Hallux valgus correction device

Abstract

To provide a hallux valgus corrective brace suitable for daily and long-term wear. [Solution] As described above, the hallux valgus correction brace 1 comprises a first toe attachment part 2A to be attached to the first toe F1 of the foot F, a second toe attachment part 2B that is spaced apart from the first toe attachment part 2A and is attached to the second toe F2 of the foot F, and a connecting part 3 that is disposed between the first toe F1 and the second toe F2 and connects the first toe attachment part 2A and the second toe attachment part 2B. The first toe attachment part 2A, the second toe attachment part 2B, and the connecting part 3 are made of metal. The foot support 2 is integrally formed from a metal member 10, and the connecting portion 3 applies an elastic force to the first toe attachment portion 2A and the second toe attachment portion 2B in a direction separating them from each other. Each of the first toe attachment portion 2A and the second toe attachment portion 2B has a main support portion 21 extending from the connecting portion 3 toward one side in the front-to-back direction of the foot F, and a sub-support portion 22 extending from a base end 211 of the main support portion 21 toward the other side in the front-to-back direction of the foot F.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a hallux valgus corrective brace. [Background technology]

[0002] Hallux valgus is a known foot condition in which the tip of the big toe (first toe) bends toward the index toe (second toe), and there are hallux valgus correction devices available for conservative treatment of hallux valgus. These hallux valgus correction devices are devices that support the toes to ensure a gap between the big toe and index toe (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Utility Model Registration No. 3068807 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The above-mentioned hallux valgus correction braces are intended to be worn daily and for long periods of time to relieve pain from hallux valgus. However, conventional hallux valgus correction braces are generally made of silicone rubber, as in Patent Document 1, and are prone to deterioration over time due to friction, dirt, and the like. For this reason, conventional hallux valgus correction braces are difficult to withstand daily and long-term wear, and replacing them requires cost and effort. Furthermore, conventional hallux valgus correction braces are prone to shifting position when worn for long periods of time, and therefore cannot fully achieve the purpose of relieving pain from hallux valgus.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a hallux valgus corrective brace that is suitable for daily and long-term wear. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] [1] A hallux valgus correction orthosis according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a first toe attachment part to be attached to the first toe of the foot, a second toe attachment part spaced apart from the first toe attachment part and attached to the second toe of the foot, and a connecting part disposed between the first toe and the second toe and connecting the first toe attachment part to the second toe attachment part, wherein the first toe attachment part, the second toe attachment part, and the connecting part are integrally formed from a metal member, and the connecting part applies an elastic force to the first toe attachment part and the second toe attachment part in a direction separating them from each other, and each of the first toe attachment part and the second toe attachment part has a main support part extending from the connecting part toward one side in the front-to-back direction of the foot and a secondary support part extending from a base end of the main support part toward the other side in the front-to-back direction of the foot.

[0007] [2] In the aspect according to [1] above, it is preferable that the main support part and the auxiliary support part of the first toe attachment part together form a concave attachment surface facing the first toe when viewed along the longitudinal direction of the foot, and that the main support part and the auxiliary support part of the second toe attachment part together form a concave attachment surface facing the second toe when viewed along the longitudinal direction of the foot.

[0008] [3] In the aspect according to [2] above, the attachment surface of each of the first finger attachment portion and the second finger attachment portion may have an arc shape with a central angle of 65 to 150 degrees when viewed along the longitudinal direction of the foot.

[0009] [4] In the aspect according to [2] above, the attachment surface of each of the first finger attachment portion and the second finger attachment portion may have an arc shape with a central angle of 200 to 300 degrees when viewed along the longitudinal direction of the foot.

[0010] [5] In the aspect according to any one of [2] to [4] above, it is preferable that the auxiliary support part in each of the first finger attachment part and the second finger attachment part is elastically deformable so that the concave shape of the attachment surface widens.

[0011] [6] In any of the aspects [2] to [5] above, in each of the first finger attachment portion and the second finger attachment portion, the attachment surface may be curved in the front-to-back direction to form the concave shape, and may extend flat in the length direction of the foot.

[0012] [7] In any of the aspects [1] to [6] above, it is preferable that in each of the first finger attachment portion and the second finger attachment portion, the auxiliary support portion has a pair of arm portions arranged on both sides of the connecting portion in the longitudinal direction of the foot.

