and a plurality of holes 892 within the tibial body 820. The plurality of holes 892 may communicate with each other laterally. The knob 891 may be attached to one of the left body 817 and the right body 818 and may be retracted completely or partially from either the left body 817 or the right body 818, such that a portion of the tibial body 820 including the holes 892 is movable relative to the knob 891. For example, this portion of the tibia body 820 can be moved such that the position of the knob 891 changes from one of the holes 892 to the other. Subsequently, the knob 891 can be automatically or manually engaged into one of the left body 817 and the right body 818, such that the knob 891 fixes this portion of the tibia body 820 in a position relative to the knob 891, while simultaneously positioning the knob 891 within one of the holes 892. In other words, after the knob 891 is engaged into one of the left body 817 and the right body 818, the knob 891 cannot move between the holes 892, and this portion of the tibia body 820 can be set to a specific position corresponding to one of the holes 892 in which the knob 891 is positioned. According to one embodiment, one or more knob systems 890 can be adjusted to adjust the angle of the tibia body 820 to set the option corresponding to the hole 892. When each knob 891 in the knob system 890 is in the closed position (entered position), the tibial body 820 can be rigidly fixed to the left body 817 and the right body 818.

[0102] According to an embodiment, a walker with a partially fixed tibial plate that is angle-adjustable can be provided. For example, the tibial plate can be configured to be at least partially rigidly fixed relative to the body of the walker to allow angle adjustment, but cannot be completely removed from the body of the walker.

[0103] In one exemplary embodiment, reference Figure 23 A walker 900 may be provided. Except for including at least the following differences, the walker 900 may be similar to... Figure 18The walker 400 is shown. The walker 900 may include fasteners 423 (e.g., rivets) only at specific points (e.g., the underside) of the tibial body 420. Therefore, the tibial body 420 can rotate about an axis extending through the fasteners 423, allowing the angle of the tibial body 420 to be changed. Furthermore, by using the fasteners 423, at least a portion of the tibial body 420 can be rigidly secured to the left body 417 and the right body 418.

[0104] According to one embodiment, the walker 900 may further include one or more adjustment systems to adjust the position of the side (e.g., the top side) of the tibia body 420 that is not secured by the fastener 423. For example, the adjustment system may include hook-and-loop straps attached to one or more portions of the tibia body 420. For example, the hook-and-loop straps may be wrapped around and secured around the leg of the user of the walker 900 such that the tension of the straps pushes that portion of the tibia body 420 to a specific position to control the angle of the tibia body 420. The straps may also be adjusted to change the angle of the tibia body 420.

[0105] According to another exemplary embodiment, see Figure 24 A walker 1000 may be provided. The walker 1000 may include a left body and a right body 1018, a tibia body 1020 (e.g., a tibia plate), fasteners 1023, and a ratchet system 790 (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 21 ). (In relation to the above regarding) Figure 23 Similar to the fastener 423 of the walker 900 shown, fastener 1023 can be positioned at a specific point (e.g., the underside) of the tibial body 1020, allowing the tibial body 1020 to rotate about an axis extending through the fastener 1023, thus changing the angle of the tibial body 1020 while it remains rigidly fixed by the fastener 1023. Furthermore, similar to walker 900, walker 1000 may include one or more adjustment systems. Figure 24 As shown, the adjustment system can be a pair of ratchet systems 790, which can adjust the position of the top of the tibia body 1020 in order to adjust the angle of the tibia body 1020.

[0106] According to another exemplary embodiment, see Figure 25 A walker 1200 can be provided. Aside from including different adjustment systems, the walker 1200 can be similar to those respectively... Figure 18 and Figure 19The walker 1000 and walker 1100 are shown in the diagram. Specifically, walker 1200 includes a rope system 1190 as an adjustment system. The rope system may include a fixing portion 1191, a rope 1192, and an adjustment body 1193. The fixing portion 1191 may be fixed to the left side body, right side body 1018, and tibia body 1020 of walker 1200, and the fixing portion 1191 may be configured to fix or guide the position of the rope 1192. The adjustment body 1193 may be disposed (e.g., fixed) at the front of the tibia body 1020 and may be configured to adjust the tension in the rope 1192 to adjust the position of the top of the tibia body 1020, thereby adjusting the angle of the tibia body 1020. For example, the adjustment body 1193 may be configured to be manipulated (e.g., rotated) to adjust the tension in the rope 1192, for example, by means of an adjustable dial and shoelaces. Coordinate with the system.

[0107] According to an embodiment, a walker with a non-rigidly fixed tibial plate that is angle-adjustable can be provided. For example, the tibial plate is configured to be non-rigidly fixed relative to the body of the walker while still allowing angle adjustment.

[0108] In one exemplary embodiment, reference is made to Figure 26 A walker 1200 can be provided. Except that the fastener 1023 can be replaced by an additional part of the rope system 1190, the walker 1200 can be similar to... Figure 25 The walker 1100 is shown. For example, the rope system 1190 may include an additional set of fixation portions 1191 and ropes 1192 at the underside of the tibial body 1020, which are attached to the left and right bodies 1018 of the walker 1200.

