Foot prosthesis

Abstract

A foot prosthesis with a pressure relief weight distribution pad having a convex surface and a concave surface. The pad includes a central portion having a maximum thickness, the pad tapers from the central portion to its peripheral edge, the pad providing cushioning to the foot. An adhesive layer is formed on the concave surface. During use, the concave surface is attached to a selected portion of the user's foot, conforming to the unique shape of the selected portion of the user's foot. The tapering provides a smooth transition formed between the pad and the foot of the user at the outer periphery.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Application No. 17 / 690,345, filed on March 9, 2022. The entire contents of 17 / 690,345 are incorporated herein by reference. Background Art

[0002] 1. Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention relates generally to the field of prosthetic devices, and more particularly to a new uniquely shaped and attractive device and method for alleviating foot pain, particularly suitable for replacing the need to use shoe inserts, pressure relief pads, friction relief pads or comfort pads, and to mask the fact that an individual suffers from foot pain by wearing such a discrete prosthesis, which is simple in structure and therefore economical to manufacture.

[0004] 2. Description of related technologies

[0005] Men and women often choose to wear shoe inserts to provide additional cushioning for their feet, while using shoes to achieve the effect of relieving the moderate pressure on the foot provided by the shoes. Shoe inserts are designed to be placed in shoes to provide cushioning. However, sometimes it is impractical, undesirable or impossible to use shoe inserts or insoles. In the summer, for example, sandals and flip-flops are often worn, and shoe inserts cannot be placed on flip-flops without slipping off. Some inserts are designed to have adhesive backings to adhere to the shoes; however, when the individual walks and the heel is lifted up and separated from the shoe, these inserts present an unsightly appearance, making the insole visible. The use of insoles or shoe inserts is obvious evidence that the user suffers from foot pain. Dignified and proud people usually prefer to wear closed shoes to hide the inserts and avoid admitting their weakness, physical aging, foot defects or disabilities. Even inserts such as those manufactured by Dr. Scholls, Memphis, Tennessee have a bulky appearance, may slide and may damage the lining of the shoe.

[0006] Self-adhesive insoles or inserts may leave a sticky residue on the inside of the shoe which will continue to attract dirt and darken, or may damage the lining of the shoe when removed.

[0007] Non-adhesive pressure relief foot pads that wrap around the toes or the foot with straps are unsightly, provide pressure on the toes or foot, and cannot be used discreetly with open-toed shoes because the straps wrap around the toes or foot and are visible. They can only be used properly with closed-toed shoes. In addition, when the straps wrap around the toes or foot, friction between the pad, toes, and shoe increases. In addition, the straps take up space between the toes, making the shoe box tighter. This can cause pain or numbness in the toes.

[0008] Adhesive pressure relief pads for metatarsal or bunion pain are flat, do not conform to the unique shape of the user's foot, do not taper to a thin edge, are bulky, and do not provide discreet protection.

[0009] As will be disclosed below, the present invention is a new, disposable and reusable viable solution that enables people to discreetly relieve foot pain.

[0010] Furthermore, as will be disclosed below, the present invention is a new and viable solution that enables a man, woman or child who desires to wear open toe sandals or flip flops to wear these types of shoes and still receive the benefit of cushioning.

[0011] At the same time, there are many people who wish to begin daytime walking on hard surfaces without the use of inserts or soft comfort shoes. Walking on hard surfaces can cause inflammation and aggravate sensitive spots on the foot, and they often suffer pain for the rest of the day or even longer. For those individuals, the disposable and reusable prosthetic device of the present invention is an outstanding solution because it can be removed before going to bed at night, placed on a bedside table at night, and put back on the foot in the morning before walking.

[0012] There are individuals who do not wish to dispense with the idea of ​​wearing soft shoes that help prevent or relieve foot pain. Therefore, many people choose rubber-soled shoes. This is because the soft rubber soles provide a degree of comfort, moderation, and privacy when worn. However, when a person wears large, unfashionable or orthopedic-looking rubber-soled shoes, the idea of ​​privacy from foot pain is lost.

