Thumb cm joint brace

Abstract

To provide a thumb CM joint brace for achieving both fixation of a CM joint and gripping movement.SOLUTION: A thumb CM joint brace 10 includes: a brace body 11 into which an insertion part 15 is formed, the insertion part into which a thumb can be inserted, and that fixes a CM joint of the inserted thumb and covers at least the palm, allowing the fingers other than the thumb to bend, with the thumb inserted into the insertion part; a fixing part 16 that can be wound around the wrist and can fix the brace body, with it wound around the wrist; and a gripping protrusion 20 that protrudes from the palm at a position close to the wrist of the brace body, and when the fingers other than the thumb are bent, can grip a gripping object (g) at a position facing the fingers other than the thumb, where the gripping protrusion does not change a protruding posture relative to the brace body when the gripping object is gripped between the gripping protrusion and the bent fingers other than the thumb.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a brace for CM joint arthritis of the thumb. [Background technology]

[0002] CMC joint osteoarthritis is osteoarthritis of the CM joint of the thumb (the third joint from the tip of the thumb). With CMC joint osteoarthritis, some movements of the thumb or other movements can be accompanied by severe pain. Various braces have been proposed to limit the movement of the CMC joint of the thumb for the treatment and / or prevention of CMC joint osteoarthritis.

[0003] Patent Document 1 shows a brace for CM joint disease of the thumb that uses a rigid, non-deformable brace made of metal or other materials to immobilize the joint for treatment and prevention. The rigid brace completely immobilizes the CM joint of the thumb, preventing pain that occurs when the joint is moved.

[0004] When a brace is worn and the CM joint of the thumb is completely immobilized, it causes inconvenience in daily life. To avoid this, deformable elastic braces that replace rigid braces are described in Patent Documents 2 and 3. Elastic braces are made of a stretchable material such as silicone rubber. The elastic orthosis allows movement of the thumb CM joint and other parts to the extent that grasping movements with the fingers, which are the most inconvenient in daily life when restricted, are somewhat possible. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-034783 [Patent Document 2] Patent No. 6535331 [Patent Document 3] Patent No. 4398558 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, elastic orthoses only limit the movement of the CM joint of the thumb to a level that allows for use in daily life, and therefore do not adequately stabilize the CM joint. As a result, the original purpose of treatment and prevention of the CM joint of the thumb is sometimes inadequate.

[0007] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and aims to achieve the objective of enabling fixation to the CM joint of the thumb to an extent that provides sufficient therapeutic and preventative effects, while at the same time allowing gripping motion when worn to an extent that does not cause inconvenience in daily life, and furthermore achieving both of these. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] (1) The orthosis for thumb CM joint disease according to one aspect of the present invention is as follows: An orthosis main body having an insertion section into which a thumb can be inserted, the orthosis main body fixing the CM joint of the inserted thumb and covering at least the palm so that fingers other than the thumb can be bent with the thumb inserted in the insertion section; a fixing part that extends to the back of the hand along the direction in which the wrist is wrapped and that can fix the device main body; a gripping protrusion that protrudes from the palm at a position close to the wrist of the orthosis main body and is capable of gripping an object to be gripped at a position opposite to the fingers other than the thumb when the fingers other than the thumb are bent; Equipped with the gripping protrusion does not change its protruding position relative to the device main body when gripping an object to be gripped between the gripping protrusion and the fingers other than the bent thumb; This solved the above problem. (2) The orthosis for CM joint disease of the thumb of the present invention is as described above in (1), The gripping protrusion protrudes in the thickness direction of the palm at a position corresponding to the ball of the foot. It is possible. (3) The orthosis for CM joint disease of the thumb of the present invention is as described in (2) above, The gripping protrusion protrudes in the thickness direction of the palm at a position corresponding to the ball of the little finger. It is possible. (4) The orthosis for CM joint disease of the thumb of the present invention is as described above in (1), The gripping protrusion has a widthwise length from an outer position of the palm corresponding to the ball of the thumb to an outer position of the palm corresponding to the ball of the little finger, the widthwise length of the palm being equal to or greater than half of the widthwise length of the palm. It is possible. (5) The orthosis for CM joint disease of the thumb of the present invention is as described above in (1), The tip of the gripping protrusion can be contacted by any of the fingers other than the bent thumb. It is possible. (6) The orthosis for CM joint disease of the thumb of the present invention is as described above in (1), the orthosis body is sleeve-shaped, a palm front portion covering the palm and on which the gripping protrusion is formed; a little finger side sleeve portion that wraps around the little finger side from the front of the palm toward the back of the hand; a thumb-side sleeve portion that encloses the thumb side from the palm front portion toward the back of the hand and in which the insertion portion is formed; having It is possible. (7) The orthosis for CM joint disease of the thumb of the present invention is as described above in (1), The gripping protrusions are arranged at intervals in a direction connecting the MP joints of the four fingers other than the thumb. It is possible.

[0009] (1) The orthosis for thumb CM joint disease according to one aspect of the present invention is as follows: An orthosis main body having an insertion section into which a thumb can be inserted, the orthosis main body fixing the CM joint of the inserted thumb and covering at least the palm so that fingers other than the thumb can be bent with the thumb inserted in the insertion section; a fixing part that extends to the back of the hand along the direction in which the wrist is wrapped and that can fix the device main body; a gripping protrusion that protrudes from the palm at a position close to the wrist of the orthosis main body and is capable of gripping an object to be gripped at a position opposite to the fingers other than the thumb when the fingers other than the thumb are bent; Equipped with the gripping protrusion does not change its protruding position relative to the device main body when gripping an object to be gripped between the gripping protrusion and the fingers other than the bent thumb; This solved the above problem.

[0010] In the above configuration, the orthosis main body can be worn with the thumb inserted into the insertion section, thereby immobilizing the thumb CM joint. Furthermore, since the gripping protrusions are formed in positions facing the four fingers other than the thumb when the orthosis is worn, bending these four fingers moves the fingers toward the gripping protrusions, pinching an object between the fingers and the gripping protrusions and immobilizing the object between the fingers and the gripping protrusions. This allows the user to grasp objects required in daily life even when wearing the orthosis for thumb CM joint disorder. Furthermore, since the fixation of the thumb CM joint can be maintained when the orthosis for thumb CM joint disorder is worn, treatment and / or prevention of thumb CM joint disorder can be maintained. Furthermore, the fixing portion makes it easy to fix and release the device body to and from the finger.

[0011] Here, the gripping protrusions may be formed at positions facing the four fingers other than the thumb, and are positioned so that the fingers can grip an object to be gripped. Preferably, the gripping protrusions are formed at a position protruding from at least the ball of the thumb. Also, it is preferable that the gripping protrusions are formed at a position protruding from the little ball. Furthermore, the gripping protrusions may be formed at a position protruding from at least the front surface of the ball of the thumb, and do not have to be connected to a position just in front of the ball of the thumb. Also, the gripping protrusions may be formed at a position protruding from the front surface of the little ball, and do not have to be connected to a position just in front of the little ball.

[0012] Here, the position immediately in front of the thenar eminence corresponds roughly to the position immediately in front of the navicular bone. The position immediately in front of the hypothenar eminence corresponds roughly to the position immediately in front of the pisiform bone. Note that the forward direction when expressing the position immediately in front of the hypothenar eminence refers to the direction away from the surface of the palm along the thickness direction of the palm. Furthermore, "corresponding to a position immediately in front of the navicular bone" means that the contour of the gripping protrusion has at least a region that overlaps with the navicular bone when viewed from the front. "corresponding to a position immediately in front of the pisiform bone" means that the contour of the gripping protrusion has at least a region that overlaps with the pisiform bone when viewed from the front.

