ORTHOSIS FOR THE LATERAL LIGAMENTS OF THE KNEE

Abstract

The present invention relates to an orthosis specifically designed to provide support to the lateral ligaments of the knee, both medial and lateral. The orthosis comprises an upper segment (1) and two lower segments (2, 3) (one vertical (2) and one horizontal (3)), connected by a hinge (4). This configuration allows for a compact design that offers stability and flexibility to the joint, while integrating sensors that enable monitoring of functional knee parameters such as muscle tone, load distribution, temperature, muscle electrical activity, and mobility.

Description

Title of the invention: ORTHOSIS FOR THE LATERAL LIGAMENTS OF THE KNEE SUBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates, as its title indicates, to an orthosis for the lateral ligaments of the knee, that is to say refers to an external device, which is placed to modify functional aspects of the locomotor system and which is specially designed for the lateral ligaments of the knee, it being understood that there is both a version for the external ligament and for the internal ligament, as well as for both.

[0002] The present invention is characterized by the special design and configuration of each of the parts, so that it results in a device offering a compact design which provides stability and flexibility, while controlling muscle tone, load distribution, temperature, electrical activity of the muscles and joint mobility by the inclusion of sensors to monitor the knee and facilitate its stability.

[0003] Thus, the present invention relates to the field of orthotics and particularly those designed for the knee. CONTEXT OF THE INVENTION

[0004] Injuries to the lateral ligaments of the knee are among the most frequent and common injuries occurring at this joint. The most common injury mechanism is twisting of the knee with the foot bearing weight. This twisting can occur in any professional or sporting setting.

[0005] Treatment initially consists of rest, cryotherapy, and, depending on the severity of the injury, the prescription of an orthosis that stabilizes the body and provides a sense of security. However, this external support leads to atrophy of the quadriceps muscle, which weakens the patient's lower extremities, creating a vicious cycle. The most widely accepted treatment for these injuries is surgery, but sometimes this solution is not possible, and conservative alternatives must be sought to guarantee the functional independence and quality of life of these patients.

[0006] Orthoses are also described to support the joint in elderly people without neurological pathology. The main problem with these devices is that they reduce muscle activation.

[0007] Despite all the positive aspects of these devices, the main problem with almost all of these orthoses is that they include a structure that extends from the knee to the ankle, which facilitates the loss of muscle mass leading to increasing weakness and muscle atrophy, and it is no longer possible to maintain the knee position without the use of the brace.

[0008] None of the orthoses on the market today have the monitoring, dynamism and sensor control to be able to control in a more objective and reliable way the contraction, muscle tone, load distribution and movement of the joint to avoid atrophy, do without crutches and / or canes and achieve the greatest stability for the patient.

[0009] There is no orthosis specifically indicated for nerve damage at the knee joint; instead, devices used for traumatic injuries such as sprains or surgeries resulting from cruciate ligament injuries, or even fractures, are employed. These include hinged knee braces that cover a large area of ​​the lower extremity, which restrict movement and are visible because they cannot be worn under clothing.

[0010] Knee orthoses that exist on the market, in addition to causing a loss of muscle mass, mainly of the quadriceps, due to immobilization, lack a sensor providing information on the condition of the knee joint for patients, so that they can achieve greater autonomy and independence in their daily lives. DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] The present invention relates to an orthosis that overcomes the drawbacks of the prior art, namely muscle loss, primarily in the quadriceps, due to immobilization, thus minimizing or completely eliminating the need for support products such as canes and / or crutches. Furthermore, the orthosis incorporates sensors that provide information on the condition of the knee joint for patients, enabling greater autonomy and independence in their daily lives.

[0012] The orthosis of the present invention is an external device which modifies functional aspects of the locomotor system, in particular of the knee and more specifically of one or both of the lateral ligaments of each knee.

[0013] The orthosis of the present invention comprises an upper segment and two lower segments, one of the lower segments being a vertical segment and the other of the lower segments being a horizontal segment connected to the vertical segment at its upper part, the upper segment and the two lower segments remaining connected by an articular link formed by a hinge.

[0014] The orthosis for the lateral collateral ligament of the knee comprises three segments, one upper at the level of the femur and two lower, one simulating the lateral ligament The external part of the joint is shaped like a vertical segment, while the other segment, extending towards the patella, supports it at its lower end like a horizontal segment. This provides stability and prevents tendinopathies of the patellar tendon, including wear and tear due to weakening caused by quadriceps atrophy. On the lateral side is a gear or hinge that allows movement of the joint according to the patient's range of motion.

[0015] The orthosis for the lateral ligaments of the knee is a lightweight orthosis, adapted in thickness and design to be worn under trousers, and resistant.

[0016] The hinge includes a first element connected to the upper segment by means of a first fixing point, while the hinge also includes a second element connected to the first element in an articulated manner, and this second element remaining connected to the lower segments, at the upper end of the vertical segment by means of a second fixing point.