[0013] [8] In any of the aspects [1] to [7] above, in each of the first toe attachment portion and the second toe attachment portion, the width of the main support portion in the length direction of the foot may gradually decrease toward the tip, and the tip may have an R-shape.

[0014] [9] In the aspect according to any one of the above [1] to [8], it is preferable that the connecting portion has a leaf spring shape that connects the first finger mounting portion and the second finger mounting portion.

[0015]

[10] In the aspect according to [9] above, the connecting portion may be curved so as to protrude toward the other side in the front-to-back direction of the foot.

[0016]

[11] In the aspect according to the above item [9], the connecting portion includes a first leaf spring portion curved to protrude to the other side in the front-to-back direction of the foot, and a second leaf spring portion curved to protrude to the other side in the front-to-back direction of the foot. on the other hand and a second leaf spring portion curved so as to protrude to the side.

[0017]

[12] In the aspect according to any one of the above [1] to

[11] , it is preferable that the metal member be expandable into a long plate shape.

[0018]

[13] In any of the aspects [1] to

[12] above, the material of the metal member is preferably a nickel-titanium alloy.

[0019]

[14] In the aspect according to the above item

[13] , it is preferable that the shape recovery temperature of the nickel-titanium alloy is 32°C or less, and that the nickel-titanium alloy has superelastic properties. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing a hallux valgus corrective brace according to a first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a front view showing the hallux valgus correction brace of the embodiment. [Figure 3] 3 is a side view of the hallux valgus corrective brace of FIG. 2, viewed from the direction of arrow A. [Figure 4] 3 is a side view of the hallux valgus correction orthosis of FIG. 2, viewed from the direction of arrow B. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example in which the hallux valgus corrective brace according to the embodiment is worn. [Figure 6] 6 is a view showing the mounting example of FIG. 5 from the direction of arrow C. FIG. [Figure 7] Graph illustrating the strain curve of a nickel-titanium alloy. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a hallux valgus corrective brace according to a second embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a front view showing a hallux valgus corrective brace according to a second embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a hallux valgus corrective brace according to a third embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a hallux valgus corrective brace according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a front view showing a hallux valgus corrective brace according to a fourth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] [First embodiment] A first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. The hallux valgus correction brace 1 of this embodiment is worn on a user's foot F to perform conservative treatment for hallux valgus of the foot F. Note that Figs. 1 to 4 are diagrams showing the hallux valgus correction brace 1 before being worn, and Figs. 5 and 6 are diagrams showing the hallux valgus correction brace 1 in a worn state.

[0022] (Configuration of hallux valgus correction device 1) First, the configuration of the hallux valgus correction brace 1 will be described. In the following description, the mutually perpendicular X, Y, and Z directions will be used. When the hallux valgus correction brace 1 is worn on the foot F, the X direction corresponds to the width direction of the foot F, the Y direction corresponds to the length direction of the foot F (i.e., the length direction of the toes), and the Z direction corresponds to the front-to-back direction of the foot F (i.e., the height direction or up-and-down direction of the foot F). Note that one side of the Z direction is the -Z direction and the other side of the Z direction is the +Z direction, but there is no particular limitation as to which of the front-to-back directions of the foot F each of the -Z direction and the +Z direction corresponds to.

[0023] The hallux valgus correction brace 1 includes a first toe attachment part 2A attached to the first toe F1 (thumb) of the foot F, a second toe attachment part 2B attached to the second toe F2 (index finger) of the foot F, and a connecting part 3 disposed between the first toe F1 and the second toe F2 and connecting the first toe attachment part 2A and the second toe attachment part 2B. The first toe attachment part 2A, the connecting part 3, and the second toe attachment part 2B are arranged side by side in the X direction in this order, and within the X direction, the direction toward the center of the connecting part 3 in the X direction is referred to as the inner X direction, and the opposite direction is referred to as the outer X direction.

[0024] The first finger wearing part 2A has a main support part 21 extending from the first end part 31 of the connecting part 3 toward one side in the Z direction (-Z direction), and a sub-support part 22 extending from the base end side of the main support part 21 toward the other side in the Z direction (+Z direction).