[0013] Furthermore, the orthosis main body need only be configured to be able to fix the CM joint of the thumb to the extent necessary for the treatment and / or prevention of CM joint arthritis, and the orthosis main body does not need to cover the entire area of ​​the anterior surface of the palm. Also, the insertion part need only be configured to be able to fix the CM joint of the thumb to the extent necessary for the treatment and / or prevention of CM joint arthritis, and can also be configured to allow some movement of the thumb.

[0014] (2) The orthosis for CM joint disease of the thumb of the present invention is as described above in (1), The gripping protrusion protrudes in the thickness direction of the palm at a position corresponding to the ball of the foot. It is possible.

[0015] In the above configuration, the protrusions are formed at positions corresponding to the thenar eminence and facing the index finger and / or middle finger. Therefore, when the index finger and / or middle finger are bent, the index finger and / or middle finger approach the gripping protrusions, pinching an object between the index finger and / or middle finger and the gripping protrusions, thereby fixing the object between the index finger and / or middle finger and the gripping protrusions. This allows the user to grasp objects required in daily life even while wearing the orthosis for thumb CMC joint arthritis. Furthermore, since the fixation of the thumb CMC joint can be maintained while wearing the orthosis, treatment and / or prevention of thumb CMC joint arthritis can be maintained. The gripping protrusions can also fix an object between the ring finger and / or little finger.

[0016] (3) The orthosis for CM joint disease of the thumb of the present invention is as described in (2) above, The gripping protrusion protrudes in the thickness direction of the palm at a position corresponding to the ball of the little finger. It is possible.

[0017] In the above configuration, the protrusions are formed in a position corresponding to the hypothenar eminence and facing the ring finger and / or little finger. Therefore, when the ring finger and / or little finger is bent, the ring finger and / or little finger approaches the gripping protrusions, pinching an object between the ring finger and / or little finger and the gripping protrusions, thereby fixing the object between the ring finger and / or little finger and the gripping protrusions. This allows the user to grasp objects required in daily life even while wearing the orthosis for thumb CMC joint arthritis. Furthermore, since the fixation of the thumb CMC joint can be maintained while wearing the orthosis, treatment and / or prevention of thumb CMC joint arthritis can be maintained. The gripping protrusions can also fix an object between the index finger and / or middle finger.

[0018] (4) The orthosis for CM joint disease of the thumb of the present invention is as described above in (1), The gripping protrusion has a widthwise length from an outer position of the palm corresponding to the ball of the thumb to an outer position of the palm corresponding to the ball of the little finger, the widthwise length of the palm being equal to or greater than half of the widthwise length of the palm. It is possible.

[0019] In the above configuration, the maximum widthwise length of the gripping protrusion is equal to or greater than half the widthwise length of the palm, so that the gripping protrusion can be formed at a position facing one of the four fingers other than the thumb. Therefore, when at least one of the four fingers is bent, the one of the four fingers approaches the gripping protrusion, and an object to be grasped is sandwiched between one of the four fingers and the gripping protrusion, allowing the object to be fixed between one of the four fingers and the gripping protrusion. This makes it possible to grasp objects required in daily life even when wearing the orthosis for thumb CM joint arthritis. Furthermore, since the fixation of the thumb CM joint can be maintained when the orthosis for thumb CM joint arthritis is worn, treatment and / or prevention of thumb CM joint arthritis can be maintained.

[0020] Furthermore, by setting the maximum widthwise length of the gripping protrusions as described above, when an object to be grasped is pinched between one of the four fingers and the gripping protrusions, the object will not slip and become ungraspable. Therefore, gripping actions necessary in daily life can be performed reliably, and treatment and / or prevention of arthritis of the CM joint of the thumb can be maintained.

[0021] The width direction of the palm is the direction that roughly corresponds to the direction in which the base joints of the four fingers other than the thumb that bend relative to the palm are aligned when viewed from the front. The maximum widthwise length of the grip protrusions refers to the distance between the nearest left and right ends of the grip protrusions on both sides of the outline of the palm as viewed from the front. Therefore, when multiple grip protrusions are erected and spaced apart in the widthwise direction, this refers to the distance between the ends at the outermost positions in the widthwise direction.

[0022] (5) The orthosis for CM joint disease of the thumb of the present invention is as described above in (1), The tip of the gripping protrusion can be contacted by any of the fingers other than the bent thumb. It is possible.

[0023] In the above configuration, the gripping protrusions are formed at positions where any of the four fingers other than the thumb can come into contact, so that when any of the four fingers is bent, the finger approaches the gripping protrusion, pinching the object between the finger and the gripping protrusion, and fixing the object between the finger and the gripping protrusion. This makes it possible to grip objects required in daily life, regardless of the size of the object, from thin objects like paper to thick objects like plastic drink bottles, in accordance with the range of motion of the fingers, even while wearing the thumb CM joint arthritis orthosis.

[0024] (6) The orthosis for CM joint disease of the thumb of the present invention is as described above in (1), the orthosis body is sleeve-shaped, a palm front portion covering the palm and on which the gripping protrusion is formed; a little finger side sleeve portion that wraps around the little finger side from the front of the palm toward the back of the hand; a thumb-side sleeve portion that encloses the thumb side from the palm front portion toward the back of the hand and in which the insertion portion is formed; having It is possible.

[0025] In the above configuration, the sleeve-shaped orthosis body can maintain fixation of the CM joint of the thumb, thereby maintaining treatment and / or prevention of CM joint disorders. Furthermore, when grasping an object, the grasping protrusion does not deform or move relative to the palm, allowing for reliable grasping.

[0026] (7) The orthosis for CM joint disease of the thumb of the present invention is as described above in (1), The gripping protrusions are arranged at intervals in a direction connecting the MP joints of the four fingers other than the thumb. It is possible.

[0027] With the above configuration, the object can be contacted at multiple points facing the four fingers other than the thumb, improving the reliability of the gripping action. At the same time, the weight of the orthosis for thumb CM joint arthritis can be reduced. [Effects of the Invention]

[0028] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an orthosis for CM joint arthritis of the thumb that can simultaneously fix the CM joint, which is necessary for the treatment and / or prevention of CM joint arthritis, and perform the grasping action required in everyday life. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0029] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a device for treating CM joint disorders of the thumb according to the present invention, viewed from the palm side, showing the state in which the device is worn. FIG. [Figure 2] 1 is a perspective view seen from the back of the hand, showing a first embodiment of a brace for arthritis of the thumb CM joint according to the present invention in a worn state. FIG. [Figure 3]1 is a perspective view seen from the thumb side, showing a state in which a first embodiment of a brace for thumb CM joint disorders according to the present invention is worn. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a gripping operation of a first embodiment of the orthosis for thumb CM joint disorders according to the present invention in an attached state. [Figure 5] 1A and 1B are diagrams for explaining the operation of the first embodiment of the orthosis for treatment of thumb CM joint disorders according to the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a perspective view seen from the palm side, showing a second embodiment of the orthosis for treatment of thumb CM joint disorders according to the present invention in a worn state. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a perspective view seen from the back of the hand, showing a second embodiment of the orthosis for treatment of thumb CM joint disorders according to the present invention in a worn state. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a gripping operation in a worn state of a second embodiment of the orthosis for thumb CM joint disorders according to the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a schematic view showing a third embodiment of a brace for thumb CM joint disorders according to the present invention, as viewed from the wrist side. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic view showing a fourth embodiment of a brace for arthritis of the thumb CM joint according to the present invention, as viewed from the wrist side. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a schematic view showing a fifth embodiment of a brace for thumb CM joint disorders according to the present invention, as viewed from the wrist side. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a sixth embodiment of a brace for arthritis of the thumb CM joint according to the present invention, as viewed from the wrist side. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0030] Hereinafter, a first embodiment of a brace for CM joint disorders of the thumb according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 is a perspective view from the palm side showing the wearing state of the orthosis for thumb CM joint arthritis of this embodiment. Fig. 2 is a perspective view from the back of the hand showing the wearing state of the orthosis for thumb CM joint arthritis of this embodiment. Fig. 3 is a perspective view from the thumb side showing the wearing state of the orthosis for thumb CM joint arthritis of this embodiment. In the figures, reference numeral 10 denotes the orthosis for thumb CM joint arthritis.

