Fixation tape to aid in patient recovery

Abstract

Various embodiments are directed to fixation tape systems and methods of using the same. In various embodiments, the fixation tape system comprises one or more fixation tapes, each comprising: a backing layer configured to conform to a portion of a patient's body and defining an upper side and an underside opposite the upper side; an adhesive secured to the underside of the backing layer, the adhesive configured to adhere the backing layer to the patient's skin and to maintain adhesion between the backing layer and the patient's skin; at least one stimulator configured to apply a stimulation signal to the patient's skin, the stimulation signal configured to induce mechanical movement in at least one dimension of the patient's skin; and one or more fixation means at least partially secured to the fixation tape.

Description

[Background technology]

[0001] Generally, therapeutic treatments to assist a patient in recovery from a physical injury (e.g., overuse, injury, or weakness of a muscle, torn and / or overused ligament, and / or bruises, etc.) and / or a medical procedure (e.g., surgery such as joint replacement), and / or to minimize the patient's discomfort due to a disability and / or other condition (e.g., fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis (MS), etc.) include supervised therapy sessions (e.g., under the supervision of a physician, physical therapist, etc.) and / or self-administered therapy sessions (e.g., unsupervised exercises) that may be instructed by a supervising professional. Supervised therapy sessions may include exercise portions in which the patient in question performs exercises similar to those included in the self-administered therapy sessions, but may include additional therapeutic massage and / or manipulation sessions in which the professional manipulates the patient's body at or near the site of injury to stimulate blood flow, minimize scar tissue formation, promote muscle growth, etc.

[0002] Heretofore, patients have not been able to replicate the therapeutic manipulation treatment provided by a professional between and / or after a treatment session with the professional. Thus, there is a need for a device that allows patients to self-perform therapeutic manipulation treatment to further aid in recovery from a physical injury. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Various embodiments are directed to fixation tapes (e.g., medical therapy tapes, physical therapy tapes, chiropractic therapy tapes, naprapathic therapy tapes, massage therapy tapes, lymphatic therapy tapes, sports therapy tapes, and other therapies) having one or more fixation points (e.g., handles, etc.) and / or one or more stimulators configured to allow a patient to continue manipulation and / or massage-based therapy without the supervision of a medical professional. For example, a patient may lift or move a portion of their own skin to facilitate rehabilitation and / or treatment of the body part to which the tape is fixed. For example, the therapy tape may be configured to assist in the treatment of overuse, injury, and / or weakness of muscles and / or ligaments, and / or hematomas, bruises, cording, spinal injuries, numbness, tissue or muscle tightness and / or stiffness (e.g., from spasticity). The therapy tape may further be configured to assist in the treatment of various body conditions, such as lateral epicondylitis, plantar fasciitis, MS, fibromyalgia, swollen lymphedema, lipedema, and the like. In various embodiments, the therapeutic tape may be configured to aid in recovery from medical procedures (e.g., surgery), such as dental procedures, plastic surgery, scar treatment, liposuction, etc. The therapeutic tape may be further configured to provide treatment to prevent injury, aid in patient comfort, etc. For example, the therapeutic tape may be configured to stimulate acupuncture points, acupressure points, etc. The therapeutic tape may be further configured to lift, stretch, and / or move tissue and / or anchor filaments connected to the tissue. The therapeutic tape may be further configured to support various body parts (e.g., limbs), etc. The therapeutic tape may be used on adult patients, child patients, elderly patients, etc. Still further, in certain embodiments, the therapeutic tape may be used on animals (e.g., horses, dogs, cats, etc.).

[0004] Various embodiments are directed to a fixation tape system comprising one or more fixation tapes, each of the one or more fixation tapes comprising a flexible backing layer configured to conform to a portion of a patient's body, the flexible backing layer defining an upper side and an underside opposite the upper side, and an adhesive secured to the underside of the flexible backing layer, the adhesive configured to adhere the backing layer to the patient's skin, the adhesive configured to maintain adhesion between the backing layer and the patient's skin, the fixation tape system further comprising at least one stimulator configured to apply a stimulation signal to the patient's skin, the stimulation signal configured to induce mechanical movement in at least one dimension of the patient's skin, and one or more fixation means at least partially secured to the one or more fixation tapes.

[0005] In various embodiments, the one or more fastening means may comprise one or more handles secured to the upper side of the flexible backing layer, the one or more handles being secured to the flexible backing layer by one or more fasteners. In various embodiments, the mechanical motion may comprise a reciprocating motion along an axis in one dimension, one of a horizontal and a vertical direction. In various embodiments, the mechanical motion may be defined in two dimensions. In certain embodiments, the mechanical motion may comprise a rotational mechanical motion. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the stimulation signal may be configured to induce vibrations of the patient's skin. In certain embodiments, the at least one stimulator may comprise an electrical stimulator comprising a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator (TENS).

[0006] In various embodiments, the at least one stimulator may include a pressure applicator configured to induce a vertical movement or downward continuous pressure in a vertical direction of a one-dimensional axis. Further, in various embodiments, the one or more stimulators may be fixed to the fixation tape at one or more fixation points. In certain embodiments, the at least one stimulator may be fixed to the fixation tape at one or more fixation points. In certain embodiments, one or both of the fixation tape and the at least one stimulator may have a curved profile that at least partially corresponds to a profile of at least a portion of the patient's body.

[0007] In various embodiments, the one or more fastening means may be secured to the one or more fastening tapes by a fastener comprising an adhesive. In various embodiments, the backing layer may be inelastic or elastic. In certain embodiments, the one or more fastening means may be configured to secure one or more of the at least one stimulator to the one or more fastening tapes. In certain embodiments, the adhesive may be heat activated by the patient's body heat. In various embodiments, the one or more fasteners may include a second adhesive different from the adhesive, the second adhesive configured to permanently secure the one or more handles to an upper side of the flexible backing layer. In various embodiments, the one or more fasteners may include a thread sewn through at least a portion of each of the one or more handles and the backing layer. In various embodiments, at least one of the one or more handles may comprise a single layer flexible sheet secured to the backing layer.

[0008] Further, in certain embodiments, the one or more handles may comprise a base portion configured to be secured to an upper side of the backing layer and a grip portion extending from the base portion, the base portion of the one or more handles being secured to the upper side of the backing layer by one or more fasteners. In certain embodiments, the backing layer may define a length and a width measured perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, the length being substantially greater than the width, and at least one of the one or more handles extending across the backing layer in a direction parallel to the width of the backing layer. In various embodiments, the backing layer may define a length and a width measured perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, the length being substantially greater than the width, and at least one of the one or more handles extending across the backing layer in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the backing layer. In certain embodiments, the one or more handles may be separably secured to the backing layer, and the one or more fasteners are selected from a magnet, a hook-and-loop fastener, or a snap.

[0009] In various embodiments, the fixation tape system may further comprise a controller configured to generate one or more stimulator signals selectively activating the at least one stimulator, the controller comprising at least one communication interface configured to receive data transmitted from at least one external computing entity. In various embodiments, the communication interface may be a wireless communication interface. In various embodiments, the fixation tape system may further comprise at least one sensor configured to measure at least one characteristic of the skin, the at least one sensor further configured to transmit the measurement results to the controller, and the controller configured to adjust the one or more stimulator signals based at least in part on the measurement results. In certain embodiments, the fixation tape system may further comprise at least one sensor configured to measure at least one characteristic of the skin, the at least one sensor further configured to transmit the measurement results to a mobile device, and the controller configured to adjust the one or more stimulator signals based at least in part on the measurement results. In various embodiments, at least a portion of the at least one stimulation signal may be programmed to automatically start and stop in response to one or more measurement signals of the edema sensor and the strain gauge.

[0010] In certain embodiments, at least a portion of the at least one stimulation signal may be programmed to be adjusted automatically or in response to sensor measurements for a certain period of time, may be maintained for a certain period at given intervals, and / or may be maintained for multiple periods of time. In various embodiments, the one or more sensors may include one or more of a strain gauge, an edema sensor for measuring one or more of a liquid content and an oil content, a temperature sensor, an ultraviolet (UV) sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a sound sensor, a force sensor, a radio frequency (RF) sensor, an electrical sensor for measuring one or more electrical properties, a mechanical sensor for measuring one or more mechanical properties, a lymph flow sensor for measuring lymph flow, a blood circulation sensor for measuring blood circulation, an evaporation sensor for measuring evaporation capacity, a pH sensor, a position sensor with respect to the elevation of the skin, and an input sensor configured to register an input signal provided by the patient to increase or decrease the efficiency of the treatment to adjust the treatment. Furthermore, in various embodiments, the adhesive may be secured to the backing layer such that the adhesive and the backing layer do not substantially delaminate upon removal from the patient's skin.