[0109] According to one embodiment of the present invention, reference Figures 27 to 32 A walker 100A can be provided. Figures 27 to 32 In and Figures 2 to 12 Similar reference numerals in the accompanying drawings denote similar elements. For clarity, redundant descriptions of elements have been omitted.

[0110] In a manner similar to that of the walker 100, the walker 100A may include a housing 110A, a liner 130A, an outer sole 160A, a shin liner 170A, a strap 187A, a front body 191A, and a rear body 192A.

[0111] Unlike the walker 100, see [link to walker 100] Figure 32 The rear body 192A of the walker 100A is connected (e.g., integrally connected) at the user's feet to the bottom body 193A at the bottom end of the cover liner 130A.

[0112] Unlike the walker 100, the connector 189A is no longer attached to the base of the housing 110A. Instead, the connector 189A can be attached to the bottom body 193A and further to a cord, which is attached to an adjustment body 194A. The adjustment body 194A can be disposed (e.g., fixed) on the front of the tibial liner 170A and can be configured to adjust the tension in the cord to adjust the position of the bottom of the tibial liner 170A relative to the bottom body 193A. For example, the adjustment body 194A can be configured to be manipulated (e.g., rotated) to adjust the tension in the cord, for example, by means of an adjustable dial and shoelaces. The system is designed to accommodate the tibial liner 170A. According to an embodiment, even when the tibial liner 170A and the bottom body 193A are attached to the foot and separated from the housing 110A, the adjusting body 194A can constrain the position of the bottom of the tibial liner 170A relative to the bottom body 193A.

[0113] Unlike the walker 100, the walker 100A may also include straps 188A. Each strap 188A may include two ends respectively connected to the left and right sides of the rear body 192A. For example, according to an embodiment, two straps 188A may be provided, with one strap connected to the upper end of the rear body 192A and the other strap connected to the middle portion of the rear body 192A. However, the position and number of straps 188A are not limited. The straps 188A may contact the tibial liner 170A and may be configured to restrain the position of the tibial liner 170A and the liner 130A relative to the rear body 192A. According to an embodiment, the straps 188A may restrain the position of the tibial liner 170A relative to the rear body 192A even when the tibial liner 170A and the liner 130A are attached to the foot and simultaneously separated from the housing 110A.

[0114] According to an embodiment, the walker 100 may include any aspect of the walker 100A, or vice versa.

[0115] refer to Figures 33 to 41 The following description can be incorporated into alternative aspects of the walker of the present invention.

[0116] Reference Figure 33 In other embodiments, the left and right bodies (e.g., Figure 9 The left body 117 and right body 118 of the shown housing 110 can be more oriented toward the housing base 111B corresponding to the front of the user's foot (e.g., Figure 9Partial movement of the housing base 111 (as shown) allows the sides of the foot to be covered by the left body 117B and the right body 118B, while exposing the sides of the user's ankle. The left body 117B and the right body 118B can be connected to the tibia body 120B (e.g., Figure 9 Tibial body 120).

[0117] Reference Figures 34 to 35 In other embodiments, the left and right bodies can be simplified to a single body 119C, which is connected to the middle side portion of the tibia body 120C and the housing base 111C to cover the side of the user's foot while exposing the user's heel.

[0118] Reference Figures 36 to 38 In other embodiments, the left and right bodies can be simplified to a single body 119D, which is connected to the rear portion of the tibia body 120D and the housing base 111D to cover the side of the user's heel.

[0119] According to an embodiment, the single-sided body can be disposed on the inner or outer part of the base of the housing corresponding to the user's foot.

[0120] Reference Figure 39 In other embodiments, the left and right bodies can be replaced by the front body 119E, which is connected to the front of the housing base 111E, covers the top of the user's foot, and is connected to the tibia body 120E.

[0121] Reference Figures 40 to 41 In other embodiments, the tibia body may not be attached to the left and right bodies. Alternatively, the tibia body 120F may extend integrally from the front body 119F attached to the side (or front) of the housing base 111F, and the left body 117F and the right body 118F may be separately disposed to facilitate separation from the tibia body 120F.

[0122] According to the embodiment, see Figure 3 , Figure 5 and Figure 32 A liner component (e.g., liner 130) with a rigid cover component (e.g., rear body 192) is provided to allow a resting patient to maintain a 90-degree leg position when removed from the walker housing 110.

[0123] Embodiments of the present invention allow patients to use the walker housing to protect their feet while walking, and the walker housing can be easily removed when resting or sleeping. When the user's foot is removed from the walker housing, the internal rigid liner (e.g., liner 130 with rear body 192) allows the user to maintain a 90-degree position, which is beneficial for healing and provides a more comfortable solution for resting patients.

[0124] Embodiments of the present invention provide a walker and walker housing that can be lighter and have a more robust structure, while reducing plantar pressure by restricting ankle joint movement and providing pressure relief. Furthermore, embodiments of the present invention provide a walker and walker housing that can be applied to users with a wide range of calf sizes. Therefore, embodiments of the present invention can provide advantageous treatment options in cases involving, forefoot surgery, forefoot trauma, and diabetes-related foot problems, for example.

