Supports, orthoses, and joint orthoses

Abstract

To provide a support medium, a brace and a joint orthosis with enhanced fixing force and fitting property of a fixing material.SOLUTION: Provided is a sheet-like support medium 1 to be attached to a joint portion, with a central region having an elongation percentage higher than those of both end regions in a second direction orthogonal to a first direction when expanding or contracting in the first direction. Provided is also a brace 10 to be attached to an affected part including the joint portion, comprising: a body part 2 that houses a fixing material for fixing the affected part; at least one mounting part 4 for mounting the body part 2 on the affected part; and the sheet-like support medium 1 to be attached to the affected part. The support medium 1, when attached, covers the affected part, and has the central region having an elongation percentage higher than those of both end regions in the second direction orthogonal to the first direction when expanding or contracting in the first direction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a support, a fitting, and an articular fitting.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in a medical field such as orthopedics, for example, a treatment has been performed to fix a diseased part by attaching a fixing material such as a cast stay formed in a shape along the diseased part of a patient to the diseased part.

[0003] As a fitting used for such a treatment, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses an articular fitting including a stay storage pocket for storing a cast stay. The cast stay of Patent Document 1 supports the inner and outer ankles of the foot.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, when a joint part having a three-dimensional curved surface is a diseased part, there is a possibility that the fixing material cannot follow the shape of the joint part. As a result, the fixing force and the fitting property of the fixing material may be reduced.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a support, a fitting, and an articular fitting that improve the fixing force and the fitting property of a fixing material.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] The present invention provides a sheet-like support to be attached to a joint part, wherein when stretching in a first direction, the elongation rate of a central region is higher than the elongation rates of both end regions in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. The support may have a plurality of pleat lines extending in the second direction. The support may be made of a non-stretchable material. Furthermore, the present invention provides an orthotic device to be attached to an affected area including a joint, comprising: a main body portion that houses a fixing material for fixing the affected area; at least one attachment portion for attaching the main body portion to the affected area; and a sheet-like support portion that is attached to the affected area, wherein the support portion covers the joint area when attached, and when stretched in a first direction, the stretch rate of the central region is higher than the stretch rate of the ends in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. Furthermore, the present invention provides an articular orthosis comprising at least the orthosis and the fixing material that can be housed in the orthosis. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a support, an orthosis, and an arthrostomy that improve the fixing force and fit of a fixation material. The effects described herein are not necessarily limited, and any of the effects described herein may be provided. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing an example configuration of support 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a schematic diagram showing an example configuration of support 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] This is a simplified cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of a support 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] This is a schematic diagram showing an example configuration of support 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This is a perspective view showing an example configuration of the orthotic device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] This is a perspective view showing an example configuration of the orthotic device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This is a rear view showing an example configuration of the orthotic device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8]This is a perspective view showing an example configuration of an arthrostomy device 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] This figure shows an example of the position where the support 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention is attached. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The embodiments described below are merely examples of representative embodiments of the present invention, and the scope of the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. Various combinations, modifications, and changes are possible within the scope of the gist of the invention.

[0011] In the following description of the embodiments, the configuration may be described using terms with "approximately" attached, such as "approximately parallel" and "approximately orthogonal." For example, "approximately parallel" means not only that they are perfectly parallel, but also that they are substantially parallel, that is, that is, that they are deviated from a perfectly parallel state by, for example, a few percent. The same applies to other terms with "approximately." Also, each figure is a schematic diagram and is not necessarily a strictly accurate representation.

[0012] Unless otherwise specified, in drawings, "up" means the upper direction or upper side in the drawing, "down" means the lower direction or lower side in the drawing, "left" means the left direction or left side in the drawing, and "right" means the right direction or right side in the drawing. In addition, in drawings, the same or equivalent elements or components are denoted by the same reference numeral, and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0013] <1. First Embodiment (Example 1 of Support)> Traditionally, in medical settings such as orthopedic surgery, fixation materials such as cast stays, which are shaped to conform to the patient's affected area, have been attached to the affected area to stabilize it.