[0011] Various embodiments are directed to a method for manipulating a flexible material, the method comprising: fixing a fixation tape system to a surface of the flexible material, the fixation tape system comprising one or more fixation tapes, each of the one or more fixation tapes comprising a flexible backing layer configured to conform to a portion of the surface of the flexible material, the flexible backing layer defining an upper side and an underside opposite the upper side, and an adhesive secured to the underside of the flexible backing layer, the adhesive configured to adhere the backing layer to the surface of the flexible material, the fixation tape system further comprising at least one stimulator configured to apply a stimulation signal to the flexible material, the stimulation signal configured to cause mechanical movement in at least one dimension of the flexible material, and one or more fixation means for fixing the at least one stimulator to the one or more fixation tapes, the method further comprising applying a tension force to at least one of the fixation means to lift the portion of the backing layer and the fixed portion of the surface of the flexible material.

[0012] In various embodiments, the flexible material can be the patient's skin. In various embodiments, the fastening means can comprise one or more handles detachably secured to the upper side of the flexible backing layer, and the method further comprises the step of fastening the one or more handles to the upper side of the flexible backing layer by one or more removable fasteners. In various embodiments, the adhesive can be heat activated, and the step of fastening the tape structure to the surface of the flexible material comprises the steps of placing an adhesive of the fastening tape system on the patient's skin and increasing the temperature of the adhesive based on the patient's body heat to firmly adhere the adhesive to the patient's skin. In various embodiments, the backing can be inelastic such that application of tension to at least one of the one or more handles displaces at least a portion of the surface of the flexible material in the direction of the tension by a distance at least substantially equal to the displacement of the handle.

[0013] In various embodiments, the method may further include collecting data including measurements related to the operation, and analyzing the data by one or more of artificial intelligence and statistical methods to define parameters related to the individual treatment based at least in part on the measurements.

[0014] In various embodiments, the adhesive is fixed to the backing layer such that the adhesive and backing layer do not substantially delaminate upon removal from the patient's skin. Thus, the inventive fixation tape of the present invention can be a therapeutic tape, allowing tissue mobilization and active therapeutic care in at least one dimension, and even up to six dimensions. The mechanical motion can be, for example, back and forth along one axis in only one dimension, two-dimensional on the surface (where the motion is described by two axes), or three-dimensional (where the motion is described by three axes, such as x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis). When rotational motion around one, two, or three axes is added, mobilization in more dimensions is achieved. The fixation tape system of the present invention can be fixed directly to the skin, formed into the form of a bracelet, or fixed to a person's clothing, etc.

[0015] Reference is now made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0016] [Figure 1A-1C] 1A-1D are top and side views of various embodiments of a therapeutic tape. [Figures 2A-2D] 1A-1D are top and side views of various embodiments of a therapeutic tape. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 illustrates a top view of an example of an embodiment of a therapeutic tape. [Figure 4A-4D] 1A-1D are top and side views of various embodiments of a therapeutic tape. [Diagram 5] FIG. 1 illustrates a top view of a therapeutic tape with various stimulators, according to one embodiment. [Figure 6A] FIG. 1 illustrates a top view of a therapeutic tape with a stimulator, according to one embodiment. [Figure 6B] FIG. 1 is a side view of a therapeutic tape with a stimulator, according to one embodiment. [Figure 6C] FIG. 13 is an exploded view of a stimulator and handle according to one embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a side view of an exemplary therapeutic tape with a stimulator secured to a patient's skin, according to one embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a side view of an example of a therapeutic tape. [Figure 9a-9b] 1A-1D are top and side views of an example of a therapeutic tape including a mechanical stimulator, according to a first embodiment. [Figure 10a-10b] 1A-1D are top and side views of an example of a therapeutic tape including a mechanical stimulator, according to a second embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is a side view of an example of a therapeutic tape including a mechanical stimulator, according to a third embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is a side view of an example of a therapeutic tape including a mechanical stimulator, according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a side view of an example of a therapeutic tape including a mechanical stimulator, according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a top view of an example of a therapeutic tape including a mechanical stimulator, according to a sixth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0017] The present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate some, but not all, embodiments of the invention. Indeed, the invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout.

[0018] In various embodiments, the fixation tape of the present invention comprises a stimulator (e.g., a vibrator, a pressure applicator, a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation device (TENS device), a mechanical device for movement and rotation, etc., and / or combinations thereof) for facilitating therapeutic treatment of a patient's injury, disorder, treatment site, etc., and a fixation point to which the stimulator(s) are fixed. The fixing points may be, for example, hooks, magnetic mechanisms, one or more handles (e.g., detachable and / or fixed relative to the backing layer), and / or sensors (e.g., strain gauges, edema sensors for measuring liquid or oil content, temperature sensors, ultraviolet (UV) sensors, infrared (IR) sensors, sound sensors, force sensors, radio frequency (RF) sensors, sensors for measuring electrical properties such as impedance, capacitance, resistance, reactance, or inductance, sensors for measuring mechanical properties such as strength, elasticity, resilience, or flexibility, sensors for measuring lymphatic flow, sensors for measuring blood circulation, sensors for measuring evaporation capacity, pH sensors, sensors regarding skin elevation, and / or sensors capable of registering signals given by the patient to increase or decrease the efficiency of the treatment for adjusting the treatment).

[0019] In various embodiments, the method of the invention comprises a step for adjusting the therapy based on measurements of the mechanical properties of the skin, the adjustment being performed by a software program, by the mobile device or a separate control unit, based on measurements from the sensor. The connection can be wired or wireless, for example by a Bluetooth connection.

[0020] The therapeutic tape may include a backing configured to accommodate additional functions of the tape, an adhesive layer configured to selectively secure the tape to a surface of a flexible material (e.g., to the patient's skin, clothing, or a band around the wrist), one or more fastening means such as mechanical mechanisms, hooks, handles, and / or one or more stimulators. In various embodiments, handles may be incorporated into the tape to allow a medical practitioner (e.g., doctor, physical therapist, etc.), the patient, and / or another individual to manipulate the material (e.g., skin). For example, the handles may allow a healthcare professional and / or patient to pull, stretch, twist, elongate, lengthen, etc., the underlying skin, tissue, fascia, etc., as part of a therapy (e.g., a therapy that includes stretching, pulling, pushing, twisting, etc., of the underlying patient's skin, tissue, and / or fascia) to promote blood flow in and / or adjacent to the skin to which the tape is secured, to break down and / or prevent scar tissue formation, to promote muscle building, to improve lymphatic flow and / or drainage, to increase fluid flow within the patient's body, to increase the metabolic rate of the patient's body, etc. Thus, the adhesive layer of the tape may be configured to be securely secured to the patient's skin such that pulling or manipulating one or more handles of the tape does not cause the tape to separate from the patient's skin. Furthermore, the therapeutic tape may be configured to change length and / or width, for example, when stretched, compressed, etc.

[0021] Still further, in various embodiments, the therapeutic tape may include one or more stimulators configured to stimulate the patient's skin while secured to the patient. In various embodiments, the therapeutic tape may incorporate a controller including one or more control devices configured to selectively activate and / or deactivate a power source and / or one or more stimulators. In various embodiments, the controller may be configured to wirelessly and / or wiredly connect to an external computing device (e.g., a handheld computing device, a mobile device, a desktop computing device, a laptop computing device, a control panel, a control unit, etc.). The controller may be configured to transmit signals to the computing device representative of a current and / or past state of the one or more stimulators and / or receive one or more control signals from an external computing entity configured to manipulate the operation of the one or more stimulators.

[0022] In various embodiments, the therapeutic tape may include multiple stimulators (e.g., multiple stimulators of the same type and / or different types) and / or one or more handles. Thus, the therapeutic tape may be configured to provide different types of therapy to the patient.

[0023] In various embodiments, the therapeutic tape may be configured to remain secured to the patient for extended periods of time (e.g., more than one day) In such embodiments, the therapeutic tape may be configured to allow the patient to self-treat when not in direct communication with a medical professional.

