BACK ORTHOSE TO STABILIZE A PATIENT'S BACK

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a back orthosis for stabilizing the back of a patient.

[0002] There are diseases that cause a patient's spine to curvature. Such a curvature can be due to a congenital condition. In addition, there are also diseases that develop over the course of a person's life. Excessive physical strain, for example, can also cause spinal curvature. Examples of such conditions include stable osteoporotic vertebral fractures, osteoporosis, secondary kyphosis (such as stable fractures or tumors), and muscular insufficiency.

[0003] To treat such conditions, in addition to surgical interventions, conservative methods are also known, which include the use of supportive devices such as back braces. These devices stabilize the patient's back and straighten the spine.

[0004] For example, EP 0 917 864 B1 discloses a back orthosis for stabilizing a patient's back. This back orthosis comprises several components, namely a back brace that rests against the patient's back. It also includes straps for attaching the back brace to the patient and, together with the back brace, for straightening the patient's upper body and spine.

[0005] Another back orthosis is known from DE 20 2017 001 198 U1. This back orthosis comprises a central element for supporting the patient's spine and a further support element for supporting the patient's lumbar and / or hip region. The support element is positioned on the patient's back below the central element. The central element has elongated holes running parallel to its longitudinal axis, allowing it to be firmly coupled to the support element by means of screws and, when the screws are loosened, to be moved relative to the support element and along the elongated holes.

[0006] DE 10 2006 043 845 A1, which is considered the closest prior art, discloses a thoracic spine orthosis with a shoulder strap system, wherein a back section is worn like a backpack. Furthermore, a carrying strap system and a replaceable support element are provided on the back section.

[0007] DE 10 2015 107 582 A1 discloses a reclining orthosis with a support element extending along the back of a patient when the orthosis is worn. The reclining orthosis further comprises a connecting element that couples the support element to a reclining bar.

[0008] US 11 141 304 B1 discloses another orthosis with an element extending along the back when the orthosis is worn.

[0009] A back brace is usually prescribed by a doctor or therapist. However, since the anatomical characteristics of patients' backs and the pathological manifestations of back conditions can vary considerably, a back brace is often selected from a wide range of products by a trained professional and then specifically fitted to the patient. It is advantageous if the back brace is easily adjustable to the individual's anatomy. For a back brace manufacturer, for example, cost savings are beneficial if a back brace can be adapted to as many anatomical conditions as possible and can cover as many medical conditions as possible.

[0010] However, existing prefabricated back orthoses are limited in their adaptability to the patient. At the same time, greater adaptability, for example to tall people, often comes at the expense of the back orthosis's stabilizing effect.

[0011] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a back orthosis for stabilizing a patient's back that is easy and versatile to adapt to the patient's needs.

[0012] This problem is solved by the back orthosis according to claim 1. The dependent claims relate to advantageous further developments of the invention.

[0013] The invention relates to a back orthosis for stabilizing a patient's back, comprising A first flat stabilizing element for supporting the patient's back; a second flat stabilizing element for supporting the patient's back below the first flat stabilizing element; and an elongated stabilizing rail that couples the first and second flat stabilizing elements together and is guided relative to the first and / or second flat stabilizing element in such a way that a guided translational displacement of the first and second flat stabilizing elements relative to each other in the longitudinal direction of the stabilizing rail is possible for adapting the back orthosis to the patient, characterized by at least one side part for at least partially encompassing a lateral body region of the patient, wherein the side part is coupled or can be coupled to the first flat stabilizing element and the second flat stabilizing element.The first and second flat stabilizing elements allow for needs-based support and stabilization of the back. This allows targeted pressure to be applied via the stabilizing elements to areas of the back where the...

[0014] The stabilizing elements are positioned against each other. The elongated stabilizing rail advantageously couples the two stabilizing elements to each other. The translational adjustability allows the two stabilizing elements to be aligned in different positions relative to each other along the longitudinal direction of the stabilizing rail. This allows the back brace to be adapted to specific anatomical conditions of a patient or to different patients, for example, those with different body sizes. Thus, the stabilizing elements can be positioned against designated body regions even for patients of different sizes. At the same time, the stabilizing rail ensures a stable coupling of the two stabilizing elements, which enhances the stabilizing effect of the back brace. Furthermore, the stabilizing rail can be adjusted depending on the circumstances or...The patient's needs are selected and incorporated into the back brace. Furthermore, the stabilizing splint provides additional stability to the back brace and especially to the stabilizing elements.

[0015] It is understood that the components of the back orthosis can be designed as separate parts. For example, the first and second flat stabilizing elements and the elongated stabilizing rail can be designed separately, i.e., as separate components that are coupled to each other. The stabilizing rail can be rigidly or fixably coupled to one of the first and second flat stabilizing elements and guided by the other of the first and second flat stabilizing elements, allowing for guided translational displacement.

[0016] According to a further development of the invention, it can be provided that the planar stabilizing elements, in particular depending on the displacement of the first and / or second stabilizing element relative to the stabilizing rail, are arranged and / or can be arranged at a distance from each other.

[0017] According to one aspect of the invention, the elongated stabilizing rail can be arranged essentially centrally within the first and / or second planar stabilizing element. This can enable a particularly simple design of the back orthosis. For example, additional stabilizing rails can be omitted. A central arrangement can mean that, when the back orthosis is attached to the patient, the stabilizing rail is essentially aligned along the patient's spine, i.e., that the longitudinal direction of the stabilizing rail extends essentially along the spine. In other words, when attached to the patient, the stabilizing rail can be arranged medially or in the sagittal plane on the patient's body.

[0018] According to a further development of the invention, the stabilizing rail is essentially rigid. Alternatively, the stabilizing rail can be rigid in at least one direction, for example, in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the stabilizing rail. A rigid design in this context means a comparatively low elastic deformability of the stabilizing rail and / or one that is only permissible with increased force. Furthermore, the stabilizing rail can be essentially rigid compared to the first and / or second planar stabilizing element. This allows for greater deformation of the first and / or second stabilizing element compared to the stabilizing rail when a force is applied. The rigid design of the stabilizing rail can be due to its geometric configuration and / or the choice of material.Furthermore, the stabilization splint can be selected and integrated into the back brace depending on the patient's individual circumstances and needs. In particular, the length of the stabilization splint can be adjusted to suit the patient's specific requirements.

[0019] According to a further development of the invention, it can be provided that the stabilizing rail essentially comprises metallic material such as steel, stainless steel, titanium, a metal alloy, etc., or a composite material; and / or the first and / or second planar stabilizing element essentially comprises plastic, in particular thermoplastic plastic, aluminum and / or a plastic composite material.

[0020] The plastic used can include polyethylene, polypropylene, polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate, or other plastics. Metallic material, in particular, provides high flexural strength and can thus contribute to the rigid construction of the stabilizing splint. The materials mentioned in connection with the stabilizing elements advantageously contribute to a low weight of the back brace while maintaining sufficient stability.

[0021] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the stabilizing rail can be rigidly coupled to or formed on one of the first or second planar stabilizing elements. In both cases, the stabilizing rail is then not displaceable relative to the first or second stabilizing element. This allows, firstly, a stable arrangement of the stabilizing rail relative to the respective stabilizing element. Secondly, it enables a simpler construction of the back orthosis. This makes it easier, for example, to adapt the back orthosis to a patient, as less relative displacement is permitted.

[0022] According to one aspect of the invention, it can be provided that the width of the stabilizing rail is a multiple of the thickness of the stabilizing rail; and / or the length of the stabilizing rail in the longitudinal direction is a multiple of the width of the stabilizing rail; and / or the width of the first and / or second planar stabilizing element is a multiple of the width of the stabilizing rail.

[0023] It may be designed that the stabilizing splint is small compared to at least one of the stabilizing elements, and at least in the lateral direction of the stabilizing splint. The lateral direction is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the stabilizing splint and, when the back orthosis is attached to the patient, is oriented from medial to lateral to the patient.