[0014] However, when treating an affected area including a joint part having a three-dimensional curved surface, there is a risk that the fixing material may not follow the shape of the joint part. As a result, a gap may occur between the fixing material and the skin surface. This gap may cause a decrease in the fixing force of the fixing material, or may cause displacement of the fixing material. Further, this gap may cause wrinkles in the fixing material. Furthermore, stress concentration may occur in this wrinkle, which may cause a decrease in the strength of the fixing material.

[0015] Therefore, the present invention provides a sheet-like support body to be attached to a joint part, wherein when stretching and contracting in a first direction, the stretching rate of a central region is higher than the stretching rates of both end regions in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction.

[0016] The support body according to an embodiment of the present invention is a support body to be attached to a joint part. The joint part to which the support body 1 is attached includes, for example, an ankle joint, an elbow, and a knee, etc., but is not limited to these joint parts, and may be any joint part having a three-dimensional curved surface. For example, when attached to an ankle joint or an elbow, the support body 1 can support the fixing material by bending it at an angle of 80 to 100 degrees. For example, when attached to a knee, the support body 1 can support the fixing material by bending it at an angle of 150 to 170 degrees. The position where the support body 1 is attached when attached to an ankle joint, for example, will be described while referring to FIG. 9. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the position where the support body 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is attached. As shown in FIG. 9, the support body 1 is attached at a position A that covers from the vicinity of the Achilles tendon attachment part or the minimum circumference of the lower leg to the vicinity of the heel.

[0017] The support body according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described while referring to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a configuration example of the support body 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, the direction D1 to which tensile stress is applied is taken as the first direction, and the direction orthogonal to the first direction D1 is taken as the second direction D2. The first direction D1 may be the longitudinal direction of the appliance 10. The second direction D2 may be the lateral direction or the circumferential direction of the appliance 10.

[0018] The support body 1 can be attached to the orthosis 10. In this configuration example, one end 12 of the support body 1 in the first direction is fixed to the main body 2 of the orthosis 10. The support body 1 and the main body 2 may be sewn together, bonded together with adhesive, or integrally molded.

[0019] The other end 13 of the support 1 in the first direction does not need to be fixed to the main body 2. This allows a fixing material to be inserted from this end 13.

[0020] The support 1 preferably has a plurality of pleat lines 11 extending in the second direction D2. A pleat line refers to a fold formed at regular or irregular intervals. In this invention, gathers are also included in the definition of pleat lines.

[0021] The presence of pleat lines 11 on the support 1 allows the support 1 to take on a three-dimensional shape. This enables the support 1 to support the fixation material so as to conform to the three-dimensional curved surface of a joint. The support 1 can apply pressure substantially uniformly to the three-dimensional curved surface of the fixation material. In other words, the support 1 can make the fixation material conform to the shape of the joint. As a result, the support 1 can suppress gaps between the fixation material and the skin surface, and suppress displacement of the fixation material. Consequently, the support 1 can improve the fixing force and fit of the fixation material.

[0022] Furthermore, because the support 1 allows the fixing material to conform to the shape of the joint, wrinkles in the fixing material can be suppressed. This suppresses stress concentration in the wrinkles. As a result, the strength of the fixing material is improved.

[0023] Furthermore, since the support 1 covers the fixing material, the fixing material is less likely to be exposed. This enhances the aesthetic appearance and makes the fixing material less susceptible to damage.

[0024] These effects will also occur in other embodiments described later. Therefore, in descriptions of other embodiments, further mention may be omitted.

[0025] The support 1 preferably has a predetermined elongation rate. The elongation rate will be explained with reference to Figure 2. Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the support 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 2, W1 is the width of the support 1 in the first direction (Z-axis direction) when the pleat line 11 is not spread out. W2 is the width of the support 1 approximately in the center in the first direction when the pleat line 11 is spread out. At this time, the elongation rate E of the support 1 can be calculated from the following equation (1).