[0024] As discussed herein, the therapeutic tape may have a length and a width. In certain embodiments, the length of the therapeutic tape is significantly greater than the width, and the therapeutic tape may be wound (e.g., in a roll) for storage and / or distribution (as shown in FIG. 8). As one non-limiting example, the therapeutic tape may be at least about 1 inch in width and at least 6 inches in length (e.g., 3 feet, 6 feet, 12 feet, 50 feet, 100 feet, etc. long). As discussed in more detail herein, the therapeutic tape may be configured to be stored in a roll, and a length of the tape may be removed from the roll and severed (e.g., cut) when in use. However, it should be understood that the therapeutic tape may have any dimensional ratio and / or relative dimensions. For example, in certain embodiments, the width may be greater than the length. Still further, in certain embodiments, the therapeutic tape may vary in length (e.g., across the width of the tape) and / or vary in width (e.g., across the length of the tape).

[0025] Backing layer In various embodiments, the therapeutic tape may include a backing layer to which the adhesive layer is secured. In certain embodiments, the backing layer may further include one or more handles and / or one or more stimulators secured thereto.

[0026] The backing layer may include a woven or nonwoven material, such as a textile, a nonwoven film, or a nonwoven fabric. In various embodiments, the backing layer may include a single layer, while in certain embodiments, the backing layer may include multiple layers (e.g., a woven layer and a nonwoven layer). In certain embodiments, the backing layer may include multiple fibers (e.g., woven fibers, blown fibers, etc.). The multiple fibers may include reinforcing fibers having high tensile strength and configured to prevent undesirable ripping and / or tearing of the tape. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the multiple fibers may include elastic fibers configured to allow the backing layer to reversibly stretch in one or more directions.

[0027] In various embodiments, the backing layer may include one or more natural and / or synthetic materials. For example, the backing layer may include plant-based materials (e.g., cotton, wood fibers, bamboo fibers, cellulose fibers, natural rubber, and / or other biodegradable materials), synthetic materials, (e.g., polyester, synthetic rubber, polyvinyl chloride, etc.), and the like. In various embodiments, the backing layer may be hydrophobic so as to dry quickly when exposed to a moist environment (e.g., sweat, water, etc.). However, in certain embodiments, at least a portion of the backing material may be hydrophilic. As specific examples, the backing layer may include a kinesiology tape backing layer, a medical support tape backing layer, an athletic tape backing layer, a dynamic tape backing layer, and the like. In various embodiments, the backing layer may include multiple materials. For example, a first portion of the backing layer may include a first material and a second portion of the backing layer may include a second material. As a specific example, a first portion of the backing layer may comprise a flexible, inelastic material and a second portion of the backing layer may comprise a flexible, elastic material.

[0028] In various embodiments, the backing layer may be a porous material with a plurality of holes extending between the top and bottom surfaces of the backing layer. For example, the holes may extend between the fibers of a woven material and / or may extend through openings in the interior of a nonwoven material. Thus, the backing layer may be breathable, allowing gas (e.g., air) to flow through the backing layer. Thus, when the therapeutic tape is secured to the patient's skin, the backing layer may allow air to flow in / out of the patient's skin adjacent to the therapeutic tape.

[0029] In various embodiments, the backing layer may be stretchable and / or elastic in one or more directions. For example, the backing layer may be stretchable and / or elastic in a direction parallel to the length of the tape and / or in a direction parallel to the width of the tape. Thus, in certain embodiments, the backing may be configured to provide tension to the patient's skin when the therapeutic tape is secured to the patient's skin. For example, the elastic backing layer (and thus the remaining portion of the therapeutic tape that is not secured to the skin) may be stretched during application to the patient and then restored after application. Thus, the therapeutic tape may apply tension as a result of the stretched elastic backing layer attempting to return to its original, unstretched shape. However, it should be understood that in certain embodiments, the backing layer may be inelastic and resist stretching (e.g., lengthening). As discussed in more detail herein, embodiments utilizing an inelastic backing layer may provide direct feedback to the patient's skin when manipulating the therapeutic tape (e.g., via a handle). For example, displacement of a portion of the therapeutic tape (eg, via a handle) causes at least a substantially equal displacement of the skin to which the therapeutic tape is secured, because the backing layer does not stretch.

[0030] adhesive layer As discussed herein, the therapeutic tape may have an adhesive layer secured to a backing layer. The adhesive layer may be configured to selectively secure the therapeutic tape to the patient's skin. Thus, the adhesive layer may be secured to the backing layer such that the adhesive layer and the backing layer do not delaminate during application to and / or removal from the patient.

[0031] In various embodiments, the adhesive layer may be secured to the backing layer by any of a variety of processes as discussed in more detail herein. For example, the adhesive layer may include an adhesive sheet laminated to the backing layer, an adhesive spray applied to the backing layer, an adhesive liquid rolled onto the backing layer, an adhesive liquid dripped onto the backing layer, etc.

[0032] In various embodiments, the adhesive layer can be continuous such that at least substantially the entire surface of the backing layer is covered with the adhesive layer. However, in certain embodiments, the adhesive layer can be discontinuous and thus comprise a plurality of adhesive portions secured to the surface of the backing layer at intervals. For example, the adhesive layer can include a plurality of spaced apart adhesive portions, such as rectangular, circular, triangular, etc. In various embodiments, the adhesive layer can be breathable (e.g., through and / or between the adhesive portions) such that gas (e.g., air) can flow through the backing layer and the adhesive layer.

[0033] The adhesive layer, like the backing layer, can be elastic and / or stretchable such that the elastic layer moves and / or stretches with the backing layer. Thus, the adhesive layer can be configured to follow movements of the backing layer without exerting forces on the backing layer that would cause the adhesive layer to peel off from the backing layer.

[0034] In various embodiments, the adhesive layer can be configured to releasably secure the therapeutic tape to the patient's skin. In various embodiments, the adhesive layer can provide sufficient tensile strength between the therapeutic tape and the patient's skin such that manipulation of the therapeutic tape (e.g., via a handle) can cause relative manipulation of the patient's skin so that the therapeutic tape remains secured to the patient's skin. In various embodiments, the adhesive layer can have low shear strength, allowing the therapeutic tape to be easily removed from the patient, such as by stretching the therapeutic tape against the patient's skin. In various embodiments, the adhesive can include an acrylic polymer. As just one non-limiting example, the adhesive layer can include Stratagel® adhesive provided by Nitto Denko.

[0035] In certain embodiments, the adhesive layer may be heat activated to allow for the therapeutic tape to be secured to and / or removed from the patient's skin. Thus, the therapeutic tape may be secured against the patient's skin such that the patient's body heat heats the therapeutic tape sufficiently to activate the adhesive layer and secure the tape against the patient's skin. Once activated and secured to the patient's skin, the therapeutic tape may be manipulated (e.g., via a handle) in conjunction with the patient's skin without being moved from the patient's skin.

[0036] Handle Referring to the figures, the therapeutic tape has one or more handles secured to the backing layer to allow lifting of the therapeutic tape and the flexible material (e.g., skin) underlying the therapeutic tape to which the therapeutic tape is secured. The therapeutic tape may have one handle or multiple handles having any of a variety of configurations. In various embodiments described herein, the handles may be hook-shaped, circular, "U" shaped, "D" shaped, etc. For example, in various embodiments, the handles may be O-rings, U-rings, J-rings, D-rings, etc. Furthermore, in various embodiments, the handles of the therapeutic tape may be secured to the backing layer such that the tension applied to the handles is concentrated along a central portion of the backing layer to prevent the tape from peeling away from the patient's skin.

[0037] As shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, the therapeutic tape 1 comprises one or more handles 4 oriented at least substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the tape 1. As shown in FIG. 1A, which is a top view of the tape 1, the therapeutic tape 1 may comprise a backing layer 2 and a handle 4 at least substantially centrally disposed relative to the therapeutic tape 1. As discussed herein, the handle 4 may be continuous with the backing layer 2 and may be defined by a folded portion of the backing layer 2. However, in various embodiments, the handle 4 may be a separate piece from the backing layer 2 and secured relative to the backing layer 2 using one or more fasteners (e.g., sewing thread, adhesive, knit, magnet, zipper, string, lace, rivet, etc.). In various embodiments, the handle 4 may comprise a flexible, inelastic and / or elastic material (e.g., woven fabric, plastic, etc.) such that it can rotate and / or bend relative to the backing layer 2. In certain embodiments, the handle 4 may include the same material as the backing layer 2, but in certain embodiments, may include a different material than the backing layer 2. However, it should be understood that in certain embodiments, the handle may include a rigid material (e.g., wood, metal, plastic, etc.). For example, the handle 4 may include kinesiology tape material, medical support tape material, sports tape material, dynamic tape material, etc. As yet another example, the handle 4 may include any of the materials provided as exemplary backing layer materials discussed herein. Still further, in certain embodiments, the handle may include multiple materials. For example, a first portion of the handle may include a first material and a second portion of the handle may include a second material. For example, the first portion of the handle may include a soft non-elastic material and the second portion of the handle may include a soft elastic material.