[0031] In this embodiment, as shown in Figures 1 to 3, when the five fingers are spread apart, the thickness direction of the palm is defined as the Y direction. Within the Y direction, the direction away from the palm is defined as the anterior direction. The direction from the palm to the back of the hand along the thickness direction of the palm is defined as the posterior direction. The direction from the little finger to the thumb along the palm is defined as the X direction. The X direction is the direction connecting the MP joints of the four fingers other than the thumb. When the five fingers are spread apart, the direction from the tip to the base of the middle finger is defined as the Z direction. The direction in which the four fingers other than the thumb bend from the MP joints is the direction of rotation along the YZ plane from the Z direction to the Y direction.

[0032] In the following description, each direction in the orthosis 10 for CM joint disorders of the thumb is referred to based on the state in which it is worn. The X, Y, and Z directions are approximately perpendicular to each other. The X, Y, and Z directions may not be completely perpendicular to each other depending on the hand shape of the patient wearing the orthosis.

[0033] In CM joint arthropathy of the thumb, loosening of the ligaments that make up the CM joint causes the alignment of the CM joint to be disrupted, resulting in symptoms such as inflammation, pain, convex deformity of the CM joint of the thumb toward the radial dorsal side, and hyperextension of the CM joint of the thumb. By wearing the orthosis 10 for CM joint arthropathy of the thumb of this embodiment on the patient's hand, it fixes the CM joint of the thumb and restricts movements such as flexion, extension, adduction, and abduction of the thumb, thereby alleviating symptoms. The orthosis 10 for treatment of CM joint disorders of the thumb according to this embodiment includes an orthosis main body 11, a fixing portion 16, and a gripping protrusion portion 20, as shown in FIGS.

[0034] The brace main body 11 is formed with an insertion section 15 into which the thumb can be inserted, and fixes the CM joint of the inserted thumb while covering at least the palm so that the fingers other than the thumb can be flexed from the MP joint with the thumb inserted into the insertion section 15. The brace main body 11 is sleeve-shaped. The brace main body 11 is fixed to the patient's hand by a fixing section 16 when worn. The brace main body 11 covers the palm portion close to the wrist, the outer portion closer to the thumb than the palm, the outer portion closer to the little finger than the palm, and the thumb side and little finger side of the back of the hand. The brace main body 11 covers the entire circumference of the thumb. The brace main body 11 covers the thumb side between the thumb and index finger.

[0035] The upper end 11a of the brace main body 11 is located closer to the wrist than the MP joints of the four fingers other than the thumb. The brace main body 11 does not cover the MP joints of the four fingers other than the thumb on the palm. The lower end 11b of the brace main body 11 is located closer to the MP joints of the four fingers other than the thumb than the wrist. The brace main body 11 does not cover the wrist joints on the palm. Here, the brace main body 11 not covering the joints means that the relevant joints can be bent. The four fingers other than the thumb refer to the index finger, middle finger, ring finger, and little finger.

[0036] The orthosis main body 11 may have a contour shape that covers the entire area of ​​the palm as long as the MP joints of the four fingers other than the thumb and the wrist joint are in a working state. Furthermore, the orthosis main body 11 may have a contour shape that has a hole removed so that a portion is exposed, for example. The brace body 11 is formed to fit the shape of the hand so as to fit snugly around the palm and its periphery, restricting the movement of the thumb. The brace body 11 can be formed, for example, from a thin plate of resin. The brace body 11 has a degree of rigidity that prevents it from deforming during everyday activities. The brace main body 11 has a palm front portion 12, a thumb side sleeve portion 13, and a little finger side sleeve portion 14.

[0037] The palm front portion 12 covers the front of the palm. The palm front portion 12 has a gripping protrusion 20 formed at a position close to the wrist when worn. The palm front portion 12 is formed so that it fits closely to the front of the palm when worn on the palm. When worn on the palm, the contour of the palm front portion 12 is formed in a position that separates it from the wrist and allows the fingers other than the thumb to bend from their MP joints. The upper end of the palm front portion 12 coincides with the upper end 11a. When worn on the palm, the end of the palm front portion 12, which is closest to the wrist, is formed at a position where the wrist can be bent. It is formed to fit snugly against the front of the palm. The lower end of the palm front portion 12 coincides with the lower end 11b. A thumb side sleeve portion 13 is continuous with the thumb side of the palm front portion 12. A little finger side sleeve portion 14 is continuous with the little finger side of the palm front portion 12.

[0038] The thumb-side sleeve portion 13 encases the thumb side from the palm front portion 12 toward the back of the hand, and has an insertion portion 15. The thumb-side sleeve portion 13 is formed to have a continuous surface that follows the surface shape of the hand from the palm front portion 12. The thumb-side sleeve portion 13 is separated from the palm front portion 12 by a cutout portion 13c on the outside of the thumb. When worn, the thumb-side sleeve portion 13 is connected to the palm front portion 12 on the inside of the thumb, that is, on the side closest to the index finger of the thumb.

[0039] The notch 13c extends from the insertion section 15 to the lower end 11b. The notch 13c is formed on the outer side of the thumb, that is, on the side opposite the index finger of the thumb when worn. The notch 13c extends generally along the Z direction. The notch 13c is formed to facilitate insertion of the thumb into the insertion section 15 and wearing of the orthosis main body 11 itself. The notch 13c does not have to be straight. The notch 13c can be connected in the X direction by the thumb side fixing section 16d. The thumb side fixing section 16d can be fixed in a direction that pulls both sides of the notch 13c so that the width dimension of the notch 13c does not increase in the X direction. The thumb side fixing section 16d can be switched between a state in which both sides of the notch 13c are fixed in the X direction and a state in which the thumb can be inserted into the insertion section 15. It is pullable. The thumb side fixing portion 16d will be described later.

[0040] A little finger side sleeve portion 14 is continuous with the little finger side of the palm front portion 12. The little finger side sleeve portion 14 encases the little finger side from the palm front portion 12 toward the back of the hand. The little finger side sleeve portion 14 is continuous with the palm front portion 12. The little finger side sleeve portion 14 is formed to have a continuous surface that follows the surface shape of the hand.

[0041] The thumb-side sleeve portion 13 and the little finger-side sleeve portion 14 do not contact each other at their ends in the X direction on the back of the hand. The thumb-side sleeve portion 13 and the little finger-side sleeve portion 14 can be connected in the X direction on the back of the hand by a fixing portion 16. An insertion section 15 is formed in the thumb side sleeve section 13. The thumb is inserted into the insertion section 15 when the thumb CM joint arthritis orthosis 10 is worn. The insertion section 15 is formed near the boundary between the palm front section 12 and the thumb side sleeve section 13. The insertion section 15 is a through hole. Note that by providing a cutout 13c between the palm front section 12 and the thumb side sleeve section 13, extending from the insertion section 15 toward the wrist, the insertion section 15 can undergo slight deformation, expanding in diameter. The cutout 13c makes it easier to insert the thumb into the insertion section 15.