[0026] E = W² / W1 ···(1)

[0027] When the support 1 expands and contracts in the first direction, it is preferable that the elongation rate of the central region A1 is higher than that of the end regions A2 in the second direction (X-axis direction) perpendicular to the first direction. Specifically, it is preferable that the central region A1 has an elongation rate in the first direction that is approximately 2 to 7 times that of the end regions A2. More preferably, the central region A1 has an elongation rate in the first direction that is approximately 3 to 5 times that of the end regions A2. This makes it possible to improve the fixing force and fit of the fixing material, as described above.

[0028] The elongation rate of the support 1 varies depending on the width between the pleat lines 11, the number of pleat lines 11, or the folding method. This will be explained with reference to Figure 3. Figure 3 is a simplified cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of the support 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 3A shows an example of the configuration of a support 1 having an elongation rate of approximately three times. Two pleat lines 11 are formed in the thickness direction of the support 1. The width W between each pleat line 11 is approximately the same. When this support 1 is spread in the first direction, the folded pleats are opened. As a result, the width of the support 1 approximately in the first direction is approximately three times the width in the first direction when the pleats are not opened.

[0030] Figure 3B shows an example of the configuration of a support 1 having an elongation rate of approximately 5 times. Four pleat lines 11 are formed in the thickness direction of the support 1. The width W between each pleat line 11 is approximately the same. When this support 1 is spread in the first direction, the folded pleats are opened. As a result, the width of the support 1 approximately at the center in the first direction becomes approximately 5 times the width in the first direction when the pleats are not opened.

[0031] Figure 3C shows an example of the configuration of a support 1 having an elongation rate of approximately 7 times. Six pleat lines 11 are formed in the thickness direction of the support 1. The width W between each pleat line 11 is approximately the same. When this support 1 is spread in the first direction, the folded pleats are opened. As a result, the width of the support 1 approximately at the center in the first direction becomes approximately 7 times the width in the first direction when the pleats are not opened.

[0032] Figure 3D shows an example configuration of a support 1 having an elongation rate of approximately 3 to 5 times. Four pleat lines 11 are formed in the thickness direction and the first direction of the support 1. When the support 1 is spread out in the first direction, the folded pleats are opened. As a result, the width of the support 1 approximately at the center in the first direction becomes approximately 3 to 5 times the width in the first direction when the pleats are not spread out. Because the pleat lines 11 are formed offset in the first direction, the elongation rate may be smaller than in the example configuration shown in Figure 3B where they are not offset in the first direction.

[0033] As shown in Figures 3A to 3C, when the width W between each pleat line 11 is approximately the same and the pleat lines 11 are formed without displacement in the first direction, the support 1 has an elongation rate proportional to the number of pleat lines 11. As shown in Figure 3D, when the pleat lines 11 are folded with displacement in the first direction, the support 1 has an elongation rate within a predetermined range. By adjusting the width between the pleat lines 11, the number of pleat lines 11, or the folding method, a support 1 with a desired elongation rate can be manufactured.

[0034] The number of pleat lines 11 on the support 1 is preferably two or more. More preferably, the number of pleat lines 11 on the support 1 is three or more. This improves the fixing strength and fit of the fixing material, as described above.

[0035] The width W between the pleat lines 11 is preferably in the range of approximately 5 to 20 mm. If the width W between the pleat lines 11 is smaller than this range, processing may become difficult. If the width W between the pleat lines 11 is larger than this range, the fixing strength and fit of the fixing material may decrease.

[0036] A design example of the support 1 will be explained with reference to Figure 4. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the support 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] As shown in Figure 4, the width of the fixing member 20 in the second direction (X-axis direction) is W4. The width of the portion of the support 1 in the second direction where the pleat line 11 is formed is W5. The width of the support 1 in the second direction is W6.

[0038] Table 1 shows examples of the dimensions of support 1 when worn by an average adult male. The dimensions shown in Figure 5 are illustrative and may vary depending on the wearer's physique. [Table 1]

[0039] As can be seen from Table 1, it is preferable that W5 is approximately 40 mm larger than W4, and W6 is approximately 20-30 mm larger than W5. When the support 1 is attached to the knee, it is preferable that W4 is approximately 180 mm. In this case, it is preferable that W5 is approximately 220 mm and W6 is approximately 250 mm.