[0024] According to one aspect of the invention, the stabilizing rail can be configured to couple the first and second planar stabilizing elements to each other and to be guided relative to the first and / or second planar stabilizing element in such a way that translational displacement of the first and second planar stabilizing elements relative to each other is blocked in at least a first direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the stabilizing rail, and preferably also blocked in a second direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the stabilizing rail. It is preferred that the first and second directions are perpendicular to each other. This allows for a defined degree of displacement of the stabilizing elements relative to each other. This also facilitates the adjustment of the back orthosis to the patient.

[0025] According to a further aspect of the invention, the stabilizing rail can further provide that the first and second planar stabilizing elements are coupled to each other and guided relative to the first and / or second planar stabilizing element in such a way that rotational displacement of the planar stabilizing elements relative to each other is prevented. For clarification, it should be noted that elastic deformation of the planar stabilizing elements or the stabilizing rail is excluded from this. However, the coupling or guiding of the stabilizing elements via the stabilizing rail does not provide any rotational degree of freedom.

[0026] According to a further development of the invention, the first and / or second planar stabilizing element can be decoupled from the stabilizing rail. Preferably, this decoupling is achieved by displacement relative to the stabilizing rail in its longitudinal direction, for example, by shifting the first and / or second planar stabilizing element longitudinally relative to the stabilizing rail. Overall, this decoupling advantageously allows, for example, different stabilizing elements to be coupled together. This means that, depending on the patient and the extent of their back problems, the first or second stabilizing element can be selected in a targeted manner.This allows for the provision of multiple primary and / or secondary surface stabilizing elements and / or stabilizing rails, which may differ, for example, in their stiffness, material, surface area, the coupling points of the strap system for applying the back brace, their color, etc., enabling the selection of the appropriate stabilizing element or rail. In this way, a modular back brace design can be provided.

[0027] A further development of the invention provides that the back orthosis comprises a rail fastening arrangement for locking the displacement of the first and second planar stabilizing elements relative to each other in the longitudinal direction of the stabilizing rail. This makes it possible, particularly during or after fitting the back orthosis to the patient, to lock the back orthosis in its longitudinal displacement, so that no longitudinal displacement is permitted while it is being worn on the patient's back.

[0028] According to one embodiment of the invention, the rail fastening arrangement can be designed to prevent a displacement of the stabilizing rail relative to the first or second planar stabilizing element in the locked state.

[0029] According to one aspect of the invention, it can be provided that the stabilizing rail comprises an elongated slot formed in the longitudinal direction of the stabilizing rail, and the rail fastening arrangement comprises a locking mechanism, in particular a locking screw, which is arranged in the elongated slot and which presses the stabilizing rail relative to or onto the first or second planar stabilizing element to lock it.

[0030] According to a further development of the invention, the back orthosis can include at least one pretensioning mechanism designed to force two mutually movable components of the back orthosis relative to each other, particularly towards or away from each other, by means of a tensioning force. The pretensioning mechanism allows the back orthosis to be easily adapted to the patient's individual circumstances or anatomy. This is particularly advantageous when parts of the back orthosis need to be moved relative to each other to adapt to the patient. The parts can then be fixed in the desired position, for example, by means of a corresponding fastening arrangement, at least for the duration of use by the patient.

[0031] According to the invention, the back orthosis comprises at least one side section for at least partially encompassing a lateral body region of the patient. This also allows for support of the lateral body region. This can serve to apply force to the lateral body region, to support the back orthosis against the patient's body, and to improve force application or support in another body region.

[0032] According to the invention, the side part is provided that it is coupled or can be coupled to the first and the second planar stabilizing element.

[0033] According to one embodiment of the invention, the back orthosis further comprises a guide arrangement that makes it possible to displace at least one side part relative to the first and / or second planar stabilizing element, for example in a lateral direction.

[0034] Additionally or alternatively, the back orthosis may include a guide arrangement or the aforementioned guide arrangement that makes it possible to shift the flat stabilizing elements relative to each other.

[0035] According to one aspect of the invention, the pre-tensioning mechanism is designed to push the side part in the lateral direction, in particular in the medial direction, relative to the first and / or second planar stabilizing element by means of the tensioning force.

[0036] According to a further development of the invention, the guide arrangement is further designed to displace the side part in the longitudinal direction, in particular in a vertical direction, relative to the first and / or second planar stabilizing element.

[0037] According to one aspect of the invention, the guide arrangement comprises a locking mechanism for locking the displacement of the side part relative to the first and / or second planar stabilizing element and / or for locking the displacement of the stabilizing elements relative to each other.

[0038] According to one aspect of the invention, the back orthosis comprises two side parts for at least partially encompassing a lateral body region of the patient, wherein the first side part is configured to encompass a left lateral body region and the second side part is configured to encompass a right lateral body region. Features described in connection with one side part can also be provided on both side parts.

[0039] According to one embodiment of the invention, the magnitude of the tension force of the preload mechanism can be adjusted. Consider, for example, an adjustable tension force of a spring or the interchangeability of the spring.

[0040] According to a further embodiment of the invention, the pretensioning mechanism may include an elastic pretensioning belt, which preferably comprises elastic, and particularly preferably rubber-elastic, material.

[0041] According to a further development of the invention, the side panel can be provided with flexible areas, particularly at its end facing away from the first and / or second planar stabilizing element, which result in increased elastic deformability of the side panel. Preferably, the flexible areas comprise material recesses. Particularly preferred are the material recesses extending from an edge region of the side panel into the side panel and / or formed as elongated slots. The flexible areas increase the patient's wearing comfort and freedom of movement. Additionally or alternatively, the flexible areas can also be formed on other components of the back orthosis, for example, on the first and / or second stabilizing element.Then the flexible areas are preferably formed at at least one edge area, in particular at least one lateral edge area, of the first and / or second stabilizing element.

[0042] According to a further development of the invention, the back orthosis further comprises a hip belt arrangement, in particular a two-part arrangement, which is attached or can be attached to the side part and / or one of the side parts and / or the first and / or second planar stabilizing element, and is designed to encompass a hip-proximal area of ​​the patient.

[0043] According to a further embodiment of the invention, the hip belt assembly comprises an actuated tensioning mechanism, in particular a cable pull mechanism, which is designed to tension the two parts of the hip belt assembly relative to each other when actuated, preferably in the circumferential direction of the patient. This can make it easier for a patient to put on the back brace and to take it off after use. Furthermore, the tensioning mechanism makes it easier to adjust the hip belt assembly to the patient and / or according to their needs.

[0044] According to a further development of the invention, the back orthosis may also include a shoulder strap assembly with at least two shoulder straps. Preferably, each shoulder strap assembly can be coupled, or is coupled, with one portion of its respective section to the first flat stabilizing element and, with its other portion, to the second flat stabilizing element. Furthermore, it may be provided that, when attached to the patient, each shoulder strap assembly is guided, or can be guided, particularly from the first flat stabilizing element over one of the patient's shoulders. The shoulder strap assembly thus enables the back orthosis to be worn comfortably by the patient, as well as being easy to put on and take off.

[0045] According to a further development of the invention, the shoulder strap assembly may also include a first coupling arrangement designed to couple the two shoulder straps, particularly on the ventral side, when attached to the patient. The coupling arrangement may include a hook-and-loop fastener, snap-lock buckles, or the like.

[0046] According to a further development of the invention, it can be provided that at least one of the shoulder straps is designed in two parts and comprises a second coupling arrangement which is configured to couple the two parts of the shoulder strap together.

[0047] According to a further development of the invention, the back orthosis, in particular the first stabilizing element, may comprise at least one limiting means configured to define an angular range within which each end of the respective shoulder strap, coupled to the back orthosis, can be displaced or rotated relative to the back orthosis. The limiting means may comprise at least one, preferably two, projections. The at least one projection may function as a stop that limits the rotation of the end of the shoulder strap. Preferably, the projections are arranged on an imaginary circular path around a respective through-hole, wherein the respective shoulder strap can be displaced within the angular range about an axis of the through-hole relative to the first stabilizing element.Preferably, the end of each shoulder strap comprises a deflection tab that couples the shoulder strap to the first stabilizing element. The deflection tab is preferably attached to the through-hole and rotatable about a longitudinal axis of the through-hole, with the rotatability being limited to a specific angular range by the limiting means.