[0017] The orthosis is preferably made of a breathable and strong material offering a compact design which provides stability and flexibility while controlling muscle tone, load distribution, temperature, electrical activity of the muscles and joint mobility through the inclusion of sensors to monitor the knee and facilitate its stability.

[0018] In a possible, non-limiting embodiment, the orthosis can be made of PETG (a 3D printing filament composed of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) with added glycol (G)). This results in a filament that is less brittle and easier to use in 3D printing. Thus, the upper segment, the lower segments, the hinge, the first element, the first attachment point, the second element, and the second attachment point are made of a 3D printing filament composed of polyethylene terephthalate with added glycol (G).

[0019] The orthosis can also preferably be manufactured using FFF (Fusion Filament Fabrication) technology. It is also possible to manufacture the orthosis in a single piece using HP's (Hewlett-Packard) MJF (Multi Jet Fusion) technology. Since this material is stronger, it is more aesthetically pleasing when made in one piece. Thus, the upper segment, the lower segments, the hinge, the first element, the first attachment point, the second element, and the second attachment point are manufactured in a single piece.

[0020] HP's MJF technology has advantages over FFF: the material is more resistant; it has anisotropy, the manufacturing layers do not weaken the orthosis on any axis; the one-piece manufacturing because it is a technology that does not require supports and is more aesthetic.

[0021] In the case of a lower segment simulating the medial collateral ligament, the design of the orthosis remains the same, but it is placed on the opposite side (inner part of the patient's knee), leaving the lateral compartment of the orthosis free. The orthosis has an internal strap that simulates the medial collateral ligament with its axis directed towards the patella. The two lower segments are attached to the hinge, which continues with the segment towards the femur. In the event of injury to both ligaments, a first model designed to support the lateral collateral ligament of the knee joint and a second model designed to support the medial collateral ligament of the knee joint are combined, and it is possible to combine the two models to support both lateral ligaments of the knee joint.

[0022] The orthosis is light, resistant and adapted in thickness to be worn under trousers (its size is 12 x 18 cm) and features a knee rotation system (composed of two parts that move between them and can only be manufactured using SLS (Selective Laser Sintering) technology of 3D printing).

[0023] The orthosis of the invention has a reduced size and a dynamic design that allows knee movement, promotes muscle activation, and reduces joint instability. The dynamic design helps to prevent and delay fatigue as much as possible, providing the muscles with greater strength through the support it offers, and thus delays muscle atrophy, which in the long term causes weakness and functional dependence. The prototype developed improves users' independence as well as their quality of life.

[0024] In addition, the orthosis includes sensors for monitoring the joint and muscles and allows the user to achieve a stable gait while using the orthosis. The information from the sensors is transmitted to an electronic device on which the patient can check the condition of their knee at any time.

[0025] The orthosis further includes at least one sensor which monitors the user's joint and muscles.

[0026] The sensors are configured to detect the movement of the lateral ligament or the movement of the medial ligament or the movement of both ligaments of the user depending on whether the first model or the second model alone, or both models together, are used.

[0027] Sensors are used to detect muscle tone, load distribution, temperature, electrical activity of the muscles, and knee joint mobility. Depending on the orthosis model, it will be possible to focus on the lateral collateral ligament, the medial collateral ligament, or both. The choice of model depends on the severity of the injury, the progression of the condition, or its chronicity.

[0028] In summary, the new orthosis is beneficial for individuals with a chronic orthosis prescription for nerve and musculoskeletal injuries of the knee who require its continuous use to achieve joint stability and a stable, independent gait, both in the initial stages due to the presence of inflammation and in later stages as treatment nears completion. The integration of sensors provides control and monitoring of the joint and muscles to achieve a stable gait, improving the functional independence and quality of life of these patients.

[0029] This prototype is a functional alternative for the rehabilitation of patients with nerve and lateral ligament injuries of the knee. This new orthosis gives the patient greater confidence by supporting and strengthening the injured lateral ligament complex without limiting joint mobility. Furthermore, the continuous monitoring generated by the sensors leads to the prevention of muscle atrophy because the muscle will be activated normally. In addition, since it can even be worn under clothing, it improves the patient's appearance and confidence because it is discreet. DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] To complete the present description and in order to promote a better understanding of the features of the invention, in accordance with a preferred example of a practical embodiment thereof, a set of drawings in which the following has been shown by way of illustration and not limitation is attached to form an integral part of the said description.

[0031] [Fig.1] - Shows a side view of the orthosis.

[0032] [Fig.2] - Shows a front view of the orthosis illustrated in [Fig.1].

[0033] [Fig.3] - Shows a view of the orthosis installed on a leg.

[0034] [Fig.4] - Shows another view of the orthosis installed on a leg. FAVORITE REALIZATION OF THE INVENTION

[0035] A preferred embodiment of the present invention is described below with reference to the figures.

[0036] Figures 1, 2, 3 and 4 show an orthosis which represents a first model intended to support the external lateral ligament of the knee joint.