[0042] The fixing part 16 connects the thumb side sleeve part 13 and the little finger side sleeve part 14 in a direction along the wrist joint. The fixing part 16 connects the thumb side sleeve part 13 and the little finger side sleeve part 14 in a direction connecting the CM joints of the four fingers other than the thumb. The fixing part 16 is attached along the surface of the back of the hand. The fixing part 16 extends in the X direction on the surface of the back of the hand. When worn, the fixing part 16 connects the thumb side sleeve part 13 and the little finger side sleeve part 14 in the X direction. Furthermore, the fixing part 16 can be loosened so that a finger can be inserted into the orthosis main body 11 when worn. The fixing portion 16 has an upper fixing portion 16a, a lower fixing portion 16b, and a little finger side fixing portion 16c.

[0043] Little finger side fixing part 16c is fixed to little finger side sleeve part 14. Little finger side fixing part 16c has a rectangular metal ring like a buckle. The thumb side end of the lower fixing portion 16b is fixed to the thumb side sleeve portion 13. The little finger side end of the lower fixing portion 16b is passed through the loop of the little finger side fixing portion 16c and folded back to form the upper fixing portion 16a. The opposing surfaces of the upper fixing portion 16a and the lower fixing portion 16b are made of, for example, a hook-and-loop fastener. The upper fixing portion 16a and the lower fixing portion 16b can be fixed to each other by contacting their opposing surfaces. Furthermore, the length of the upper fixing portion 16a and the lower fixing portion 16b in the X direction relative to the brace main body 11 can be changed by adjusting the folding position relative to the little finger side fixing portion 16c. The upper fixing portion 16a and the lower fixing portion 16b can be fixedly connected to the thumb side sleeve portion 13 and the little finger side sleeve portion 14 by adjusting the folding position. The upper fixing portion 16a and the lower fixing portion 16b can be loosened by adjusting the folding position to allow insertion of a finger into the brace main body 11 when wearing the brace.

[0044] The fixing portion 16 has a thumb side fixing portion 16d. The thumb side fixing portion 16d is fixed to the thumb side sleeve portion 13 at a position closer to the back of the hand than the notch 13c. The thumb side fixing portion 16d can be switched between fixed and unlocked relative to the palm front portion 12 at a position closer to the palm than the notch 13c. Specifically, the thumb side fixing portion 16d is, for example, a hook-and-loop fastener, similar to the upper fixing portion 16a and the lower fixing portion 16b. The thumb side fixing portion 16d can have a hook-and-loop fastener attached to the thumb side sleeve portion 13 at a position closer to the palm than the notch 13c. Thumb side fixing portion 16d can fix both sides of cutout portion 13c by contacting the hook-and-loop fastener of thumb side sleeve portion 13. By adjusting the contact position of thumb side fixing portion 16d with the hook-and-loop fastener of thumb side sleeve portion 13, the strength with which thumb side fixing portion 16d pulls both sides of cutout portion 13c can be adjusted.

[0045] The gripping protrusion 20 stands upright in the Y direction from the palm front portion 12. The gripping protrusion 20 is located in a position close to the wrist in the Z direction of the orthosis main body 11. The gripping protrusion 20 protrudes forward from the palm. The gripping protrusion 20 is formed to protrude in the Y direction from the palm front portion 12 at a position close to the lower end 11b of the palm front portion 12. In this embodiment, the grip protrusions 20 are formed at two locations spaced apart in the X direction. Specifically, the grip protrusions 20 have a thumb-side grip protrusion 21 that protrudes in the thickness direction of the palm at a position corresponding to the thenar eminence TE. The grip protrusions 20 have a little finger-side grip protrusion 22 that protrudes in the thickness direction of the palm at a position corresponding to the hypothenar eminence HE. The thumb-side grip protrusion 21 and little finger-side grip protrusion 22 are spaced apart in the X direction.

[0046] The base end of the thumb-side gripping protrusion 21 is located immediately in front of the thenar eminence TE when viewed in the Y direction, approximately immediately in front of the navicular bone. The outline of the thumb-side gripping protrusion 21 when viewed in the Y direction has a region that overlaps at least the navicular bone. The base end of the little finger-side gripping protrusion 22 is located just before the hypothenar eminence HE when viewed in the Y direction, and is positioned approximately just before the pisiform bone. The outline of the little finger-side gripping protrusion 22 when viewed in the Y direction has a region that overlaps at least the pisiform bone.

[0047] The thumb-side grip protrusion 21 and the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 are positioned at the same position in the Z direction. The thumb-side grip protrusion 21 and the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 being positioned at the same position in the Z direction means that the Z-direction distance from the thumb-side grip protrusion 21 to the MP joint of the index finger is approximately the same as the Z-direction distance from the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 to the MP joint of the little finger. Note that the distance to the thumb-side grip protrusion 21 and the distance to the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 in the Z direction may be equal to the line connecting the MP joints of the index finger to the little finger. The thumb-side grip protrusion 21 and the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 are both spaced apart from the upper end 11a in the Z direction. The thumb-side grip protrusion 21 and the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 are both spaced apart from the lower end 11b in the Z direction.

[0048] In this embodiment, the thumb-side gripping protrusion 21 and the little-finger-side gripping protrusion 22 are formed to have approximately the same dimension in the X direction. The X-direction width dimension of the thumb-side grip protrusion 21 and the X-direction width dimension of the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 are formed to be approximately the same. The X-direction width dimension of the thumb-side grip protrusion 21 and the X-direction width dimension of the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 can both be approximately the X-direction width dimension near the base end of the index finger or middle finger. The distance between the thumb-side grip protrusion 21 and the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 in the X-direction is not particularly limited. The X-direction distance between the thumb-side grip protrusion 21 and the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 can be approximately half, or one-third to three-quarters, of the X-direction dimension of the palm.

[0049] The Z-direction width dimension of the thumb-side grip protrusion 21 and the Z-direction width dimension of the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 are formed to be approximately the same. The thumb-side grip protrusion 21 and the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 may be formed with contours that are line-symmetrical to each other in the X direction. The thumb-side grip protrusion 21 and the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 both have rounded corners at their tip ends and are formed from an overall curved surface. The thumb-side grip protrusion 21 and the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 both have base ends connected to the palm front portion 12 over their entire length in the X direction. The thumb-side grip protrusion 21 and the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 both have rounded corners at their base ends connected to the palm front portion 12 and are formed from an overall curved surface. The thumb-side grip protrusion 21 and the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 both rise gently from the palm front portion 12 in a mountain shape.

[0050] The thumb-side grip protrusion 21 and the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 have their sides closest to the upper end 11a in the Z direction erected in the same direction relative to the palm front portion 12. The thumb-side grip protrusion 21 and the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 have their sides closest to the upper end 11a in the Z direction erected in the same direction along the Y direction. In other words, the thumb-side grip protrusion 21 and the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 have their sides along the Y direction erected in the same direction relative to the palm front portion 12. The side of the thumb-side grip protrusion 21 closest to the upper end 11a in the Z direction is parallel to the side of the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 closest to the upper end 11a in the Z direction.

[0051] The side surfaces of the thumb-side gripping protrusion 21 and the little finger-side gripping protrusion 22 that are closest to the upper end 11a in the Z direction form a plane with respect to the palm front portion 12 as the side surface of the gripping protrusion 20. The side surface (top surface) of the gripping protrusion 20 is along the XY plane. The side surface (top surface) of the gripping protrusion 20 that is closest to the upper end 11a in the Z direction may be inclined with respect to the palm front portion 12. The angle between the top surface of the gripping protrusion 20 and the palm front portion 12 may be approximately 90°, or in the range of 75° to 105°, 80° to 100°, or 85° to 95°. In this case, the Z-direction dimension of the gripping protrusion 20 at the base end connected to the palm front portion 12 may be larger than the Z-direction dimension at the tip end.

