Medical aid

Abstract

The invention relates to a medical aid, in particular an orthosis, for influencing an angle of movement (1) of a body joint (2), wherein the aid comprises a holding device (4) that can be fastened in the region of the body joint (2) and a bending beam (5) connected to the holding device (4), wherein the bending beam (5) has a plurality of segments (6) arranged in a row, and wherein adjacent segments (6) are separated by an in particular wedge-shaped recess (7). The invention further relates to an arrangement, a use and a method.

Description

[0001] Medical aid device

[0002] The present invention relates, among other things, to a medical aid device, an arrangement and use of this aid device, and a method for its manufacture. In general, the invention relates to wearable devices that can be attached to a person's body.

[0003] Medical aids are known in various forms in the state of the art. These are used, for example, in orthopedic applications to influence the range of motion of a body joint. Such devices can also be referred to as orthoses.

[0004] A basic distinction can be made between static and dynamic orthoses. While the former completely immobilize the joint, the latter allow a certain degree of mobility. Dynamic orthoses are advantageous for maintaining joint mobilization even in the event of injuries or other impairments, leading to better treatment outcomes.

[0005] Since the requirements for dynamic orthoses often vary greatly in different treatment cases, targeted adaptation to the individual patient's needs is advantageous. However, state-of-the-art adjustable orthoses are often complicated and costly to manufacture.

[0006] Prefabricated orthoses are also known, but due to the lack of individual adaptability to the needs of a patient, they often do not provide the desired treatment success.

[0007] These problems, known in the prior art, give rise to a conflict of objectives. The object of the present invention can therefore be seen as resolving this conflict of objectives.

[0008] In particular, a medical aid device is provided for this purpose, which consists of at least a holding device and a bending part. The holding device and the bending part are connected to one another.

[0009] The holding device can establish the coupling or connection between the body part to be treated and the bending part or the bending beam. It is advantageous if the holding device enables a substantially stationary positioning of the auxiliary device on said body part. Various solutions known in the prior art can be used for this purpose, for example a stocking, a cuff, or the like. It is also possible to design the holding device in several parts, for example to attach the auxiliary device to the body part on both sides of the joint to be treated, but leave the area of ​​the joint itself free. However, it is also conceivable to cover the area of ​​the joint with a covering device. The covering device can be an elastic glove, for example.

[0010] The holding device can be made of or comprise an elastic material. Additionally or alternatively, the holding device can be made of or comprise a rigid material and / or a textile material. A tensioning device, such as a tensioning belt, can also be provided, with which the holding device is attached to the body part. If necessary, the holding device can be applied to the body or the body part to be treated over a large area.

[0011] The bent part is designed in particular as a bending beam and comprises a plurality of segments, between which a particularly wedge-shaped recess is arranged. The recesses can, for example, also be designed in the shape of a circular arc. The segments are connected to one another in particular via a connecting part. The wedge surfaces of the recess are thus formed in particular by corresponding side surfaces of adjacent segments. When a certain bend of the bent part is reached, these side surfaces can abut one another, thereby preventing or at least impeding further bending of the bent part. This is particularly the case when the recesses are located on the concave side of the bent bent part. When the bent part assumes this position, it can also be referred to as the locked position. The flexibility is also influenced in particular by the connecting part.

[0012] The bent part can be straight or curved or have other suitable shapes. The segments and / or recesses can have different shapes. Multiple segments and / or recesses in a bent part can also have different shapes.

[0013] The recesses can in particular run orthogonally to the longitudinal direction of the bent part or the bending beam, or they can run obliquely to its longitudinal direction.

[0014] If the bending occurs in such a way that the recesses are located on the convex side of the bent part, the deflection may not be limited, or the deflection may be determined solely by the design of the connecting part. In this case, it was surprisingly discovered that this functionality can be profitably used to create an improved medical device.

[0015] The properties of the flexible part are easily adjustable and can be adapted to the needs of the patient being treated. For example, the size of the flexible part can be changed depending on the joint being treated. A flexible part used to treat a finger will generally be smaller than one used for a knee.