[0025] The main support part 21 has a base end 211 connected to the first end 31 of the connecting part 3, and a tip end 212 that is the end opposite the base end 211 in the extension direction of the main support part 21. The main support part 21 is curved from the base end 211 to the tip end 212 toward the -Z direction and outward in the X direction. The Y-direction outer dimension W1 of the main support part 21 is larger than the Y-direction dimension W2 of the connecting part 3 (see FIG. 4). This base end 211 forms connection parts with the sub-support part 22 on both sides in the Y direction of the connection part with the connecting part 3. A slit 213 is formed in the Y-direction center of the tip end 212 of the main support part 21, cutting inward in the X direction. In other words, the tip end 212 of the main support part 21 has a bifurcated shape.

[0026] The sub-support part 22 has a pair of arm parts 22A, 22B extending from the base end part 211 of the main support part 21. The pair of arm parts 22A, 22B are arranged on both sides in the Y direction with respect to the connecting part 3. The combined dimension of the Y direction dimension W3 of each of the arm parts 22A, 22B and the Y direction dimension W2 of the connecting part 3 is equal to the Y direction outer dimension W1 of each of the main support parts 21.

[0027] Each of the arm portions 22A, 22B has a base end portion 221 connected to the base end portion 211 of the main support portion 21, and a tip end portion 222 that is the end portion on the opposite side of the base end portion 221 in the extension direction of the sub-support portion 22. The arm portions 22A, 22B extend parallel to each other and are curved from the base end portion 221 to the tip end portion 222 toward the +Z direction and outward in the X direction. A slit is formed between each of the arm portions 22A, 22B and the connecting portion 3, so that each of the arm portions 22A, 22B can elastically change independently of the connecting portion 3.

[0028] The main support portion 21 and the sub-support portion 22 of the first finger attachment portion 2A together form an attachment surface 23A that faces the first finger F1. This attachment surface 23A is formed so as to be able to support the inner surface of the first finger F1.

[0029] Specifically, the attachment surface 23A extends flatly along the Y direction. When viewed along the Y direction, the attachment surface 23A forms a concave shape facing the first finger F1 (see, for example, FIG. 3). The concave shape of the attachment surface 23A is preferably an arc shape, and the central angle α of this arc shape is not particularly limited as long as the attachment surface 23A can be secured, but is, for example, 65 to 150 degrees.

[0030] The second finger attachment part 2B is configured to be spaced apart from the first finger attachment part 2A in the X direction. The second finger attachment part 2B has substantially the same configuration as the first finger attachment part 2A, except that its orientation in the X direction is opposite. Therefore, the above description of the first finger attachment part 2A can be similarly applied to the second finger attachment part 2B by replacing the first end part 31 of the connecting part 3 with the second end part 32 of the connecting part 3, the first finger F1 with the second finger F2, and the attachment surface 23A with the attachment surface 23B. The radius of curvature of attachment surface 23A of first finger attachment portion 2A may be the same as or different from the radius of curvature of attachment surface 23B of second finger attachment portion 2B.

[0031] The connecting portion 3 has a leaf spring shape that connects the first finger mounting portion 2A and the second finger mounting portion 2B while separating them. The connecting portion 3 is curved so as to protrude in the +Z direction. Specifically, the connecting portion 3 has a first end portion 31 connected to the base end portion 211 of the main support portion 21 of the first finger mounting portion 2A, a second end portion 32 connected to the base end portion 211 of the main support portion 21 of the second finger mounting portion 2B, and a curved portion 33 that protrudes in the +Z direction between the first end portion 31 and the second end portion 32. The first end 31 and the second end 32 face each other across a gap in the X direction. The size of the gap in the X direction between the first end 31 and the second end 32 is not particularly limited and can be set appropriately depending on the desired corrective force.

[0032] The first end 31 and second end 32 of the connecting part 3 are formed to smoothly connect to the main support part 21 of the first finger attachment part 2A or the second finger attachment part 2B, which are the connecting counterparts. Therefore, the connecting part 3, together with the main support parts 21 of the first finger attachment part 2A and the second finger attachment part 2B, can be said to form a single leaf spring shape as a whole. There are no particular restrictions on the size or curvature of the connecting part 3, but it is preferable that the connecting part 3 be designed to adequately separate the first finger F1 and the second finger F2.

[0033] The specific dimensions of each part of the hallux valgus correction device 1 described above are not particularly limited, as long as they can be attached to the user's foot and the connecting part 3 can have an appropriate elastic force. The entire hallux valgus correction brace 1 described above (the first toe attachment portion 2A, the second toe attachment portion 2B, and the connecting portion 3) is integrally formed from the metal member 10. In particular, the metal member 10 of this embodiment can be expanded into a long plate shape by extending the curved portion. The metal member 10 is a member formed from any metal material described below, and its manufacturing method is not particularly limited, and known processing techniques can be used.