[0048] Another aspect of the disclosure concerns a back orthosis for stabilizing a patient's back, comprising a flat stabilizing element for supporting the patient's back. All previously described designs and features may be provided for or implemented in this back orthosis. Features described in connection with one of the previously listed stabilizing elements may be provided for in connection with the present stabilizing element.

[0049] In particular, the aforementioned back orthosis may include a pretensioning mechanism designed to force two movable components of the back orthosis relative to each other, especially towards each other, by means of a tensioning force. For this purpose, the back orthosis may include at least one side section for at least partially encompassing a lateral area of ​​the patient's body. The pretensioning mechanism may be designed to force the side section relative to the flat stabilizing element.

[0050] According to one embodiment, the back brace can include flexible areas that provide increased elastic deformability, particularly of the side panel. Preferably, these flexible areas comprise material recesses extending from an edge region of the side panel into the side panel itself. The back brace can also include at least one side panel for at least partially encompassing a lateral body region of the patient. The flexible areas can be located on the side panel, particularly at its end facing away from the planar stabilizing element.

[0051] According to a further embodiment, the back orthosis can comprise a hip belt assembly, in particular a two-part assembly, which is attached or attachable to the side part and / or at least one of the side parts and / or the flat stabilizing element, and is designed to encircle a hip-proximal area of ​​the patient. Furthermore, the hip belt assembly can include an actuated tensioning mechanism, in particular a cable pull mechanism, which is designed to tension the two parts of the hip belt assembly relative to each other when actuated, preferably in the circumferential direction of the patient. At least one guide slot can be formed on the stabilizing element, which is designed to guide the hip belt assembly, in particular a hip belt part of the hip belt assembly, relative to the stabilizing element.

[0052] According to a further embodiment, the back orthosis can comprise a shoulder strap assembly with at least two shoulder straps. It can then be provided that each shoulder strap connects, or is connectable to, two areas of the stabilizing element, the stabilizing element with the hip strap assembly or one of the side parts, or any other parts of the back orthosis. For example, it can be provided that each shoulder strap is connectable or connected at one end to the flat stabilizing element or the hip strap assembly, and at the other end to the flat stabilizing element.

[0053] In general, individual features explained in connection with one of the previously described back orthoses or a component thereof can be considered in isolation and as an independent teaching. Furthermore, these features can be transferred to one of the other back orthoses or components thereof.

[0054] The invention is further explained below with reference to the accompanying drawings. These depict: Fig. 1 a schematic rear view of a back orthosis according to one embodiment; Fig. 2 a schematic front view of the back orthosis according to the embodiment; Fig. 3 a schematic simplified rear view of the back orthosis according to the embodiment; Fig. 4 a schematic simplified front view of the back orthosis according to the embodiment; Fig. 5a a schematic simplified side view of the back orthosis according to the embodiment; Fig. 5b a schematic simplified underside view of the first stabilizing element according to the embodiment; Fig. 5c a schematic simplified isometric view of the stabilizing rail according to the embodiment; Fig. 6 a schematic simplified rear view of the back orthosis according to a further embodiment; Fig. 7 a schematic simplified isometric view of the back orthosis according to the further embodiment; Fig.8 a schematic simplified isometric view of the back orthosis according to a further embodiment; and Fig. 9 a schematic simplified rear view of the back orthosis according to the further embodiment according to . Figure 8 .

[0055] Figure 1This is a schematic representation of a back orthosis 10 for stabilizing a patient's back in a rear view. The back orthosis 10 comprises a first flat stabilizing element 12 and a second flat stabilizing element 14. An elongated stabilizing rail 16 connects the first and second flat stabilizing elements 12, 14. Furthermore, the first flat stabilizing element 12 is guided relative to the elongated stabilizing rail 16 such that a guided translational displacement of the first and second flat stabilizing elements 12, 14 relative to each other is possible in a longitudinal direction L of the stabilizing rail 16 for adjusting the back orthosis to the patient. The back orthosis 10 also includes a hip belt assembly 18, as well as a first side piece 20 and a second side piece 22.The side sections 20, 22 are each designed to at least partially encompass a lateral area of ​​the patient's body. Furthermore, the back orthosis 10 comprises a shoulder strap assembly 24 consisting of a first shoulder strap 26 and a second shoulder strap 28, wherein the two shoulder straps 26, 28 are each coupled to the first flat stabilizing element 12 and the second flat stabilizing element 14, respectively, and to a padding element 140 attached thereto.

[0056] A stabilizing guide 32 is formed in a central region of the first stabilizing element 12. The stabilizing rail 16 is received in this guide and guided relative to the first stabilizing element 12. The stabilizing guide 32 thus forms a receiving opening in the first stabilizing element 12 for receiving the stabilizing rail 16 and extends in the direction of a longitudinal axis L1 of the first stabilizing element 12, which coincides with the longitudinal direction L when coupled to the stabilizing rail 16. A longitudinal slot 34 is formed in the stabilizing rail 16, extending in the longitudinal direction L.Furthermore, a rail fastening arrangement 36 is provided, comprising a locking screw 38, the screw head of which rests against a rear side of the stabilizing rail 16 and whose screw shank projects through the longitudinal section 34 and is screwed to the first planar stabilizing element 12 or to a threaded element adjacent to or formed in the first planar stabilizing element 12. For improved force transmission, the locking screw 38 has an enlarged head or a washer positioned between it and the stabilizing rail 16. In a fixed state of the rail fastening arrangement 36, the locking screw 38, in conjunction with the threaded element, causes the stabilizing rail 16 and the first planar stabilizing element 12 to be pressed together, thus preventing any relative displacement of the two.In a released state of the rail fastening arrangement 36, the stabilizing rail 16 and the first planar stabilizing element 12 are not pressed together or only slightly pressed together, and thus a relative displacement of the stabilizing rail 16 relative to the stabilizing guide 32 is possible.

[0057] The stabilizing guide 32 extends along the entire length of the first stabilizing element 12 along the longitudinal axis L1. While a portion of the stabilizing guide 32 migrating towards the second stabilizing element 14 serves to accommodate the stabilizing rail 16, a portion of the stabilizing guide 32 migrating away from the second stabilizing element 14 – an upper part of the first stabilizing element 12 – is designed to accommodate a stabilizing body 40. The stabilizing body 40 is essentially rigid compared to the first stabilizing element 12 and serves to provide additional stabilization to an upper region of the first stabilizing element 12. The stabilizing body 40 is fixedly attached to the first stabilizing element 12 by a screw 42.Furthermore, the upper part of the stabilizing guide 32 comprises a plurality of fastening elements 44, which are arranged in a manner relative to one another and engage the stabilizing body 40 at its rear, so that the latter is arranged without play in the stabilizing guide 32. The stabilizing body 40 essentially comprises a basic shape based on a rectangle, which has a predetermined material thickness and includes lateral material recesses 46 or tapers arranged in relation to one another. According to the present arrangement, these recesses contribute to increased flexibility of the stabilizing body 40 in the area between the fastening elements 44. In this respect, the material recesses 46 serve to make the otherwise rigidly designed stabilizing body 40 more flexible in certain areas.This flexibility allows the stabilizing body 40 to be curved by means of plastic deformation, either beforehand or while already positioned in the stabilizing guide 32. Due to the higher stiffness of the stabilizing body 40 compared to the first stabilizing element 12, the central region 50 of the first stabilizing element 12 will also be curved accordingly. This makes it possible to easily adapt the back orthosis 12, and in particular the first stabilizing element 12, to a patient.

[0058] The first stabilizing element 12 comprises a lower section 48, a middle section 50, and an upper section 52. The lower section 48 is wider than the middle section 50, and the upper section 52 is in turn wider than both the lower section 48 and the middle section 50. The upper section 52, together with the middle section 50, forms a Y-shape. When attached to the patient, the upper section 52 rests against a shoulder area of ​​the patient's back. The middle section 50 and the lower section 48, when attached to the patient, rest against the thoracic spine of the back.