[0125] The term "or" as used in this article is inclusive and has the same meaning as "and / or".

[0126] The embodiments of the present invention can achieve the advantages described herein. It should also be understood that various modifications, adjustments, and substitutions can be made to the embodiments within the scope and spirit of the present invention.

Claims

1. A housing for a walker, the housing comprising: A base, the base being configured to receive a user's foot on the base; At least one body extending upward from the base, the at least one body being configured to cover at least one of a portion of the user's foot, a portion of the ankle, and a portion of the lower leg when the user's foot is received by the base; as well as Tibial body, the tibial body being rigid and fixed to the at least one body, the tibial body being configured to cover the user's tibia when the user's foot is received by the base; The inner surface of the tibia body extends laterally to the inner apex of the tibia body, such that the inner surface has an angle that prevents the tibia body from contacting the tibia. The tibia body and the at least one body are configured such that the shell restricts the user's ankle joint movement.

2. The housing of claim 1, wherein, The at least one body is a pair of side bodies extending upward from the base, the pair of side bodies being configured to cover the left and right sides of at least one of the user's foot, ankle, and lower leg when the user's foot is received by the base.

3. The case according to claim 2, wherein, The pair of lateral bodies are integrally formed with the base, and the tibia body is integrally formed with each of the pair of lateral bodies.

4. The case according to claim 2, wherein, The housing is configured to receive the user's feet at the rear of the housing via an opening located between the rear sides of the pair of side bodies.

5. The housing of claim 4, wherein, The pair of side bodies or the tibia body are configured to connect to a strap that extends across the user's calf by passing through the opening.

6. The case of claim 2, wherein, At least one of the tibial body and the pair of lateral bodies is configured to be connected to the tibial liner.

7. The housing according to claim 2, wherein, At least a portion of the tibial body is rigidly fixed to each of the pair of lateral bodies.

8. The housing according to claim 2, wherein, At least one of the base and the pair of side bodies is configured to connect a strap that extends across the top side of the user's foot or the front side of the user's ankle.

9. A walking device, the walking device comprising: A liner, the liner being configured to wrap around a portion of the user's foot and a portion of the user's lower leg; as well as Housing, the housing comprising: A base, the base being configured to receive the user's foot within the liner on the base; At least one body extending upward from the base, the at least one body being configured to cover at least one of a portion of the user's foot, a portion of the ankle, and a portion of the lower leg when the user's foot is received by the base; and Tibial body, the tibial body being rigid and fixed to the at least one body, the tibial body being configured to cover the user's tibia when the user's foot is received by the base; The inner surface of the tibia body extends laterally to the inner apex of the tibia body, such that the inner surface has an angle that prevents the tibia body from contacting the tibia. The tibia body and the at least one body are configured such that the shell restricts the user's ankle joint movement.

10. The walker of claim 9 wherein, The at least one body is a pair of side bodies extending upward from the base, the pair of side bodies being configured to cover the left and right sides of at least one of the user's foot, ankle, and lower leg when the user's foot is received by the base.

11. The walker of claim 10 wherein, The pair of lateral bodies are integrally formed with the base, and the tibia body is integrally formed with each of the pair of lateral bodies.

12. The walker of claim 10 wherein, The housing is configured to receive the user's feet at the rear of the housing via an opening located between the rear sides of the pair of side bodies.

13. The walking device according to claim 12, further comprising straps, wherein, The pair of side bodies or the tibia body are configured to connect to the strap, such that the strap extends across the user's calf by extending through the opening.

14. The walker of claim 10, further comprising a tibial pad, wherein, At least one of the tibial body and the pair of lateral bodies is configured to be connected to the tibial liner.

15. The walker of claim 10 wherein, At least a portion of the tibial body is rigidly fixed to each of the pair of lateral bodies.

16. The walker of claim 9, further comprising a rigid body covering an outer portion of the liner, the rigid body being configured to support the user's lower leg when the foot is within the liner and separated from the housing, thereby holding the lower leg in one position.

17. A rear-entry walker, the rear-entry walker comprising: Housing, the housing comprising: A base, the base being configured to receive a user's foot on the base; At least one body extending upward from the base, the at least one body being configured to cover at least one of a portion of the user's foot, a portion of the ankle, and a portion of the lower leg when the user's foot is received by the base; and A tibial body, said tibial body being rigid and fixed to said at least one body, said tibial body being configured to cover the user's tibia when the user's foot is received by said base, wherein, The housing is configured to receive the user's foot at the rear of the housing via an opening located at the rear of the housing; The inner surface of the tibia body extends laterally to the inner apex of the tibia body, such that the inner surface has an angle that prevents the tibia body from contacting the tibia. The tibia body and the at least one body are configured such that the shell restricts the user's ankle joint movement.

18. The rear-entry walker according to claim 17, further comprising: Tibial liner, the tibial liner being disposed on the inner surface of the tibia body.

19. The rear-entry walker of claim 18, wherein, The tibial body and at least one of the at least one bodies are connected to the tibial liner.

20. The rear-entry walker of claim 17, wherein, At least a portion of the tibial body is rigidly fixed to the at least one body.

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