[0034] (How to use hallux valgus correction brace 1) An example of how to use the hallux valgus corrective brace 1 of this embodiment will be described. 5 and 6, when the hallux valgus correction brace 1 is worn on the user's foot F, the connecting part 3 is positioned between the first toe F1 and the second toe F2. At this time, the connecting part 3 can be positioned at any position in the length direction of each of the first toe F1 and the second toe F2.

[0035] Furthermore, when the hallux valgus correction brace 1 is worn on the user's foot F, the first toe attachment portion 2A receives the first toe F1, and the second toe attachment portion 2B receives the second toe F2. At this time, the first toe F1 fits into the concave shape of the attachment surface 23A of the first toe attachment portion 2A, and the side surface F1a of the first toe F1 facing the second toe F2 is supported by both the main support portion 21 and the sub-support portion 22. Similarly, the second toe F2 fits into the concave shape of the attachment surface 23B of the second toe attachment portion 2B, and the side surface F2a of the second toe F2 facing the first toe F1 is supported by both the main support portion 21 and the sub-support portion 22.

[0036] When supporting a first finger F1, the sub-support section 22 of the first finger wearing section 2A may elastically deform so that the concave shape of the wearing surface 23A expands to fit the shape of the first finger F1. Similarly, when supporting a second finger F2, the sub-support section 22 of the second finger wearing section 2B may elastically deform so that the concave shape of the wearing surface 23B expands to fit the shape of the second finger F2. Here, "expanding the concave shape" means that the curvature of the concave shape becomes smaller.

[0037] When the hallux valgus correction brace 1 is worn on the foot F, it receives a compressive load from the first toe F1 and the second toe F2. At this time, the curved portion 33 of the connecting portion 3 elastically deforms so that the first end 31 and the second end 32 move closer to each other, and as the connecting portion 3 elastically deforms, the first toe attachment portion 2A and the second toe attachment portion 2B move closer to each other. Therefore, while the hallux valgus correction brace 1 is worn on the foot F, the connecting portion 3 applies an elastic force E to the first toe attachment portion 2A and the second toe attachment portion 2B in a direction that moves them away from each other (outward in the X direction). This elastic force functions as a corrective force that ensures a gap between the first toe F1 and the second toe F2.

[0038] Depending on the degree of deformation of the first finger F1, when the connecting portion 3 elastically deforms, the first finger mounting portion 2A and the second finger mounting portion 2B may rotate about the connecting portion 3 so that the main support portions 21 of the first finger mounting portion 2A and the second finger mounting portion 2B approach each other. In such a case, the elastic force acting on each main support portion 21 may include not only an X-direction component but also a Z-direction component. The X-direction component of the elastic force can function as a corrective force to ensure a gap between the first finger F1 and the second finger F2, and the Z-direction component of the elastic force can function as a corrective force to eliminate displacement of the first finger F1 overlapping below or above the second finger F2.

[0039] In the example of Figs. 5 and 6, the foot F on which the hallux valgus corrective brace 1 is fitted is the left foot, but the hallux valgus corrective brace 1 can also be fitted to the right foot in the same manner. 5 and 6, depending on the direction in which the hallux valgus correction brace 1 is worn, the direction toward the top of the foot F in the front-to-back direction corresponds to the +Z direction, and the connecting part 3 protrudes toward the front of the foot F. However, the direction in which the hallux valgus correction brace 1 is worn is not limited to this. In other words, depending on the direction in which the hallux valgus correction brace 1 is worn, the direction toward the back of the foot F in the front-to-back direction may correspond to the +Z direction, and the connecting part 3 may protrude toward the back of the foot F.

[0040] (Material of metal member 10) The material of the metal member 10 constituting the hallux valgus corrective brace 1 of this embodiment may be any metal with elasticity, such as stainless steel, but is preferably a nickel-titanium alloy. Nickel-titanium alloy, also known as Nitinol, is an alloy containing Ni and Ti in approximately equal atomic percentages and may also contain optional additive elements such as Co, Cu, or Nb.

[0041] Furthermore, the shape recovery temperature of the nickel-titanium alloy constituting the metal member 10 is preferably 32° C. or lower. The shape recovery and shape recovery temperature of the nickel-titanium alloy can be determined by adjusting the compounding ratio of Ni and Ti and adjusting the memory treatment temperature.