[0013] When used with open heeled sandals, the shoe insert or pad will show and will most likely be visible. For many women, wearing visible inserts or pads is not an acceptable option. Women who choose not to use inserts or pads in their high heels are often consciously exposing themselves to pain. For this reason, many women refuse to wear high heels unless it is necessary or for a very important party or meeting.

[0014] As will be disclosed below, the foot prosthesis of the present invention enables a user to comfortably wear any shoe they wish, or even wear the device attached to their foot barefoot, including any bunion or toe conditions. Summary of the invention

[0015] In a broad aspect, the invention is embodied in a foot prosthesis having a pressure-releasing weight distribution pad having a convex surface and a concave surface. The pad includes a central portion having a maximum thickness, the pad tapering from the central portion to its peripheral edge, the pad providing cushioning for the foot. An adhesive layer is formed on the concave surface. During use, the concave surface is attached to a selected portion of a user's foot to conform to the unique shape of the selected portion of the user's foot. The tapering provides a smooth transition between the pad and the user's foot at the peripheral edge.

[0016] The prior art neither teaches nor suggests the invention's specialized tapered design or pad for the foot that minimizes any sensation of using an insole, insert, or pad because it substantially eliminates the feeling of the edge of the device. The edge of the device is strategically placed by the user so that it is not located in the ball of the forefoot or the heel. The thicker portion of the device is placed over the area where the user feels the greatest pain sensation or over a sensitive area thereof. The thin tapered edge of the soft gel-like pad enables it to be seamlessly attached to the foot and not so noticeable. By using the product, the user is able to apply it and forget it. Their attention can then be focused on daily activities rather than focusing on their foot pain or on adjusting the sliding insert or pad.

[0017] The present invention provides a prosthetic device for overcoming the limitations of the prior art. In particular, the present invention provides a foot pad that is easy to manufacture and use. The term "foot" as used herein is broadly defined to include the toes and any bunions. The foot pad provides an effective means of covering a portion of the forefoot, heel, or any other area of ​​the foot so that the foot is cushioned without being exposed to the severe impact felt by walking or wearing shoes. Therefore, the present invention can be used in situations where the use of shoe inserts, insoles, padded socks, or adhesive bandages or pads is not practical. The foot pad is also an improvement over the use of insoles, shoe inserts, or pads because of its smaller size and bulk. It also lacks the use of straps that can cause discomfort. It also lacks thick edges that can cause discomfort. Therefore, the present invention is more comfortable and easier to wear. The present invention can also be worn without shoes.

[0018] Other objects, advantages and novel features will become apparent from the following detailed description of the invention when considered in conjunction with the drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] Figure 1 is a top side perspective view of a first embodiment of a foot prosthesis of the present invention showing the adhesive layer.

[0020] Figure 2 is a bottom perspective view of a foot showing two prostheses attached thereto.

[0021] Figure 3is a perspective view of a user's foot secured in a high-heeled shoe, with two foot prostheses secured to the foot shown in phantom lines.

[0022] Figure 4 is a top view of an embodiment of a foot prosthesis having a generally circular or oval shape.

[0023] Figure 5 is along Figure 4 The cross section is taken along line 5-5.

[0024] Figure 6 is a top view of another embodiment of a foot prosthesis particularly suitable for use with the ball of the foot.

[0025] Figure 7 is along Figure 3 A view taken along line 7-7.

[0026] Figure 8 is a partial cross-sectional view of a foot, a foot prosthesis, and a sandal-type shoe.

[0027] Fig. 9 is an exploded perspective view of a foot showing five foot prostheses attached thereto.

[0028] In all the drawings, the same elements or parts are indicated by the same reference numerals, whereas equivalent elements have a prime sign. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] Referring now to the drawings and the reference numerals indicated therein, Figure 1 A first embodiment of a foot prosthesis is shown, generally designated 10, which is typically attached to the heel of a user's foot. As will be disclosed in more detail below, Figure 2 Foot prostheses used in the heel, ball of foot, lateral bunion area, and ankle are shown. Figure 3 Shown for use in high heels, Figure 4 A top view is shown.