[0038] 1B, which is a side view of therapeutic tape 1, handle 4 may extend from (e.g., at least substantially perpendicular from) backing layer 2. Handle 4 may be secured to an upper side of backing layer 2, opposite an underside to which adhesive layer 3 is secured. As discussed herein, the adhesive layer may be configured to releasably secure therapeutic tape 1 to a patient's skin.

[0039] As shown in FIG. 1B and FIG. 1C, the handle 4 may be continuous and / or discontinuous along the length of the tape 1. As discussed herein, the handle 4 may be secured to the backing layer 2 such that tension applied to the handle is concentrated along the center to prevent the therapeutic tape 1 from peeling away from the patient's skin while tension is applied to the patient's skin. For example, the handle 4 may include one or more materials configured to concentrate tension along the center of the therapeutic tape 1. In various embodiments, the handle 4 may be configured to distribute tension linearly, parabolically, etc. along at least a portion of the tape. For example, tension may be concentrated at the center of the tape, and the amount of tension applied to the tape may decrease (e.g., linearly, exponentially, hyperbolically, etc.) as the tape approaches the ends of the tape. The handle 4 may include one or more elongated portions extending from the backing layer 2 and / or one or more short portions extending from the backing layer 2. The elongated portion and / or the shorter portion may have various shapes, such as rectangular, oval, semicircular, triangular, etc. In various embodiments, the relative shape and / or location of the handle portion may be determined during and / or after application to the patient's skin. For example, the elongated portion of the handle may be defined (e.g., by cutting and / or fastening to the backing layer 2) proximate to a point of interest on the patient's skin (e.g., a point proximate to an injury).

[0040] 2A-2D, the therapeutic tape 11 may include a plurality of handles 14 oriented at least substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the therapeutic tape 11. In various embodiments, the handles 14 may extend from the backing layer at least about 0.001 inches to 48 inches. By way of example only, the handles may extend from the backing layer about 0.5 inches to 6 inches. As a specific example, the handles may extend from the backing layer about 1 inch to 2 inches. The therapeutic tape 11 may have a similar configuration (e.g., materials, fasteners for securing the handles, etc.) to the therapeutic tape 1, but may have a handle orientation that is different from the longitudinal direction of the therapeutic tape 11. As shown in FIGS. 2A-2D, the handles 14 of the therapeutic tape 11 extend from the top surface of the backing layer 12 (opposite the adhesive layer 13) and are at least substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the therapeutic tape 11. 2B, the handle 14 may be formed from a looped portion of the backing layer 12 that extends upward from a first plane of the backing layer 12 (e.g., the plane that contacts the patient's skin). The looped portions of the backing layer 12 may be secured together (e.g., by sewing, adhesive, etc.) to form the handle 14. In embodiments in which an adhesive is utilized to securely form the handle 14 using the entire length of the looped backing layer 12, the adhesive may be different than the adhesive utilized to secure the therapeutic tape to the patient's skin.

[0041] 2C-2D show alternative embodiments for securing the handle 14 to the backing layer 12. As shown in FIG. 2C, the handle 14 may include a base portion configured to be secured adjacent and / or parallel to the backing layer and a grip portion extending from the base portion. The base portion may include one or more layers of material (e.g., one layer), and the grip portion may include at least as many layers of material (e.g., one layer or two layers) as the base portion. In various embodiments, the handle 14 may include a folded material secured to the backing layer 12. In such embodiments, the folded layers of the handle 14 may form the base portion and the grip portion, and the base portion may be secured to the backing layer, and the folded portions forming the grip portion may also be secured together. For example, the one or more folded layers forming the grip portion may be secured together using fasteners (e.g., sutures, adhesive, etc.) as discussed herein. As shown in FIG. 2C, the base portion of the folded layer may be secured to the backing layer 12 using one or more fasteners (e.g., sutures, adhesive, etc.). In various embodiments, the base portion may define an enlarged area that is secured to the backing layer. Thus, when tension is applied to the handle (e.g., grip) as discussed herein, the enlarged base portion may act to distribute the effect of the tension over an area of ​​the backing layer, thereby distributing the tension over a larger area of ​​the patient's skin and preventing the backing layer from moving away from the patient's skin during treatment. For example, in embodiments in which the handle 14 is aligned at least substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the backing layer 12, the base portion may have a width at least substantially equal to the backing layer 12 and a length of at least 1 inch. In various embodiments, the base portion may have a length of between 1 inch and 12 inches.

[0042] In embodiments in which the handle 14 is oriented at a different angle relative to the backing layer 12, the base of the handle may be disposed generally adjacent to the backing layer 12 such that no portion of the base extends beyond the end of the backing layer 12. In certain embodiments, the base layer may have a size and shape substantially equal to the backing layer 12.

[0043] Figure 2D shows yet another example embodiment for securing the handles 14 to the backing layer 12. As shown in Figure 2D, each handle may comprise a single layer of material (e.g., woven fabric, plastic, etc.) secured to the backing layer 14 with one or more fasteners (e.g., sewing, adhesive, etc.).

[0044] In various embodiments, handle 14 may be formed and / or secured to backing layer 12 during and / or after securing of therapeutic tape 11 to the patient's skin. Thus, handle 14 may be positioned by a user (e.g., a medical professional) based on the treatment needs of the patient. For example, handle 14 may be secured based on the location of an injury, etc., relative to therapeutic tape 11, and thus, relative to the patient.

[0045] FIGURE 3 illustrates a therapeutic tape 21 having a configuration similar to therapeutic tapes 1 and 11 discussed herein. Therapeutic tape 21 may include a backing layer 22 to which one or more handles 24 are secured. As shown in FIGURE 3, handles 24 may be secured in any orientation relative to backing layer 22. Handles 24 may be secured using any of the various configurations discussed herein (e.g., formed as a folded portion of backing layer 22, formed as a folded portion of material secured relative to backing layer 22, formed as a single layer of material secured relative to backing layer 22, etc.).

[0046] 4A-4D, the therapeutic tape 31 may be configured such that a handle may be separably secured to the backing layer 32. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4A-4D, the backing layer 32 and the adhesive layer 33 may have a configuration similar to that described with reference to Therapeutic Tapes 1, 11, and 21 above. However, as shown in FIG. 4A-4D, the therapeutic tape 31 may further include one or more connectors 36 secured to the backing layer 32 configured to allow for separable fastening of one or more handles 37 to the therapeutic tape 31. In various embodiments, the connectors 36 may include any of a variety of separable fastener materials, such as hook-and-loop fastener materials (e.g., Velcro®), magnetic materials, separable and / or permanent adhesives, snaps, and the like. By way of example only, the adhesive of the adhesive layer 33 may be extended onto the backing layer 32 such that the handles 37 may be secured to the adhesive on the backing layer.

[0047] As shown in FIGS. 4A-4D, the connections 36 can include continuous connections 36 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 4C) and / or discontinuous connections 36 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 4A-4B). In various embodiments, each connection 36 can be configured to be secured to a separable handle 37. For example, each connection 36 can include a female snap connector configured to be secured to a male snap connector of the separable handle 37. In still other embodiments, multiple connections 36 can be configured to be secured to a single separable handle 37. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 4B, multiple connections 36 can be configured to simultaneously engage the separable handle 37 to secure the separable handle 37 to the therapeutic tape 31.

[0048] 4D, the connecting portion 36 may have a low profile to avoid unintentional entanglement with items (e.g., clothing) adjacent to the therapeutic tape 31. Furthermore, in various embodiments, one or more of the connecting portions 36 may be configured such that the detachable handle 37 may be secured to the therapeutic tape 31 through one or more additional layers (e.g., layers of clothing). Thus, for example, the therapeutic tape 31 may be secured to the skin beneath the patient's clothing, and the detachable handle 37 may be configured to engage the connecting portion 36 (e.g., by magnetic force) through the patient's clothing, such that the patient and / or medical personnel may manipulate the therapeutic tape 31 and secured patient's skin through the patient's clothing.

[0049] In various embodiments, the connection 36 may be secured to an upper side of the backing layer 32 (e.g., the side opposite the adhesive layer 33). In such embodiments, the connection 36 may be secured to the backing layer 31 by one or more fasteners (e.g., sewing thread, adhesive, rivets, etc.). In certain embodiments, the connection 36 may be secured adjacent to an underside of the backing layer 32 (e.g., between the backing layer 32 and the adhesive layer 33, or on the side opposite the adhesive layer 33 to the backing layer 32). In such embodiments, the connection 36 may be secured to the backing layer 32 by the adhesive properties of the adhesive layer 33 and / or additional fasteners (e.g., additional adhesive, sewing thread, etc.).