[0052] Gripping protrusion 20 has a width W20 in the X direction that is approximately the same as the width of a palm. Width W20 of gripping protrusion 20 is the distance in the X direction between the side surface of thumb-side gripping protrusion 21 opposite to little finger-side gripping protrusion 22 and the side surface of little finger-side gripping protrusion 22 opposite to thumb-side gripping protrusion 21. The gripping protrusion 20 has an X-direction length (width dimension) W20 from the outer position of the palm corresponding to the ball of the thumb to the outer position of the palm corresponding to the ball of the little finger, which is at least half the width of the palm. The width dimension W20 of the gripping protrusion 20 is no more than twice the width of the palm. The width dimension W20 of the gripping protrusion 20 can be set to be slightly smaller than the width of the palm.

[0053] The grip protrusion 20 is erected from the palm front portion 12 and protrudes in the Y direction, with a height T20 set in the range of 10 mm to 50 mm. The height T20 of the grip protrusion 20 may be set in the range of 15 mm to 40 mm. The height T20 of the grip protrusion 20 is preferably set in the range of 20 mm to 35 mm. That is, the height dimension T21 of the thumb-side gripping protrusion 21 is set as the height dimension T20 of the gripping protrusion 20. That is, the height dimension T21 can be set in the range of 10 mm to 50 mm, in the range of 15 mm to 40 mm, and preferably in the range of 20 mm to 35 mm. Height dimension T22 of little finger side gripping protrusion 22 is set as height dimension T20 of gripping protrusion 20 (see FIG. 4). That is, height dimension T21 can be set in the range of 10 mm to 50 mm, in the range of 15 mm to 40 mm, and preferably in the range of 20 mm to 35 mm.

[0054] The height dimension T20 of the gripping protrusion 20 can be uniform throughout the entire area of ​​the gripping protrusion 20 in the X direction. The height dimension T21 of the thumb-side gripping protrusion 21 can be uniform to the height dimension T22 of the little-finger-side gripping protrusion 22. The height dimension T20 of the gripping protrusion 20 can be greater at a position close to the thumb in the X direction than at a position close to the little finger. The height dimension T21 of the thumb-side gripping protrusion 21 can be greater than the height dimension T22 of the little finger-side gripping protrusion 22. The height dimension T20 of the gripping protrusion 20 can be greater at a position close to the little finger in the X direction than at a position close to the thumb. The height dimension T21 of the thumb-side gripping protrusion 21 can be smaller than the height dimension T22 of the little finger-side gripping protrusion 22.

[0055] As shown in Figure 3, the tip of the thumb-side gripping protrusion 21 can be contacted by any of the fingers other than the bent thumb, and the thumb-side gripping protrusion 21 is erected in a position opposite one of the fingers other than the thumb when the fingers other than the thumb are bent, so that the object to be gripped g can be grasped by pinching it. The tip of the thumb side grip protrusion 21 can be contacted by a bent index finger. The tip of the thumb side grip protrusion 21 can be contacted by a bent middle finger. The tip of the thumb side grip protrusion 21 may be contacted by a bent ring finger. The tip of the thumb side grip protrusion 21 may be contacted by a bent little finger.

[0056] Any of the fingers other than the bent thumb can come into contact with the tip of the little finger-side gripping protrusion 22. The little finger-side gripping protrusion 22 is erected at a position opposite any of the fingers other than the thumb when the fingers are bent, allowing the object to be gripped g to be sandwiched between the fingers. The tip of the little finger side grip protrusion 22 can be contacted by a bent little finger. The tip of the little finger side grip protrusion 22 can be contacted by a bent ring finger. The tip of the little finger side grip protrusion 22 may be contacted by a bent middle finger. The tip of the little finger side grip protrusion 22 may be contacted by a bent index finger.

[0057] The thumb-side gripping protrusion 21 and the palm front portion 12 have sufficient rigidity to prevent the thumb-side gripping protrusion 21 from changing its protruding position relative to the orthosis main body 11 when an object to be gripped (g) is gripped between the thumb and the fingers other than the bent thumb. As long as the thumb-side gripping protrusion 21 has such rigidity, the dimension in the Z direction of the thumb-side gripping protrusion 21 is not limited. The little finger side gripping protrusion 22 and the palm front portion 12 have enough rigidity to prevent the little finger side gripping protrusion 22 from changing its protruding position relative to the orthosis main body 11 when an object to be gripped (g) is gripped between the fingers other than the bent thumb. As long as the little finger side gripping protrusion 22 has such rigidity, the dimension in the Z direction of the little finger side gripping protrusion 22 is not limited.

[0058] The thumb-side grip protrusion 21 and the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 can be formed so that a line connecting the thumb-side grip protrusion 21 and the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 in the Y direction is parallel to a line connecting the MP joints of the four fingers other than the thumb. The grip protrusion 20 can be formed so that the distance to the thumb-side grip protrusion 21 is slightly larger than the distance to the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 in the Z direction, relative to the line connecting the MP joints of the four fingers other than the thumb. The grip protrusion 20 can be formed so that the distance to the thumb-side grip protrusion 21 is slightly smaller than the distance to the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 in the Z direction, relative to the line connecting the MP joints of the four fingers other than the thumb.

[0059] The thumb-side gripping protrusion 21 and the little finger-side gripping protrusion 22 may have a surface treatment on their sides in the Z direction, i.e., the sides facing the four fingers other than the thumb. The surface treatment of the side surfaces of the thumb-side gripping protrusion 21 and the little finger-side gripping protrusion 22 can be a matte finish, a textured finish, or the attachment of a nonwoven fabric or the like to provide an anti-slip effect. This prevents the object g from slipping against the sides of the thumb-side gripping protrusion 21 and the little finger-side gripping protrusion 22 when the object g is pinched between the four fingers and the gripping protrusion 20, as described below, making it possible to securely grip the object g.

[0060] The operation of the brace for thumb CM joint disorders in this embodiment will be described below.

[0061] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a gripping operation when the orthosis for CM joint disorders of the thumb according to this embodiment is worn. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the thumb CM joint arthritis brace 10 according to this embodiment is worn by inserting the fingers into the brace main body 11 and simultaneously inserting the thumb into the insertion section 15. At this time, the fixing section 16 is loosened. Next, when the fingers are in a predetermined position relative to the brace main body 11, the fixing section 16 is connected on the back of the hand while pulling the thumb-side sleeve section 13 and the little finger-side sleeve section 14 with the fixing section 16. At the same time, the fixing section 16d connects both sides of the notch 13c. In this state, as shown in Figures 1 to 3, the orthosis main body 11 fixes the CM joint of the thumb and restricts movements such as flexion, extension, adduction, and abduction of the thumb, thereby alleviating symptoms. At the same time, it is possible to maintain a state in which all four fingers other than the thumb can be flexed at the MP joint.

[0062] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 4 , the thumb CM joint arthritis orthosis 10 according to this embodiment allows the four fingers other than the thumb to bend when worn. In this state, the thumb-side gripping protrusion 21 and the little finger-side gripping protrusion 22 protrude in positions that face the four fingers other than the thumb in the direction in which these four fingers bend relative to the palm. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 4 , an object g to be grasped can be pinched between the four fingers and the thumb-side gripping protrusion 21 and / or the little finger-side gripping protrusion 22. Furthermore, by further bending the four fingers, opposing forces can be applied between the four fingers and the thumb-side gripping protrusion 21 and / or the little finger-side gripping protrusion 22, as shown by arrows G in FIG. 4 .