[0030] like Figure 5As shown, each foot prosthesis includes a pressure-releasing weight distribution pad 12. The weight distribution pad 12 includes a convex surface 14 and a concave surface. The central portion 18 of the pad 12 has a maximum thickness. The maximum thickness is 2-6 mm, preferably about 4 mm. The pad is made of a single layer of soft gel-like material, which provides cushioning, absorbs shock and distributes weight. The pad tapers from the central portion 18 of the pad 12 to the peripheral edge 20, and the pad 12 provides cushioning for the foot. The peripheral edge preferably has a thickness of 0.01 mm to 0.25 mm. An adhesive layer 22 is formed on the concave surface. During use, the concave surface 16 of the adhesive layer 22 is attached to a selected portion of the user's foot, thereby conforming to the unique shape of the selected portion of the user's foot. The taper provides a smooth transition between the pad 12 and the user's foot at the peripheral edge 20. As shown in Figure 2 and Figure 3 As can be seen in , the pad is configured not to wrap around the edge or side of the foot. The foot prosthesis 26 at the metatarsal ball of the foot is configured to cover the five metatarsal phalangeal joints.

[0031] Now back to Figure 1 and Figure 4 In a first embodiment, the foot prosthesis 10 and its associated pressure-releasing weight distribution pad have a generally circular shape. In other embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, the foot prosthesis 24 and its associated pressure-releasing weight distribution pad may have a generally rectangular shape. A foot prosthesis 26 for use on the ball of the foot may have a main body portion 30 with a truncated side portion 28. This foot prosthesis 26 is also Figure 6 In some embodiments, the foot prosthesis may have a generally bean-shaped shape.

[0032] like Figure 3 As shown, Figure 2 The illustrated foot prosthesis assembly including the foot prosthesis 24 and the foot prosthesis 26 may be used in conjunction with a high-heeled shoe, as shown at 32 .

[0033] The pressure relief weight pads of various embodiments are preferably formed of a gel material, such as a silicone gel material or other soft rubber material. Preferably, a soft, low-hardness material is used to provide cushioning and support. Figure 7 As shown, the prosthesis 24 provides protection for the heel 34. For example, Figure 8 As shown, similar heel protection can be provided regardless of the type of shoe used by the user. Figure 8 The use of a sandal 36 is shown. The present invention is useful even if the user walks barefoot.

[0034] Therefore, now refer to Fig. 9In a method for alleviating foot pain, a foot prosthesis or set of foot prostheses 24, 26, 37, 38, 39 is provided. Each foot prosthesis includes a pressure-relieving weight distribution pad having a convex surface and a concave surface. The pad includes a central portion having a maximum thickness. The pad tapers from the central portion to its peripheral edge. An adhesive layer is formed on the concave surface. The foot prosthesis is attached to a selected portion of a user's foot. During use, the concave surface is attached to the selected portion, thereby conforming to the unique shape of the selected portion of the foot. The taper provides a smooth transition between the foot and the pad at the peripheral edge.

[0035] In a generally circular shape (i.e. Figure 1 and Figure 4 ) of the foot prosthesis, the distance from the peripheral edge of the large size to the opposite peripheral edge may be about 3 inches. The distance from the peripheral edge of the small size of this type of embodiment to the opposite peripheral edge may be about 0.5 inches. The medium size may be about 2 inches.

[0036] The pad has a unique shape and curvature that is designed to resemble and replicate the shape of the metatarsal portion of the foot. The foot prosthesis has form and function to help the device adhere seamlessly to the metatarsal ball of the foot so that when the user uses the device with flip flops, sandals, high heels, or any other open-toed shoe, the device can be hidden under the metatarsal ball of the foot. When the user's foot is lifted up and separated from the open-toed flip flops, Figure 6 The prosthesis shown is hidden under the ball of the foot. Figure 6 The shape of the prosthesis in and the convex and concave design of the prosthetic device enable this new foot prosthesis to provide comfort and reduce pain without anyone having to know that the user is using a pad.