[0059] The first stabilizing element 12 also includes guide slots 54, 56 on both sides of the stabilizing guide 32 and parallel to the longitudinal axis L1. These form part of a respective guide arrangement 58, which makes it possible to displace the side part along the longitudinal axis L1 relative to the first stabilizing element 12. Therefore, a displacement of the first stabilizing element 12 relative to the stabilizing rail 16 also leads to a displacement of the first stabilizing element 12 relative to the respective side part 20, 22.

[0060] The guide arrangement 58 is explained below with reference to the first side part 20 and the first stabilizing element 12, wherein the guide arrangement 58 is configured analogously with respect to the second side part 22 relative to the first stabilizing element 12, and the respective guide arrangement 80 is configured analogously with respect to the side parts 20, 22 relative to the second stabilizing element 14. The first side part 20 comprises an upper guide extension 60 and a lower guide extension 62.Guide slots 64 and 66 are formed in the respective guide extensions 60 and 62. When attached to the stabilizing elements 12 and 14, these slots are arranged essentially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L1 (depending on the inclination of the side section 20 relative to the stabilizing elements 12 and 14). This allows the first side section 20 to be displaced transversely to the longitudinal axis L1 and thus in a lateral direction S1 of the patient (medial-lateral) relative to the stabilizing elements 12 and 14. Furthermore, the interplay of the two guide arrangements 58 and 80 enables the side section 20 to be tilted relative to the stabilizing elements 12 and 14. This also improves the adaptability of the back orthosis to different patients. Furthermore, the guide extensions 60, 62 are adapted in their shape to the contour of the first and second stabilizing elements 12, 14 in the area of ​​the guide slots 54, 56.The guide assembly 58 comprises a locking screw 68 and a guide body 70, which is guided in the guide slot 64, more precisely in a guide recess 72 of the guide extension 60 formed around the guide slot 64. The locking screw 68 secures the guide body 70 in the guide recess 72 and projects through the guide slot 64 and the guide slot 56. It is screwed to a further guide body (not shown) on the inside of the first stabilizing element 12, which, analogous to the guide body 70, is guided in a guide recess of the first stabilizing element 12 in the region of the guide slot 54. Thus, the locking screw 68 and the further guide body form a locking mechanism by means of the adjustable clamping of the side part 20 and the first stabilizing element 12.In a loosened state of the locking screw 68, the guide arrangement 58 allows the first stabilizing element 12 and the first side part 20 to be displaced relative to each other in the direction of the longitudinal axis L1 and in the lateral direction S1, whereas in a tightened state of the locking screw 68, the respective displacements are blocked.

[0061] The second stabilizing element 14 has a receiving pocket 74 in its central region, the longitudinal axis L2 of which coincides with the longitudinal direction L when coupled to the stabilizing rail 12. The receiving pocket 74 is open in its upper region. Furthermore, a horizontal cavity of the receiving pocket 74 extends along the longitudinal axis L2 into a lower region of the second stabilizing element 14 and is closed at the bottom and sides. The receiving pocket 74 is designed to receive the stabilizing rail 16. The stabilizing rail 16 is inserted into the receiving pocket 74 for mounting the back orthosis 10, whereby connecting means such as adhesive, screw connections, a press fit, overmolding with plastic, or the like may be provided to firmly couple the stabilizing rail 12 to the second stabilizing element 14.The receiving pocket 74 extends from an upper end of the second stabilizing element 14, i.e., an area facing the first stabilizing element 12, along the longitudinal axis L2 almost, but not completely, to a lower end of the second stabilizing element 14. The arrangement of the stabilizing rail 16 within the receiving pocket 74 serves to further stabilize the second stabilizing element 14.

[0062] Analogous to the guide slots 54, 56 of the first stabilizing element 12, corresponding guide slots 76, 78 are also formed on the second stabilizing element 14, located on both sides of the receiving pocket 74 and parallel to the longitudinal axis L2. These form part of the respective guide arrangement 80, which makes it possible to displace the side part 20 along the longitudinal axis L2 relative to the second stabilizing element 14. Therefore, a displacement of the second stabilizing element 14 relative to the first stabilizing element 12 also leads to a displacement of the second stabilizing element 14 relative to the respective side part 20, 22.

[0063] The respective stabilizing elements 12, 14 comprise honeycomb-shaped hexagonal material recesses 82, which are distributed at a sufficient distance from one another with sufficiently strong intermediate struts and which serve to save weight on the back orthosis 10. Furthermore, the material recesses 82 serve to improve the aesthetic appearance of the back orthosis 10. The material recesses in 82 can be designed as complete openings in the respective stabilizing elements 12, 14 or only as local indentations. They can be distributed throughout all stabilizing elements of the back orthosis according to the invention, as will be mentioned below.

[0064] The waist belt assembly 18 comprises a first waist belt section 84 and a second waist belt section 86. The first waist belt section 84 rests against the first side panel 20 and includes, on its side facing the first side panel 20, a first tab which is coupled to a further tab attached to the first side panel 20. The two tabs are designed such that displacement of the first waist belt section 84 in the lateral direction S1 relative to the first side panel 20 is permitted within a predetermined range, while displacement of the first waist belt section 84 in a vertical direction, e.g., in the longitudinal direction L or in the direction of one of the longitudinal axes L1, L2, is permitted only within a comparatively small range or not at all.

[0065] The waist belt assembly 18 comprises an actuated tensioning mechanism 88 including a pull rope assembly 90, wherein at least one pull rope 92 couples the two waist belt parts 84, 86 to each other and is guided through respective pull rope openings 94 of the waist belt parts 84, 86. The tensioning mechanism 88 is designed to be actuated such that the pull rope 92 is shortened in the area between the waist belt parts 84, 86. For this purpose, respective rotary knobs 96, 98 are provided on the waist belt parts 84, 86, which, when turned, are designed to wind the pull rope 92 within the respective waist belt parts 84, 86. The pull rope 92 can be guided in the respective waist belt part 84, 86 according to the principle of a pulley system.The rotary knobs 96, 98 are further designed to be pulled out of the waist belt section 84, 86 by a predetermined amount, whereby the tensioning mechanism 88 then releases the pull rope 92, so that the two waist belt sections 84, 86 can again be separated from each other in the lateral direction S1. By moving the rotary knobs 96, 98 again towards the respective waist belt section 84, 86, the pull rope 92 can be wound up by actuating the rotary knobs 96, 98.

[0066] The first hip belt section 84 has a first gripping tab 95, and the second hip belt section 86 has a second gripping tab 97. The two gripping tabs 95 and 97 are designed to be grasped by a patient during the application of the hip belt assembly 18 in order to tighten the assembly. Furthermore, the two hip belt sections 84 and 86 each include hook-and-loop fastener assemblies 99 and 101 at their respective ends opposite the tensioning mechanism 88. The hook-and-loop fastener assemblies 99 and 101 are designed to be coupled to the respective other hip belt section 84 and 86 to close the hip belt assembly 18 in the anterior abdominal region, so that the patient's abdomen is enclosed by the hip belt assembly 18.In this case, the hook-and-loop fastener 99 is located on the outside – that is, on the side of the hip belt section 84 facing away from the patient when the hip belt section 18 is in place – while the hook-and-loop fastener 101 is located on the inside – that is, on the side of the hip belt section 86 facing towards the patient when the hip belt section 18 is in place. Therefore, the first hip belt section 84 is designed to be positioned on the patient's abdomen and to be at least partially enclosed or spanned by the second hip belt section 86.

