Heel protector

Abstract

A heel protector, according to the embodiments of the present disclosure, may comprise: a main body part which corresponds to a calf of a patient; a cover part which is connected to the main body part and has the inner side thereof concavely recessed so as to enable a heel of the patient to be inserted therein; a first connection part which extends from the cover part and comprises, along the length direction, a plurality of first insertion notches and a plurality of first insertion protrusions formed between the plurality of first insertion notches; and a second connection part which extends from the main body part and comprises, along the length direction, a plurality of second insertion notches and a plurality of second insertion protrusions formed between the plurality of second insertion notches.

Description

Heel protectors

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a heel protector.

[0002] A bedsore is a condition in which continuous and repeated pressure is applied to a body part while sitting or lying down for a long time, which causes blood circulation problems and causes damage (ulcers) to the skin and subcutaneous tissue. Bedsores mainly occur in areas where bony protrusions are easily subject to pressure, such as the heels, elbows, and buttocks. Depending on the degree of progression, bedsores are classified as suspected deep tissue, stage 1, stage 2, stage 3, stage 4, and unclassified bedsores (where the depth of tissue damage is unknown because the wound bed is covered with dead tissue; stage 3 and stage 4 bedsores often develop after the dead tissue is removed). Stage 1 bedsores cause persistent redness and inflammation of the epidermis, stage 2 bedsores are superficial ulcers and blisters that have only destroyed the dermis layer, but from stage 3 bedsores onwards, the entire layer, including the skin and subcutaneous fat, is destroyed, but they develop into ulcers that do not extend beyond the fascia. Stage 4 pressure ulcers destroy the entire layer, damaging muscles, ligaments, and even the bone. According to Statistics Korea, the annual average number of deaths in Korea due to pressure ulcers and pressure points from 2015 to 2017 was approximately 370, and the annual cost of pressure ulcer treatment reached approximately 30 billion won. Furthermore, the number of deaths from pressure ulcers and the cost of treatment are continuing to rise with the aging population.

[0003] Bedsores are particularly common in patients who spend long periods in bed, particularly due to pressure on the heels. Heel pads are used to prevent bedsores, but they can easily dislodge with even the slightest movement, rendering them ineffective. To prevent this, some patients wear bandage stockings while wearing the pads, but this is only a temporary solution and is also unstable.

[0004] To address these issues, a prior art protector disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 4,076,022 is available. However, this protector features a buckle-like connecting member inserted into the sole or inner calf. This can cause discomfort when worn for extended periods, as the connecting member compresses the patient's sole or calf. Furthermore, this protector utilizes Velcro as a connecting member, but the Velcro loses its adhesive strength after repeated use, preventing it from properly securing the protector and requiring replacement.

[0005] Another prior art is the brace disclosed in Chinese Patent Publication No. 105616049. However, this brace utilizes a belt, buckle, and ring for attachment. This makes it difficult for patients with severe muscle weakness due to prolonged bed rest to wear it. Furthermore, the metal buckle and ring can cause discomfort by compressing the patient's instep, ankle, shin, and calf.

[0006] Another prior art is the brace disclosed in Korean Patent No. 10-2249207. However, this brace is completely cushioned, covering the entire sole from the lower calf down. This can exacerbate skin conditions due to sweat generated from prolonged wear. Furthermore, this brace uses Velcro to attach and detach the connecting elements, which can lead to decreased adhesive strength with repeated use.

[0007] Such prior art is technical information that the inventor possessed for the purpose of deriving the present invention or acquired in the process of deriving the present invention, and cannot necessarily be said to be publicly known technology disclosed to the general public prior to the application for the present invention.

[0008] The heel protector according to embodiments of the present disclosure can provide a heel protector that does not come off or move while worn by a patient, does not put pressure on the patient's body, and can be easily fastened and disassembled by the patient.

[0009] However, these tasks are exemplary, and the tasks to be solved by the present invention are not limited thereto.

[0010] A heel protector according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include a main body corresponding to a patient's calf, a cover part connected to the main body part and having an inner side concave so that the patient's heel can be inserted, a first connecting part extending from the cover part and including a plurality of first insertion grooves along a longitudinal direction thereof and a plurality of first insertion protrusions formed between the plurality of first insertion grooves, and a second connecting part extending from the main body part and including a plurality of second insertion grooves along a longitudinal direction thereof and a plurality of second insertion protrusions formed between the plurality of second insertion grooves.

[0011] The first connecting portion may be connected near the patient's instep, and the second connecting portion may be connected near the patient's shin.

[0012] The first connecting portion includes two first connecting portions each extending from the cover portion, and a first insertion groove formed in one of the first connecting portions is inserted into a first insertion groove formed in another first connecting portion, and in a state where the first insertion grooves of each of the two first connecting portions are inserted into each other, first insertion protrusions formed on both sides based on the inserted first insertion groove can alternately overlap vertically.

[0013] The second connecting portion includes two first connecting portions each extending from the main body, and a second insertion groove formed in one of the second connecting portions is inserted into a second insertion groove formed in another second connecting portion, and in a state where the second insertion grooves of the two second connecting portions are inserted into each other, second insertion protrusions formed on both sides based on the inserted second insertion groove can alternately overlap vertically.

[0014] The first connecting portion includes a plurality of first connecting portions, and the plurality of first connecting portions are connected to each other in pairs of two, and a plurality of first insertion grooves formed in one of the two first connecting portions connected to each other can extend in one direction from the upper end of the first connecting portion, and a plurality of first insertion grooves formed in the other can extend in one direction from the lower end of the first connecting portion.

[0015] The second connecting portion includes a plurality of second connecting portions, and the plurality of second connecting portions are connected to each other in pairs of two, and a plurality of second insertion grooves formed in one of the two second connecting portions connected to each other can extend in one direction from the upper end of the second connecting portion, and a plurality of second insertion grooves formed in the other can extend in one direction from the lower end of the second connecting portion.

[0016] In a state where the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion are respectively connected, the patient's foot can be exposed to the space between the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion.

[0017] At least one of the main body, the cover, the first connection part, and the second connection part may include a plurality of ventilation holes.

[0018] The plurality of ventilation holes formed in the first connecting portion may not overlap the first insertion groove and the first connecting portion in the length direction and width direction.

[0019] The plurality of ventilation holes formed in the second connecting portion may not overlap the second insertion groove and the second connecting portion in the length direction and width direction.

[0020] At least one of the above cover portion, the first connecting portion, and the second connecting portion may include a plurality of fastening grooves, and the heel protector may further include a fastening member connecting the plurality of fastening grooves.

[0021] The above plurality of fastening grooves include one or more straight sections and one or more curved sections, and the fastening member can have a part inserted into one of the fastening grooves and another part inserted into another of the fastening grooves.

[0022] The plurality of fastening grooves in the cover portion are first fastening grooves and are symmetrical with respect to the center in the width direction of the cover portion, and the fastening member is inserted into one first fastening groove and another part is inserted into another first fastening groove to elastically support the first connecting portion.

[0023] The plurality of fastening grooves in the second connecting portion are second fastening grooves and are located on the inside of the plurality of second insertion grooves along the longitudinal direction of the second connecting portion, and a part of the fastening member is inserted into one of the second fastening grooves and another part is inserted into another second fastening groove so as to elastically support the second connecting portion.

[0024] The plurality of fastening grooves in the first connecting portion are third fastening grooves and are located on the inside of the plurality of first insertion grooves along the longitudinal direction of the first connecting portion, and a part of the fastening member is inserted into one of the third fastening grooves and another part is inserted into another third fastening groove to elastically support the first connecting portion.

[0025] A heel protector according to embodiments of the present disclosure comprises a main body corresponding to a patient's calf, a cover part connected to the main body part and having a plurality of first fastening grooves having an inner side concave to allow the patient's heel to be inserted and including at least one curved portion and at least one straight portion, a plurality of first connecting parts extending from the cover part and including a plurality of first insertion grooves in a longitudinal direction and a plurality of first insertion protrusions between the plurality of first insertion grooves, and which are connected in pairs near the patient's instep, a second connecting part extending from the main body part and including a plurality of second insertion grooves in a longitudinal direction, a plurality of second insertion protrusions between the plurality of second insertion grooves, and a plurality of second fastening grooves including at least one curved portion and at least one straight portion, and which are connected in pairs near the patient's shin,

[0026] The device may include a fastening member having a part inserted into one of the plurality of first fastening grooves and another part inserted into another first fastening groove to connect the two first fastening grooves to each other, elastically supporting the first connecting portion from above, and a part inserted into one of the plurality of second fastening grooves and another part inserted into another second fastening groove to connect the two second fastening grooves to each other, elastically supporting the second connecting portion from above.

[0027] Other aspects, features and advantages other than those described above will become apparent from the following detailed description, claims and drawings for carrying out the invention.

[0028] The heel protector according to embodiments of the present disclosure does not include an adhesive connecting member such as Velcro or a solid connecting member such as metal, thereby reducing discomfort and pressure even when worn by a patient for a long time.

[0029] The heel protector according to embodiments of the present disclosure includes a connecting portion including an insertion groove and an insertion projection, so that a patient can easily and conveniently connect and disconnect the connecting portion according to his / her body shape or size.

[0030] Figure 1 shows a heel protector.

[0031] Figure 2 shows a state in which a patient wears the heel protector of Figure 1.

[0032] Figure 3 shows the first connecting part of Figure 1.

[0033] Fig. 4 shows a state in which the first connecting part of Fig. 1 is connected.

[0034] Figure 5 shows a heel protector.

[0035] Figures 6 to 8 show a fastening groove and a fastening member.

[0036] Figure 9 shows the fastening groove.

[0037] Figure 10 shows a heel guard.

[0038] Embodiments of the present disclosure can be understood by referring to the description and drawings of the invention. The described embodiments may have various modifications and be implemented in different forms, and are not limited to the embodiments described herein. Furthermore, each feature of the various embodiments of the present disclosure may be combined in part or in whole with each other. Each embodiment may be implemented independently or in relation to each other. The described embodiments are provided as examples so that the present disclosure may be thorough and complete, and are intended to fully convey the spirit of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art. The present disclosure is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions within the spirit and technical scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, processes, elements, and techniques that are not necessary for a person skilled in the art to fully understand the embodiments of the present disclosure may not be described.

[0039] Unless otherwise specified, throughout the attached drawings and specifications, the same reference numerals, letters, or combinations thereof indicate the same components, and thus, redundant descriptions are omitted. Furthermore, to clearly explain the present invention, parts irrelevant to the description have been omitted.