[0063] This allows the thumb-side gripping protrusion 21 and / or the little finger-side gripping protrusion 22 to be used as if they correspond to the sixth and seventh fingers on the palm of the panda shown in Figure 5, so that the object to be gripped g can be grasped without using the thumb while wearing the thumb CMC joint arthritis brace 10. Therefore, it is possible to grasp the object g to the extent necessary in daily life without affecting the CM joint of the thumb.

[0064] Furthermore, because the thumb-side gripping protrusion 21 and the little finger-side gripping protrusion 22 have the width dimensions W21 and T22 described above, the object to be gripped g can be easily held within a range having a predetermined length in the X direction, and therefore the object to be gripped g does not slip in the X direction. Moreover, because the object to be gripped g can be abutted by the thumb-side gripping protrusion 21 and the little finger-side gripping protrusion 22 at two locations spaced apart in the X direction, it is possible to reliably grip the object to be gripped g.

[0065] Furthermore, since the thumb-side gripping protrusion 21 and the little finger-side gripping protrusion 22 have the height dimensions T21 and T22 described above, the object g can be held between the four fingers other than the thumb in a range corresponding to the height dimensions T21 and T22. This prevents the object g from slipping in the Y direction. Furthermore, by changing the degree of bending of the four fingers, it is possible to appropriately control the strength with which the object g is pinched between the four fingers other than the thumb and the thumb-side gripping protrusion 21 and / or the little finger-side gripping protrusion 22. This makes it possible to pinch the object g without causing problems such as deformation of the object g.

[0066] Hereinafter, a second embodiment of a brace for CM joint disorders of the thumb according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 6 is a perspective view from the palm side showing the worn state of the orthosis for thumb CM joint disorders in this embodiment. Fig. 7 is a perspective view from the back side of the hand showing the worn state of the orthosis for thumb CM joint disorders in this embodiment. This embodiment differs from the first embodiment described above in terms of the gripping protrusions. Other configurations corresponding to those in the first embodiment described above are assigned the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0067] In this embodiment, one grip protrusion 20 stands upright from the palm front portion 12. The grip protrusion 20 of this embodiment corresponds to a shape in which the thumb-side grip protrusion 21 and the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 of the first embodiment are connected in the X direction. As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the grip protrusion 20 of this embodiment extends in the X direction. The grip protrusion 20 has a width W20 in the X direction that is approximately the same as the width of a palm. The grip protrusion 20 has rounded corners at its tip and is formed from an overall curved surface. The grip protrusion 20 has a base end that is connected to the palm front portion 12 over its entire length in the X direction. The grip protrusion 20 has rounded corners at its base end that is connected to the palm front portion 12 and is formed from an overall curved surface. The grip protrusion 20 rises gently from the palm front portion 12 in a mountain shape.

[0068] The side surface of the gripping protrusion 20 that is closest to the upper end 11a in the Z direction extends along the Y direction. All of the side surfaces of the gripping protrusion 20 around its entire circumference as viewed in the Y direction are erected at the same angle relative to the palm front portion 12. The side surface of the gripping protrusion 20 that is closest to the upper end 11a in the Z direction may be inclined relative to the palm front portion 12. The Z direction dimension of the gripping protrusion 20 at its base end connected to the palm front portion 12 may be greater than the Z direction dimension of its tip end.

[0069] The gripping protrusion 20 has a widthwise length (width dimension) W20 from the outer position of the palm corresponding to the ball of the thumb to the outer position of the palm corresponding to the ball of the little finger, which is at least half the widthwise length of the palm and is not more than twice the widthwise length of the palm. The width dimension W20 of the gripping protrusion 20 can be set to be slightly smaller than the widthwise length of the palm. The gripping protrusion 20 is formed so that the width dimension W20 is larger than the dimension in the Z direction.

[0070] The grip protrusion 20 is erected from the palm front portion 12 and protrudes in the Y direction, with a height T20 (see FIG. 3) set in the range of 10 mm to 50 mm. The height T20 of the grip protrusion 20 may be set in the range of 15 mm to 40 mm. The height T20 of the grip protrusion 20 is preferably set in the range of 20 mm to 35 mm. The height dimension T20 of the grip protrusion 20 can be equal throughout the entire length of the grip protrusion 20 in the X direction. The height dimension T20 of the grip protrusion 20 can be greater at a position close to the thumb in the X direction than at a position close to the little finger. The height dimension T20 of the grip protrusion 20 can be greater at a position close to the little finger in the X direction than at a position close to the thumb.

[0071] The tip of the gripping protrusion 20 can be contacted by any of the four fingers other than the bent thumb, and the gripping protrusion 20 is erected in a position where it can pinch and grip the object to be gripped (g) in a position opposite the four fingers other than the thumb when the four fingers other than the thumb are bent. The gripping protrusion 20 and the palm front portion 12 have rigidity that does not change the protruding position of the gripping protrusion 20 relative to the orthosis main body 11 when the object to be gripped (g) is gripped between the four fingers other than the bent thumb. As long as the gripping protrusion 20 has such rigidity, the dimension in the Z direction is not limited.

[0072] The gripping protrusion 20 can be formed parallel to a line connecting the MP joints of the four fingers other than the thumb. The gripping protrusion 20 can be formed parallel to a line that is slightly more spaced apart from the line connecting the MP joints of the four fingers other than the thumb at a position closer to the thumb than at a position closer to the little finger. The gripping protrusion 20 can be formed parallel to a line that is slightly more spaced apart from the line connecting the MP joints of the four fingers other than the thumb than at a position closer to the little finger.

[0073] The grip protrusion 20 has a surface treatment on the side surface facing the four fingers other than the thumb. The surface treatment of the grip protrusion 20 can be a matte finish, a textured finish, or an anti-slip treatment such as the attachment of a nonwoven fabric. The grip protrusion 20 can be applied to the entire side surface in the Z direction. The grip protrusion 20 can be applied to a part of the side surface in the Z direction. By applying a surface treatment to the gripping protrusion 20, it is possible to prevent the object g from slipping when the object g is pinched between the four fingers and the gripping protrusion 20, as described below, and to securely grip the object g.

[0074] FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing a gripping operation when the orthosis for CM joint disorders of the thumb according to this embodiment is worn. 6 and 7, in the orthosis 10 for thumb CM joint arthritis according to this embodiment, the fingers are inserted into the orthosis main body 11, and then fixed by the fixing portion 16 and the fixing portion 16d. Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 8, the object to be grasped g is held between the four fingers and the grasping protrusions 20, thereby grasping the object to be grasped g.

[0075] The orthosis 10 for thumb CM joint disorders of this embodiment can achieve the same effects as the above-described embodiment. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the gripping protrusions 20 are continuous in the X direction, so that the contact length between the gripping protrusions 20 and the object to be gripped g in the X direction is increased, allowing for more reliable gripping.

[0076] Hereinafter, a third embodiment of a brace for CM joint disorders of the thumb according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. 9 is a schematic diagram showing the orthosis for thumb CM joint disorders in this embodiment as seen from the wrist side. This embodiment differs from the first embodiment described above in terms of the gripping protrusions. Other components corresponding to those in the first embodiment described above are assigned the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0077] As shown in FIG. 9, the gripping protrusion 20 according to this embodiment has a cylindrical thumb-side gripping protrusion 21 and a cylindrical little finger-side gripping protrusion 22 formed at two positions in the X direction.