[0040] When the support 1 is attached to the ankle joint, W4 is preferably approximately 125 mm. In this case, W5 is preferably approximately 165 mm and W6 is preferably 185 mm. Alternatively, W4 may be approximately 100 mm. In this case, W5 is preferably approximately 140 mm and W6 is preferably 160 mm.

[0041] When the support 1 is attached to the elbow, W4 is preferably approximately 75 mm. In this case, W5 is preferably approximately 115 mm and W6 is preferably 135 mm. Alternatively, W4 may be approximately 50 mm. In this case, W5 is preferably approximately 90 mm and W6 is preferably 110 mm.

[0042] In this embodiment, the pleat line 11 is formed extending in the second direction (X-axis direction), but the pleat line 11 may also be formed extending in the first direction (Z-axis direction). When the support 1 is attached to, for example, the knee, the pleat line 11 may be formed extending in the first direction.

[0043] In this embodiment, the support 1 can be attached to the orthotic device 10 and worn on the joint, but the embodiment is not limited to this. The support 1 may be attached to the joint by, for example, a bandage or a strap.

[0044] The above description of the support according to the first embodiment of the present invention can be applied to other embodiments of the present technology, unless there is a particular technical inconsistency.

[0045] <2. Second Embodiment (Example 2 of Support)> An example of the configuration of the support 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described again with reference to Figure 1. It is preferable that the elongation rate of the support 1 is higher in the second direction (X-axis direction) than in the first direction (Z-axis direction). It is preferable that the support 1 contains a material that is elastic in the second direction (X-axis direction) and not elastic in the first direction (Z-axis direction). As a result, when tension is applied in the second direction, pressure is applied to the fixing material substantially uniformly. As a result, the fixing force and fit of the fixing material can be improved.

[0046] Furthermore, the formation of the pleat lines 11 gives the support 1 a three-dimensional shape, which helps to prevent gaps from forming at the ends 12 and 13 of the support 1 in the first direction.

[0047] The elongation force of the support 1 in the second direction is preferably approximately 3 to 5 N. In this case, the elongation force of the support 1 in the first direction may be approximately 70 N. The elongation force in the second direction is the stress acting on the support 1 when the tensile elongation becomes 20% when the support 1 is pulled in the second direction, assuming that the tensile elongation of the support 1 in its initial state is 0%. The elongation force in the first direction is the stress acting on the support 1 when the support 1 is pulled in the first direction, assuming that the tensile elongation of the support 1 in its initial state is 0%, assuming that the support 1 is pulled in the first direction, assuming that the tensile elongation becomes 20%. Tensile elongation is the ratio of the length that the support 1 stretches in the second or first direction.

[0048] A constant-speed tensile testing machine (Shimadzu Corporation "Autograph®" AG-20KNI, 1kN load cell) can be used to measure the tensile force. A test specimen is prepared by cutting the support 1 to a predetermined length, and the test specimen is mounted on the constant-speed tensile testing machine with a specimen width of 25 mm and a chuck spacing of 100 mm. The test specimen is then stretched to a tensile elongation of 20% at a rate where the tensile elongation increases by 100% per minute, and the stress at that time can be measured as the tensile force (N). Note that this measurement method is just one example, and the method of measuring the tensile force is not particularly limited. The tensile force can be measured by known methods.

[0049] The material constituting the support 1 is not particularly limited as long as the elongation force is set within the above range. The material constituting the support 1 may be either natural fibers or chemical fibers. For example, yarns made using polyamide fibers, polyester fibers, acrylic fibers, cellulose fibers (cotton, rayon, polynosic, lyocell, etc.), polyurethane fibers, polyolefin fibers (polyethylene, polypropylene, etc.), acetate fibers, polyvinylidene chloride fibers, polyvinyl chloride fibers, wool (sheep's wool, animal hair, etc.) alone, or yarns made by blending these fibers, can be used. As for the type of yarn, monofilament, multifilament, twisted yarn, covered yarn, core yarn, etc. can be used, and yarns that have been subjected to stretch processing or bulking processing may also be used.