[0067] The back orthosis 10 further comprises a first pretensioning mechanism 100, which is designed to force the two side parts 20, 22 relative to each other, i.e., towards each other, by means of a tensioning force. For this purpose, tensioning hooks 102, 103 are formed on the lower part of the side parts 20, 22. The first pretensioning mechanism 100 further comprises a first elastic pretensioning strap 104, which is guided around the respective tensioning hooks 102, 103 and thus transmits the tensioning force to the tensioning hooks 102, 103. Depending on, for example, the length, material, thickness, and elasticity of the first pretensioning strap 104, the amount of tension can be adjusted as required.Analogous to the first pretensioning mechanism 100, a second pretensioning mechanism 106 is provided, wherein tension hooks 108, 109 are also formed in an upper area of ​​the respective side parts 20, 22, which is concealed in this case by the hip belt assembly 18, and a second elastic pretensioning strap 110 is guided around the second tension hooks 106. The two pretensioning mechanisms 100, 106 serve to displace the two side parts 20, 22 relative to each other and relative to the first and second stabilizing elements 12, 14 when the respective locking screw 68 of the respective guide assemblies 58, 80 is loosened. This is particularly advantageous when the back orthosis 10 is being fitted to a patient. In this case, the respective locking screw 68 or all of them can be loosened and the back orthosis 10 can be applied to the patient.The pretensioning mechanisms 100, 106 serve to align the side sections 20, 22 relative to each other and relative to the two stabilizing elements 12, 14 according to the patient's body contour. This facilitates the adjustment of the back brace 10 to a patient. If necessary, the relative position may also need to be manually corrected. The respective locking screw 68 can then be tightened to fix or lock the guide mechanisms 58, 80. Typically, the guide mechanisms 58, 80 are fixed or locked when the back brace 10 is in use to stabilize a patient's back, i.e., during therapy.

[0068] The first shoulder strap 26 comprises an upper shoulder strap section 112 and a lower shoulder strap section 114, which are coupled to each other via a chest pad element 116. One end of the upper shoulder strap section 112 is fixedly attached to the chest pad element 116 and is further guided by a deflection tab 118, which is attached to the upper section 52 of the first stabilizing element 12 and is rotatable relative to it about at least one axis. The upper shoulder strap section 112 is also guided back from the deflection tab 118 towards the chest pad element 116 and is attached to the chest pad element 116 and / or to itself by means of a hook-and-loop fastener. Depending on the attachment of the hook-and-loop fastener, the distance between the chest pad element 116 and the upper section 52 can be adjusted according to the patient's needs.

[0069] The lower shoulder strap section 114 is fixedly attached at one end to the padding element 28. Furthermore, the other end of the lower shoulder strap section 114 is guided through a deflection clamp 120 and formed into a loop 122. The loop 122 allows a patient to grasp the lower shoulder strap section 114 and easily shorten the portion of the lower shoulder strap section 114 that connects the padding element 28 and the deflection clamp 120. By actuating the deflection clamp 120, the length of the portion of the lower shoulder strap section 114 connecting the padding element 28 and the deflection clamp 120 can be lengthened again. The deflection clamp 120 also includes a first part 124 of an actuable connection mechanism, which is attached to, or can be attached to, a second part 126 of the actuable connection mechanism attached to the chest padding element 116.The chest pad element 116 also includes a central shoulder strap section 128, on which a first part 130 of a further actuable connecting mechanism is formed. The central shoulder strap section 128 is guided by a deflection tab of the first part 130 and attached to itself by means of a hook-and-loop fastener, whereby the length of the section of the central shoulder strap section connecting the chest pad element 116 and the first part 130 is adjustable depending on the position or adhesion of the hook-and-loop fastener relative to the central shoulder strap section 128. A pad 131 is also arranged on the central shoulder strap section 128.

[0070] The second shoulder strap 28 is designed analogously to the first shoulder strap 26, except that the corresponding chest pad element 132 of the second shoulder strap 28 is larger than that of the chest pad element 128. Furthermore, the second shoulder strap 28 does not include a central shoulder strap section, but rather a second part 134 of the additionally actuated connecting mechanism is formed, which can be coupled to the first part 130. The second part 134 is fixedly attached directly to a tab 136 of the pad element 132.

[0071] The first and second stabilizing elements 12, 14 and the side parts 20, 22 essentially comprise plastic, aluminum, or a fiber-reinforced composite material. Plastic may include polyethylene, polypropylene, polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate, or other plastics. The elongated stabilizing rail 16 and the stabilizing body 40 comprise metallic material such as steel, stainless steel, titanium, a metal alloy, etc., or a composite material. Composite material may include glass fiber-reinforced or carbon fiber-reinforced plastic. The shoulder straps 26, 28 and the waist belt assembly 18 comprise textiles, which may be of a synthetic fiber-based design.

[0072] Figure 2 This concerns a schematic front view of the back orthosis 10 from Figure 1It can be seen that the first stabilizing element 12 is covered by a flat padding element 138, which in an upper area essentially corresponds to the shape of the first stabilizing element 12. However, in a lower area, the flat padding element 138 projects beyond the first stabilizing element 12 and covers the area of ​​the stabilizing rail 16, or the area between the stabilizing elements 12 and 14, and also a part of the second stabilizing element 14 where the stabilizing rail 16 is attached to the second stabilizing element 14.

[0073] The second stabilizing element 14 is covered by a flat padding element 140, with the flat padding element 138 partially overlapping the flat padding element 140. Thus, a padding tongue 142 of the flat padding element 138 is positioned in front of the flat padding element 140, i.e., in a patient-applied state, between the patient and the padding element 140.

[0074] Furthermore, the respective side panels 20, 22 are covered by a respective cushioning element 142, 144, so that the side panels 20, 22 rest against the patient via the respective cushioning element 142, 144. The cushioning elements 142, 144 include receiving pockets 146 on their back side (see Figure 1 ), which are designed to partially encompass the respective side panels 20, 22. In other words, the mounting pockets 146 make it possible to stretch the cushioning elements 142, 144 onto the side panels 20, 22.

[0075] The padding elements 138, 140, 142, and 144 are designed to be relatively soft and offer the patient comfortable wear. They consist of a non-woven material or a textile. Furthermore, the padding elements 138, 140, 142, and 144, as well as the breast padding elements 116 and 132, are essentially flat on their inner surface or adapted to the contours of a person's body.

[0076] In connection with the shoulder strap pulley 26, it can be seen that the lower shoulder strap section 114 is designed in two parts. It comprises a first strap section 146 and a second strap section 148, which are connected to each other via a deflection flap 152 concealed by a pad 150. The pad 150 serves to be positioned between the deflection flap 152 and the patient when the back orthosis 10 is applied to the patient, thus ensuring comfortable wear.

[0077] Figure 3This concerns a schematic, simplified rear view of the back orthosis 10 according to the previously described embodiment. In addition to other simplifications for the sake of clarity, the following are shown in comparison to the previous version: Figure 1 and 2 The so-called strap-like and fabric-like parts of the back brace, as well as the guide elements in the guide slots, and some fastening elements such as the locking screws, tensioning straps, etc., are omitted. These simplifications also apply to the following figures. Figure 3 The first planar stabilizing element 12 and the second planar stabilizing element 14 are shown, which are coupled to each other via the stabilizing rail 16. The first side part 20 and the second side part 22 are also shown.

[0078] With reference to the first side section 20, the guide arrangement 58 is shown, which comprises the guide slot 54 of the first planar stabilizing element 12, which is parallel to the longitudinal axis L1, and the guide slot 64 formed on the first side section 20. The guide slot 54 allows the first stabilizing element 12 and the first side section 20 to be moved relative to each other vertically, i.e., along the longitudinal axis L1. Furthermore, the guide slot 64 allows the first stabilizing element 12 and the first side section 20 to be moved relative to each other laterally S1, i.e., medially and laterally on the patient, or in this case, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L1. As already explained, the guide arrangement 58 of the second side section 22 is designed analogously relative to the first planar stabilizing element 12 and allows movement in the lateral direction S2.Furthermore, the respective guide arrangements 80 relating to the first side part 20 relative to the second planar stabilizing element 14 or relating to the second side part 22 relative to the second planar stabilizing element 14 are designed analogously to the guide arrangement 58 and enable a corresponding displacement in the lateral direction S1 or S2.