[0042] The nickel-titanium alloy constituting the metal member 10 exhibits a property known as "superelasticity," which allows it to instantly recover to its original shape even after relatively large deformation when its temperature is higher than its shape recovery temperature. For example, FIG. 7 is a graph illustrating a strain curve diagram for a superelastic nickel-titanium alloy. As shown in FIG. 7, the nickel-titanium alloy takes on a crystalline structure known as the austenite phase between points A and B, elastically deforming linearly such that strain is proportional to stress. Between points C and D, there is a plateau region where stress remains constant even as strain increases. Another feature of the alloy is its wide elastic limit, ranging from 6% to 10%, including the plateau region.

[0043] The hallux valgus correction brace 1 of this embodiment utilizes the superelasticity of the nickel-titanium alloy, particularly the elasticity in the plateau region, to keep the first toe F1 and the second toe F2 apart to an appropriate degree. For example, when a user puts on socks or shoes, the space between the first toe F1 and the second toe F2 narrows, but the plateau region keeps the spring force constant and reduces strain on the toes. Furthermore, the first toe F1 and the second toe F2 do not overlap, allowing the user to support their weight and grip the ground with all five toes, preventing excessive strain on the knees and hips.

[0044] (Effects of this embodiment) (1) As described above, the hallux valgus correction brace 1 of this embodiment includes a first toe attachment part 2A that is attached to the first toe F1 of the foot F, a second toe attachment part 2B that is configured to be spaced apart from the first toe attachment part 2A and that is attached to the second toe F2 of the foot F, and a connecting part 3 that is disposed between the first toe F1 and the second toe F2 and connects the first toe attachment part 2A and the second toe attachment part 2B. The first toe attachment part 2A, the second toe attachment part 2B, and the connecting part 3 are made of a metal member 10. The connecting portion 3 applies an elastic force to the first finger attachment portion 2A and the second finger attachment portion 2B in a direction separating them from each other, and each of the first finger attachment portion 2A and the second finger attachment portion 2B has a main support portion 21 extending from the connecting portion 3 toward one side in the front-to-back direction of the foot F (-Z direction), and a sub-support portion 22 extending from a base end 211 of the main support portion 21 toward the other side in the front-to-back direction of the foot F (+Z direction).

[0045] According to the above configuration, the elastic force acting from the connecting portion 3 to the first toe attachment portion 2A and the second toe attachment portion 2B can function as a corrective force to ensure a gap between the first toe F1 and the second toe F2 of the foot F. Furthermore, in the above configuration, first finger attachment portion 2A, second finger attachment portion 2B, and connecting portion 3 are integrally formed from metal member 10, which makes it easy to ensure the elastic force that functions as a corrective force and is less susceptible to deterioration over time due to friction, dirt, and other factors that occur with use. This allows hallux valgus correction device 1 to withstand daily wear over long periods of time, thereby reducing the cost and effort required for replacement. Furthermore, in the above configuration, the first toe attachment portion 2A applies pressure to the side surface of the first toe F1 over a wide range in the Z direction using the main support portion 21 and the sub-support portion 22, thereby reliably supporting the first toe F1. Similarly, the second toe attachment portion 2B applies pressure to the side surface of the second toe F2 over a wide range in the Z direction using the main support portion 21 and the sub-support portion 22, thereby reliably supporting the second toe F2. This prevents the attachment position of the hallux valgus correction brace 1 from shifting in the length direction of the first toe F1 and the second toe F2. Therefore, even if the toes of the foot F are long, the hallux valgus correction brace 1 can be kept attached to the desired positions of the first toe F1 and the second toe F2.

[0046] (2) In this embodiment, the main support portion 21 and the auxiliary support portion 22 of the first toe attachment portion 2A, when viewed along the longitudinal direction of the foot F, together form a concave attachment surface 23A facing the first toe F1, and the main support portion 21 and the auxiliary support portion 22 of the second toe attachment portion 2B, when viewed along the longitudinal direction of the foot F, together form a concave attachment surface 23B facing the second toe F2. According to the above configuration, the attachment surfaces 23A, 23B of the first finger attachment portion 2A and the second finger attachment portion 2B can more reliably support the first finger F1 and the second finger F2.