[0016] Furthermore, the precise design of the segments and, in particular, the wedge-shaped recesses, allows for adaptation to the specific conditions of the treatment situation. For example, by adjusting the opening angle of the wedge-shaped recesses, the angular position of the joint at which movement is restricted can be adjusted. As a rule, larger opening angles will allow a greater range of motion than smaller (i.e., sharper) opening angles. If necessary, additional or alternative adjustments can be made through the precise design, for example, the geometry or material, of the connecting part.

[0017] Furthermore, the choice of material of the bent part can significantly influence the properties of the auxiliary device.

[0018] In order to enable the properties of the bent part to be adapted as simply and flexibly as possible, the bent part or the bending beam can be manufactured using an additive manufacturing process, for example using 3D printing.

[0019] In particular, it is provided that several recesses on the bent part point in the same direction. This direction is preferably the direction in which the angle of movement of the body joint to be treated points. Several recesses pointing in the same direction can, if necessary, be referred to as a row of recesses. Since many body joints can be moved in different directions, they usually have several angles of movement. Depending on the particular case, it may be necessary to influence several angles of movement using an auxiliary device. In this case, the auxiliary device can comprise several bent parts whose recesses point in different directions. However, it can also be provided that one bent part has recesses pointing in different directions. If necessary, two or more rows of recesses pointing in different directions can therefore be provided.

[0020] The restriction of movement caused by the collision of the side surfaces of adjacent segments can therefore occur on one side, two sides or more sides.

[0021] Furthermore, it should be noted that the connecting part can also influence the mobility of the respective joint. In particular, the connecting part can provide resistance or act as a resistance that counteracts the movement of the joint in certain directions. This resistance can act, in particular, in directions that do not correspond to the orientation of the recesses. Adjustment of the resistance can be achieved, in particular, by adjusting the material and / or geometry of the connecting part.

[0022] The bent part can be attached to the holding device in different ways. It can be provided that at least one of the ends of the bent part is loosely connected to the holding device, but both ends can also be rigidly connected to the holding device. If necessary, both ends can be rigidly connected to the holding device, while the central region of the bending beam has no fixed connection to the holding device. If necessary, one end of the bent part can be rigidly connected to the holding device, while the other end is loosely or slidably connected to the holding device. If necessary, both ends can also be loosely or slidably connected to the holding device. If necessary, regions other than the ends of the bent part can also be connected to the holding device.The connection between the holding device and the bent part can be made, for example, by means of adhesives, form-fitting connections, or screw connections. The bent part can also be formed integrally with the holding device. If necessary, sleeves and / or loops into which the bent part is inserted can also be provided to hold the bent part to the holding device.

[0023] The individual segments of the bent part can be connected in different ways, for example, by a connecting part to which individual segments are attached. However, the bent part can also be formed as a single piece, in which case the segments are formed integrally with the connecting part or with the entire bent part. The connecting part can be designed as a separate connecting part, for example, as a connecting beam. However, it is also possible for the holding device to act as a connecting part, with the segments being attached directly to the surface of the holding device.

[0024] There are no particular restrictions regarding the material of the bending beam. However, the use of plastic, especially thermoplastic, is advantageous due to its ease of processing, low weight, and good flexibility. It can also be a combination of two or more materials.

[0025] If particularly long bent parts are required, for example, for use in the spinal region, a bent part can be formed from several bent sections that are connected to one another. This connection can be made, for example, by a plug connection or other form-fitting connection. The connection can also be made by screw connections or any other suitable connection between two parts.

[0026] The properties of the segments and / or the connecting part may also vary within a single bent part, especially if a bent part has a large length. These variable properties may include, for example, the elasticity, stiffness, or geometry of the segments and / or the connecting part.

[0027] This can enable locally adapted flexibility.

[0028] To expand the functionality of the auxiliary device, an adjusting device can be provided. Using this adjusting device, the bent part can be brought into a defined position, preloaded, or actively moved.

[0029] The adjusting device can, for example, comprise an adjusting cable and / or an adjusting spring that runs inside or along the bent part. Movement of the adjusting cable and / or adjusting spring can cause active bending of the bent part.

[0030] The actuating device can also be used to actively move the bent part. The actuating device can have an actuator to actively support the movement of the body joint. For example, the actuator can be a motor, a servomotor, or a hydraulic, electric, or pneumatic cylinder. The actuating cable(s) can be driven by the actuator. The actuating cables can be designed, for example, as Bowden cables.