[0079] The respective side pieces 20, 22 have a curved shape that mimics the contour of the lateral abdominal region. The side pieces 20, 22 are designed to be dimensionally stable in that they maintain a predetermined shape, yet they are elastically deformable to adapt to the body contour of an individual patient. Due to their curved shape, the side pieces 20, 22 are wider in the upper and lower regions than in the middle region with respect to the lateral direction S1. Tension hooks 102, 103 and 108, 109 are formed on the respective side pieces 20, 22. As with the two stabilizing elements 12, 14, material recesses 154 are also formed on the side pieces 20, 22.

[0080] The second stabilizing element 14 comprises a scale 156 with a multitude of horizontally and perpendicularly spaced dimension lines 158 extending to the longitudinal axis L1. These dimension lines 158 run along the rear of the second stabilizing element 14 between the areas where the guide extensions 62 abut or are arranged on the second stabilizing element 14. Together with the scale 156, the dimension lines 158 serve to align the two side parts 20, 22 with respect to the second stabilizing element 14 and / or relative to the respective other side part 20, 22. This can facilitate the process of fitting the back orthosis 10 to the patient.

[0081] As in the previous ones Figure 1 and 2 The stabilizing body 40 is arranged in the stabilizing guide 32.

[0082] Furthermore, it is evident that the fastening elements 44 are formed in an upper region of the stabilizing guide 32, in which the stabilizing body 40 is arranged. In a lower region of the stabilizing guide 32, namely in a region in which the stabilizing rail 16 is guided or provided, a plurality of fastening projections 159 are formed on both sides and opposite each other in the stabilizing guide 32 and on its rearward region. The fastening projections 159 protrude towards each other from the sides of the stabilizing guide 32 and serve to fix the stabilizing rail 16 in the stabilizing guide 32, in particular towards the rear.

[0083] According to one embodiment, a first stabilizing element can be provided, which is designed similarly to the stabilizing element 12, but includes a shorter or longer central section 50 in the longitudinal direction L1. Depending on the length of the central section and the length of the stabilizing guide 32, the stabilizing body 40 is designed to be correspondingly shortened or lengthened. Based on the design of the length of the central section 50, the back orthosis 10 can be adapted to different body sizes and / or anatomies of patients. Furthermore, the stabilizing effect of the back orthosis 10 can be adjusted as needed.

[0084] As already explained in connection with the preceding figures, the two shoulder straps 26, 28 are designed to be coupled at one end to the first stabilizing element 12. The first stabilizing element 12 has a first through-hole 165 for coupling to the first shoulder strap 26 and a second through-hole 167 for coupling to the second shoulder strap 28. Furthermore, on the rear side of the stabilizing element 12 shown here, and spaced apart from each of the through-holes 165, 167, two projections 171, 173, 175, 177 are formed. The two projections 171, 173 are arranged, for example, on an imaginary circle around the through-hole 165 and serve to limit the movement of the deflection tab 118 around the axis of the through-hole 165.Accordingly, the protrusions 175, 177 are arranged on an imaginary circle around the through-hole 167 and serve to limit the movement of the deflection tab of the second shoulder strap pull 28 around the axis of the through-hole 167. More precisely, each deflection tab is defined by an angular range within which it can pivot around the axis of the respective through-hole 165, 167 relative to the first stabilizing element 12. Rotation of the respective deflection tab outside this angular range is prevented by the deflection tab 118 then contacting one of the protrusions 171, 173, 175, 177. If necessary, it is possible to bypass at least one of the protrusions 171, 173, 175, 177 by means of increased force, for example by elastic deformation of the deflection tab 118, and thus to leave the angular range at least temporarily.Under normal use, the guide tabs remain in a position within the specified angular range. This specified angular range corresponds to the range in which the respective guide tab is typically aligned relative to the first stabilizing element 12 while the back brace 10 is being worn by the patient. The protrusions 171, 173, 175, 177 thus counteract any rotation of the guide tabs outside this angular range, thereby preventing rotation of the shoulder strap 26, 28. The application of the back brace 10 is significantly facilitated by the guaranteed favorable angular range and orientation of the guide tabs, and consequently, the favorable alignment of the shoulder strap 26, 28. The angular range can be 90 degrees or less, preferably 60 degrees or less, and particularly preferably 45 degrees or 30 degrees or less.

[0085] Figure 4This concerns a schematic, simplified front view of the back orthosis 10 according to the previously described embodiment. Analogous to Figure 3 The so-called belt-like and fabric-like parts of the back orthosis 10 are hidden.

[0086] In addition to Figure 3It is evident that flexible areas 160 are formed on the side panels 20, 22. The flexible areas 160 are formed at the end of the side panels 20, 22 facing away from the first and second planar stabilizing elements 12, 14. The flexible areas 160 each comprise incisions or material recesses 161 of varying depths, which extend into the respective side panel 20, 22 from its edge or front end. This results in wider, fan-shaped material ribs that are more easily deformable. The flexible areas 160 increase the elastic deformability of the side panel, for example, for better adaptation to specific abdominal circumferences of patients. Furthermore, it is known in Figure 3 including the hexagonal material recesses, which are formed in the form of openings or partly only in the form of local depressions.

[0087] Furthermore, it is assumed that Figure 4The mounting areas 162 on the two stabilizing elements 12, 14 are highlighted. It is intended that connecting elements, such as adhesives and / or hook-and-loop fasteners, are attached to the mounting areas 162 in order to attach the padding elements 138, 140 to the stabilizing elements 12, 14. The mounting areas 162 facilitate the assembly of the back orthosis 10.

[0088] In the area of ​​the guide slots 54, 56 of the first stabilizing element 12 and the guide slots 76, 78, respective guide recesses 163 are formed corresponding to the guide recesses 72. These serve to guide a respective guide body, such as the guide body 70, along the guide slots 54, 56, 76, 78 and to engage with the respective locking screw 68.

[0089] Figure 5aThis relates to a schematic, simplified side view of the back orthosis 10 according to the preceding embodiment. With reference to the first side part 20, it can be seen that a plurality of material recesses 154 are formed on the side part 20. Adjacent material recesses 154 are arranged in a substantially uniform manner relative to one another. Furthermore, in connection with Figure 5a The shape of the flexible areas 160 is clearly visible. The flexible areas 160 are formed at an anterior end 164 of the lateral part 20 and extend from anterior to posterior over an area of ​​approximately 20% of the lateral part with respect to a patient.

[0090] The side panel 20 also has receiving slots 166, 168. These serve for coupling with the waist belt assembly 18, in particular with the first waist belt section 84. Specifically, a belt assembly or the aforementioned tab can be provided, which is guided through the two receiving slots 166, 168. The first waist belt section 84 or a belt guide provided on the waist belt section 84, or the aforementioned tab, can be guided in this belt assembly. The second side panel 22 is designed analogously.

[0091] It may be provided that the side parts 20, 22 are each arranged in a mirror-symmetrical manner with respect to a central plane, which is arranged, for example, between the receiving slots 166, 168.

[0092] Figure 5bThis is a schematic, simplified view from below of the first stabilizing element 12 according to the previously described embodiment. It can be seen that the stabilizing guide 32 is formed on the first stabilizing element 12, in which the stabilizing rail 16 can be received and guided relative to the first stabilizing element 12. Furthermore, depending on the design of the first stabilizing element 12 or as required, the stabilizing body 40 can also be received or arranged in the stabilizing guide 32. The stabilizing guide 32 also forms a downwardly open receiving opening 169 through which the stabilizing body 40 and / or the stabilizing rail 16 can be guided into the stabilizing guide 32.

[0093] Furthermore, the first stabilizing element 12 has a shape curved around the longitudinal axis L1, specifically a shape curved around the patient's body when the back orthosis 10 is applied to the patient. Thus, the first stabilizing element 12 is at least partially adapted to the contours of a human body. The curved shape therefore improves wearing comfort and increases the stabilizing effect of the back orthosis 10. The second stabilizing element 14 can have a similarly curved shape. At least the internal geometric design of the receiving pocket 74 can be similar to that of the stabilizing guide 32.