[0050] Various knitting structures, either warp-knit or weft-knit, can be used for the support material 1. For example, double raschel fabric, plain knit fabric, rib knit fabric, pearl knit fabric, tuck knit fabric, circular knit fabric, weft knit fabric, tricot fabric, raschel fabric, pile knit fabric, and reinforced yarn knit fabric can be used. Among these, a fabric that can maintain the stretch force within the above range and ensure breathability to improve wearing comfort is preferred, and double raschel fabric is preferred.

[0051] Double raschel fabric is made by creating stitches from a single thread while connecting loops. The elasticity of the loops contributes to the stretchability of the double raschel fabric, and air can pass through these loops. Therefore, breathability can be ensured by using double raschel fabric. The stretchability can be adjusted by inserting elastic threads such as polyurethane-based covered yarn or rubber thread into the yarns that make up the knit structure, or by adjusting the number of these elastic threads inserted. It can be suitably knitted as a tubular rib knit fabric (rib knit fabric) by inserting elastic threads such as polyurethane thread or rubber thread into a base yarn such as polyamide thread, using a circular knitting machine or a sock knitting machine.

[0052] The above description of the support according to the second embodiment of the present invention can be applied to other embodiments of the present technology, unless there is a particular technical inconsistency.

[0053] <3. Third Embodiment (Example 3 of Support)> The support 1 may be made of a non-stretchable material. Preferably, at least one direction of the support 1 is non-stretchable, but the second direction of the support 1 may be stretchable or non-stretchable. It is more preferable that the second direction of the support 1 is stretchable. This can improve the fixing force and fit of the fixing material.

[0054] Furthermore, the formation of the pleat lines 11 gives the support 1 a three-dimensional shape, making it less likely for gaps to form at the ends 12 and 13 of the support 1 in the first direction.

[0055] The above description of the support according to the third embodiment of the present invention can be applied to other embodiments of the present technology, unless there is a particular technical inconsistency.

[0056] <4. Fourth Embodiment (Example of an Orthotic Device)> The present invention provides an orthotic device to be worn on an affected area including a joint, comprising: a main body that houses a fixing material for fixing the affected area; at least one attachment part for attaching the main body to the affected area; and a sheet-like support that is attached to the affected area, wherein the support, when worn, covers the joint area and, when stretched in a first direction, has a higher elongation rate in the central region than in the extensibility of

[0057] An example of the configuration of an orthotic device according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figure 1. As shown in Figure 1, the orthotic device 10 comprises at least a sheet-like support 1 that is attached to the affected area. The direction D1 in which tensile stress is applied is defined as the first direction, and the direction perpendicular to the first direction D1 is defined as the second direction D2. In this case, it is preferable that the support 1 has a plurality of pleat lines 11 extending in the second direction D2.

[0058] The orthotic device 10 further comprises a main body 2 that houses a fixing material for fixing the affected area, and at least one attachment part 4 for fixing the main body 2 to the affected area. The shape of the main body 2 is not particularly limited as long as it can accommodate the fixing material. In this embodiment, the main body 2 has a pocket part 3 that houses a fixing material for fixing the joint area.

[0059] The main body 2 can be constructed by appropriately knitting, sewing, and / or laminating fibrous materials such as knitted fabric, woven fabric, or nonwoven fabric. The main body 2 may be made stretchable and elastic. Specifically, the main body 2 can be made from, for example, double raschel fabric, plain knit fabric, rib knit fabric, pearl knit fabric, tuck knit fabric, circular knit fabric, weft knit fabric, tricot fabric, raschel fabric, pile knit fabric, or reinforcing yarn knit fabric. The fibrous materials such as knitted fabric, woven fabric, or nonwoven fabric that make up the main body 2 may be natural fibers, chemical fibers, and / or combinations thereof. Furthermore, when a water-curing resin is used as a fixing material, it is preferable that the material of the main body 2 be a water-repellent material such as nylon or polyester. This reduces the transmission of moisture contained in the water-curing resin for curing to the joint area via the main body 2. As a result, patient discomfort can be reduced.