[0037] Front foot pad (in inches)

[0038] WL

[0039] Small 1.5 2.5

[0040] Medium 1.75 2.5

[0041] Large 2.0 2.75

[0042] X-Large 3.0 3.0

[0043] Has a lentil-shaped shape (i.e. Figure 6 The embodiment of the foot prosthesis with the number 26 in FIG. 1 is best suited for the forefoot. The size W has a preferred range of between about 1.5 inches and 3.0 inches, and the size L has a preferred edge range of about 2.5 inches to 3.0 inches. The user will purchase the size that best relates to his or her foot size.

[0044] In one embodiment of the foot prosthesis, an oval shape is preferred for the heel, bunion and toe portions of the foot. Figure 4 Dimension W has a preferred range of between approximately 0.5 inches to 2.75 inches and dimension L has a preferred margin in the range of 0.5 inches to 2.75 inches. The user will purchase the size that best correlates to their foot size or pressure sensitive area.

[0045] In one embodiment of a foot prosthesis having an oval shape (i.e., Figure 2 , number 24), which is preferably used for the heel portion of the foot. This is preferably different sizes to fit feet of multiple sizes. Preferably, the user will select enough size to adhere to the bottom of the heel without having excess pads on the sides of the heel. The smaller size of the oval pad enables the pad to be formed to the bottom of the foot in a discreet manner and is not visible from the side view of the foot. Users with larger feet will preferably use larger pads to provide cushioning for larger areas of their feet. People with small feet may prefer to use larger pads when using closed shoes (such as loafers) because they will provide coverage, more comfort, more cushioning and more pain relief. The small oval pad with a unique design can be placed by the user on any area of ​​the foot, including the forefoot side or toes. If the user needs a small pad that provides comfort and pressure relief, the oval can be used in any area.

[0046] Heel pad (in inches)

[0047] WL

[0048] Small 0.5 1.0

[0049] Medium 1.0 1.5

[0050] Big 2.0 2.5

[0051] X-Large 2.75 2.75

[0052] For example, Fig. 9As shown, different embodiments of the foot prosthesis of the present invention can be used for different parts of the foot, including the toes, bunions and the back of the heel, as shown by numerals 37, 38 and 39. They are preferably available in different sizes to fit the problem areas of multiple sizes of feet. Preferably, the user will select a sufficient size to attach to the painful area without having excess pads on the side of the foot. The smaller size rectangular pads enable the pads to be formed to any part of the foot in a discreet manner and not visible from the side view of the foot. Users with bunions or neuromas will preferably use smaller pads to provide cushioning for their specific problem areas of the foot. When using closed shoes such as loafers, people may prefer to use pads on the sides of the foot or on the tops of the toes because the prosthesis will provide coverage, more comfort, more cushioning and more pain relief. Small rectangular, oval or round pads with unique designs can be placed by the user on any area of ​​the foot, including the toes. These unique shapes can be used in any area where the user needs small discrete pads that provide comfort and pressure relief. The small pad 38 for the side of the toes may be, for example, approximately 0.5 inches wide and 1 inch long.

[0053] The adhesive is preferably a high tack transdermal adhesive or a pressure sensitive adhesive. It is a sticky substance that, once applied to the user's foot, adheres to the foot, preventing the pad from sliding or moving until the user removes it. This self-adhesive property provides skin protection, reduces friction, and provides general comfort that enables the pad to prevent and relieve pain. It is preferably a washable adhesive so that the pad can be reused. In one embodiment, the adhesive is applied to the pad during the manufacturing process. In one embodiment, the adhesive is applied during the manufacturing process and removed by the user and then reapplied by the user when needed. In another embodiment, the adhesive is not applied during the manufacturing process, but is applied by the user.

[0054] The present invention is generally provided as a kit including packaging including instructions for use. A schematic diagram provides identification of the position of the foot prosthesis. The instructions generally indicate that the foot should be clean and dry and the sticky side is placed against the clean and dry foot. The foot prosthesis can be removed, repositioned and reused. It can be washed with cold water and allowed to air dry. It can be stored in its original packaging or in a cold dry place. The present invention preferably provides a plastic film covering the sticky side and preventing the sticky side from attracting dirt before use. The instructions for use will indicate that the user should discard the plastic film to apply the prosthesis.

[0055] The present invention typically and preferably has a flesh-tone texture color similar to the texture of skin, which makes the device discreet and unnoticeable.