[0047] (3) In this embodiment, the attachment surfaces 23A and 23B of the first finger attachment portion 2A and the second finger attachment portion 2B each have an arc shape with a central angle α of 65 to 150 degrees when viewed along the length direction of the foot F. This configuration prevents the extension length of the first toe attachment part 2A, which is placed around the first toe F1, and the extension length of the second toe attachment part 2B, which is placed around the second toe F2, from becoming excessive. Therefore, when the user wears socks or sandals, the first toe attachment part 2A and the second toe attachment part 2B can be prevented from getting caught on the socks or sandals. As a result, the hallux valgus correction brace 1 can be prevented from shifting out of position and from damaging the socks or sandals.

[0048] (4) In each of first finger attachment portion 2A and second finger attachment portion 2B of this embodiment, auxiliary support portion 22 is elastically deformable so that the concave shapes of attachment surfaces 23A and 23B expand. According to the above configuration, the attachment surfaces 23A, 23B of the first finger attachment portion 2A and the second finger attachment portion 2B can be deformed according to the thickness of the first finger F1 and the second finger F2, respectively, and can more reliably support the first finger F1 and the second finger F2.

[0049] (5) In this embodiment, the first finger attachment part 2A and the second finger attachment part 2B are curved in the front-to-back direction (Z direction) so that attachment surfaces 23A, 23B form a concave shape, and extend flat in the length direction of the foot (Y direction). With this configuration, twisting is less likely to occur in the first finger attachment portion 2A and the second finger attachment portion 2B. This allows the first finger F1 and the second finger F2 to be supported more reliably. This also helps prevent pain in the user's foot F.

[0050] (6) In each of the first finger attachment portion 2A and the second finger attachment portion 2B of this embodiment, the auxiliary support portion 22 has a pair of arm portions 22A, 22B arranged on both sides of the connecting portion 3 in the longitudinal direction (Y direction) of the foot F. According to the above configuration, the sub-support portion 22 of the first finger attachment portion 2A can support the first finger F1 over a wider range in the Y direction. Similarly, the sub-support portion 22 of the second finger attachment portion 2B can support the second finger F2 over a wider range in the Y direction. This more suitably prevents the attachment position of the hallux valgus correction brace 1 from shifting in the length direction of the first finger F1 and the second finger F2.

[0051] (7) In this embodiment, the connecting portion 3 has a leaf spring shape that connects the first finger mounting portion 2A and the second finger mounting portion 2B. According to the above configuration, connecting portion 3 can suitably apply elastic force to first finger wearing portion 2A and second finger wearing portion 2B in directions that move them apart from each other.

[0052] (8) In this embodiment, the connecting portion 3 is curved so as to protrude to the other side of the foot in the front-to-back direction (+Z direction). According to the above configuration, the elastic force of the connecting part 3 acting on each main support part 21 of the first finger attachment part 2A and the second finger attachment part 2B can include not only an X-direction component but also a Z-direction component. Therefore, it is possible to realize not only a corrective force for ensuring a gap between the first finger F1 and the second finger F2, but also a corrective force for eliminating displacement of the first finger F1 or the second finger F2 in the thickness direction.

[0053] (9) In this embodiment, the metal member 10 can be expanded into a long plate shape. The above configuration makes it possible to easily manufacture the hallux valgus correction brace 1. For example, the hallux valgus correction brace 1 can be manufactured by preparing a metal plate and subjecting the metal plate to shaping processes such as cutting and bending.

[0054] (10) In this embodiment, the material of the metal member 10 is preferably a nickel-titanium alloy. In the above configuration, the properties (particularly the superelastic properties) of the nickel-titanium alloy can be utilized as the corrective force of the hallux valgus correction brace 1. That is, because nickel-titanium alloys are elastically deformable over a wider range than general metals, the hallux valgus correction brace 1 made of nickel-titanium alloys can accommodate more severe deformation of the first toe F1. Furthermore, because nickel-titanium alloys have a plateau region, even when the amount of elastic deformation occurring in the hallux valgus correction brace 1 increases, the stress applied to the user's foot F is kept approximately constant, preventing excessive force from being applied. Therefore, it is possible to correct a significantly deformed first toe F1 while reducing the user's pain caused by the correction.

[0055] (11) In this embodiment, the shape recovery temperature of the nickel-titanium alloy is 32°C or less, and the nickel-titanium alloy has superelastic properties. Normally, when the hallux valgus correction brace 1 is worn on the user's foot F, the temperature of the hallux valgus correction brace 1 reaches 32°C or higher, so the superelastic properties of the nickel-titanium alloy can be advantageously utilized.