[0050] Connector 36, like handles 4 and 14, may be secured to backing layer 32 during and / or after securing of therapeutic tape 31 to the patient. For example, connector 36 (e.g., a magnet) may be disposed between adhesive layer 33 and the patient's skin such that connector 36 is pinned between therapeutic tape 31 and the patient's skin. As yet another embodiment, connector 36 may be secured to an upper side of backing layer 32 during and / or after securing of therapeutic tape 31 to the patient's skin.

[0051] In various embodiments, the detachable handle 37 may comprise rigid and / or flexible parts. For example, the detachable handle 37 may comprise a magnetic material configured to magnetically secure to the magnetic connection 36. As yet another example, the detachable handle 37 may comprise a gripping portion (e.g., a flexible gripping portion and / or a rigid gripping portion) configured to allow manipulation of the detachable handle 37 by a user (e.g., a patient and / or a medical professional) and a connector configured to engage with the connection 36 of the therapy tape 31. For example, the connector may comprise a hook-and-loop material configured to be secured to a corresponding mating hook-and-loop connection 36. As yet another example, the connector of the detachable handle 37 may comprise a snap connector (e.g., a male snap connector) configured to engage with a corresponding snap connector (e.g., a female snap connector) of the connection 36.

[0052] In various embodiments, the therapeutic tape may include one or more handles (e.g., handles 4, 14, 24) and one or more connectors 36 configured to detachably secure one or more detachable handles 37 to the therapeutic tape.

[0053] Stimulators and Controllers 5-7, the therapeutic tape may include one or more stimulators (e.g., vibration elements, pressure applicators, TENS devices, biofeedback devices, bioimpedance analysis devices, thermometers, pulse measuring devices, etc.) configured to provide stimulation to the skin to which the therapeutic tape is affixed. As discussed herein, various embodiments of the therapeutic tape may include a single vibration element, multiple vibration elements, a single pressure applicator, multiple pressure applicators, a single TENS electrode, multiple TENS electrodes, etc. In various embodiments, the therapeutic tape may include one or more vibration elements and one or more pressure applicators. In yet other embodiments, the therapeutic tape may include one or more vibration elements and one or more TENS electrodes. In yet other embodiments, the therapeutic tape may include one or more pressure applicators and one or more TENS electrodes. In yet other embodiments, the therapeutic tape may include one or more vibration elements, one or more pressure applicators, and one or more TENS electrodes. In yet other embodiments, the therapeutic tape may include one or more vibration elements, one or more pressure applicators, and one or more TENS electrodes.

[0054] 5, the therapeutic tape 41 may include a backing layer similar to those discussed herein, to which one or more vibration elements 48 are secured. In various embodiments, the one or more vibration elements 48 may be secured to an upper side of the backing layer 42, a lower side of the backing layer 42 (e.g., between the backing layer 42 and an adhesive layer (not shown) or an adhesive layer opposite the backing layer 42). As yet another embodiment, one or more apertures may be defined extending through the therapeutic tape 41 (e.g., through the backing layer 42 and / or adhesive layer) into which the vibration elements 48 are secured.

[0055] The one or more vibration elements 48 may comprise one or more vibration actuators configured to emit vibration pulses to the patient's skin to provide a therapeutic sensation to the patient (e.g., pain relief, numbness, increased metabolic rate, etc.). In various embodiments, the one or more vibration elements 48 may be in electrical communication (e.g., through electrical conduit 49) with a controller 100 configured to emit a power signal to each of the one or more vibration elements 48. In various embodiments, the electrical conduit 49 may comprise one or more wires (e.g., solid and / or stranded), one or more printed electrical connectors (e.g., printed on the backing layer 42), or the like.

[0056] In various embodiments, the controller 100 may include a power source (e.g., a battery) and control circuitry configured to emit signals to one or more vibration elements 48. In various embodiments, the controller 100 may further include a communication interface configured to communicate with one or more external computing entities (e.g., a handheld computing device such as a personal digital assistant, a smartphone, a tablet, a smartwatch, a laptop computing device, a desktop computing device, and / or a central computing device such as a server, a web interface, etc.). In various embodiments, the communication interface may be configured to communicate with one or more external communication interfaces through a wired interface and / or a wireless interface (e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Near Field Communication, LTE, 3G, etc.). In various embodiments, the communication interface may be configured to communicate through one or more networks, such as the Internet, an intranet, etc.

[0057] In various embodiments, the controller 100 may be configured to receive control signals from an external computing entity to control one or more vibration elements 48. For example, the external computing entity may be configured to transmit signals representing a desired active / inactive state of one or more vibration elements 48, a desired vibration frequency of one or more vibration elements 48, etc. For example, the external computing entity may be configured to generate and transmit one or more control signals in response to receiving a user input representing a desired operating characteristic of the vibration element 48.

[0058] Although not shown in the figures, the therapeutic tape 41 may further include a connection portion 36 configured to be detachably secured to one or more handles (e.g., similar to handles 4, 14, 24) and / or one or more detachable handles 37.

[0059] 6A-6C, the therapeutic tape 51 may include one or more pressure applicators 58 (e.g., powered suction cups, compression sleeves, etc.) configured to apply pressure (e.g., negative and / or positive pressure) to the skin to which the therapeutic tape 51 is secured. Each of the pressure applicators 58 may be in electrical and / or pneumatic communication with a controller 100, which may include a pump, an electrical actuator, etc. configured to provide pressure to each of the pressure applicators 58. For example, a conduit 59 extending from the controller 100 to one or more of the pressure actuators 58 may include an electrical conduit (e.g., wire) configured to transmit a signal to each of the one or more pressure applicators 58 to activate each of the pressure applicators 58 to provide pressure to the patient's skin. For example, each of the pressure applicators 58 may include an actuator configured to apply pressure to the patient's skin. In certain embodiments, the conduit 59 may include a pneumatic conduit (e.g., tube) connecting a pump disposed in the controller 100 to each of the one or more pressure applicators 58. In such an embodiment, the pump may be configured to pump air from the pressure applicator 58, thereby causing the pressure applicator to apply pressure to the patient's skin.

[0060] FIG. 6B is a side view of a therapeutic tape 51 according to various embodiments. As shown in FIG. 6B, the pressure applicator 58 may further include one or more handles 54 extending from the pressure applicator 58. Each of the one or more handles 54 may have a configuration similar to the handles 4, 14, and 24 discussed herein. However, the handles 54 may be directly fixed to the pressure applicator 58. As shown in FIG. 6C, the handles 54 may extend from an upper portion 58a of the pressure applicator 58 opposite a lower portion 58b configured to contact the patient's skin. Although the vibration applicator 48 discussed above is not described, it should be understood that the vibration applicator 48 may further include a handle 54 discussed herein.

[0061] With reference to FIG. 7, various therapeutic tape 61 embodiments may include multiple stimulators 68. As shown in FIG. 7, the therapeutic tape 61 may include multiple stimulators 68 including vibration elements configured to provide vibration stimulation to the patient's skin, a pressure applicator configured to apply pressure to the patient's skin, and / or a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation device (TENS device) configured to provide electrical stimulation to the patient's skin. Each of the stimulators 68 may be in electrical and / or pneumatic communication with the controller 100 via a conduit 69. As discussed herein, the controller 100 may include one or more power sources, one or more electrical signal generators, and / or one or more pumps configured to actuate the one or more stimulators 68. Still further, as shown in FIG. 7, the therapeutic tape 61 may include one or more handles 64 similar to handles 4, 14, and 24. Although not shown in the figure, the therapeutic tape 61 may be configured to receive one or more separable handles as discussed herein. In such embodiments, the therapeutic tape 61 may include one or more connectors 36 configured to engage with one or more separable handles 37 .

[0062] 9a-14, an exemplary fixation tape system may comprise one or more fixation tapes 1, such as, for example, a therapeutic tape. Furthermore, in various embodiments, the fixation tape system may comprise at least one stimulator fixed on the one or more therapeutic tapes at one or more fixation points. For example, one or more of the at least one stimulator may comprise a mechanical stimulator. The stimulator need not have the form of these figures, but may have any form. In all these figures, reference number 8 represents a stimulator, and reference number 1 represents a fixation tape, which may be a therapeutic tape. In various embodiments, one or more fixation tapes may define at least a portion of the fixation tape system. Furthermore, in various embodiments, an exemplary fixation tape system may comprise at least one stimulator.