[0056] In one embodiment of the invention, the invention may also be manufactured as a clear gel, a different colored gel, a vibrant color, or with a decorative design or wording or a unique texture. Such embodiments may appeal to users who like flash and fun items, but still want functional and discreet cushioning and pain relief. Just as some men enjoy wearing clothing socks with designs or sayings on the pockets that no one else can see, users may enjoy wearing such a unique prosthesis for comfort and pain relief.

Claims

1. A foot prosthesis comprising: a) a pressure releasing weight distribution pad, the pressure releasing weight distribution pad comprising a single layer having a convex surface and a concave surface, wherein the pressure releasing weight distribution pad comprises a central portion having a maximum thickness, the pressure releasing weight distribution pad tapers from the central portion to a peripheral edge thereof, the pressure releasing weight distribution pad being adapted to provide cushioning for a user's foot; b) an adhesive layer formed on the concave surface, the adhesive layer having a concave surface, the concave surface comprising a material configured to attach the pressure relief weight distribution pad directly to a user's foot; wherein during use, the concave surface of the adhesive layer is directly attached to a selected portion of the user's foot, thereby conforming to the unique shape of the selected portion of the user's foot, wherein the tapering provides a smooth transition between the pressure-releasing weight-distributing pad and the user's foot at the peripheral edge, the pressure-releasing weight-distributing pad being capable of being used with or without footwear, wherein the selected portion of the user's foot includes the ball of the foot, wherein the pressure-releasing weight distribution pad has a generally rectangular shape having a main portion and truncated side portions; wherein the adhesive layer comprises a high tack or pressure-sensitive adhesive; and wherein the pressure-releasing weight distribution pad is configured to cover five metatarsal phalangeal joints and is configured not to wrap around the edges or sides of the user's foot.

2. The foot prosthesis according to claim 1, wherein: The pressure relieving weight distribution pad has a flesh-toned textured color for enhanced discreteness.

3. The foot prosthesis according to claim 1, wherein: The pressure relief weight distribution pad has a decorative design.

4. The foot prosthesis according to claim 1, wherein: The pressure relieving weight distribution pad is formed from a gel material.

5. The foot prosthesis according to claim 1, wherein: The pressure relieving weight distribution pad is formed from a silicone gel material.

6. The foot prosthesis according to claim 1, wherein: The pressure releasing weight distribution pad is formed of a soft rubber material.

7. The foot prosthesis according to claim 1, wherein: The maximum thickness is in the range between 2 mm and 6 mm.

8. The foot prosthesis according to claim 1, wherein: The thickness at the peripheral edge is in the range between 0.01 mm and 0.25 mm.

9. A method for relieving foot pain, comprising: a) providing a first foot prosthesis and a second foot prosthesis, each prosthesis comprising: a pressure-releasing weight-distributing pad having a convex surface and a concave surface, wherein the pressure-releasing weight-distributing pad includes a central portion having a maximum thickness, the pressure-releasing weight-distributing pad tapers from the central portion to a peripheral edge thereof, the pressure-releasing weight-distributing pad being adapted to provide cushioning for a user's foot; an adhesive layer formed on the concave surface, the adhesive layer having a concave surface, the concave surface including a material configured to attach the pressure relief weight distribution pad directly to the user's foot; b) attaching the first foot prosthesis to a first selected portion of the user's foot including the ball of the foot, wherein during use, the concavity of the adhesive layer is adapted to attach directly to the first selected portion so as to conform to the unique shape of the first selected portion, wherein the tapering provides a smooth transition between the pressure relief weight distribution pad and the foot at the peripheral edge, the pressure relief weight distribution pad being capable of being used with or without a shoe, and wherein the pressure relief weight distribution pad of the first foot prosthesis is configured to cover five metatarsal phalangeal joints and is configured not to wrap around the edge or side of the user's foot; and c) attaching the second foot prosthesis to a second selected portion of the user's foot, wherein during use, the concave surface of the adhesive layer is adapted to be directly attached to the second selected portion so as to conform to the unique shape of the second selected portion, wherein the tapering provides a smooth transition between the pressure-releasing weight distribution pad and the foot at the peripheral edge, the pressure-releasing weight distribution pad being capable of being used with or without a shoe, and wherein the pressure-releasing weight distribution pad of the second foot prosthesis is configured to cover the heel of the user's foot, wherein one of the foot prostheses is positioned at a selected portion of the user's foot, the selected portion including the ball of the foot; and the other of the foot prostheses is positioned at a selected portion of the user's foot, the selected portion including the heel of the foot, thereby providing comfort when using shoes or walking barefoot.