[0078] The thumb-side gripping protrusion 21 is cylindrical and protrudes in the thickness direction of the palm at a position corresponding to the thenar eminence TE. The little finger side gripping protrusion 22 is cylindrical and protrudes in the thickness direction of the palm at a position corresponding to the hypothenar eminence (HE). The thumb side grip protrusion 21 and the little finger side grip protrusion 22 have the same diameter dimension in the XZ cross section. The thumb side grip protrusion 21 and the little finger side grip protrusion 22 have the same XZ cross section shape over the entire length in the Y direction.

[0079] The thumb-side grip protrusion 21 and the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 can be cylindrical and thinner than the index finger or middle finger. The axes of the thumb-side grip protrusion 21 and the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 are parallel to each other. The thumb-side grip protrusion 21 and the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 both protrude in the same direction from the palm front portion 12. The thumb-side grip protrusion 21 and the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 are spaced apart from each other in the X direction. Note that the thumb-side grip protrusion 21 and the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 correspond to the shape of the grip protrusion 20 in the second embodiment, with only both ends in the X direction remaining.

[0080] The height dimension T21 of the thumb-side grip protrusion 21 protruding in the Y direction is larger than the height dimension T22 of the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 protruding in the Y direction. In this case, the height dimensions T21 and T22 are both set in the range of 10 mm to 50 mm. The height dimensions T21 and T22 may both be set in the range of 15 mm to 40 mm. The height dimensions T21 and T22 are both preferably set in the range of 20 mm to 35 mm. The height dimension T21 of the thumb-side grip protrusion 21 protruding in the Y direction may be smaller than the height dimension T22 of the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 protruding in the Y direction. The height dimension T21 of the thumb-side grip protrusion 21 protruding in the Y direction may be the same as the height dimension T22 of the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 protruding in the Y direction.

[0081] The width direction length (width dimension) W20 of the gripping protrusion 20 can be at least half the width direction length of the palm and not more than twice the width direction length of the palm, as in the first embodiment. The width direction length (width dimension) W20 of the gripping protrusion 20 can be set to be slightly smaller than the width direction length of the palm.

[0082] The orthosis 10 for thumb CM joint disorder of this embodiment can achieve the same effects as the above-mentioned embodiments. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the volume of the gripping protrusion 20 can be reduced compared to the first and second embodiments, so that the weight of the entire orthosis 10 for thumb CM joint disorder can be reduced and the wearability of the orthosis 10 for thumb CM joint disorder in daily life can be improved.

[0083] Furthermore, the thumb-side gripping protrusion 21 and the little finger-side gripping protrusion 22 can be formed as separate parts from the orthosis main body 11, and the thumb-side gripping protrusion 21 and the little finger-side gripping protrusion 22 can be attached to the orthosis main body 11. This simplifies the manufacturing process of the thumb CM joint arthritis orthosis 10. Alternatively, a thumb CM joint arthritis orthosis without gripping protrusions can be modified into an orthosis that can reduce the impact on the thumb CM joint. Furthermore, by adjusting the gripping protrusion 20, it is possible to achieve the effect of being able to respond precisely to the actions required by the user.

[0084] Hereinafter, a fourth embodiment of the orthosis for CM joint disorders of the thumb according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. 10 is a schematic diagram showing the orthosis for thumb CM joint disorders in this embodiment as seen from the wrist side. This embodiment differs from the first embodiment described above in terms of the gripping protrusions. Other components corresponding to those in the first embodiment described above are assigned the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0085] As shown in FIG. 10, the brace 10 for thumb CM joint disease according to this embodiment has a gripping protrusion 20 formed in one location, as in the second embodiment. The gripping protrusion 20 has a lateral gripping protrusion 23 and a proximal gripping protrusion 24 .

[0086] When viewed from the Y direction (front direction), the lateral gripping protrusions 23 have the same X and Z dimensions as the gripping protrusions 20 in the second embodiment. The base ends of the lateral gripping protrusions 23 in the Y direction are connected to the base-end gripping protrusions 24. The base-side gripping protrusion 24 stands in the Y direction from the palm front portion 12. The base-side gripping protrusion 24 has the same Z-direction dimension as the lateral gripping protrusion 23. The base-side gripping protrusion 24 has a smaller X-direction dimension than the lateral gripping protrusion 23. The base-side gripping protrusion 24 is connected to the X-direction central position of the lateral gripping protrusion 23. The X-direction dimension of the base-side gripping protrusion 24 has enough rigidity to prevent the protruding position of the gripping protrusion 20 from changing relative to the orthosis main body 11 when gripping the object to be gripped g. The Y-direction dimension of the lateral gripping protrusions 23 and the proximal gripping protrusions 24 is the same as the Y-direction dimension of the gripping protrusions 20 in the second embodiment.

[0087] The orthosis 10 for thumb CM joint disorder of this embodiment can achieve the same effects as the above-described embodiment. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the volume of the gripping protrusions 20 can be reduced, which reduces the overall weight of the orthosis 10 for thumb CM joint disorder and improves the wearability of the orthosis 10 for thumb CM joint disorder in daily life. Because the lateral gripping protrusions 23 are continuous in the X direction, they can contact the object to be gripped g over a long area in the X direction, which improves operability in the clamping operation.

[0088] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the attachment position of the lateral gripping protrusion 23 can be adjusted within the ZX plane relative to the base-end gripping protrusion 24. In this case, the lateral gripping protrusion 23 and the base-end gripping protrusion 24 can be separate members. The lateral gripping protrusion 23 can be attached so as to be rotatable relative to the base-end gripping protrusion 24 at the center position of the lateral gripping protrusion 23 in the X direction. This makes it possible to adjust the angle of the lateral gripping protrusions 23 in the ZX plane relative to the device main body 11, thereby further improving the gripping performance.

[0089] Hereinafter, a fifth embodiment of a brace for CM joint disorders of the thumb according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. 11 is a schematic diagram showing the orthosis for thumb CM joint disorders in this embodiment as seen from the wrist side. This embodiment differs from the third embodiment described above in terms of the gripping protrusions. Other components corresponding to those in the third embodiment described above are assigned the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0090] 11, in the orthosis 10 for thumb CM joint disease according to this embodiment, the base end of the gripping protrusion 20 is connected to the palm front portion 12 at two points. The gripping protrusion 20 has a lateral gripping protrusion 23, a thumb-side base 25, and a little finger-side base 26.

[0091] When viewed from the front, the lateral gripping protrusions 23 have the same X and Z dimensions as the gripping protrusions 20 in the second embodiment. The base ends of the lateral gripping protrusions 23 in the Y direction are connected to the base-end gripping protrusions 24.

[0092] The thumb side base 25 and the little finger side base 26 are erected in the Y direction from the palm front portion 12. The thumb side base 25 and the little finger side base 26 are erected in positions in the X direction corresponding to the thumb side gripping protrusion 21 and the little finger side gripping protrusion 22. The thumb side base 25 and the little finger side base 26 are connected to both ends of the lateral gripping protrusion 23 in the X direction. When viewed in the Z direction, the gripping protrusion 20 is formed in a U-shape.

[0093] The thumb CM joint disorder orthosis 10 of this embodiment can achieve the same effects as the above-described embodiment. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the volume of the gripping protrusions 20 can be reduced compared to the second embodiment, thereby reducing the overall weight of the thumb CM joint disorder orthosis 10 and improving the wearability of the thumb CM joint disorder orthosis 10 in daily life. Because the lateral gripping protrusions 23 are continuous in the X direction, they can contact the object to be grasped g over a long area in the X direction, improving operability in the clamping operation. Furthermore, because the gripping protrusions 20 are continuous over their entire length in the Y direction at both ends of the gripping protrusions 20 in the X direction, they can contact the object to be grasped g over a long area in the Y direction, improving operability in the clamping operation.