[0060] The dimensions of the pocket section 3 are set to match the dimensions of the fixing material so that it can be accommodated inside. The dimensions of the main body section 2 are set to cover part or all of the joint area. The fixing material is removably housed between the pocket section 3 and the main body section 2.

[0061] A support 1 is attached to the pocket portion 3. The support 1 is attached so as to cover a part of the fixing material. As described above, this improves the fixing strength and fit of the fixing material. It also improves the strength of the fixing material. Furthermore, it enhances the aesthetic appearance and makes the fixing material less prone to damage.

[0062] The orthosis 10 will now be described with reference to Figure 5. Figure 5 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of the orthosis 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 5, the orthosis 10 comprises a main body 2 and at least one attachment part 4 for fixing the main body 2 to the affected area. The attachment part 4 includes a first attachment part 41, a second attachment part 42, and a third attachment part 43. The first attachment part 41 fixes the main body 2 proximal to the joint site. The second attachment part 42 fixes the main body 2 near the joint site. The third attachment part 43 fixes the main body 2 distal to the joint site. The number of attachment parts is not particularly limited.

[0063] The shape of the attachment part 4 is not particularly limited as long as the main body part 2 can be fixed to the joint area. In this embodiment, a belt-shaped member is used as an example of the attachment part 4. The free end of the attachment part 4 is formed with, for example, hook-and-loop fastener, hook, or button. The other end of the attachment part 4 is fixed to the main body part 2 by, for example, sewing or adhesive. The free end of the attachment part 4 is detachable from the main body part 2 by passing through, for example, a belt loop. The attachment part 4 can be adapted to the circumference (thickness) of the joint area by using a belt loop or the like.

[0064] Although not shown in the diagram, the shape of the attachment part 4 may be, for example, string-like. Nothing may be formed on the free end of the string-like attachment part 4. The other end of the attachment part 4 is fixed to the main body part 2 by, for example, sewing or adhesive. By tying the free ends of the attachment parts 4 together, the main body part 2 can be fixed to the joint area.

[0065] The main body 2 may further include a holding part 5. The holding part 5 holds the inner side (flexion side) of the joint. This allows the main body 2 to hold the joint at an appropriate angle.

[0066] The orthotic device 10 will now be described with reference to Figure 6. Figure 6 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of the orthotic device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 shows the main body 2 in an open state, with the free end of the attachment part 4 detached from the main body 2.

[0067] As shown in Figure 6, the main body 2 is formed in a roughly rectangular shape and is formed in a roughly L-shape in a side view to conform to the joint portion which has a three-dimensional curved surface.

[0068] The orthotic device 10 will now be described with reference to Figure 7. Figure 7 is a rear view showing an example of the configuration of the orthotic device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 is a view of the orthotic device 10 in the state shown in Figure 6, as seen from the side where the pocket portion 3 is located.

[0069] As shown in Figure 7, the pocket portion 3 is open. The shape of the pocket portion 3 may be a pocket that can be opened and closed on one side or in an L-shape. In this embodiment, a connecting portion 31 is formed on a part of the pocket portion 3. The connecting portion 31 allows the pocket portion 3 to be closed. This makes it less likely for the fastening material to fall out. This connecting portion 31 may be a button as in this embodiment, or it may be a hook-and-loop fastener, flap, zipper, or hook, for example.

[0070] Traditionally, bandages have been used to attach immobilizers to affected areas. However, attaching immobilizers to joints with three-dimensional curved surfaces requires advanced skills. For example, immobilizers that harden in response to water or light begin hardening as soon as they are opened. Therefore, when attaching an immobilizer along a three-dimensional curved surface, it is necessary to perform complex tasks quickly, such as wrapping the bandage in stages.