10. The method according to claim 11, wherein: The first foot prosthesis positioned at the ball of the foot has a rectangular shape with a main portion and truncated side portions, and the adhesive thereon comprises a high tack or pressure sensitive adhesive.

11. The method according to claim 11, wherein: The second foot prosthesis positioned at the heel of the foot has a generally oval shape.

12. A foot prosthesis kit for relieving foot pain, comprising: c) packaging including instructions for use, with a schematic diagram identifying the position of the foot prosthesis; d) at least one foot prosthesis comprising: a pressure-releasing weight-distributing pad, the pressure-releasing weight-distributing pad comprising a single layer having a convex surface and a concave surface, wherein the pressure-releasing weight-distributing pad comprises a central portion having a maximum thickness, the pressure-releasing weight-distributing pad tapers from the central portion to a peripheral edge thereof, the pressure-releasing weight-distributing pad being adapted to provide cushioning to a user's foot; an adhesive layer formed on the concave surface, the adhesive layer having a concave surface, the concave surface including a material configured to attach the pressure relief weight distribution pad directly to the user's foot; wherein during use, the concavity of the adhesive layer is adapted to be directly attached to the selected portion so as to conform to the unique shape of the selected portion, wherein the tapering provides a smooth transition between the pressure-releasing weight-distributing pad and the foot at the peripheral edge, the pressure-releasing weight-distributing pad being capable of being used with or without a shoe, wherein the at least one foot prosthesis comprises: A foot prosthesis for a selected portion of a user's foot, wherein the selected portion includes the ball of the foot, wherein the pressure-releasing weight-distributing pad has a generally rectangular shape having a main portion and truncated side portions; wherein the adhesive layer comprises a high-tack or pressure-sensitive adhesive; and wherein the pressure-releasing weight-distributing pad is configured to cover five metatarsal phalangeal joints and is configured not to wrap around the edges or sides of the user's foot.

13. The foot prosthesis kit for relieving foot pain according to claim 14, wherein: The at least one foot prosthesis comprises a set of foot prostheses, each foot prosthesis in the set having the same size, and any foot prosthesis can be used for a forefoot or a heel portion of the foot.

14. The foot prosthesis kit for relieving foot pain according to claim 14, wherein: The at least one foot prosthesis comprises one or more disposable foot prosthesis sets.

15. The foot prosthesis kit for relieving foot pain according to claim 14, wherein: The at least one foot prosthesis comprises a reusable foot prosthesis of one or more sizes.

16. The foot prosthesis kit for relieving foot pain according to claim 14, wherein: The at least one foot prosthesis includes a foot prosthesis set and an adhesive with instructions on how to apply the adhesive to the foot prosthesis, how to remove the adhesive, and placement and use.

17. The foot prosthesis kit for relieving foot pain according to claim 14, wherein: The at least one foot prosthesis kit includes one or more reusable foot prosthesis sets, an adhesive, an adhesive solvent, and instructions on how to apply and remove the adhesive from the foot prosthesis and where to place the foot prosthesis.

18. The foot prosthesis kit for relieving foot pain according to claim 14, wherein: The at least one foot prosthesis kit includes one or more reusable foot prosthesis sets, adhesive, a cleaning wipe, and instructions on how to clean the foot prior to applying the prosthesis, how to apply and remove the adhesive from the foot prosthesis, and where to place the foot prosthesis.

19. The foot prosthesis kit for relieving foot pain according to claim 14, wherein the at least one foot prosthesis comprises a foot prosthesis set, the foot prosthesis set comprising: e) a first foot prosthesis configured to be positioned at the ball of the foot; and, f) A second foot prosthesis configured to be positioned at the heel of the foot.

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