[0040] The relative sizes of elements, layers, and areas in the drawings may be exaggerated for clarity. The use of hatching and / or shading in the attached drawings is generally provided to clarify boundaries between adjacent elements. Therefore, the presence or absence of hatching or shading does not imply a desirable form or requirement for any particular material, material property, dimension, proportion, commonality between drawing elements, and / or any other characteristic, property, or attribute of an element unless otherwise specified.

[0041] Various embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional examples that are schematic illustrations of embodiments and / or intermediate structures. Therefore, the shapes of the drawings may vary, for example, as a result of manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances. Furthermore, the specific structural or functional descriptions disclosed herein are merely examples for illustrating embodiments according to the concepts of the present invention. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed herein should not be construed as limited to the shapes of the illustrated regions, and include, for example, variations in shape due to manufacturing processes.

[0042] The areas depicted in the drawings are schematic in nature and their shapes are not intended to be limiting and are not intended to be illustrative of the actual shape of the device area. Furthermore, as those skilled in the art will recognize, the described embodiments may be modified in various ways without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure.

[0043] Numerous specific details are set forth in the specification to provide a thorough understanding of various embodiments. However, various embodiments may be practiced without these specific details or with one or more of these details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the various embodiments.

[0044] To facilitate discussion herein, spatially relative terms such as "below," "above," "lower," "top," and the like may be used to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another, as illustrated in the drawings. Spatially relative terms are intended to encompass various orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientations depicted in the drawings. For example, if the device in the drawings were flipped over, another element or feature described as "below" or "lower" would face "above" the other element or feature. Thus, as exemplary terms, "below" and "lower" can encompass both the above and below orientations. The device can be oriented in other directions (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other directions), and the spatially relative descriptions used herein should be interpreted accordingly. Similarly, if a first part is described as being disposed "above" a second part, this means that the first part is disposed above or below the second part.

[0045] Also, the expression "in plan view" means when an object is viewed from above, and the expression "in schematic cross-section" means when a schematic cross-section is taken by cutting the object vertically. The term "in side view" means that the first object can be above, below, or to the side of the second object, and vice versa. Additionally, the term "overlapping" or "superimposing" can include layer, laminate, plane, extension, covering, or partially covering, or any other suitable term that a person of ordinary skill in the art would understand and understand. The expression "does not overlap" can include meanings such as "away from" or "spaced from", and any other suitable equivalents that a person of ordinary skill in the art would recognize and understand. The terms "plane" and "surface" can mean that a first object can directly or indirectly face a second object. When a third object is between a first object and a second object, the first object and the second object face each other, but can be understood as indirectly opposing each other.

[0046] When an element, layer, region, or component is referred to as being "formed by," "connected to," or "coupled to," another element, layer, region, or component, it may be directly formed by, connected to, or coupled to, another element, layer, region, or component, or indirectly formed by, connected to, or coupled to another element, layer, region, or component. Furthermore, "formed by," "connected to," or "coupled to" may collectively refer to direct or indirect combinations or connections of elements, layers, regions, or components, and integral or non-integral combinations or connections, such that one or more elements, layers, regions, or components may be present. For example, when an element, layer, region, or component is referred to as being "electrically connected to" or "electrically coupled to" another element, layer, region, or component, it may be directly electrically connected to or coupled to, or may be electrically coupled to, another element, layer, region, or component. However, "direct connection" or "direct bonding" means that one component is directly connected or bonded to another component without an intermediate component, or is on another component. In addition, in the present specification, when a part of a layer, film, region, guide plate, etc. is formed on another part, the direction of formation is not limited to the upper direction, and includes that the part is formed on the side or bottom. Conversely, when a part of a layer, film, region, guide plate, etc. is formed "under" another part, it includes not only the case where the part is "directly under" the other part, but also the case where another part is between the part and the other part. Meanwhile, other expressions that describe the relationship between components, such as "between," "directly between," or "adjacent to" and "directly adjacent to", can be interpreted similarly.Additionally, when an element or layer is referred to as being "between" two elements or layers, it may be the only element between the two elements or layers, or there may be other elements between them.

[0047] For the purposes of this specification, phrases such as "at least one or more" or "either" do not limit the order of the individual elements. For example, phrases such as "at least one of X, Y, and Z," "at least one of X, Y, or Z," or "at least one selected from the group consisting of X, Y, and Z" can include X alone, Y alone, Z alone, or any combination of two or more of X, Y, and Z. Similarly, phrases such as "at least one of A and B" and "at least one of A or B" can include A, B, or A and B. As used herein, the term "and / or" generally includes any combination of one or more associated list items. For example, phrases such as "A and / or B" can include A, B, or A and B.

[0048] Although the terms "first," "second," "third," and the like may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or cross-sections, such elements, components, regions, layers, and / or cross-sections are not limited by such terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or cross-section from another element, component, region, layer, or cross-section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer, or cross-section described below may be referred to as a second element, component, region, layer, or cross-section without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Describing an element as a "first" element does not require or imply the presence of a second element or other elements. The terms "first," "second," and the like may also be used herein to distinguish different categories or sets of elements. For clarity, the terms "first," "second," and the like may each represent a "first category (or first set)," a "second category (or second set)," etc.

[0049] The terminology used in this application is for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the present invention. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms, and the plural forms are intended to include the singular forms as well, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The terms "comprise," "include," and "have," when used herein, are meant to specify the presence of specified features, integers, and steps. These expressions do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other functions, steps, operations, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0050] If one or more embodiments can be implemented differently, a particular process sequence may be performed differently from the order described. For example, two processes described in succession may be performed substantially simultaneously or in the reverse order from the described order.

[0051] The terms "substantially," "about," "approximately," and similar terms are used as terms of approximation, not degree, and imply that the measured or calculated value satisfies the inherent range of variation (e.g., variation due to limitations of the measurement system). For example, "about" could mean within one or more standard deviations, or within ±30%, 20%, 10%, or 5% of the stated value.

[0052] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. Terms defined in commonly used dictionaries, for example, should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the relevant art and / or the context of this specification, and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined herein.

[0053] FIG. 1 shows a heel protector (10) according to one embodiment, FIG. 2 shows a state in which a patient wears the heel protector (10) of FIG. 1, FIG. 3 shows a first connecting part (300) of FIG. 1, and FIG. 4 shows a state in which the first connecting part (300) of FIG. 1 is connected.

[0054] A heel protector (10) is a medical auxiliary device for protecting and supporting a patient's heel. It can prevent bedsores from forming on the heel of a patient who is bedridden for a long time due to the pressure of the bed on the heel. As shown in Fig. 2, when a patient wears the heel protector (10), the heel protector (10) can be positioned on the patient's heel, sole, shin, and calf. The heel protector (10) can be made of a material suitable for medical use that does not cause skin rashes, etc. even when worn for a long time. For example, at least a portion of the heel protector (10) can include natural rubber, chloroprene rubber, TPU (Thermoplastic Poly Urethane), TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer), etc. In addition, the heel protector (10) can include various medical materials. Furthermore, the heel protector (10) can be made of a deformable elastic material. The heel protector (10) can be formed as an integral part or can be formed by combining different separate components.

[0055] The heel protector (10) may include a main body (100), a cover part (200), a first connection part (300), and a second connection part (400). The heel protector (10) may include a main body (100) corresponding to a patient's calf, a cover part (200) connected to the main body (100) and having an inner side concave so that the patient's heel can be inserted, a first connection part (300) extending from the cover part (200) and including a plurality of first insertion grooves (310) in a longitudinal direction and a plurality of first insertion protrusions (320) between the plurality of first insertion grooves (310), and a second connection part (400) extending from the main body (100) and including a plurality of second insertion grooves (410) in a longitudinal direction and a plurality of second insertion protrusions (420) formed between the plurality of second insertion grooves (410).

[0056] The main body (100) can support and connect the cover (200), the first connection part (300), and the second connection part (400). The main body (100) can have a long shape in one direction so that it can support the calf (C) while the patient is wearing the heel protector (10). For example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the main body (100) can have one end connected to the cover part (200) in the length direction, and two second connection parts (400) can be positioned on both sides in the width direction. The main body (100) can support from the back of the patient's ankle to a part of the calf (C), and can be made of an elastic material that can be deformed to fit the shape of the patient's body.

[0057] The cover part (200) is supported by the main body part (100) and can wrap the heel (H) while the patient is wearing the heel protector (10), thereby distributing the load applied to the heel (H) and preventing bedsores from occurring on the heel (H). For example, as shown in Fig. 2, the cover part (200) can have an inwardly concave shape to wrap the heel (H) while the patient is wearing the heel protector (10). The cover part (200) can support the heel (H), a part of the sole of the foot, the peach bone, and the Achilles tendon. At least a part of the cover part (200) can be made of a material that is thicker and softer than other parts of the heel protector (10). For example, one or more layers can be added to the inside of the cover part (200). The above layer may be made of the same material as the main body (100), the cover (200), the first connection portion (300), and the second connection portion (400), or may be made of a different material. For example, the layer may be one or more of memory foam, latex, polyester, bead / biomaterial, cotton, and sponge. Alternatively, the layer may include an air layer or a fluid layer.

[0058] The first connecting portion (300) can support the heel protector (10) so that it does not come off from the patient's body while the patient is wearing the heel protector (10). For example, the first connecting portion (300) can be connected at the instep portion passing through the patient's foot (F). As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the first connecting portion (300) can include two first connecting portions (300). The two first connecting portions (300) can be connected to each of both sides of the cover portion (200). The patient can connect the two first connecting portions (300) to each other while wearing the heel protector (10). The two first connecting portions (300) can be connected on the instep of the patient. Alternatively, the number of first connecting portions (300) can be one or three or more. Alternatively, the first connecting portion (300) can include an even number of first connecting portions (300). For example, two first connecting portions (300) may extend from one side of the cover portion (200) and two other first connecting portions (300) may extend from the other side of the cover portion (200). The first connecting portions (300) may be connected to each other in pairs of two.

[0059] The first connecting portion (300) may include a first insertion groove (310) and a first insertion protrusion (320).