[0056] [Second embodiment] A second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 8 and 9. Note that, among the components of the second embodiment, those corresponding to those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the first embodiment, and descriptions thereof will be omitted or simplified.

[0057] 8 and 9, in the hallux valgus correction brace 1A of the second embodiment, the shapes of the first toe attachment portion 2A and the second toe attachment portion 2B are different from those of the first embodiment. That is, in each of the first toe attachment portion 2A and the second toe attachment portion 2B, the main support portion 21 and the sub-support portion 22 are curved with the same curvature as in the first embodiment, but are longer in the extension direction than in the first embodiment. For example, the attachment surfaces 23A and 23B formed by the main support portion 21 and the sub-support portion 22 have an arc shape with a central angle α of 200 to 300 degrees when viewed along the Y direction.

[0058] The hallux valgus correction brace 1A of the second embodiment can improve the fitting force on the user's toes while achieving the same effects as the hallux valgus correction brace 1 of the first embodiment. Specifically, the first toe fitting portion 2A can be worn by wrapping it around the first toe F1. Similarly, the second toe fitting portion 2B can be worn by wrapping it around the second toe F2.

[0059] [Third embodiment] A third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 10. Note that, among the components of the third embodiment, those corresponding to those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the first embodiment, and descriptions thereof will be omitted or simplified.

[0060] 10, in the hallux valgus correction brace 1B of the third embodiment, the shape of the main support part 21 of each of the first toe attachment part 2A and the second toe attachment part 2B is different from that of the first embodiment. That is, the main support part 21 does not have a slit like in the first embodiment, and the width dimension (dimension in the Y direction) of the main support part 21 gradually decreases from the base end part 211 to the tip end part 212 in the extension direction of the main support part 21, and the tip end part 212 has an R-shape.

[0061] The hallux valgus correction brace 1B of the third embodiment can provide the same effects as the hallux valgus correction brace 1 of the first embodiment. Furthermore, in the hallux valgus correction brace 1B of the third embodiment, the width of the main support part 21 gradually decreases towards the tip end 212, and the tip end 212 has an R-shape, so that even users with small toes can use it suitably.

[0062] [Fourth embodiment] A fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 11 and 12. Note that, among the components of the fourth embodiment, those corresponding to those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the first embodiment, and descriptions thereof will be omitted or simplified.

[0063] 11 and 12, in the hallux valgus correction brace 1C of the fourth embodiment, the shape of the connecting portion 3 is different from that of the first embodiment. That is, the connecting portion 3 is configured to combine three leaf spring shapes, and has first leaf spring portions 34A, 34B that are curved so as to protrude in the +Z direction, and a second leaf spring portion 35 that is located between the first leaf spring portions 34A, 34B in the Y direction and is curved so as to protrude in the -Z direction.

[0064] One end of each of the first leaf spring portions 34A, 34B and the second leaf spring portion 35 is connected to the base end portion 211 of the main support portion 21 of the first finger mounting portion 2A, and the other end of each of the first leaf spring portions 34A, 34B and the second leaf spring portion 35 is connected to the base end portion 211 of the main support portion 21 of the second finger mounting portion 2B. The second leaf spring portion 35 is disposed so as to be sandwiched between the main support portions 21 of the first finger mounting portion 2A and the second finger mounting portion 2B.

[0065] The hallux valgus correction brace 1C of the fourth embodiment can achieve the same effects as the hallux valgus correction brace 1 of the first embodiment. Furthermore, in the hallux valgus correction brace 1C of the fourth embodiment, the presence of the second plate spring portion 35 makes it possible to maintain an appropriate distance between the main support portions 21 of the first toe attachment portion 2A and the second toe attachment portion 2B. Therefore, the hallux valgus correction brace 1C of the fourth embodiment can be suitably used for hallux valgus in which the first toe F1 slips under the second toe F2.

[0066] [Variations] The hallux valgus correction brace 1 of each of the above embodiments may further include one or more protective members attached to the metal member 10. For example, the protective members may be made of any flexible material, such as nonwoven fabric. The protective members may also be attached to the attachment surfaces 23A, 23B of the first toe attachment portion 2A and the second toe attachment portion 2B by any means, such as adhesive or sewing. This prevents the user's foot F from coming into direct contact with the metal member 10, thereby protecting the foot F from friction, allergies, and the like.