[0063] 9a and 9b show top and side views, respectively, of an exemplary therapeutic tape 1 comprising a mechanical stimulator 8. As shown, a fixation tape such as therapeutic tape 1 may comprise one or more fixation means secured to one or more fixation tapes. For example, in various embodiments, the fixation means may be configured to secure at least a portion of at least one stimulator 8 to one or more fixation tapes. As a non-limiting example, in various embodiments, the fixation means configured to secure the stimulator 8 to the fixation tape may comprise one or more fasteners.

[0064] In various embodiments, the exemplary therapeutic tape 1 may include one or more handles 4 spaced apart along the length of the flexible backing layer of the therapeutic tape 1. As described herein, the handles may include an elongate material secured to the top side of the flexible backing layer and extend perpendicular to the length of the therapeutic tape 1 across at least a portion of the width of the flexible backing layer. In various embodiments, the fastening tape system may include a therapeutic tape 1 with a plurality of handles 4 defined at least in part by a first handle and a second handle, with a first end of the first handle spaced apart from a second end of an adjacent second handle along the length of the flexible backing layer such that the first handle is separate and distinct from the second handle. As described herein, in various embodiments, the one or more handles 4 may be secured to the flexible backing layer by one or more fasteners.

[0065] In various embodiments, the at least one stimulator 8 is fixed to the tape 1 between two handles such that at least a portion of the at least one stimulator 8 is disposed along the longitudinal direction of the flexible backing layer within a gap between adjacent handles of the plurality of handles 4. As described herein, the stimulator may be configured to provide a stimulation signal to a flexible material, such as, for example, the patient's skin. For example, the fixed tape system may be configured such that a stimulation signal provided by the at least one stimulator 8 to the patient's skin may cause mechanical movement in at least one dimension to the patient's skin. As described herein, the mechanical movement of the flexible material, such as, for example, the patient's skin, may include at least a temporary displacement, defined by a movement, translation, rotation, etc., in one or more directions, of at least a portion of the flexible material. In FIG. 8a, the mechanical movement occurs back and forth in one direction in one dimension, as indicated by the arrows.

[0066] In various embodiments, at least a portion of the handle 4 may be defined by a fastening means configured to secure one or more stimulators 8 relative to the fastening tape. As a non-limiting example provided for illustrative purposes, in various embodiments, the handle 4 secured to the fastening tape may include a fastening means embodied by a pocket configured to receive at least a portion of the stimulator 8 to secure the stimulator 8 relative to the fastening tape.

[0067] As a further non-limiting example, in various embodiments, the one or more fastening means configured to secure the stimulator 8 to the one or more fastening tapes may be further configured to secure at least a portion of the one or more handles to the one or more fastening tapes. For example, in such an exemplary environment, the one or more fastening means of the exemplary therapeutic tape 1 may comprise an adhesive comprising a first adhesive portion configured to secure the stimulator 8 to the one or more fastening tapes of the therapeutic tape 1 and a second adhesive portion configured to secure the handles to the one or more fastening tapes.

[0068] The handle in Figure 9a is illustratively secured to the underlying therapeutic tape 1 using stitches 6. However, a more common alternative is to use an adhesive for securing.

[0069] The mechanical stimulator 8 is fixed between the two handles 4 in Figs. 9a and 9b. In various embodiments, one or more of the at least one stimulator may comprise an electrical stimulator comprising a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator (TENS). In such an exemplary embodiment, the fixation tape system may be configured such that the TENS is disposed about the one or more fixation tapes within the gap between adjacent handles of the plurality of handles fixed to the fixation tape. Furthermore, in various embodiments, the at least one stimulator 8 of the fixation tape system may comprise multiple stimulators. In various embodiments, the multiple stimulators may be disposed about the one or more fixation tapes such that two or more of the multiple stimulators are disposed within the gap between adjacent handles of the plurality of handles. Alternatively, or in addition, in various embodiments, the multiple stimulators may be arranged about one or more fixation tapes such that a first stimulator of the multiple stimulators is positioned within a first gap between a first pair of adjacent handles and a second stimulator of the multiple stimulators is positioned within a second gap between a second pair of adjacent handles.

[0070] An exemplary therapeutic tape 1 with a mechanical stimulator 8 according to a second embodiment is shown in a top view in FIG. 10a and a side view in FIG. 10b, with mechanical motion occurring back and forth in one dimension and direction, as indicated by the arrows.

[0071] The handles in Figs. 10a and 10b are secured to the underlying therapeutic tape 1 by way of example, stitches 6. However, in alternative embodiments, the fastening tape system may include one or more fastening means, for example, the one or more handles may be configured such that an adhesive is used to secure the fastening means to the fastening tape. Additionally, as a non-limiting example provided for illustrative purposes, one or more stimulators of the fastening tape system 1 may be at least partially secured to one or more components of the fastening tape system 1, such as the fastening tape, the handles, etc., using clips, such as alligator clips, crocodile clips and / or other suitable metal clips configured for permanent or temporary attachment to a portion (e.g., end) of the stimulator, Velcro® material, double-sided adhesive, single-sided adhesive, an opening (e.g., defined by a sealing ring) configured to receive a hook element disposed about a portion (e.g., end) of the stimulator, one or more snap elements, one or more magnetic elements (e.g., magnetic material), one or more staples, one or more backstitches, stitches, sutures, etc., one or more crimp connection elements, etc.

[0072] The mechanical stimulator 8 is fixed at three handles 4 in Figs. 10a and 10b. In various embodiments, one or both of the fixation tape 1 and the at least one stimulator 8 may have an at least partially curved profile. The stimulator 8 in Figs. 10a and 10b is elliptical and has two arms, and the fixation point at the central handle 4 is on the elliptical portion of the stimulator 8. For example, in various embodiments, the curved profile of the fixation tape 1 and / or the stimulator 8 may at least partially correspond to a profile of at least a portion of the patient's body.

[0073] FIG. 11 is a side view of an exemplary therapeutic tape system according to a third embodiment, consisting of two therapeutic tapes 1 with mechanical stimulators 8, where the mechanical motion occurs back and forth in one dimension and in one direction, as indicated by the arrows.

[0074] The mechanical stimulator 8 in Fig. 11 is fixed on two therapeutic tapes 1. The stimulator 8 in Fig. 11 is rectangular in shape, has two arms and is fixed on two therapeutic tapes 1.

[0075] 12 is a side view of an exemplary therapeutic tape system consisting of three therapeutic tapes 1 with a mechanical stimulator 8 according to a fourth embodiment, where the mechanical motion occurs back and forth in one direction in one dimension as indicated by the arrows. In this embodiment, the stimulator further induces a three-dimensional rotational motion about three axes, the x-axis, the y-axis, and the z-axis, as indicated by the coordinate system and rotational arrows in the figure.

[0076] The mechanical stimulator 8 in Fig. 12 is fixed on three therapeutic tapes 1. The stimulator 8 in Fig. 12 is rectangular in shape and has two arms, and is fixed on three therapeutic tapes 1, with the rectangular part being on the central therapeutic tape 1.

[0077] 13 is a side view of an exemplary therapeutic tape having a mechanical stimulator 8 according to a fifth embodiment, where mechanical motion occurs back and forth in one direction as indicated by the arrows. In this embodiment, the stimulator further induces three-dimensional rotational motion about three axes, the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis, as indicated by the coordinate system and rotational arrows in the figure.

[0078] The mechanical stimulator 8 in Fig. 13 is fixed at one fixed point on two therapeutic tapes 1. The stimulator 8 in Fig. 13 is oval shaped and has two arms, but as previously mentioned it may have any shape.

[0079] FIG. 14 shows a top view of an example of a therapeutic tape with a mechanical stimulator according to a sixth embodiment, where the mechanical motion occurs in two dimensions as indicated by the arrows, with motion in the x-axis direction and motion in the y-axis direction as indicated by the coordinate system and arrows in the figure.

[0080] Manufacturing method In various embodiments, the therapeutic tapes discussed herein may be manufactured by forming and / or affixing handles in and / or on the backing and applying an adhesive to the backing. Also, in various embodiments, the therapeutic tape may be formed as part of a larger woven fabric (e.g., having a width at least twice the width of the therapeutic tape), and the larger woven fabric may be cut into individual pieces having the width of the therapeutic tape. In certain embodiments, the therapeutic tape may be formed from a woven fabric of material that is at least substantially the same width as the therapeutic tape.