[0094] Figure 5cThis is a schematic, simplified isometric view of the stabilizing rail 16 according to the previously described embodiment. The stabilizing rail 16 has a longitudinal slot 34 in an upper region 151, which extends through the stabilizing rail 16 and along the longitudinal direction L. The longitudinal slot 34 has a constant width. In a lower region 153, the stabilizing rail 16 is formed without a longitudinal slot. However, several through holes 155, 157 are formed in the lower region 153, with the through hole 157 having a larger diameter than the three through holes 155. The through holes 155, 157 serve to firmly attach the stabilizing rail 16 to the second stabilizing element 14, for example by screwing, bonding, and / or by overmolding the stabilizing rail 16 with the second stabilizing element 14.The stabilizing rail 16 has a rectangular shape with a predetermined, constant material thickness. In other words, the stabilizing rail 16 corresponds to a thin, elongated cuboid. Depending on which of the stabilizing elements 12, 14 the stabilizing rail 16 is rigidly coupled to, the stabilizing element 16 can also be oriented in reverse with respect to its vertical direction within the back orthosis 10. Furthermore, the longitudinal slot 34 can also be formed along essentially both regions 151, 153 of the stabilizing rail 16.

[0095] Figure 6This relates to a schematic simplified rear view of the back orthosis 10 according to a further embodiment. In this embodiment, the back orthosis 10 is designed as described above, except that an alternative first stabilizing element 170 is provided. The first stabilizing element 170 is essentially analogous to the lower region 48 of the previously described stabilizing element 12. Thus, the stabilizing element 170 has the guide slots 54, 56, which are formed parallel to the longitudinal axis L1. Furthermore, the stabilizing guide 32 is formed on the first stabilizing element 170, which is designed to receive the stabilizing rail 16, so that the stabilizing element 170 and the stabilizing rail 16 can be displaced relative to each other. Compared to the first stabilizing element 12, however, the stabilizing guide 32 is oriented in the direction of the longitudinal axis L1, or rather,The stabilizing guide 32 is shorter in the direction of an upper area 172. In other words, the stabilizing guide 32 is not formed or provided in the upper area 172. Therefore, in addition to the stabilizing rail 16, no further stabilizing component and thus no stabilizing body 40 as described above is guided and / or arranged in the stabilizing guide 32.

[0096] The first stabilizing element 170 is also adapted to the shape of a human body, particularly the mid and / or upper back. For attaching the shoulder strap assembly (not shown), the first stabilizing element 170 has corresponding openings 174, 176, specifically through-holes, to which the deflection axis 118 can be attached. As previously explained, the first stabilizing element 170 also has protrusions 171, 173, 175, 177 on its rear side. Furthermore, the upper section 172 forms an extended support area in the cranial direction when the back orthosis is fitted to the patient.

[0097] The first stabilizing element 170 is shorter in the vertical direction than the first stabilizing element 12. The upper area 172 is now higher in the area of ​​the longitudinal axis L1 than away from the longitudinal axis L1.

[0098] As already explained, the first side part 20, the second side part 22, the second stabilizing element 14 and the stabilizing rail 16 are as described in connection with Figures 1 to 5b explained, trained.

[0099] Figure 7 This concerns a schematic simplified isometric view of the back orthosis 10 from Figure 6 . On the inside of the first stabilizing element 170, as well as on the stabilizing element 12, highlighted mounting areas 162 are formed.

[0100] Regarding side panels 20, 22, it is assumed that Figure 7Their curved shape is again evident. The side parts 20, 22 are each concave in their central region towards the medial side of the patient and convex in their lower and upper regions towards the lateral side of the patient. Furthermore, the flexible areas 160 are formed on a region of the side parts 20, 22 that is designed to contact a lateral and / or ventral region of the patient. In general, the shape of a side part 20, 22 can be described as a curved fork shape, with the fork tips or tines formed by the upper guide process 60 and the lower guide process 62 with respect to the first side part 20. The guide processes 60, 62 are oriented at an angle of approximately 90° to a central region 178 of the first side part 20.

[0101] Figure 8This figure shows a schematic, simplified isometric view of a back orthosis 180 according to a further embodiment. The back orthosis 180 is based on the back orthosis 10 described above. However, the back orthosis 180 comprises only a single-piece, flat stabilizing element 182, which is designed to support the back of a patient.

[0102] The first side part 20 coupled to the stabilizing element 182 corresponds to the side part 20 described above, and the second side part 22 corresponds to the side part 22 described above.

[0103] The flat stabilizing element 182 has a central area 184 that, when the back orthosis 180 is applied to the patient, extends from top to bottom along a longitudinal axis L3. The central area 184 has a flat material recess 186 and an upper bulge 188. The material recess 186 and the upper bulge 188 serve, when the orthosis is applied to the patient, to largely exclude the area containing the patient's vertebrae, thus allowing force to be transmitted from the back orthosis 180 into the patient's body outside the vertebral region. Adjacent to the central area 184, a first stabilizing area 190 and a second stabilizing area 192 are formed. These two stabilizing areas 190 and 192 serve to make contact with a hip-proximal area of ​​the patient when the orthosis is applied to the patient.In the first stabilizing area 190, an upper receiving opening 194 and a lower receiving opening 196, which is concealed by the first side part 20, are formed. Furthermore, an upper receiving opening 198 and a lower receiving opening 200 are also formed in the second stabilizing area 192. The receiving openings 194, 196, 198, 200, which are designed as through-holes, serve to couple the stabilizing element 182 to the respective side part 20, 22. For this purpose, a connecting element arrangement, such as a screw arrangement, can be provided in the respective receiving openings 194, 196, 198, 200. The connecting element arrangement can be designed analogously to the guide arrangement 58 and comprise the locking screw 68 and the guide body 70, which is arranged in and guided in the guide slot 64 of the guide extension 60.In a loosened state of the connection arrangement, the respective side part 20, 22 can be displaced in a medial-lateral direction relative to the stabilizing element 182, while in a tightened state of the connection arrangements in the receiving openings 194, 196 and 198, 200 respectively, the respective side part 20, 22 is fixedly arranged relative to the stabilizing element 182.

[0104] The side panels 20, 22 have mounting slots 166, 168. These serve to mount a hip belt assembly such as the hip belt assembly 18. Figure 1 and 2 to be coupled with the respective side pieces 20, 22 as explained above. Thus, a simple 180° back orthosis can be provided, which is intended particularly for the hip area of ​​a patient.

[0105] In the front area of ​​the stabilizing element 182, a plurality of mounting areas 201 are provided, which, like the mounting areas 162, are designed to accommodate respective connecting elements, for example, adhesives and / or hook-and-loop fasteners, in order to attach a padding element (not shown) to the stabilizing element 182. This padding element essentially has the same shape as the stabilizing element 182 and serves as padding against the patient. The padding element can be designed, in particular with regard to material, like the padding elements 138, 140, 142, and 144.

[0106] The stabilizing element 182 also has a first guide slot 202 and a second guide slot 204, wherein the guide slots 202 and 204 are oriented and configured in a medial-lateral direction, respectively, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L3 and thus in a lateral direction S3. Furthermore, the guide slots 202 and 204 are located in a central region relative to the height of the stabilizing element 182 (in the direction of the longitudinal axis L3). The guide slots 202 and 204 serve to attach the previously described hip belt assembly 18 to the stabilizing element 182 instead of and / or in addition to its attachment to the receiving slots 166 and 168. In this way, a further back orthosis can be provided according to another embodiment. With this back orthosis, the two side parts 20, 22 can be omitted, and a hip belt arrangement such as the hip belt arrangement 18 can be attached directly to the stabilizing element 182.For this purpose, a connecting element arrangement such as a screw arrangement can be provided, wherein, for example, a respective locking screw is arranged through the stabilizing element 182, more precisely in the respective guide slot 202, 204. The locking screw is further equipped with an associated screw receptacle 206, 208 (see . Figure 1The hip belt assembly 18 can be coupled or connected to the stabilizing element 182, for example by means of a threaded sleeve provided on the hip belt assembly. In a loosened state of the respective locking screw, the corresponding hip belt section 84, 86 can be displaced relative to the stabilizing element 182 within the limits of the respective guide slot 202, 204. In a tightened state of the respective locking screw, the corresponding hip belt section 84, 86 is fixedly arranged or coupled to the stabilizing element 182. The loosened state can mean that the locking screw remains coupled to the corresponding screw receptacle 206, 208, but is not fully tightened.This ensures that the hip belt assembly 18 is fixed in the vertical direction, i.e., in the direction of the longitudinal axis L3, relative to the stabilizing element 182. However, the respective hip belt parts 84, 86 are permitted to shift medially and laterally, i.e., perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L3, relative to the stabilizing element 182 within the limits of the longitudinal slots 202, 204. This allows the hip belt assembly 18 to be applied to a patient by bringing the two hip belt parts 84, 86 together at the front of the patient and fastening them to each other. The stabilizing effect of the back orthosis 180 can then be adjusted by actuating the tensioning mechanism 88. The tensioning mechanism 88 is frequently used to firmly tighten the hip belt parts 84, 86 together.