[0094] Hereinafter, a sixth embodiment of a brace for CM joint disorders of the thumb according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. 12 is a schematic diagram showing the orthosis for thumb CM joint disorders in this embodiment as seen from the wrist side. This embodiment differs from the second embodiment described above in terms of the gripping protrusions. Other components corresponding to those in the second embodiment described above are assigned the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0095] As shown in Fig. 6, the thumb CM joint arthritis brace 10 according to this embodiment has gripping protrusions 20 formed in three locations. The gripping protrusions 20 include a thumb-side gripping protrusion 21, a little finger-side gripping protrusion 22, and a middle gripping protrusion 27.

[0096] The middle grip protrusion 27 is disposed between the thumb-side grip protrusion 21 and the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 in the X direction. The middle grip protrusion 27 is cylindrical. The middle grip protrusion 27 has the same cross-sectional diameter dimension in the XZ plane as the thumb-side grip protrusion 21 and the little finger-side grip protrusion 22. The middle grip protrusion 27, the thumb-side grip protrusion 21, and the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 are parallel to one another. The middle grip protrusion 27, the thumb-side grip protrusion 21, and the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 all protrude from the palm front portion 12 in the same direction.

[0097] The middle grip protrusion 27, the thumb-side grip protrusion 21, and the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 are spaced apart from one another in the X direction. The distance between the middle grip protrusion 27 and the thumb-side grip protrusion 21 in the X direction is equal to the distance between the middle grip protrusion 27 and the little finger-side grip protrusion 22 in the X direction. The middle grip protrusion 27, the thumb side grip protrusion 21, and the little finger side grip protrusion 22 correspond to the shape of the grip protrusion 20 in the first embodiment, with both ends and the center in the X direction remaining.

[0098] The height dimension T27 of the middle grip protrusion 27 protruding in the Y direction is greater than the height dimension T22 of the little finger side grip protrusion 22 protruding in the Y direction. The height dimension T27 of the middle grip protrusion 27 protruding in the Y direction is smaller than the height dimension T21 of the thumb side grip protrusion 21 protruding in the Y direction. The height dimension T27, the height dimension T21, and the height dimension T22 are all set in the range of 10 mm to 50 mm. The height dimension T27, the height dimension T21, and the height dimension T22 may all be set in the range of 15 mm to 40 mm. The height dimension T27, the height dimension T21, and the height dimension T22 are all preferably set in the range of 20 mm to 35 mm.

[0099] Alternatively, the height dimension T21, the height dimension T22, and the height dimension T27 may be the same size. Alternatively, the height dimension T21 may be smaller than the height dimension T27, and the height dimension T22 may be larger than the height dimension T27. Furthermore, the height dimension T21 can be made larger than the height dimension T27, and the height dimension T22 can be made larger than the height dimension T27. The height dimension T21 can be made smaller than the height dimension T27, and the height dimension T22 can be made smaller than the height dimension T27.

[0100] The orthosis 10 for arthritis of the thumb CM joint of this embodiment can achieve the same effects as the above-described embodiments.

[0101] The orthosis 10 for thumb CM joint disease of this embodiment can be used as a configuration having two gripping protrusions by removing only one of the middle gripping protrusion 27, the thumb-side gripping protrusion 21, and the little finger-side gripping protrusion 22, or as a configuration having one gripping protrusion by removing only two of them, or can be used by switching between these states. It is also possible to provide a plurality of gripping protrusions in three or more locations in the X direction.

[0102] Furthermore, in the present invention, it is also possible to individually select and combine the individual configurations in the above-described embodiments. [Example]

[0103] Hereinafter, examples of the present invention will be described.

[0104] Here, a confirmation test will be described as a specific example of the orthosis for thumb CM joint arthritis of the present invention.

[0105] <Experimental Example> Movements that are difficult due to arthritis of the thumb CM joint were performed while wearing the thumb CM joint arthritis brace 10 shown in Figures 1 to 4, and the degree of improvement in the difficulty rating was evaluated compared to when the brace was not worn. The actions were performed in accordance with the patient-centered evaluation form described below. Journal of the Japanese Society of Hand Surgery (J Jpn Soc Surg Hand), Vol. 35, No. 3, 463-465, 2018

[0106] First, the evaluation score for movements that were highly scored and difficult without the brace was: "Opening a new bottle cap" 3.66±1.43 (mean±standard deviation) "Opening a plastic bottle cap" 3.18±1.35 "Opening a can of drink" 2.95±1.57, "Wring out a towel" 2.88±1.20 "Wipe walls and sweep floors" 2.79±1.39 It was.

[0107] In response to these, the same evaluation was performed while wearing the orthosis for CM joint arthritis of the thumb shown in Figures 1 to 4. As for "opening a new bottle cap," no improvement was seen when the diameter of the bottle was large, but the evaluation score for each of the other evaluated actions decreased, indicating that the difficulty could be improved. At the same time, there was no severe pain.

[0108] These results show that the thumb CM joint brace can achieve both fixation of the CM joint and gripping movement. [Explanation of symbols]

[0109] 10...Thumb CM joint arthritis brace 11...Brace body 12...Front of palm 13...Thumb side sleeve 14...Little finger side sleeve 15...insertion section 16...Fixed part 20...Gripping protrusion 21...Thumb side grip projection 22… Little finger side gripping protrusion

Claims

1. an orthosis main body having an insertion section into which a thumb can be inserted, the orthosis fixing the CM joint of the inserted thumb and covering at least the palm so that fingers other than the thumb can be bent with the thumb inserted in the insertion section; a fixing part that extends to the back of the hand along the direction in which the wrist is wrapped and that can fix the device main body; a gripping protrusion that protrudes from the palm at a position close to the wrist of the orthosis main body and is capable of gripping an object to be gripped at a position opposite to the fingers other than the thumb when the fingers other than the thumb are bent; Equipped with the gripping protrusion does not change its protruding position relative to the device main body when gripping an object to be gripped between the gripping protrusion and the fingers other than the bent thumb; A brace for thumb CM joint arthritis.

2. The gripping protrusion protrudes in the thickness direction of the palm at a position corresponding to the ball of the foot. The orthosis for thumb CM joint arthritis according to claim 1.

3. The gripping protrusion protrudes in the thickness direction of the palm at a position corresponding to the ball of the little finger. The orthosis for thumb CM joint arthritis according to claim 2.

4. The gripping protrusion has a widthwise length from an outer position of the palm corresponding to the ball of the thumb to an outer position of the palm corresponding to the ball of the little finger, the widthwise length of the palm being equal to or greater than half of the widthwise length of the palm. The orthosis for thumb CM joint arthritis according to claim 1.

5. The tip of the gripping protrusion can be contacted by any of the fingers other than the bent thumb. The orthosis for thumb CM joint arthritis according to claim 1.

6. the orthosis body is sleeve-shaped, a palm front portion covering the palm and on which the gripping protrusion is formed; a little finger side sleeve portion that wraps around the little finger side from the front of the palm toward the back of the hand; a thumb-side sleeve portion that encloses the thumb side from the palm front portion toward the back of the hand and in which the insertion portion is formed; having The orthosis for thumb CM joint arthritis according to claim 1.

7. The gripping protrusions are arranged at intervals in a direction connecting the MP joints of the four fingers other than the thumb. The orthosis for thumb CM joint arthritis according to claim 1.

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