[0060] A plurality of first insertion grooves (310) are arranged along the length direction of the first connecting portion (300), and the first connecting portion (300) may be formed by partially cutting the first connecting portion (300) in the width direction. The plurality of first insertion grooves (310) may be spaced apart from each other along the length direction of the first connecting portion (300). In Fig. 1, four first insertion grooves (310) are shown to be formed in the first connecting portion (300), but the number of first insertion grooves (310) may be appropriately selected in consideration of the patient's body type, etc. The number of first insertion grooves (310) may be four or more, as shown in Fig. 3. Alternatively, the number of first insertion grooves (310) may be four or less. The plurality of first insertion grooves (310) formed in one first connecting portion (300) may be formed in a different direction from the plurality of first insertion grooves (310) formed in another first connecting portion (300). For example, as shown in FIG. 1, when there are two first connecting portions (300), the plurality of first insertion grooves (310) formed in one first connecting portion (300) may extend downward from the upper end of the first connecting portion (300) in the width direction of the first connecting portion (300). In addition, the plurality of first insertion grooves (310) formed in another first connecting portion (300) may extend upward from the lower end of the first connecting portion (300) in the width direction of the first connecting portion (300). That is, the first connecting portion (300) includes a plurality of first connecting portions (300), and two of them are paired and connected to each other, and a plurality of first insertion grooves (310) formed in one of the two first connecting portions (300) connected to each other may extend in one direction from the upper end of the first connecting portion (300), and a plurality of first insertion grooves (310) formed in the other may extend in one direction from the lower end of the first connecting portion (300). Therefore, as shown in FIG. 3, when a patient connects the first insertion grooves (310) formed in the two first connecting portions (300) to each other, the two first connecting portions (300) may be connected from above and below so that the first insertion grooves (310) are naturally inserted into each other.The first insertion groove (310) may be formed deeper than half the width of the first connecting portion (300). Therefore, the first insertion grooves (310) may be inserted deeply into each other so that the first connecting portions (300) may be securely connected. In addition, the first insertion grooves (310) may have a shape in which the width gradually narrows along the direction extending from the end. Therefore, the first insertion grooves (310) may not easily come off when inserted into each other. Since a plurality of first insertion grooves (310) are formed, the patient can adjust the connection position considering the size of his or her foot or discomfort. Alternatively, although the first insertion grooves (310) are shown as having a predetermined width in FIG. 1 and the like, the first insertion grooves (310) may have a slit shape. That is, the first insertion grooves (310) may be formed in a linear shape.

[0061] The first insertion protrusion (320) is located between the first insertion grooves (310) and can be formed with a wider width than the first insertion grooves (310). When the first insertion groove (310) formed in one first connecting portion (300) is inserted into the first insertion groove (310) formed in another first connecting portion (300), the first insertion protrusions (320) formed in each of the first connecting portions (300) overlap each other to firmly support the connection between the first connecting portions (300). For example, as shown in FIG. 4, when two first insertion grooves (310) are inserted into each other, one of the two first insertion protrusions (320) formed in one first connecting portion (300) is above one first insertion protrusion (320) of the other first connecting portion (300), and the other is below one first insertion protrusion (320) of the other first connecting portion (300). That is, when the two first connecting portions (300) are connected to each other, the respective first insertion protrusions (320) intersect each other with respect to the first connecting portion (300). In FIG. 4, the dotted lines indicate the ends of the first insertion protrusions (320) respectively located below. For example, the first connecting portion (300) includes two first connecting portions (300), and the two first connecting portions (300) extend from one side and the other side of the cover portion (200), respectively, and the first insertion groove (310) formed in one first connecting portion (300) is inserted into the first insertion groove (310) formed in the other first connecting portion (300), and in a state where the first insertion grooves (310) of each of the two first connecting portions (300) are inserted, the first insertion protrusions (320) formed on both sides based on the inserted first insertion groove (310) can alternately overlap each other vertically.

[0062] Through this method of connecting the first insertion groove (310) and the first insertion protrusion (320), the patient can simply connect the first connecting portion (300) to each other. The first connecting portion (300) is connected through the method of connecting the first insertion groove (310) and the first insertion protrusion (320) without including Velcro, so that the fastening force of the connecting portion may not decrease even if the heel protector (10) is used repeatedly. In addition, the first connecting portion (300) does not include a relatively complicated connecting structure such as a buckle or belt or a hard material such as a metal material, so that the patient's skin may not be compressed even if he or she wears the heel protector (10) for a long time. In addition, since the first connecting portion (300) extends from the cover portion (200) that supports the patient's heel (H) and is fastened near the instep, a connecting member such as a belt or buckle is not inserted into the inside of the cover portion (200), so that the patient's skin can be prevented from being compressed by the first connecting portion (300).

[0063] The second connecting portion (400) can support the heel protector (10) so that it does not come off from the patient's body while the patient is wearing the heel protector (10). For example, the second connecting portion (400) can be located near the lower part of the patient's knee and connected near the shin (S). As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the second connecting portion (400) includes two second connecting portions (400), and the two second connecting portions (400) can be connected to each of the upper sides of the main body (100). The patient can connect the two second connecting portions (400) to each other while wearing the heel protector (10). The two second connecting portions (400) can be connected above the patient's shin (S). Alternatively, there can be one or three or more second connecting portions (400). Alternatively, the second connecting portion (400) may include an even number of second connecting portions (400). For example, two second connecting portions (400) may extend from one side of the main body (100) and the other two second connecting portions (400) may extend from the other side of the main body (100). The second connecting portions (400) may be connected to each other in pairs of two.

[0064] The second connecting portion (400) may include a second insertion groove (410) and a second insertion protrusion (420).

[0065] A plurality of second insertion grooves (410) are arranged along the longitudinal direction of the second connecting portion (400), and may be formed by partially cutting the second connecting portion (400) in the width direction. The plurality of second insertion grooves (410) may be spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal direction of the second connecting portion (400). In FIG. 1, eight second insertion grooves (410) are shown formed in the second connecting portion (400), but the number of second insertion grooves (410) may be appropriately selected in consideration of the patient's body type, etc. The number of second insertion grooves (410) may be eight or more. Alternatively, the number of second insertion grooves (410) may be eight or less. The plurality of second insertion grooves (410) formed in one second connecting portion (400) may be formed in a different direction from the plurality of second insertion grooves (410) formed in another second connecting portion (400). For example, as shown in Fig. 1, when there are two second connecting portions (400), a plurality of second insertion grooves (410) formed in one second connecting portion (400) can extend downward in the width direction of the second connecting portion (400) from the upper end of the second connecting portion (400). And a plurality of second insertion grooves (410) formed in another second connecting portion (400) can extend upward in the width direction of the second connecting portion (400) from the lower end of the second connecting portion (400). That is, the second connecting portion (400) includes a plurality of second connecting portions (400), and the plurality of second connecting portions (400) are connected to each other in pairs of two, and a plurality of second insertion grooves (410) formed in one of the two connected second connecting portions (400) extend in one direction from the upper end of the second connecting portion (400), and a plurality of second insertion grooves (410) formed in the other one may extend in one direction from the lower end of the second connecting portion (400). Therefore, when a patient connects the second insertion grooves (410) formed in the two second connecting portions (400) to each other, the two second connecting portions (400) can be connected from above and below so that the second insertion grooves (410) are naturally inserted into each other.The second insertion groove (410) may be formed deeper than half the width of the second connecting portion (400). Therefore, the second insertion grooves (410) may be inserted deeply into each other so that the second connecting portions (400) may be securely connected. In addition, the second insertion grooves (410) may have a shape in which the width gradually narrows along the direction extending from the end. Therefore, the second insertion grooves (410) may not be easily detached from each other when inserted into each other. Since a plurality of second insertion grooves (410) are formed, the patient can adjust the connection position considering the size of his or her foot or discomfort. Alternatively, although the second insertion grooves (410) are shown as having a predetermined width in FIG. 1 and the like, the second insertion grooves (410) may have a slit shape. That is, the second insertion grooves (410) may be formed in a linear shape.

[0066] The second insertion protrusion (420) is located between the second insertion grooves (410) and can be formed with a wider width than the second insertion grooves (410). When the second insertion groove (410) formed in one second connecting portion (400) is inserted into the second insertion groove (410) formed in another second connecting portion (400), the second insertion protrusions (420) formed in each of the second connecting portions (400) overlap each other to firmly support the connection between the second connecting portions (400). For example, when two second insertion grooves (410) are inserted into each other, one of the two second insertion protrusions (420) formed in one second connecting portion (400) is above one second insertion protrusion (420) of the other second connecting portion (400), and the other is below one second insertion protrusion (420) of the other second connecting portion (400). That is, when the two second connecting portions (400) are connected to each other, the respective second insertion protrusions (420) intersect each other with respect to the second connecting portion (400). The connection method of the second insertion groove (410) and the second insertion protrusion (420) may be the same as the connection method of the first insertion groove (310) and the first insertion protrusion (320). For example, the second connecting portion (400) includes two second connecting portions (400), and the two second connecting portions (400) extend from one side and the other side of the main body (100), respectively, and the second insertion groove (410) formed in one of the second connecting portions (400) is inserted into the second insertion groove (410) formed in the other second connecting portion (400), and in a state where the second insertion grooves (410) of the two second connecting portions (400) are inserted, the second insertion protrusions (420) formed on both sides based on the inserted second insertion grooves (410) can alternately overlap each other vertically.

[0067] Through this method of connecting the second insertion groove (410) and the second insertion protrusion (420), the patient can easily connect the second connecting portion (400) to each other. The second connecting portion (400) is connected through the method of connecting the second insertion groove (410) and the second insertion protrusion (420) without including Velcro, so that the fastening force of the connecting portion may not decrease even if the heel protector (10) is used repeatedly. In addition, the second connecting portion (400) does not include a relatively complicated connecting structure such as a buckle or belt or a hard material such as a metal material, so that the patient's skin may not be compressed even if he or she wears the heel protector (10) for a long time. In addition, since the second connecting portion (400) extends from the cover portion (200) that supports the patient's heel (H) and is fastened near the instep, a connecting member such as a belt or buckle is not inserted into the inside of the cover portion (200), so that the second connecting portion (400) can prevent the patient's skin from being compressed.

[0068] The heel protector (10) covers only the minimum body part necessary for fixation, so that discomfort or pressure can be minimized even if the patient wears the heel protector (10) for a long time. For example, as shown in Fig. 2, when the patient wears the heel protector (10), the first connecting part (300) covers only a part of the patient's instep, and the second connecting part (400) covers only a part of the patient's shin (S). That is, when the first connecting part (300) and the second connecting part (400) are respectively connected, the patient's foot (F) may be exposed through the space between the first connecting part (300) and the second connecting part (400). Therefore, the patient's lower body may be entirely exposed except for the heel (H), part of the calf (C), part of the instep, and part of the shin (S) to prevent bedsores. Therefore, the heel protector (10) not only has excellent ventilation, but also allows medical staff to easily observe the patient's lower body condition with the naked eye, and minimizes factors that may cause discomfort or pressure on the patient's body.

[0069] Fig. 5 illustrates a heel protector (10A) according to another embodiment, and Figs. 6 to 8 illustrate a first fastening groove (220A) and a fastening member (500A). Parts of the heel protector (10A) according to this embodiment that are not shown in the drawings will be described by referring to the drawings of the heel protector (10) according to the aforementioned embodiment.