[0081] In various embodiments, the handles may be formed as part of the backing by folding the backing to form one or more loops therein. As discussed herein, the handles may be aligned with the length of the therapeutic tape, and in such embodiments, the therapeutic tape may be formed to form loops that are between the side edges of the therapeutic tape and extend above the backing. The looped portions of the backing may be secured together (e.g., by adhesive, sutures, rivets, etc.) to form one or more handles. In embodiments in which the handles extend laterally across the therapeutic tape between the side edges of the therapeutic tape, multiple loops may be formed in the backing layer, e.g., at various intervals (e.g., regular and / or random intervals), and secured with one or more fasteners.

[0082] The underside of the backing material opposite the looped portion may be coated with an adhesive. In various embodiments, the adhesive may be laminated, sprayed, screen printed, dripped, etc. onto the backing material. In certain embodiments, the adhesive may be cured after being applied to the backing material to form a strong mechanical bond between the backing layer and the adhesive such that the adhesive does not delaminate from the backing layer. After applying the adhesive to form the handle, the therapeutic tape may be wound onto rollers of a winding device for storage, shipping, and / or sale.

[0083] In various embodiments, the handles may be formed from separate pieces of material and secured to the backing layer. For example, individual loops of material, strips of material, etc. may be secured to the backing layer by one or more fasteners (e.g., adhesive, sutures, rivets, etc.). For example, the handles may be secured across the width of the therapeutic tape (e.g., extending between the side edges). As yet another example, the handles may extend along the length of the therapeutic tape and thus be secured along the length of the therapeutic tape.

[0084] In various embodiments, an adhesive may be applied to the backing layer before the handle is formed on the backing layer.

[0085] In embodiments that include one or more connectors 36, the connectors may be secured to the backing layer by one or more fasteners (e.g., adhesive, sewing thread, rivets, etc.). In various embodiments, the connectors may be secured to the top side of the backing layer. However, it should be understood that in various embodiments, the connectors may be secured to the bottom side of the backing layer while also allowing the separable handle to be secured to the top side of the backing layer. For example, one or more magnets may be secured to the bottom side of the backing layer (e.g., under the adhesive layer or between the adhesive layer and the backing layer) to allow the separable handle to be secured to the top side of the backing layer. In still other embodiments, the backing layer may include multiple layers (e.g., two layers) secured to one another (e.g., with one or more fasteners), and in such embodiments, one or more connectors may be secured between two or more of the layers of backing material.

[0086] Also, in embodiments in which the therapeutic tape includes one or more stimulators, the stimulators may be secured to the underside of the therapeutic tape (e.g., under the adhesive layer and / or between the adhesive layer and the backing layer). In still other embodiments, the stimulators may be secured to the top side of the therapeutic tape. In still other embodiments, one or more openings extending through the top and bottom sides of the therapeutic tape may be formed and one or more stimulators may be secured in the formed openings. Also, a conduit (e.g., a conduit for electrical wires and / or a conduit for air) may be secured to each of the one or more stimulators. Also, a controller may be secured to the backing (e.g., the top side of the backing, the bottom side of the backing, or an end of the backing) and a conduit may be secured to the controller. In various embodiments, a therapeutic tape including one or more stimulators may be cut to a predetermined length (e.g., 6 inches, 12 inches, 36 inches, etc.) and a controller may be secured to each length of the therapeutic tape. In various embodiments, a protective sheet (eg, a paper sheet, a wax paper sheet, foil, etc.) may be secured to the adhesive layer to prevent the adhesive layer from inadvertently adhering to one or more surfaces.

[0087] How to use As discussed herein, various embodiments of the described therapeutic tape may be utilized to provide therapeutic treatment of one or more ailments of a patient. For example, the described therapeutic tape may be configured to increase blood and / or other fluid flow to various parts of a patient's body, relieve muscle pressure in various parts of a patient's body, prevent the formation of scar tissue, etc.

[0088] In use, the therapeutic tape with one or more handles affixed thereto may be adhered to the skin of a patient. In various embodiments, a length of therapeutic tape may be removed from a roll of therapeutic tape (e.g., by cutting a selectable length of therapeutic tape from a roll of therapeutic tape) and adhered to the skin of a patient. In embodiments, after application of the tape to a patient, the adhesive layer of the therapeutic tape is heat activated by the patient's body heat.

[0089] Once the therapeutic tape is firmly adhered to the patient's skin, tension may be applied to one or more of the handles (e.g., by pulling on one or more of the handles) to lift a portion of the patient's skin adjacent to the one or more handles. In various embodiments, tension may be applied at least substantially perpendicular to the surface of the patient's skin (e.g., at least substantially perpendicular to the patient's skin), but may also be applied at an acute angle to the patient's skin (e.g., at 0-90 degrees to the patient's skin). As just one non-limiting example, tension may be applied at an angle of about 45-90 degrees to the patient's skin. Tension may be applied as part of a multi-directional skin and / or tissue massage and / or manipulation treatment. For example, the handles may be pulled and / or twisted and the tape may be compressed during treatment. For example, the handles may be pulled in any direction (e.g., at least partially aligned with the length of the tape, at least partially aligned with the width of the tape, perpendicular to the tape, and / or any direction in between). The handle or handles may be twisted (eg, about an axis perpendicular to the tape, an axis parallel to the length of the tape, an axis parallel to the width of the tape, and / or any axis in between).

[0090] In embodiments with separable handles and connectors, the therapeutic tape may be applied as discussed above. Once applied to the patient's skin, one or more of the separable handles may be secured relative to one or more connectors. Once secured, tension is applied to one or more of the separable handles (e.g., by pulling on one or more of the separable handles) to lift adjacent portions of the therapeutic tape and the patient's skin.

[0091] Still further, in embodiments comprising one or more stimulators, a therapeutic tape comprising one or more stimulators may be applied to the patient's skin. Once applied, the one or more stimulators may be activated by receiving an activation signal from the controller. In various embodiments, the controller may be provided with a user interface (e.g., a power switch, an intensity selector, etc.), and thus the one or more stimulators may be activated by the controller in response to the controller receiving a user input. Still further, in certain embodiments, the controller may be in electronic communication (e.g., wired and / or wireless) with one or more external computing entities (e.g., a handheld computing entity, a user's computing entity, etc.). In various embodiments, the one or more electronic computing entities may be configured to generate and transmit one or more electronic signals to the controller to cause the controller to activate or control the one or more stimulators. For example, a user provides a user input to the external computing entity representing a desired power level (e.g., vibration intensity, TENS signal intensity, pressure application intensity, etc.). The external computing entity may send a signal to a controller of the therapeutic tape in response to receiving a user input, such that the controller generates and sends a corresponding signal to one or more stimulators to activate the stimulators.

[0092] Furthermore, as discussed herein, a therapeutic tape comprising one or more stimulators may further comprise one or more handles (pre-fixed to the therapeutic tape and / or separable). Thus, tension may be applied to the one or more handles before, during, and / or after activation of one or more stimulators embodied within the therapeutic tape.

[0093] conclusion Many modifications and other embodiments of the inventions described herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which these inventions pertain having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. It is to be understood, therefore, that the invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

[0094] As discussed herein, the therapeutic tape may be used with human patients (e.g., children, adolescents, adults, elderly, etc.). Certain embodiments may be used with animal patients (e.g., horses, cats, dogs, etc.). Also, as discussed herein, various embodiments may be applied directly to the patient's skin. However, in various embodiments, the therapeutic tape may be incorporated into or on apparel (e.g., compression fit apparel, loose fit apparel, smart apparel (e.g., incorporating one or more network connected devices), support devices (e.g., support sleeves, etc.)), and the like.

Claims

1. A fixation tape system comprising one or more fixation tapes, each of the one or more fixation tapes being a flexible backing layer configured to conform to a part of a patient's body, the flexible backing layer defining an upper side and a lower side opposite the upper side, an adhesive fixed to the lower side of the flexible backing layer, the adhesive being configured to adhere the backing layer to the patient's skin, and the adhesive being configured to maintain the adhesion between the backing layer and the patient's skin, the fixation tape system further comprising at least one stimulator configured to apply a stimulation signal to the patient's skin, the stimulation signal being configured to cause mechanical movement in at least one dimension of the patient's skin, one or more fixing means at least partially fixed to the one or more fixation tapes A fixation tape system comprising.

2. The fixation tape system according to claim 1, further comprising one or more handles fixed to the upper side of the flexible backing layer, the one or more handles being fixed to the flexible backing layer by one or more fasteners.

3. The mechanical movement is a reciprocating movement along a one-dimensional axis of one of the horizontal and vertical directions, a movement defined in two dimensions, and a mechanical rotational movement, The fixation tape system according to claim 1, comprising at least one of.