[0107] The stabilizing element 182 has a curved shape, particularly with respect to the longitudinal axis L3, and is thus adapted at least approximately to the typical shape of a back.

[0108] Figure 9 relates to a schematic simplified rear view of the back orthosis 180 according to the further embodiment according to Figure 8 As previously explained, the side parts 20, 22 correspond to the side parts 20, 22 already described. With reference to side part 20, the guide slot 54 is formed on the upper guide extension 60 and the guide slot 56 is formed on the lower guide extension 62. Furthermore, the guide recess 72 is formed around the guide slot 54. Similarly, the guide recess 72 is also formed around the guide slot 56.

[0109] It can be seen that the guide slots 54, 56 overlap with the receiving openings 194, 196, 198, 200 to allow the side parts 20, 22 to be attached to the stabilizing element 182.

[0110] The stabilizing element 182 has honeycomb-shaped material recesses 210, analogous to the material recesses 82, which serve to reduce the weight of the back orthosis 180, particularly the stabilizing element 182. Furthermore, the material recesses 210 serve to improve the aesthetic appearance of the back orthosis 180. The material recesses 210 are located away from the guide slots 54, 56 and away from the guide slots 202, 204 in the stabilizing element 182.

[0111] For the sake of clarity, it should be noted that the 180 back brace complies with the Figure 8 and 9 in both embodiments, i.e. with side panels 20, 22 and hip belt arrangement 18; or without side panels 20, 22, but with hip belt arrangement 18; A shoulder strap arrangement such as the shoulder strap arrangement 24 can be omitted. The back orthosis 180 is designed to be attached to a patient using the hip strap arrangement 18. Depending on the patient's symptoms, the back orthosis 180 can be configured according to one of the embodiments.

[0112] For clarification, it should be noted that the longitudinal directions L, L1, L2, and L3 can each be straight lines. However, depending on the design, a targeted deformation, or the deformability of the associated components, a given longitudinal direction can also have a curved path.

[0113] It should be noted in general that all features mentioned or explained in connection with back orthosis 10 may also apply to back orthosis 180, and vice versa. Furthermore, individual features explained in connection with one of the previously described back orthoses or a component thereof may be considered in isolation and as an independent teaching.

[0114] Overall, the preceding explanations clearly demonstrate the versatile adjustability of the back orthosis and the equally versatile usability of individual parts of the back orthosis.

Claims

1. A back orthosis (10; 180) for stabilizing a patient's back, comprising: - a first planar stabilizing element (12) to support the patient's back; - a second planar stabilizing element (14) to support the patient's back below the first planar stabilizing element (12); and - an elongated stabilizing splint (16) coupling the first and second planar stabilizing elements (12; 14) to each other and being guided relative to the first and / or second planar stabilizing elements (12; 14), enabling a guided translational displacement of the first and second planar stabilizing elements (12; 14) relative to each other in the longitudinal direction (L) of the stabilizing splint (16) to adapt the back orthosis (10; 180) to the patient, characterized by at least one side part (20; 22) for at least partially surrounding a patient's lateral body region, the side part (20; 22) being coupled or couplable to the first planar stabilizing element (12) and the second planar stabilizing element (14).

2. The back orthosis (10; 180) of claim 1, wherein the stabilizing splint (16) is substantially rigid, in particular rigid in comparison to the first and / or second planar stabilizing element (12; 14).

3. The back orthosis (10; 180) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the elongated stabilizing splint (16) is disposed substantially at the center of the first and / or second planar stabilizing elements (12; 14).

4. The back orthosis (10; 180) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the stabilizing splint (16) is firmly coupled to or formed on one of the first or second planar stabilizing element (12; 14).

5. The back orthosis (10; 180) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the stabilizing splint (16) couples the first and second planar stabilizing elements (12; 14) to each other and is guided relative to the first and / or second planar stabilizing elements (12; 14) in such a way that translational displacement of the first and second planar stabilizing elements (12; 14) relative to each other is disabled in at least a first direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L) of the stabilizing splint (16) and is preferably further disabled in a second direction, wherein it is particularly preferred that the longitudinal direction (L) and the second direction are perpendicular to each other.

6. The back orthosis (10; 180) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the stabilizing splint (16) further couples the first and second planar stabilizing elements (12; 14) to each other and is guided relative to the first and / or second planar stabilizing elements (12; 14) in such a way that rotational displacement of the planar stabilizing elements (12; 14) relative to each other is disabled.

7. The back orthosis (10; 180) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first and second planar stabilizing elements (12; 14) can be decoupled from the stabilizing splint (16), in particular by displacing the stabilizing element (12; 14) relative to the stabilizing splint (16) in the longitudinal direction (L) of the stabilizing splint (16).

8. The back orthosis (10; 180) of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a splint fastening assembly (36) for disabling displacement of the first and second planar stabilizing elements (12; 14) relative to each other in the longitudinal direction (L) of the stabilizing splint (16).

9. The back orthosis (10; 180) of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one pretensioning mechanism (100) configured to push two components of the back orthosis (10; 180) that are displaceable relative to each other in relation to each other, in particular toward each other, by means of a tensioning force.

10. The back orthosis (10; 180) of claim 9, further comprising: a guide assembly (58; 80) enabling displacement of the side part (20; 22) relative to the first and / or second planar stabilizing elements (12; 14) in a lateral direction (S1; S2); wherein the pretensioning mechanism (100) is configured to push the side part (20; 22) in the lateral direction (S1; S2), in particular in a medial direction, relative to the first and / or second planar stabilizing elements (12; 14) by means of the tensioning force.

11. The back orthosis (10; 180) of claim 10, wherein the guide assembly (58; 80) comprises a locking mechanism for disabling displacement of the side part (20; 22) relative to the first and / or second planar stabilizing elements (12; 14) at least in the lateral direction (S1; S2).

12. The back orthosis (10; 180) of any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the amount of the tensioning force of the pretensioning mechanism (100) is adjustable.

13. The back orthosis (10; 180) of any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the side part (20; 22) comprises flexible areas (160), in particular on its end facing away from the first and / or second planar stabilizing elements (12; 14), which cause increased elastic deformability of the side part (20; 22), wherein the flexible areas (160) preferably comprise material cutouts (161) extending from an edge area of and into the side part (20; 22).

14. The back orthosis (10; 180) of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a two-piece hip strap assembly (18), in particular, attached or attachable to the side part (20; 22) and / or the first and / or second planar stabilizing elements (12; 14) and configured to surround a patient's region close to their hips, wherein the hip strap assembly (18) comprises an operable tensioning mechanism (88), in particular a pulley mechanism, configured to tension the two pieces of the hip strap assembly (18) upon operation relative to each other, preferably in the circumferential direction of the patient.

15. The back orthosis (10; 180) of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a shoulder strap assembly (24) comprising at least two shoulder pull straps (26; 28), wherein a respective shoulder pull strap (26; 28) is couplable or coupled to the first planar stabilizing element (12) with its respective one area and to the second planar stabilizing element (14) with its respective other area, and wherein each shoulder pull strap (26; 28), when being attached to the patient, is guided or guidable from the first planar stabilizing element (12) over a patient's shoulder.