[0070] The heel protector (10A) is a medical auxiliary device for protecting and supporting the heel of a patient. It can prevent bedsores from forming on the heel of a patient who is bedridden for a long time due to the pressure of the bed. When the patient wears the heel protector (10A), the heel protector (10A) can be positioned on the patient's heel, sole, shin, and calf. The heel protector (10A) can be made of a material suitable for medical use that does not cause skin rashes, etc. even when worn for a long time. For example, the heel protector (10A) can include at least a portion of natural rubber, chloroprene rubber, TPU, TPE, etc. In addition, the heel protector (10A) can include various medical materials. Furthermore, the heel protector (10A) can be made of a deformable elastic material. The heel protector (10A) can be formed as an integral part or can be formed by combining different separate components.

[0071] A heel protector (10A) may include a main body (100A), a cover portion (200A), a first connecting portion (300A), a second connecting portion (400A), and a fastening member (500A). At least one of the main body (100A), the cover portion (200A), the first connecting portion (300A), and the second connecting portion (400A) may include a plurality of ventilation holes.

[0072] A heel protector (10A) according to one or more embodiments comprises a main body (100A) corresponding to a patient's calf, a cover part (200A) having a plurality of first fastening grooves (220A) which are concavely formed on the inside so that the patient's heel can be inserted and which include one or more curved portions and one or more straight portions, a plurality of first insertion grooves (310A) extending from the cover part (200A) in a longitudinal direction and a plurality of first insertion protrusions (320A) formed between the plurality of first insertion grooves (310A), and a plurality of first connecting parts (300A) which are paired and connected near the patient's instep, a plurality of second insertion grooves (410A) extending from the main body (100A) in a longitudinal direction, a plurality of second insertion protrusions (420A) formed between the plurality of second insertion grooves (410A), and a plurality of second insertion grooves (420A) including one or more curved portions and one or more straight portions. It may include a second connecting portion (400A) that includes a second fastening groove (440A), and two of them are paired and connected near the patient's shin, and a fastening member (500A) that has one side inserted into one first fastening groove (220A) among a plurality of first fastening grooves (220A) and the other side inserted into another first fastening groove (220A) to connect the two first fastening grooves (220A) to each other and elastically supports the first connecting portion (300A), and has one side inserted into one second fastening groove (440A) among a plurality of second fastening grooves (440A) and the other side inserted into another second fastening groove (440A) to connect the two second fastening grooves (440A) to each other and elastically supports the second connecting portion (400A).

[0073] The main body (100A) can support and connect the cover (200A), the first connection part (300A), and the second connection part (400A). The main body (100A) can have a long shape in one direction so that it can support the calf (C) while the patient is wearing the heel protector (10A). For example, as shown in Fig. 5, the main body (100A) can have one end connected to the cover (200A) in the length direction, and two second connection parts (400A) can be positioned on both sides in the width direction. The main body (100A) can support from the back of the patient's ankle to a part of the calf (C), and can be made of an elastic material that can be deformed to fit the shape of the patient's body.

[0074] The main body (100A) may include a first ventilation hole (110A).

[0075] As shown in Fig. 5, a plurality of first ventilation holes (110A) may be formed in the main body (100A). The first ventilation holes (110A) can prevent sweat or moisture from accumulating on the calf (C) of a patient wearing a heel protector (10A). The number, shape, and size of the first ventilation holes (110A) are not particularly limited.

[0076] The cover part (200A) is supported by the main body part (100A) and can wrap the heel (H) while the patient is wearing the heel protector (10A), thereby distributing the load applied to the heel (H) and preventing bedsores from occurring on the heel (H). For example, the cover part (200A) can have an inwardly concave shape to wrap the heel (H) while the patient is wearing the heel protector (10A). The cover part (200A) can support the heel (H), a part of the sole of the foot, the peach bone, and the Achilles tendon. At least a part of the cover part (200A) can be made of a material that is thicker and softer than other parts of the heel protector (10A). For example, one or more layers can be added to the inside of the cover part (200A). The above layer may be made of the same material as the main body (100A), the cover (200A), the first connection portion (300A), and the second connection portion (400A), or may be made of a different material. For example, the layer may be one or more of memory foam, latex, polyester, bead / biomaterial, cotton, and sponge. Alternatively, the layer may include an air layer or a fluid layer.

[0077] The cover part (200A) may include a second ventilation hole (210A).

[0078] As shown in Fig. 5, a plurality of second ventilation holes (210A) may be formed in the cover portion (200A). The second ventilation holes (210A) can prevent sweat or moisture from accumulating on the heel (H) of a patient wearing a heel protector (10A). The number, shape, and size of the second ventilation holes (210A) are not particularly limited.

[0079] The cover part (200A) may include a first fastening groove (220A).

[0080] A plurality of first fastening grooves (220A) are formed in the cover part (200A) so that the fastening member (500A) can be inserted therein. For example, as shown in Fig. 5, the first fastening grooves (220A) can be formed symmetrically with respect to the center in the width direction of the cover part (200A). A total of four first fastening grooves (220A) can be formed, two each on one side and the other side based on the second ventilation hole (210A). Alternatively, four or fewer or four or more first fastening grooves (220A) can be formed. Alternatively, a plurality of first fastening grooves (220A) can be formed in the length direction of the cover part (200A). Two first fastening grooves (220A) formed symmetrically with respect to the center in the width direction of the cover part (200A) can be connected to each other as a pair. A plurality of fastening grooves formed in the cover part (200A) are formed on one side and the other side symmetrically with respect to the center in the width direction of the cover part (200A) as first fastening grooves (220A), and the fastening member (500A) can be inserted into one first fastening groove (220A) with one side inserted into it and the other side inserted into another first fastening groove (220A) to elastically support the first connecting part (300A) from above.

[0081] The first fastening groove (220A) may include a first part (221A), a second part (222A), a third part (223A), a fourth part (224A), a fifth part (225A), and a fixing hole (226A).

[0082] The first part (221A) has a curved portion, and a fastening member (500A) can be inserted into an end of the first part (221A). For example, the first part (221A) may be circular or oval. Since the first part (221A) has a curved portion, the fastening member (500A) inserted into the first fastening groove (220A) may not be easily detached.

[0083] The second portion (222A) may extend from each end of the first portion (221A) and may have a straight portion. After inserting the fastening member (500A) into the first portion (221A), the patient may move each side of the fastening member (500A) to the two second portions (222A).

[0084] The third portion (223A) may extend from each end of the second portion (222A) and may have a straight portion. The third portion (223A) may extend in a direction intersecting the direction in which the second portion (222A) extends. The patient may move each side of the fastening member (500A) located in the second portion (222A) to the two third portions (223A).

[0085] The fourth portion (224A) may extend from each end of the third portion (223A) and may have a straight portion. The fourth portion (224A) may extend in a direction intersecting the direction in which the third portion (223A) extends. The patient may move each side of the fastening member (500A) located in the third portion (223A) to the two fourth portions (224A).

[0086] The fifth portion (225A) may extend from each end of the fourth portion (224A) and may have a straight portion. The fifth portion (225A) may extend in a direction intersecting the direction in which the fourth portion (224A) extends. The patient may move each side of the fastening member (500A) located in the fourth portion (224A) to the two fifth portions (225A).

[0087] The anchoring holes (226A) may be formed at each end of the two fifth sections (225A). The patient may move both sides of the fastening member (500A) located in the fifth section (225A) to the two anchoring holes (226A). The anchoring holes (226A) may be the locations where the fastening member (500A) is ultimately anchored.

[0088] The first part (221A), the second part (222A), the third part (223A), the fourth part (224A), the fifth part (225A), and the anchoring hole (226A) can all be formed continuously. The first part (221A), the second part (222A), the third part (223A), the fourth part (224A), and the fifth part (225A) can have a predetermined width or be formed in a linear shape.

[0089] In this way, the first fastening groove (220A) may have a shape including a first portion (221A), a second portion (222A), a third portion (223A), a fourth portion (224A), and a fifth portion (225A) that intersect in different directions, and have a curved portion and a straight portion, respectively. Accordingly, even if a patient wears the heel protector (10A) for a long period of time, the fastening member (500A) may not easily move or come off from the first fastening groove (220A).

[0090] The first connecting portion (300A) can support the heel protector (10A) so that it does not come off the patient's body while the patient is wearing the heel protector (10A). For example, the first connecting portion (300A) can be connected at the instep portion passing through the patient's foot (F). As shown in Fig. 5, the first connecting portion (300A) includes two first connecting portions (300A), and the two first connecting portions (300A) can be connected to each of both sides of the cover portion (200A). The patient can connect the two first connecting portions (300A) to each other while wearing the heel protector (10A). The two first connecting portions (300A) can be connected on the instep of the patient. Alternatively, there can be one or three or more first connecting portions (300A). Alternatively, the first connecting portion (300A) may include an even number of first connecting portions (300A). For example, two first connecting portions (300A) may extend from one side of the cover portion (200A), and the other two first connecting portions (300A) may extend from the other side of the cover portion (200A). The first connecting portions (300A) may be connected to each other in pairs of two.

[0091] The first connecting portion (300A) may include a first insertion groove (310A) and a first insertion protrusion (320A).

[0092] A plurality of first insertion grooves (310A) are arranged along the length direction of the first connecting portion (300A), and may be formed by partially cutting the first connecting portion (300A) in the width direction. The plurality of first insertion grooves (310A) may be spaced apart from each other along the length direction of the first connecting portion (300A). In Fig. 1, four first insertion grooves (310A) are shown to be formed in the first connecting portion (300A), but the number of first insertion grooves (310A) may be appropriately selected in consideration of the patient's body type, etc. The number of first insertion grooves (310A) may be four or more, as shown in Fig. 5. Alternatively, the number of first insertion grooves (310A) may be four or less. The plurality of first insertion grooves (310A) formed in one first connecting portion (300A) may be formed in a different direction from the plurality of first insertion grooves (310A) formed in another first connecting portion (300A). For example, as shown in FIG. 5, when there are two first connecting portions (300A), the plurality of first insertion grooves (310A) formed in one first connecting portion (300A) may extend downward in the width direction of the first connecting portion (300A) from the upper end of the first connecting portion (300A). In addition, the plurality of first insertion grooves (310A) formed in another first connecting portion (300A) may extend upward in the width direction of the first connecting portion (300A) from the lower end of the first connecting portion (300A). Therefore, as shown in Fig. 5, when a patient connects the first insertion grooves (310A) formed in two first connecting portions (300A) to each other, the two first connecting portions (300A) can be connected from above and below so that the first insertion grooves (310A) are naturally inserted into each other. The first insertion grooves (310A) can be formed deeper than half the width of the first connecting portion (300A). Therefore, the first insertion grooves (310A) can be inserted deeply into each other so that the first connecting portions (300A) can be reliably connected. In addition, the first insertion grooves (310A) can have a shape in which the width gradually narrows along the direction extending from the end. Therefore, the first insertion grooves (310A) can not be easily detached from each other when inserted into each other.Since multiple first insertion grooves (310A) are formed, the patient can adjust the connection position considering the size or discomfort of their foot. Alternatively, although the first insertion groove (310A) is shown as having a predetermined width in FIG. 1, the first insertion groove (310A) may have a slit shape. In other words, the first insertion groove (310A) may have a linear shape.