[0037] In [Fig.1] we can see an orthosis for the external lateral ligament of the knee made in several pieces which includes an upper segment (1) and two lower segments, one of the lower segments being a vertical segment (2) and the other of the lower segments being a horizontal segment (3) connected to the vertical segment (2) at its upper part, the upper segment (1) and the two lower segments (2, 3) remaining connected by an articular connection formed by a hinge (4).

[0038] The hinge (4) includes a first element (4.1) connected to the upper segment (1) by means of a first fixing point (4.1.1), while the hinge (4) also includes a second element (4.2) connected to the first element (4.1) in an articulated manner, and this second element (4.2) remaining connected to the lower segments (2, 3), particularly to the upper end of the vertical segment (2) by a second fixing point (4.2.1).

[0039] To facilitate the fixation of the orthosis to the leg, on the upper segment (1) two first loops (1.1) are defined in a preferred but not limiting manner, while on the vertical segment (2) a second loop (2.1) is defined, and finally on the horizontal segment (3) a third loop (3.1). This last one can be seen in [Fig.2].

[0040] Figure 3 shows how the orthosis is positioned on the leg, with all the elements described above being appreciable.

[0041] Fig. 4 shows that, for fixing the orthosis to the leg, a first fixing strap (5) is used which passes through the first loops (1.1) of the upper segment (1) which surrounds the leg over the knee and is fixed to itself by any known means, such as Velcro®, etc.

[0042] On the other hand, a second fastening strap (6) is used which is fixed to itself by passing through the second loop (2.1) of the vertical segment (2) and through the third loop (3.1) of the horizontal segment (3).

[0043] Most of the components of the orthosis are made of PETG, a 3D printing filament composed of polyethylene terephthalate and glycol (G), or are manufactured using FFF technology, or are manufactured in one piece using MJF fused filament deposition technology. These components are the upper segment (1), the lower segments (2, 3), the hinge (4), the first element (4.1), the first attachment point (4.1.1), the second element (4.2), and the second attachment point (4.2.1).

[0044] The orthosis comprises a first model intended to support the external lateral ligament of the knee joint and a second model intended to support the internal lateral ligament of the knee joint.

[0045] The orthosis incorporates at least one sensor to control and monitor a user's joint and muscles to achieve stable walking. The sensors are configured according to the model to detect the movement of the user's muscles and lateral collateral ligament, medial collateral ligament, or both ligaments. The upper segment (1) of the orthosis is positioned at the user's femur to detect movement of the lateral collateral ligament of the knee, or is positioned on the opposite side (inner part of the user's knee) to detect movement of the medial collateral ligament of the knee. The sensors are located on the inner surface of the upper segment (1) and the two lower segments (2, 3).

Claims

Demands

1. - Orthosis for the lateral ligaments of the knee characterized in that it comprises an upper segment (1) and two lower segments (2, 3), in which one of the lower segments is a vertical segment (2) and the other of the lower segments is a horizontal segment (3) connected to the vertical segment (2) at its upper part, the upper segment (1) and the two lower segments (2, 3) remaining connected by a joint connection formed by a hinge (4), said orthosis further comprising at least one sensor which monitors the joint and the muscles of the user.

2. - Orthosis according to claim 1 in which the hinge (4) comprises a first element (4.1) connected to the upper segment (1) by means of a first fixing point (4.1.1), while the hinge (4) also comprises a second element (4.2) connected to the first element (4.1) in an articulated manner, and this second element (4.2) remaining connected to the lower segments (2, 3), at the upper end of the vertical segment (2) by a second fixing point (4.2.1).

3. - Orthosis according to claim 1 in which on the upper segment (1) two first loops (1.1) are defined, while on the vertical segment (2) a second loop (2.1) is defined, and finally on the horizontal segment (3) a third loop (3.1) is defined.

4. - Orthosis according to claims 1 to 3 in which the upper segment (1), the lower segments (2, 3), the hinge (4), the first element (4.1), the first fixing point (4.1.1), the second element (4.2) and the second fixing point (4.2.1) are made of a filament for 3D printing which is composed of polyethylene terephthalate and to which glycol (G) is added.

5. - Orthosis according to claims 1 to 3 in which the upper segment (1), the lower segments (2, 3), the hinge (4), the first element (4.1), the first fixing point (4.1.1), the second element (4.2) and the second fixing point (4.2.1) are made in one piece.

6. - Orthosis according to claim 1, comprising a first model intended to support the external lateral ligament of the knee joint and a second model intended to support the internal lateral ligament of the knee joint.

7. 8 - Orthosis according to claim 6, wherein the sensors are configured to detect the movement of the lateral ligament or the movement of the medial ligament or the movement of both ligaments of the user depending on whether the first model or the second model alone, or both models together, are used.

8. - Orthosis according to claim 7, wherein the sensors are placed on the inner face of the upper segment (1) and the two lower segments (2, 3).

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