[0067] Additionally, it is possible to arbitrarily change the specific shape of each part of the hallux valgus correction brace 1. For example, one of the pair of arm portions 22A, 22B of the sub-support portion 22 may be omitted.

[0068] Furthermore, the attachment surfaces 23A, 23B are not limited to extending flatly in the lengthwise direction of the foot, but may form a curved surface that is concave or convex in the lengthwise direction of the foot depending on the shape of the user's toes. [Explanation of symbols]

[0069] 1...Hallux valgus correction device, 10...Metal member, 21...Main support portion, 211...Base end portion, 212...Tip portion, 213...Slit, 22...Sub-support portion, 221...Base end portion, 222...Tip portion, 22A...Arm portion, 22B...Arm portion, 23A, 23B...Mounting surface, 2A...First toe mounting portion, 2B...Second toe mounting portion, 3...Connecting portion, 31...First end portion, 32...Second end portion, 33...Curved portion, E...Elastic force, F...Foot, F1...First toe, F1a...Side surface, F2...Second toe, F2a...Side surface, α...Central angle.

Claims

1. a first toe attachment part (2A) to be attached to the first toe of the foot; a second toe attachment part (2B) configured to be spaced apart from the first toe attachment part (2A) and attached to the second toe of the foot; a connecting portion (3) disposed between the first finger and the second finger and connecting the first finger wearing portion (2A) and the second finger wearing portion (2B), The connecting portion (3) applies an elastic force to the first finger wearing portion (2A) and the second finger wearing portion (2B) in a direction separating them from each other, Each of the first finger attachment portion (2A) and the second finger attachment portion (2B) is a main support part (21) extending from the connecting part (3) toward one side in the front-to-back direction of the foot and forming an arc shape; a secondary support portion (22) extending from a base end portion (211) of the main support portion (21) toward the other side in the front-to-back direction of the foot and forming an arc shape, The connecting portion (3) has a leaf spring shape curved so as to protrude toward the other side in the front-to-back direction of the foot, The hallux valgus correction brace, in which the first finger attachment portion (2A), the second finger attachment portion (2B), and the connecting portion (3) are integrally formed from a metal member (10) that can be expanded into a long plate shape.

2. the main support portion (21) and the sub-support portion (22) of the first toe attachment portion (2A) together form an arc-shaped attachment surface (23A) facing the first toe when viewed along the longitudinal direction of the foot, 2. The hallux valgus corrective brace according to claim 1, wherein the main support portion (21) and the sub-support portion (22) of the second toe attachment portion (2B) together form an arc-shaped attachment surface (23B) facing the second toe when viewed along the longitudinal direction of the foot.

3. 3. The hallux valgus correction brace according to claim 2, wherein in each of the first finger attachment portion (2A) and the second finger attachment portion (2B), the auxiliary support portion (22) is elastically deformable so that the arc shape of the attachment surfaces (23A, 23B) widens.

4. 3. The hallux valgus correction brace according to claim 2, wherein in each of the first toe attachment portion (2A) and the second toe attachment portion (2B), the attachment surfaces (23A, 23B) are curved in the front-to-back direction to form the arc shape, and extend flat in the length direction of the foot.

5. 2. The hallux valgus correction brace according to claim 1, wherein in each of the first toe attachment portion (2A) and the second toe attachment portion (2B), the auxiliary support portion (22) has a pair of arm portions (22A, 22B) arranged to sandwich the connecting portion (3) in the longitudinal direction of the foot.

6. 2. The hallux valgus correction brace according to claim 1, wherein in each of the first toe attachment portion (2A) and the second toe attachment portion (2B), the width of the main support portion (21) in the lengthwise direction of the foot gradually decreases toward a tip portion (212), and the tip portion (212) has an R-shape.

7. The connecting portion (3) is a first leaf spring portion curved to protrude toward the other side in the front-to-back direction of the foot; The hallux valgus corrective brace according to claim 1 , further comprising: a second leaf spring portion curved so as to protrude toward said one side in the front-to-back direction of said foot.

8. The hallux valgus correction brace according to claim 1, wherein the material of the metal member (10) is a nickel-titanium alloy.

9. The hallux valgus correction brace according to claim 8, wherein the shape recovery temperature of the nickel-titanium alloy is 32°C or less, and the nickel-titanium alloy has superelastic properties.

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