[0093] The first insertion protrusion (320A) is located between the first insertion grooves (310A) and can be formed with a wider width than the first insertion grooves (310A). When the first insertion groove (310A) formed in one first connecting portion (300A) is inserted into the first insertion groove (310A) formed in another first connecting portion (300A), the first insertion protrusions (320A) formed in each first connecting portion (300A) overlap each other to firmly support the connection between the first connecting portions (300A). For example, when two first insertion grooves (310A) are inserted into each other, one of the two first insertion protrusions (320A) formed in one first connecting portion (300A) is above one first insertion protrusion (320A) of the other first connecting portion (300A), and the other is below one first insertion protrusion (320A) of the other first connecting portion (300A). That is, when the two first connecting portions (300A) are connected to each other, the respective first insertion protrusions (320A) intersect each other with respect to the first connecting portion (300A). In Fig. 4, the dotted lines indicate the ends of the first insertion protrusions (320A) respectively located below.

[0094] Through this method of connecting the first insertion groove (310A) and the first insertion protrusion (320A), the patient can easily connect the first connecting portion (300A) to each other. The first connecting portion (300A) is connected through the method of connecting the first insertion groove (310A) and the first insertion protrusion (320A) without including Velcro, so that the fastening force of the connecting portion may not decrease even if the heel protector (10A) is used repeatedly. In addition, the first connecting portion (300A) does not include a relatively complex connecting structure such as a buckle or belt or a hard material such as a metal material, so that the patient's skin may not be compressed even if he or she wears the heel protector (10A) for a long time. In addition, since the first connecting portion (300A) extends from the cover portion (200) that supports the patient's heel (H) and is fastened near the instep, a connecting member such as a belt or buckle is not inserted into the inside of the cover portion (200), thereby preventing the patient's skin from being compressed by the first connecting portion (300A).

[0095] The first connecting portion (300A) may include a third ventilation hole (330A).

[0096] As shown in Fig. 5, a plurality of third ventilation holes (330A) may be formed in the first connecting portion (300A). The third ventilation holes (330A) can prevent sweat or moisture from accumulating on the heel (H) of a patient wearing a heel protector (10A). The number, shape, and size of the third ventilation holes (330A) are not particularly limited. The third ventilation holes (330A) may not overlap with the first insertion groove (310A) in the width and length directions of the first connecting portion (300A). When the third ventilation holes (330A) are formed to overlap with the first insertion groove (310A), the cut-out area in the width and length directions of the first connecting portion (300A) increases, which may reduce the strength of the first connecting portion (300A). Therefore, the durability of the first connecting portion (300A) can be secured through such a configuration.

[0097] The second connecting portion (400A) can support the heel protector (10A) so that it does not come off from the patient's body while the patient is wearing the heel protector (10A). For example, the second connecting portion (400A) can be located near the lower part of the patient's knee and connected near the shin (S). As shown in Fig. 5, there are two second connecting portions (400A) and they can be connected to each of the upper sides of the main body (100). The patient can connect the two second connecting portions (400A) to each other while wearing the heel protector (10A). The two second connecting portions (400A) can be connected above the patient's shin (S). Alternatively, the number of second connecting portions (400A) can be one or three or more. Alternatively, the second connecting portion (400A) can include an even number of second connecting portions (400A). For example, two second connecting portions (400A) may extend from one side of the main body (100) and two other second connecting portions (400A) may extend from the other side of the main body (100). The second connecting portions (400A) may be connected to each other in pairs.

[0098] The second connecting portion (400A) may include a second insertion groove (410A) and a second insertion protrusion (420A).

[0099] A plurality of second insertion grooves (410A) are arranged along the length direction of the second connecting portion (400A), and may be formed by partially cutting the second connecting portion (400A) in the width direction. The plurality of second insertion grooves (410A) may be spaced apart from each other along the length direction of the second connecting portion (400A). In Fig. 1, eight second insertion grooves (410A) are shown to be formed in the second connecting portion (400A), but the number of second insertion grooves (410A) may be appropriately selected in consideration of the patient's body type, etc. The number of second insertion grooves (410A) may be eight or more. Alternatively, the number of second insertion grooves (410A) may be eight or less. The plurality of second insertion grooves (410A) formed in one second connecting portion (400A) may be formed in a different direction from the plurality of second insertion grooves (410A) formed in another second connecting portion (400A). For example, as shown in FIG. 5, when there are two second connecting portions (400A), the plurality of second insertion grooves (410A) formed in one second connecting portion (400A) may extend downward in the width direction of the second connecting portion (400A) from the upper end of the second connecting portion (400A). In addition, the plurality of second insertion grooves (410A) formed in another second connecting portion (400A) may extend upward in the width direction of the second connecting portion (400A) from the lower end of the second connecting portion (400A). Therefore, when a patient connects the second insertion grooves (410A) formed in two second connecting portions (400A) to each other, the two second connecting portions (400A) can be connected from above and below so that the second insertion grooves (410A) are naturally inserted into each other. The second insertion grooves (410A) can be formed deeper than half the width of the second connecting portion (400A). Therefore, the second insertion grooves (410A) can be inserted deeply into each other so that the second connecting portions (400A) can be securely connected. In addition, the second insertion grooves (410A) can have a shape in which the width gradually narrows along the direction extending from the end. Therefore, the second insertion grooves (410A) can not be easily detached from each other when inserted into each other.Since multiple second insertion grooves (410A) are formed, the patient can adjust the connection position considering the size or discomfort of their foot. Alternatively, although the second insertion groove (410A) is shown as having a predetermined width in FIG. 1, the second insertion groove (410A) may have a slit shape. That is, the second insertion groove (410A) may be formed in a linear shape.

[0100] The second insertion protrusion (420A) is located between the second insertion grooves (410A) and can be formed with a wider width than the second insertion grooves (410A). When the second insertion groove (410A) formed in one second connecting portion (400A) is inserted into the second insertion groove (410A) formed in another second connecting portion (400A), the second insertion protrusions (420A) formed in each second connecting portion (400A) overlap each other to firmly support the connection between the second connecting portions (400A). For example, when two second insertion grooves (410A) are inserted into each other, one of the two second insertion protrusions (420A) formed in one second connecting portion (400A) is above one second insertion protrusion (420A) of the other second connecting portion (400A), and the other is below one second insertion protrusion (420A) of the other second connecting portion (400A). That is, when the two second connecting portions (400A) are connected to each other, the respective second insertion protrusions (420A) intersect each other with respect to the second connecting portion (400A). The connection method of the second insertion groove (410A) and the second insertion protrusion (420A) may be the same as the connection method of the first insertion groove (310A) and the first insertion protrusion (320A).

[0101] Through this method of connecting the second insertion groove (410A) and the second insertion protrusion (420A), the patient can easily connect the second connecting portion (400A) to each other. The second connecting portion (400A) is connected through the method of connecting the second insertion groove (410A) and the second insertion protrusion (420A) without including Velcro, so that the fastening force of the connecting portion may not decrease even if the heel protector (10A) is used repeatedly. In addition, the second connecting portion (400A) does not include a relatively complex connecting structure such as a buckle or belt or a hard material such as a metal material, so that the patient's skin may not be compressed even if he or she wears the heel protector (10A) for a long time. In addition, since the second connecting portion (400A) extends from the cover portion (200) that supports the patient's heel (H) and is fastened near the instep, a connecting member such as a belt or buckle is not inserted into the inside of the cover portion (200), thereby preventing the patient's skin from being compressed by the second connecting portion (400A).

[0102] The second connection part (400A) may include a fourth ventilation hole (430A).

[0103] As shown in Fig. 5, a plurality of fourth ventilation holes (430A) may be formed in the second connecting portion (400A). The fourth ventilation holes (430A) can prevent sweat or moisture from accumulating on the heel (H) of a patient wearing a heel protector (10A). The number, shape, and size of the fourth ventilation holes (430A) are not particularly limited. The fourth ventilation holes (430A) may not overlap with the second insertion groove (410A) in the width direction and length direction of the second connecting portion (400A). When the fourth ventilation holes (430A) are formed to overlap with the second insertion groove (410A), the cut-out area in the width direction and length direction of the second connecting portion (400A) increases, which may reduce the strength of the second connecting portion (400A). Therefore, the durability of the second connecting portion (400A) can be secured through such a configuration.

[0104] The second connecting portion (400A) may include a second fastening groove (440A).

[0105] A plurality of second fastening grooves (440A) are formed in the second connecting portion (400A) so that the fastening member (500A) can be inserted therein. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, a plurality of second fastening grooves (440A) may be formed longitudinally inward of a plurality of second insertion grooves (410A), second insertion protrusions (420A), and fourth ventilation holes (430A) formed in the second connecting portion (400A). For example, three second fastening grooves (440A) may be formed in one second connecting portion (400A). Alternatively, three or fewer or three or more second fastening grooves (440A) may be formed in one second connecting portion (400A). The shape of the second fastening groove (440A) and the insertion method of the fastening member (500A) are the same as those of the first fastening groove (220A), and a description thereof is omitted. The plurality of fastening grooves formed in the second connecting portion (400A) are formed on the inner side of the plurality of second insertion grooves (410A) in the longitudinal direction of the second connecting portion (400A) as second fastening grooves (440A), and the fastening member (500A) can elastically support the second connecting portion (400A) by having one side inserted into one of the second fastening grooves (440A) and the other side inserted into another second fastening groove (440A). In addition to the connection between the second insertion groove (410A) and the second insertion protrusion (420A), the connection between the second fastening groove (440A) and the fastening member (500A) can more firmly maintain the connection of the second connecting portion (400A).