[0071] According to the present invention, the orthotic device 10 containing the fixation material is simply attached to the affected area. The support body 1 supports the fixation material so as to conform to the three-dimensional curved surface. This makes the attachment process to the affected area easier. The affected area can be fixed without requiring advanced skills.

[0072] The above description of the orthotic device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention can be applied to other embodiments of the present technology, unless there is a particular technical inconsistency.

[0073] <5. Fifth Embodiment (Example of an Articular Orthosis)> The present invention provides an articular orthosis comprising at least an orthosis according to a fourth embodiment and a fixation material that can be housed in the orthosis.

[0074] An example of the configuration of an arthrostomy according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figure 8. Figure 8 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of an arthrostomy 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 8, the arthrostomy 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention includes at least an orthosis 10 and a fixing member 20 that can be housed in the orthosis 10. The fixing member 20 is housed in a pocket portion 3 provided in the orthosis 10.

[0075] The fixing material 20 is manufactured by bending it to conform to the joint area. The fixing material 20 is made of, for example, a material that hardens with water or light, or a material that softens with heat and can be molded. More specifically, the fixing material 20 may be a base material in which multiple layers of fibrous material are laminated and resin is held in place. After the fixing material 20 is brought into contact with the joint area and molded, the joint area can be fixed by hardening the fixing material 20.

[0076] As the fibrous base material, for example, a base fabric such as plastic fibers or glass fibers can be used. As the resin, for example, a photocurable resin that hardens with light, or a watercurable resin such as a polyurethane resin that hardens by drying after being hydrated can be used. Alternatively, a thermoplastic resin that can be softened and molded with heat can be used as the resin. More specifically, as the watercurable resin, for example, a polyurethane prepolymer composition consisting of a polyurethane prepolymer having isocyanate groups at the ends obtained by reacting a polyol and a polyisocyanate, a catalyst, and other additives is preferably used. As the photocurable resin, for example, an acrylate resin such as a urethane (meth)acrylate resin is preferably used. As the thermoplastic resin, for example, a polyester resin is preferably used. Furthermore, part or all of the surface of the fixing material 20 may be covered with a nonwoven fabric, woven fabric, or knitted fabric made of fibers such as natural fibers or chemical fibers. In this case, these nonwoven fabrics, woven fabrics, or knitted fabrics can also function as protective films when the fixing material 20 is brought into contact with the joint area for molding.

[0077] With this type of fixing material 20, the entire fixing material 20 hardens after being deformed into the desired shape. As a result, the fixing material 20 is molded to a shape that is suitable for the shape of the wearer's joint area, which varies from person to person. Therefore, the displacement of the fixing material 20 can be reduced.

[0078] The above description of the joint orthosis according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention can be applied to other embodiments of the present technology, unless there is a particular technical inconsistency. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0079] 10 Orthotic devices 1 Support 11 Pleats 2 Main body 3 Pocket section 31 Joint part 4. Mounting part 41 First mounting section 42 Second mounting section 43 Third mounting section 5 Holding part 20 Fixing material 100 joint braces

Claims

1. A sheet-like support that is attached to a joint, When expanding and contracting in the first direction, The growth rate in the central region is higher than the growth rate in the end regions in the second direction perpendicular to the first direction. Having a plurality of pleat lines extending in the second direction, A support that covers a fixation material made of a moldable material, which is attached to a joint, and covers the fixation material at least until it hardens.

2. The support according to claim 1, wherein the support is made of a non-stretchable material.

3. A brace that is attached to the affected area, including the joint area, A main body containing a fixing material for fixing the affected area, At least one mounting portion for attaching the main body portion to the affected area, It comprises a sheet-like support that is attached to the affected area, When the support is attached, it covers the joint portion and, when it stretches in the first direction, the stretch rate of the central region is higher than the stretch rate of the ends in the second direction perpendicular to the first direction. Having a plurality of pleat lines extending in the second direction, The support covers a fixation material made of a moldable material, which is attached to a joint, and the support covers the fixation material at least until it hardens.

4. An arthrostomy comprising at least the orthosis described in claim 3 and the fixing member that can be housed in the orthosis.

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