4. The fixation tape system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the stimulation signal is configured to cause vibration of the patient's skin.

5. The fixation tape system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the at least one stimulator comprises at least one of an electrical stimulator comprising a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator (TENS) and a pressure applicator configured to cause vertical movement or continuous downward pressure in a direction perpendicular to a one-dimensional axis.

6. The fixation tape system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the one or more stimulators are fixed to the one or more fixation tapes at one or more fixation points. **Claim 7**: The fixation tape system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein one or both of the fixation tape and the at least one stimulator have a curved profile that at least partially corresponds to the profile of at least a part of the patient's body. **Claim 8**: The fixation tape system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the one or more fixing means are fixed to the one or more fixation tapes by an adhesive, and the adhesive is thermally activated by the patient's body heat. **Claim 9**: The fixation tape system according to claim 1, wherein the backing layer is inelastic or elastic. **Claim 10**: The fixation tape system according to claim 1, wherein the one or more fixing means are configured to fix one or more of the at least one stimulator to the one or more fixation tapes. **Claim 11**: The fixation tape system according to claim 2, wherein the one or more fasteners include a second adhesive different from the adhesive, and the second adhesive is configured to permanently fix the one or more handles to the upper side of the flexible backing layer. **Claim 12**: The fixation tape system according to claim 2, wherein the one or more fasteners include a thread sewn through at least a part of each of the one or more handles and the backing layer. **Claim 13**: The fixation tape system according to claim 2, wherein at least one of the one or more handles comprises a single-layer flexible sheet fixed to the backing layer. **Claim 14**: The fixation tape system according to claim 2, wherein the one or more handles include a base portion configured to be fixed to the upper side of the backing layer and a grip portion extending from the base portion, and the base portion of the one or more handles is fixed to the upper side of the backing layer by the one or more fasteners. **Claim 15**: The fixation tape system according to claim 2, wherein the backing layer defines a length and a width measured perpendicular to the length, the length being substantially longer than the width, and at least one of the one or more handles extends across the backing layer in a direction parallel to the width or the length of the backing layer.

16. The fixing tape system according to claim 2, wherein the one or more handles are detachably fixed to the backing layer, and the one or more fasteners are selected from magnets, surface fasteners, or snaps.

17. The fixing tape system according to any one of claims 1 to 3 and 9 to 16, further comprising a controller configured to generate one or more stimulator signals for selectively activating the at least one stimulator, the controller comprising at least one communication interface configured to receive data transmitted from at least one external computing entity.

18. The fixing tape system according to claim 17, further comprising at least one sensor configured to measure at least one characteristic of the skin, the at least one sensor further configured to transmit the measurement result to the controller or a mobile device, the controller being configured to adjust the one or more stimulator signals based at least in part on the measurement result.

19. At least a portion of the at least one stimulation signal can be programmed to automatically start and stop in response to measurement signals from one or more of an edema sensor and a strain gauge, and At least a portion of the at least one stimulation signal can be programmed to be automatically adjusted, or adjusted in response to sensor measurements over a plurality of periods, to be maintained for a particular period of time at a given interval and / or over a plurality of periods.

19. The fixing tape according to claim 17, which is at least one of the above. **Claim 20**: The one or more sensors include one or more of a strain gauge, an edema sensor for measuring one or more of liquid content and oil and fat content, a temperature sensor, an ultraviolet (UV) sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a voice sensor, a force sensor, a radio frequency (RF) sensor, an electrical sensor for measuring one or more electrical characteristics, a mechanical sensor for measuring one or more mechanical characteristics, a lymph flow sensor for measuring lymph flow, a blood circulation sensor for measuring blood circulation, an evaporation sensor for measuring evaporation capacity, a pH sensor, a position sensor regarding the elevation of the skin, and one or more of input sensors configured to register an input signal given by the patient so as to increase or decrease the efficiency of the treatment for adjusting the treatment. The fixed tape according to claim 17. **Claim 21**: The fixed tape system according to claim 2, wherein the adhesive is fixed to the backing layer so that the adhesive and the backing layer do not substantially peel off when removed from the skin of the patient. **Claim 22**: A method for manipulating a flexible material, comprising the step of fixing a fixed tape system to the surface of the flexible material, the fixed tape system comprising one or more fixed tapes, each of the one or more fixed tapes comprising a flexible backing layer configured to conform to a portion of the surface of the flexible material, defining an upper side and a lower side opposite the upper side; an adhesive fixed to the lower side of the flexible backing layer, the adhesive being configured to adhere the backing layer to the surface of the flexible material, wherein the fixed tape system further comprises at least one stimulator configured to apply a stimulation signal to the flexible material, the stimulation signal being configured to cause mechanical movement in at least one dimension of the flexible material, one or more fixing means for fixing the at least one stimulator to the one or more fixed tapes, wherein the method further comprises applying tension to at least one of the fixing means to lift a part of the backing layer and a fixed part of the surface of the flexible material A method for manipulating a flexible material.

23. The method for operating a flexible material according to claim 22, wherein the flexible material is the patient's skin.

24. The fixing means comprises one or more handles detachably fixed to the upper side of the flexible backing layer, The method for operating a flexible material according to claim 22 or 23, further comprising the step of fixing one or more handles to the upper side of the flexible backing layer by one or more detachable fasteners.

25. The adhesive is thermally activated, and the step of fixing the tape structure to the surface of the flexible material is The step of disposing the adhesive of the fixing tape system on the skin of the patient; Raising the temperature of the adhesive based on the body heat of the patient and firmly adhering the adhesive to the skin of the patient; The method for operating a flexible material according to claim 23, comprising:

26. When tension is applied to at least one of the one or more handles, at least a part of the surface of at least the flexible material is displaced in the direction of the tension by a distance substantially equal to the displacement of the handle. The method for operating a flexible material according to claim 24, wherein the backing material is inelastic.

27. The method according to claim 22 or 23, further comprising the step of collecting data including measurement results regarding the operation, and analyzing the data by one or more of artificial intelligence and statistical methods to define parameters regarding individual treatments based at least in part on the measurement results.

28. The fixing tape system according to claim 17, wherein the communication interface is a wireless communication interface.

29. The fixing tape system according to claim 28, further comprising at least one sensor configured to measure at least one characteristic of the skin, the at least one sensor further configured to transmit measurement results to the controller or the mobile device, and the controller being configured to adjust the one or more stimulator signals based at least in part on the measurement results. Claim 30: At least a part of the at least one stimulation signal can be programmed to automatically start and stop in response to one or more measurement signals of one of the edema sensor and the strain gauge, and at least a part of the at least one stimulation signal can be programmed to be automatically maintained for a specific period at a given interval and / or over a plurality of periods, or to be adjusted as a response to sensor measurements for a specific period, The fixed tape according to claim 28 or 29, which is at least one of the above. Claim 31: The one or more sensors include one or more of a strain gauge, an edema sensor for measuring one or more of liquid content and oil content, a temperature sensor, an ultraviolet (UV) sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a voice sensor, a force sensor, a radio frequency (RF) sensor, an electrical sensor for measuring one or more electrical characteristics, a mechanical sensor for measuring one or more mechanical characteristics, a lymph flow sensor for measuring lymph flow, a blood circulation sensor for measuring blood circulation, an evaporation sensor for measuring evaporation capacity, a pH sensor, a position sensor regarding the elevation of the skin, and an input sensor configured to register an input signal given from the patient so as to increase or decrease the efficiency of the treatment to adjust the treatment. The fixed tape according to claim 28 or 29. Claim 32: The backing material is inelastic such that when tension is applied to at least one of the one or more handles, at least a part of the surface of the flexible material is displaced in the direction of the tension by a distance that is at least substantially equal to the displacement of the handle. The method for operating a flexible material according to claim 25. Claim 33: The method according to claim 32, further comprising the steps of collecting data including measurement results regarding the operation, and analyzing the data by one or more of artificial intelligence and statistical methods to define parameters regarding individual treatments based at least in part on the measurement results. The method according to claim 24, further comprising: collecting data including measurement results related to an operation; and analyzing the data by one or more of artificial intelligence and statistical methods to define parameters related to individual treatments based at least in part on the measurement results. The method according to claim 25, further comprising: collecting data including measurement results related to an operation; and analyzing the data by one or more of artificial intelligence and statistical methods to define parameters related to individual treatments based at least in part on the measurement results. The method according to claim 26, further comprising: collecting data including measurement results related to an operation; and analyzing the data by one or more of artificial intelligence and statistical methods to define parameters related to individual treatments based at least in part on the measurement results.

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