[0106] The fastening member (500A) can connect the first fastening grooves (220A) to each other. The fastening member (500A) is made of a deformable elastic material, such as rubber. The fastening member (500A) can have a closed contour. As shown in Fig. 6, the patient inserts the fastening member (500A) into the first part (221A) formed in one of the first fastening grooves (220A), and then spreads both sides of the fastening member (500A) and moves it along the first part (221A) to two second parts (222A). Thereafter, the patient can sequentially move the both sides of the fastening member (500A) to the third part (223A), the fourth part (224A), and the fifth part (225A), and then place it in the two fixing holes (226A). The next patient can mount the fastening member (500A) in the two fixing holes (226A) formed in another first fastening groove (220A) in the same manner. Here, the other first fastening groove (220A) may be a first fastening groove (220A) that is positioned symmetrically with respect to the center of the first fastening groove (220A) that was previously inserted and the cover part (200A). Therefore, as shown in Fig. 7, one fastening member (500A) can connect two first fastening grooves (220A) to each other, and the connected state is as shown in Fig. 8. Therefore, in a state where the two first connecting parts (300A) are connected, the fastening member (500A) can pull both ends of the cover part (200A) so that the cover part (200A) can be in close contact with the patient's heel (H). In addition, the fastening member (500A) can be brought into close contact with the two first connecting portions (300A) toward the patient's instep, so that the first connecting portions (300A) can maintain a close connection state.

[0107] The method by which the fastening member (500A) connects the second fastening grooves (440A) to each other may be the same as the method by which the first fastening grooves (220A) are connected, and a description thereof will be omitted. That is, in a state in which the two second connecting portions (400A) are connected to each other, the fastening member (500A) can press the two second connecting portions (400A) toward the patient's shin (S), so that the second connecting portions (400A) can maintain a tightly connected state.

[0108] The heel protector (10A) covers only the minimum body part necessary for fixation, so that discomfort or pressure can be minimized even when the patient wears the heel protector (10A) for a long time. For example, when a patient wears the heel protector (10A), the first connecting part (300A) covers only a part of the patient's instep, and the second connecting part (400A) covers only a part of the patient's shin (S). Therefore, the patient's lower body may be exposed except for the heel (H), a part of the calf (C), a part of the instep, and a part of the shin (S) to prevent bedsores. Therefore, the heel protector (10A) not only has excellent ventilation, but also allows medical staff to easily observe the condition of the patient's lower body with the naked eye, and minimizes factors that may cause discomfort or pressure to the patient's body. In addition, the heel protector includes a first ventilation hole (110A), a second ventilation hole (210A), a third ventilation hole (330A), and a fourth ventilation hole (430A), thereby preventing moisture or sweat from accumulating even when the patient wears the heel protector (10A) for a long time. In addition, the heel protector includes a first fastening groove (220A), a second fastening groove (440A), and a fastening member (500A), thereby ensuring that the heel protector (10A) adheres closely to the patient's body, and the first connecting portion (300A) and the second connecting portion (400A) are firmly connected.

[0109] Fig. 9 shows a first fastening groove (220B) according to another embodiment.

[0110] The first fastening groove (220B) may include a first portion (221B), a second portion (222B), a third portion (223B), and a fixing hole (224B).

[0111] The first part (221B) has a curved portion, and a fastening member (500B) can be inserted into an end of the first part (221B). For example, the first part (221B) may be circular or oval. Since the first part (221B) has a curved portion, the fastening member (500B) inserted into the first fastening groove (220B) may not be easily detached. For example, the first part (221B) has a shape that is much longer in the width direction than the first part (221A), so that the fastening member (500B) can be more reliably prevented from being detached.

[0112] The second portion (222B) may extend from each end of the first portion (221B) and may have a curved portion. The second portion (222B) may have a curvature in the opposite direction to that of the portion extending from the first portion (221B). After inserting the fastening member (500B) into the first portion (221B), the patient may move both sides of the fastening member (500B) to the two second portions (222B).

[0113] The third portion (223B) may extend from each end of the second portion (222B) and may have a straight portion. The third portion (223B) may extend in a direction intersecting the direction in which the second portion (222B) extends. The patient may move each side of the fastening member (500B) located in the second portion (222B) to the two third portions (223B).

[0114] The anchoring holes (224B) may be formed at each end of the two third sections (223B). The patient may move both sides of the fastening member (500B) located in the third section (223B) to the two anchoring holes (224B). The anchoring holes (224B) may be the locations where the fastening member (500B) is ultimately anchored.

[0115] The first part (221B), the second part (222B), the third part (223B), and the anchoring hole (224B) can all be formed continuously. The first part (221B), the second part (222B), and the third part (223B) can have a predetermined width or be formed in a linear shape.

[0116] In this way, the first fastening groove (220B) may have a shape including a first portion (221B), a second portion (222B), and a third portion (223B) that have curved and straight portions and intersect in different directions. Accordingly, even if a patient wears the heel protector (10B) for a long period of time, the fastening member (500B) may not easily move or come off from the first fastening groove (220B).

[0117] Although only the first fastening groove (220B) is shown in Fig. 9, the second fastening groove may also have the same shape as the first fastening groove (220B).

[0118] Fig. 10 shows a heel protector (10C) according to another embodiment.

[0119] The heel protector (10C) is a medical auxiliary device for protecting and supporting the heel of a patient. It can prevent bedsores from forming on the heel of a patient who is bedridden for a long time due to the pressure of the bed. When the patient wears the heel protector (10C), the heel protector (10C) can be positioned on the patient's heel, sole, shin, and calf. The heel protector (10C) can be made of a material suitable for medical use that does not cause skin rashes, etc. even when worn for a long time. For example, the heel protector (10C) can include at least a portion of natural rubber, chloroprene rubber, TPU, TPE, etc. In addition, the heel protector (10C) can include various medical materials. Furthermore, the heel protector (10C) can be made of a deformable elastic material. The heel protector (10C) can be formed as an integral part or can be formed by combining different separate components.

[0120] The heel protector (10C) may include a main body (100C), a cover portion (200C), a first connecting portion (300C), a second connecting portion (400C), and a fastening member (not shown in the drawing). At least one of the cover portion (200C), the first connecting portion (300C), and the second connecting portion (400C) may include a plurality of fastening grooves, and the heel protector (10C) may further include a fastening member connecting the plurality of fastening grooves. The fastening member may be the same as the fastening member (500A) according to the above-described embodiment. The plurality of fastening grooves may include at least one straight portion and at least one curved portion, and one side of the fastening member may be inserted into one of the fastening grooves, and the other side may be inserted into another of the fastening grooves.

[0121] The main body (100C) can support and connect the cover (200C), the first connection part (300C), and the second connection part (400C). The main body (100C) can have a long shape in one direction so that it can support the calf (C) while the patient is wearing the heel protector (10C). For example, as shown in Fig. 10, the main body (100C) can have one end connected to the cover (200C) in the length direction, and two second connection parts (400C) can be positioned on both sides in the width direction. The main body (100C) can support from the back of the patient's ankle to a part of the calf (C) and can be made of an elastic material that can be deformed to fit the shape of the patient's body.

[0122] The main body (100C) may include a first ventilation hole (110C).

[0123] As shown in Fig. 10, a plurality of first ventilation holes (110C) may be formed in the main body (100C). The first ventilation holes (110C) can prevent sweat or moisture from accumulating on the calf (C) of a patient wearing a heel protector (10C). The number, shape, and size of the first ventilation holes (110C) are not particularly limited.

[0124] The cover part (200C) is supported by the main body part (100C) and can wrap the heel (H) while the patient is wearing the heel protector (10C), thereby distributing the load applied to the heel (H) and preventing bedsores from occurring on the heel (H). For example, the cover part (200C) can have an inwardly concave shape to wrap the heel (H) while the patient is wearing the heel protector (10C). The cover part (200C) can support the heel (H), a part of the sole of the foot, the peach bone, and the Achilles tendon. At least a part of the cover part (200C) can be made of a material that is thicker and softer than other parts of the heel protector (10C). For example, one or more layers can be added to the inside of the cover part (200C). The above layer may be made of the same material as the main body (100C), the cover (200C), the first connection portion (300C), and the second connection portion (400C), or may be made of a different material. For example, the layer may be one or more of memory foam, latex, polyester, bead / biomaterial, cotton, and sponge. Alternatively, the layer may include an air layer or a fluid layer.

[0125] The cover part (200C) may include a second ventilation hole (210C).

[0126] As shown in Fig. 10, a plurality of second ventilation holes (210C) may be formed in the cover portion (200C). The second ventilation holes (210C) can prevent sweat or moisture from accumulating on the heel (H) of a patient wearing a heel protector (10C). The number, shape, and size of the second ventilation holes (210C) are not particularly limited.

[0127] The cover part (200C) may include a first fastening groove (220C).

[0128] A plurality of first fastening grooves (220C) may be formed in the cover part (200C) so that fastening members may be inserted therein. For example, as shown in Fig. 10, the first fastening grooves (220C) may be formed symmetrically with respect to the center in the width direction of the cover part (200C). A total of four first fastening grooves (220C) may be formed, two each on one side and the other side based on the second ventilation hole (210C). Alternatively, four or fewer or four or more first fastening grooves (220C) may be formed. Alternatively, a plurality of first fastening grooves (220C) may also be formed in the length direction of the cover part (200C). Two first fastening grooves (220C) formed symmetrically with respect to the center in the width direction of the cover part (200C) may be connected to each other as a pair. The shape of the first fastening groove (220C) and the insertion method of the fastening member are identical to those of the first fastening groove (220A) described above, and a description thereof will be omitted. Accordingly, even if a patient wears the heel protector (10C) for a long period of time, the fastening member will not easily move or come off from the first fastening groove (220C).

[0129] The first connecting portion (300C) can support the heel protector (10C) so that it does not come off the patient's body while the patient is wearing the heel protector (10C). For example, the first connecting portion (300C) can be connected at the instep portion passing through the patient's foot (F). As shown in Fig. 10, the first connecting portion (300C) includes two first connecting portions (300C), and the two first connecting portions (300C) can be connected to each of both sides of the cover portion (200C). The patient can connect the two first connecting portions (300C) to each other while wearing the heel protector (10C). The two first connecting portions (300C) can be connected on the instep of the patient. Alternatively, there can be one or three or more first connecting portions (300C). Alternatively, the first connecting portion (300C) may include an even number of first connecting portions (300C). For example, two first connecting portions (300C) may extend from one side of the cover portion (200C), and the other two first connecting portions (300C) may extend from the other side of the cover portion (200C). The first connecting portions (300C) may be connected to each other in pairs of two.

[0130] The first connecting portion (300C) may include a first insertion groove (310C) and a first insertion protrusion (320C).

[0131] A plurality of first insertion grooves (310C) are arranged along the longitudinal direction of the first connecting portion (300C), and may be formed by partially cutting the first connecting portion (300C) in the width direction. The plurality of first insertion grooves (310C) may be spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal direction of the first connecting portion (300C). In Fig. 1, four first insertion grooves (310C) are shown to be formed in the first connecting portion (300C), but the number of first insertion grooves (310C) may be appropriately selected in consideration of the patient's body type, etc. The number of first insertion grooves (310C) may be four or more, as shown in Fig. 10. Alternatively, the number of first insertion grooves (310C) may be four or less. The plurality of first insertion grooves (310C) formed in one first connecting portion (300C) may be formed in a different direction from the plurality of first insertion grooves (310C) formed in another first connecting portion (300C). For example, as shown in FIG. 10, when there are two first connecting portions (300C), the plurality of first insertion grooves (310C) formed in one first connecting portion (300C) may extend downward in the width direction of the first connecting portion (300C) from the upper end of the first connecting portion (300C). And the plurality of first insertion grooves (310C) formed in another first connecting portion (300C) may extend upward in the width direction of the first connecting portion (300C) from the lower end of the first connecting portion (300C). Therefore, when a patient connects the first insertion grooves (310C) formed in two first connecting portions (300C) to each other, the two first connecting portions (300C) can be connected from above and below so that the first insertion grooves (310C) are naturally inserted into each other. The first insertion grooves (310C) can be formed deeper than half the width of the first connecting portion (300C). Therefore, the first insertion grooves (310C) can be inserted deeply into each other so that the first connecting portions (300C) can be reliably connected. In addition, the first insertion grooves (310C) can have a shape in which the width gradually narrows along the direction extending from the end. Therefore, the first insertion grooves (310C) can be prevented from easily coming off when inserted into each other.Since multiple first insertion grooves (310C) are formed, patients can adjust the connection location based on their foot size or discomfort. Alternatively, although FIG. 10 illustrates the first insertion groove (310C) as having a predetermined width, the first insertion groove (310C) may be formed in a slit shape. That is, the first insertion groove (310C) may be formed in a linear shape.

[0132] The first insertion protrusion (320C) is located between the first insertion grooves (310C) and can be formed with a wider width than the first insertion grooves (310C). When the first insertion groove (310C) formed in one first connecting portion (300C) is inserted into the first insertion groove (310C) formed in another first connecting portion (300C), the first insertion protrusions (320C) formed in each first connecting portion (300C) overlap each other to firmly support the connection between the first connecting portions (300C). For example, when two first insertion grooves (310C) are inserted into each other, one of the two first insertion protrusions (320C) formed in one first connecting portion (300C) is above one first insertion protrusion (320C) of the other first connecting portion (300C), and the other is below one first insertion protrusion (320C) of the other first connecting portion (300C). That is, when the two first connecting portions (300C) are connected to each other, the respective first insertion protrusions (320C) intersect each other with respect to the first connecting portion (300C). In Fig. 4, the dotted lines indicate the ends of the first insertion protrusions (320C) respectively located below.

[0133] Through this method of connecting the first insertion groove (310C) and the first insertion protrusion (320C), the patient can easily connect the first connecting portion (300C) to each other. The first connecting portion (300C) is connected through the method of connecting the first insertion groove (310C) and the first insertion protrusion (320C) without including Velcro, so that the fastening force of the connecting portion may not decrease even if the heel protector (10C) is used repeatedly. In addition, the first connecting portion (300C) does not include a relatively complex connecting structure such as a buckle or belt or a hard material such as a metal material, so that the patient's skin may not be compressed even if he or she wears the heel protector (10C) for a long time. In addition, since the first connecting portion (300C) extends from the cover portion (200) that supports the patient's heel (H) and is fastened near the instep, a connecting member such as a belt or buckle is not inserted into the inside of the cover portion (200), thereby preventing the patient's skin from being compressed by the first connecting portion (300C).

[0134] The first connecting portion (300C) may include a third ventilation hole (330C).

[0135] As shown in Fig. 10, a plurality of third ventilation holes (330C) may be formed in the first connecting portion (300C). The third ventilation holes (330C) can prevent sweat or moisture from accumulating on the heel (H) of a patient wearing a heel protector (10C). The number, shape, and size of the third ventilation holes (330C) are not particularly limited. The third ventilation holes (330C) may not overlap with the first insertion groove (310C) in the width direction and length direction of the first connecting portion (300C). When the third ventilation holes (330C) are formed to overlap with the first insertion groove (310C), the cut-off area in the width direction and length direction of the first connecting portion (300C) increases, which may reduce the strength of the first connecting portion (300C). Therefore, the durability of the first connecting portion (300C) can be secured through such a configuration.

[0136] The first connecting portion (300C) may include a third fastening groove (340C).

[0137] A plurality of third fastening grooves (340C) are formed in the first connecting portion (300C) so that a fastening member can be inserted therein. For example, a plurality of third fastening grooves (340C) may be formed longitudinally inner than a plurality of first insertion grooves (310C), first insertion protrusions (320C), and third ventilation holes (330C) formed in the first connecting portion (300C). For example, two third fastening grooves (340C) may be formed in one first connecting portion (300C). Alternatively, two or fewer or two or more third fastening grooves (340C) may be formed in one first connecting portion (300C). The shape of the third fastening groove (340C) and the insertion method of the fastening member are the same as those of the first fastening groove (220C), and a description thereof is omitted. The plurality of fastening grooves formed in the first connecting portion (300C) are formed as third fastening grooves (340C) on the inner side of the plurality of first insertion grooves (310C) in the longitudinal direction of the first connecting portion (300C), and the fastening member can elastically support the first connecting portion (300C) by having one side inserted into one of the third fastening grooves (340C) and the other side inserted into another third fastening groove (340C). In addition to the coupling between the first insertion groove (310C) and the first insertion projection (320C), the coupling between the second fastening groove (440A) and the fastening member (500A) can more firmly maintain the coupling of the second connecting portion (400A).

[0138] The second connecting portion (400C) can support the heel protector (10C) so that it does not come off the patient's body while the patient is wearing the heel protector (10C). For example, the second connecting portion (400C) can be located near the lower part of the patient's knee and connected near the shin (S). There can be two second connecting portions (400C) and they can be connected to each of the upper sides of the main body (100). The patient can connect the two second connecting portions (400C) to each other while wearing the heel protector (10C). The two second connecting portions (400C) can be connected above the patient's shin (S). Alternatively, the number of second connecting portions (400C) can be one or three or more. Alternatively, the second connecting portions (400C) can include an even number of second connecting portions (400C). For example, two second connecting portions (400C) may extend from one side of the main body (100) and two other second connecting portions (400C) may extend from the other side of the main body (100). The second connecting portions (400C) may be connected to each other in pairs of two.

[0139] The second connecting portion (400C) may include a second insertion groove (410C) and a second insertion protrusion (420C).

[0140] A plurality of second insertion grooves (410C) are arranged along the length direction of the second connecting portion (400C), and may be formed by partially cutting the second connecting portion (400C) in the width direction. The plurality of second insertion grooves (410C) may be spaced apart from each other along the length direction of the second connecting portion (400C). In Fig. 1, eight second insertion grooves (410C) are shown to be formed in the second connecting portion (400C), but the number of second insertion grooves (410C) may be appropriately selected in consideration of the patient's body type, etc. The number of second insertion grooves (410C) may be eight or more. Alternatively, the number of second insertion grooves (410C) may be eight or less. The plurality of second insertion grooves (410C) formed in one second connecting portion (400C) may be formed in a different direction from the plurality of second insertion grooves (410C) formed in another second connecting portion (400C). For example, as shown in FIG. 10, when there are two second connecting portions (400C), the plurality of second insertion grooves (410C) formed in one second connecting portion (400C) may extend downward in the width direction of the second connecting portion (400C) from the upper end of the second connecting portion (400C). And the plurality of second insertion grooves (410C) formed in another second connecting portion (400C) may extend upward in the width direction of the second connecting portion (400C) from the lower end of the second connecting portion (400C). Therefore, when a patient connects the second insertion grooves (410C) formed in two second connecting portions (400C) to each other, the two second connecting portions (400C) can be connected from above and below so that the second insertion grooves (410C) are naturally inserted into each other. The second insertion grooves (410C) can be formed deeper than half the width of the second connecting portion (400C). Therefore, the second insertion grooves (410C) can be inserted deeply into each other so that the second connecting portions (400C) can be securely connected. In addition, the second insertion grooves (410C) can have a shape in which the width gradually narrows along the direction extending from the end. Therefore, the second insertion grooves (410C) can not be easily detached from each other when inserted into each other.Since multiple second insertion grooves (410C) are formed, patients can adjust the connection location based on their foot size or discomfort. Alternatively, although FIG. 10 illustrates the second insertion grooves (410C) as having a predetermined width, the second insertion grooves (410C) may be formed in a slit shape. That is, the second insertion grooves (410C) may be formed in a linear shape.

[0141] The second insertion protrusion (420C) is located between the second insertion grooves (410C) and can be formed with a wider width than the second insertion grooves (410C). When the second insertion groove (410C) formed in one second connecting portion (400C) is inserted into the second insertion groove (410C) formed in another second connecting portion (400C), the second insertion protrusions (420C) formed in each of the second connecting portions (400C) overlap each other to firmly support the connection between the second connecting portions (400C). For example, when two second insertion grooves (410C) are inserted into each other, one of the two second insertion protrusions (420C) formed in one second connecting portion (400C) is above one second insertion protrusion (420C) of the other second connecting portion (400C), and the other is below one second insertion protrusion (420C) of the other second connecting portion (400C). That is, when the two second connecting portions (400C) are connected to each other, the respective second insertion protrusions (420C) intersect each other with respect to the second connecting portion (400C). The connection method of the second insertion groove (410C) and the second insertion protrusion (420C) may be the same as the connection method of the first insertion groove (310C) and the first insertion protrusion (320C).

[0142] Through this method of connecting the second insertion groove (410C) and the second insertion protrusion (420C), the patient can easily connect the second connecting portion (400C) to each other. The second connecting portion (400C) is connected through the method of connecting the second insertion groove (410C) and the second insertion protrusion (420C) without including Velcro, so that the fastening force of the connecting portion may not decrease even if the heel protector (10C) is used repeatedly. In addition, the second connecting portion (400C) does not include a relatively complex connecting structure such as a buckle or belt or a hard material such as a metal material, so that the patient's skin may not be compressed even if he or she wears the heel protector (10C) for a long time. In addition, since the second connecting portion (400C) extends from the cover portion (200) that supports the patient's heel (H) and is fastened near the instep, a connecting member such as a belt or buckle is not inserted into the inside of the cover portion (200), thereby preventing the patient's skin from being compressed by the second connecting portion (400C).

[0143] The second connecting portion (400C) may include a fourth ventilation hole (430C).

[0144] As shown in Fig. 10, a plurality of fourth ventilation holes (430C) may be formed in the second connecting portion (400C). The fourth ventilation holes (430C) can prevent sweat or moisture from accumulating on the heel (H) of a patient wearing a heel protector (10C). The number, shape, and size of the fourth ventilation holes (430C) are not particularly limited. The fourth ventilation holes (430C) may not overlap with the second insertion groove (410C) in the width direction and length direction of the second connecting portion (400C). When the fourth ventilation holes (430C) are formed to overlap with the second insertion groove (410C), the cut-out area in the width direction and length direction of the second connecting portion (400C) increases, which may reduce the strength of the second connecting portion (400C). Therefore, the durability of the second connecting portion (400C) can be secured through such a configuration.

[0145] The second connecting portion (400C) may include a second fastening groove (440C).

[0146] A plurality of second fastening grooves (440C) are formed in the second connecting portion (400C) so that a fastening member can be inserted therein. For example, as shown in FIG. 10, a plurality of second fastening grooves (440C) may be formed longitudinally inner than a plurality of second insertion grooves (410C), second insertion protrusions (420C), and fourth ventilation holes (430C) formed in the second connecting portion (400C). For example, three second fastening grooves (440C) may be formed in one second connecting portion (400C). Alternatively, three or fewer or three or more second fastening grooves (440C) may be formed in one second connecting portion (400C). The shape of the second fastening groove (440C) and the insertion method of the fastening member are the same as those of the first fastening groove (220C), and a description thereof will be omitted.

[0147] The fastening member can connect the first fastening grooves (220C) to each other. The fastening member is made of a deformable elastic material, such as rubber. The fastening member can have a closed contour. A patient can insert the fastening member into one of the first fastening grooves (220C) and then spread both sides of the fastening member to seat it in the first fastening groove (220C). A subsequent patient can seat the fastening member in another first fastening groove (220C) in the same manner. Here, the other first fastening groove (220C) can be a first fastening groove (220C) that is positioned symmetrically with respect to the first fastening groove (220C) that was inserted first and the center of the cover part (200C). Therefore, one fastening member can connect two first fastening grooves (220C) to each other. Accordingly, when the two first connecting portions (300C) are connected, the elastic member can pull both ends of the cover portion (200C) so that the cover portion (200C) can be brought into close contact with the patient's heel (H). In addition, the fastening member can bring the two first connecting portions (300C) into close contact with the patient's instep so that the first connecting portions (300C) can be tightly maintained in a connected state.

[0148] The method by which the fastening member connects the second fastening grooves (440C) to each other may be the same as the method by which the first fastening grooves (220C) are connected, and a description thereof will be omitted. That is, when the two second connecting portions (400C) are connected to each other, the fastening member can press the two second connecting portions (400C) toward the patient's shin (S), so that the second connecting portions (400C) can maintain a tightly connected state.

[0149] The heel protector (10C) covers only the minimum body part necessary for fixation, so that discomfort or pressure can be minimized even when the patient wears the heel protector (10C) for a long time. For example, when a patient wears the heel protector (10C), the first connecting part (300C) covers only a part of the patient's instep, and the second connecting part (400C) covers only a part of the patient's shin (S). Therefore, the patient's lower body may be entirely exposed except for the heel (H), part of the calf (C), part of the instep, and part of the shin (S), which are intended to prevent bedsores. Therefore, the heel protector (10C) not only has excellent ventilation, but also allows medical staff to easily observe the condition of the patient's lower body with the naked eye, and minimizes factors that may cause discomfort or pressure to the patient's body. In addition, the heel protector includes a first ventilation hole (110C), a second ventilation hole (210C), a third ventilation hole (330C), and a fourth ventilation hole (430C), thereby preventing moisture or sweat from accumulating even when the patient wears the heel protector (10C) for a long time. In addition, the heel protector includes a first fastening groove (220C), a second fastening groove (440C), a third fastening groove (340C), and a fastening member, thereby ensuring that the heel protector (10C) adheres closely to the patient's body, and the first connecting portion (300C) and the second connecting portion (400C) are firmly connected.

[0150] While the present invention has been described with reference to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, these are merely examples. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that various modifications and equivalent alternative embodiments are possible based on the embodiments described herein. Therefore, the true scope of technical protection of the present invention should be determined based on the appended claims.

[0151] Specific technical details described in the embodiments are merely examples and do not limit the technical scope of the embodiments. In order to describe the invention concisely and clearly, descriptions of conventional general techniques and configurations may be omitted. In addition, the connection or absence of connection between the lines of components illustrated in the drawings are merely examples of functional connections and / or physical or circuit connections, and in an actual device, they may be expressed as various functional connections, physical connections, or circuit connections that are replaceable or additional. In addition, if there is no specific mention such as "essential" or "important," it may not be a component absolutely necessary for the application of the present invention.

[0152] The terms “above” and “above” or similar designators used in the description and claims of the invention can refer to both singular and plural numbers, unless specifically limited. In addition, when a range is described in an embodiment, it is intended that the invention includes the application of individual values ​​belonging to the range (unless otherwise stated), and it is equivalent to describing each individual value constituting the range in the description of the invention. In addition, unless the order of steps constituting a method according to an embodiment is explicitly stated or stated to the contrary, the steps can be performed in any appropriate order. The embodiments are not necessarily limited by the order in which the steps are described. The use of all examples or exemplary terms (e.g., “for example,” etc.) in the embodiments is merely for the purpose of describing the embodiments in detail, and the scope of the embodiments is not limited by the examples or exemplary terms, unless otherwise limited by the claims. In addition, those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications, combinations, and variations can be configured according to design conditions and factors within the scope of the appended claims or their equivalents.

[0153] The present invention can be used in the industry related to heel protectors.

Claims

1. Main body corresponding to the patient's calf; A cover part connected to the main body and having an inner side concave so that the patient's heel can be inserted; A first connecting portion extending from the cover portion and including a plurality of first insertion grooves and a plurality of first insertion protrusions formed between the plurality of first insertion grooves along the length thereof; and A heel protector, comprising: a second connecting portion extending from the main body and including a plurality of second insertion grooves along the length thereof and a plurality of second insertion protrusions formed between the plurality of second insertion grooves; 2. In paragraph 1, The above first connecting part is connected near the patient's instep, The second connecting part is a heel protector that is connected near the patient's shin.

3. In paragraph 1, The first connecting portion includes two first connecting portions each extending from the cover portion, and a first insertion groove formed in one of the first connecting portions is inserted into a first insertion groove formed in the other first connecting portion. A heel protector in which the first insertion grooves of the two first connecting parts are inserted into each other, and the first insertion protrusions formed on both sides based on the inserted first insertion grooves overlap alternately vertically.

4. In paragraph 1, The second connecting portion includes two first connecting portions each extending from the main body, and a second insertion groove formed in one of the second connecting portions is inserted into a second insertion groove formed in the other second connecting portion. A heel protector in which the second insertion grooves of each of the two second connecting parts are inserted into each other, and the second insertion protrusions formed on both sides based on the inserted second insertion grooves overlap alternately in the upper and lower directions.

5. In paragraph 1, The first connecting portion includes a plurality of first connecting portions, and the plurality of first connecting portions are connected to each other in pairs of two each. A heel protector, wherein a plurality of first insertion grooves formed in one of two first connecting portions connected to each other extend in one direction from the upper end of the first connecting portion, and a plurality of first insertion grooves formed in the other one extend in one direction from the lower end of the first connecting portion.

6. In paragraph 1, The second connecting portion includes a plurality of second connecting portions, and the plurality of second connecting portions are connected to each other in pairs of two each. A heel protector, wherein a plurality of second insertion grooves formed in one of two second connecting portions connected to each other extend in one direction from the upper end of the second connecting portion, and a plurality of second insertion grooves formed in the other one extend in one direction from the lower end of the second connecting portion.

7. In paragraph 1, A heel protector in which the patient's foot is exposed to the space between the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion while the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion are each connected.

8. In paragraph 1, A heel protector, wherein at least one of the main body, the cover, the first connecting portion, and the second connecting portion includes a plurality of ventilation holes.

9. In paragraph 8, A heel protector in which a plurality of ventilation holes formed in the first connecting portion do not overlap the first insertion groove and the first connecting portion in the length and width directions.

10. In paragraph 8, A heel protector in which a plurality of ventilation holes formed in the second connecting portion do not overlap the second insertion groove and the second connecting portion in the length and width directions.

11. In paragraph 1, At least one of the above cover portion, the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion includes a plurality of fastening grooves, A heel protector further comprising a fastening member connecting the plurality of fastening grooves.

12. In paragraph 11, The above plurality of fastening grooves include one or more straight portions and one or more curved portions, A heel protector wherein the above fastening member is inserted into one fastening groove and another part is inserted into another fastening groove.

13. In paragraph 11, The plurality of fastening grooves in the above cover portion are first fastening grooves and are symmetrical with respect to the center in the width direction of the cover portion. A heel protector in which a part of the above fastening member is inserted into one first fastening groove and another part is inserted into another first fastening groove to elastically support the first connecting portion.

14. In paragraph 11, The plurality of fastening grooves in the second connecting portion are second fastening grooves and are located on the inside of the plurality of second insertion grooves along the length direction of the second connecting portion. A heel protector in which a part of the above fastening member is inserted into one second fastening groove and another part is inserted into another second fastening groove to elastically support the second connecting portion.

15. In paragraph 11, The plurality of fastening grooves in the first connecting portion are third fastening grooves and are located on the inside of the plurality of first insertion grooves along the length direction of the first connecting portion. A heel protector in which a part of the above fastening member is inserted into one third fastening groove and another part is inserted into another third fastening groove to elastically support the first connecting portion.

16. The main body corresponding to the patient's calf; A cover part connected to the main body part and having a plurality of first fastening grooves having an inner side concave to allow the patient's heel to be inserted and including one or more curved portions and one or more straight portions; A plurality of first connecting portions extending from the cover portion and including a plurality of first insertion grooves and a plurality of first insertion projections between the plurality of first insertion grooves in the longitudinal direction, and connected in pairs near the instep of the patient; A second connecting portion including a plurality of second insertion grooves extending from the main body and extending in the longitudinal direction, a plurality of second insertion protrusions located between the plurality of second insertion grooves, and a plurality of second fastening grooves including at least one curved portion and at least one straight portion, and two of which are paired and connected near the patient's shin; and A heel protector, comprising: a fastening member, a part of which is inserted into one of the plurality of first fastening grooves and another part is inserted into another first fastening groove to connect two first fastening grooves to each other, and elastically supports the first connecting portion from above; and a part of which is inserted into one of the plurality of second fastening grooves and another part is inserted into another second fastening groove to connect two second fastening grooves to each other, and elastically supports the second connecting portion from above.

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