[0031] The assistive device is, in particular, an orthosis, preferably a dynamic orthosis. Regarding the usage scenarios, it should be noted that the assistive device can, in principle, be used on all body joints that have a restrictable angle of movement. The angle of movement can, for example, refer to an extension angle, a flexion angle, an abduction angle, or an adduction angle of a joint, but also to any other possible angle or rotation of a joint. The body part on which the respective joint is located can, for example, be a finger, a hand, a foot, a leg, an upper body, or a lower body.

[0032] In one use of this assistive device, a patient is treated with the device. The patient can be a human, but it is conceivable that the device could also be used on animals that require corresponding treatment. The patient does not necessarily have to require medical treatment; it can also be a person or a living being in general that requires, for example, the protection and / or support of a joint. This can be helpful, for example, in connection with sporting and / or professional activities.

[0033] Furthermore, a method for producing a bent part or a bending beam is provided, wherein the properties of the bent part or the bending beam are adapted to the requirements of the respective treatment situation. This adaptation can be preceded by an examination step, which is particularly carried out non-invasively. If necessary, the holding device can also be adapted.

[0034] In particular, a medical auxiliary device, preferably an orthosis, is provided for influencing an angle of movement of a body joint, wherein the auxiliary device comprises a holding device fastenable in the region of the body joint and a bending beam connected to the holding device.

[0035] It is preferably provided that the bending beam has a plurality of segments arranged in a row, and that adjacent segments are separated by a particularly wedge-shaped recess.

[0036] If necessary, it is provided that the side surfaces of the segments that define a recess abut each other when the bending beam bends.

[0037] Optionally, it is provided, characterized in that the bending beam comprises a connecting part which connects the individual segments to one another, wherein the connecting part is connected to the segments or formed integrally with the segments.

[0038] Optionally, the recesses may have a notch at their base. Optionally, the bending beam may have at least three segments arranged along its longitudinal direction, with the corresponding recesses being arranged in particular on one side of the bending beam.

[0039] If necessary, recesses are provided on two or more sides of the bending beam.

[0040] If necessary, the recesses may be designed differently.

[0041] If necessary, it is provided that the recesses are at least partially filled with a particularly elastic filling compound.

[0042] Optionally, a resistance element is provided on the bending beam, extending along the longitudinal direction of the bending beam. The resistance element can be designed as an elastic resistance beam or as an elastic resistance band. The resistance band can be arranged, in particular stretched, between two supports.

[0043] Where appropriate, the holding device is designed as a stocking that can be applied to the body, as a rigid structure or as a belt.

[0044] If necessary, it is provided that the holding device comprises holding strips which are guided through clearances in the bending beam, wherein the holding strips may comprise a Velcro section

[0045] Where appropriate, the bending beam is to be manufactured by an additive manufacturing process, in particular by 3D printing.

[0046] Optionally, it is provided that the bending beam comprises an adjusting device, wherein the adjusting device optionally comprises at least one adjusting element, for example a cable, a Bowden cable or a rod, which runs along the longitudinal direction of the bending beam. Optionally, it is provided that the bending beam in its

[0047] is arranged displaceably on the holding device in the longitudinal direction.

[0048] If necessary, it is provided that at least one end of the bending beam is slidably connected to the holding device.

[0049] If necessary, both ends of the bending beam are inserted into a sleeve provided on the holding device.

[0050] If necessary, both ends of the bending beam are fastened to the holding device with form-fitting connections.

[0051] If necessary, it is provided that one end of the bending beam is rigidly connected to the holding device, in particular glued, screwed, positively connected or strapped.

[0052] If necessary, it is provided that the bending beam is additionally connected to the holding device in its central area, if necessary with a holding loop, a holding belt or a holding ring provided on the holding device.

[0053] If necessary, it is provided that the bending beam is in particular completely surrounded by a casing which is connected to the holding device.

[0054] If necessary, an arrangement of an auxiliary device on the body of a patient is also provided, wherein the bending beam bridges the body joint to be treated or several body joints to be treated.

[0055] If necessary, the use of an auxiliary device for influencing an angle of movement of a body joint and / or for influencing the force load of a body joint is also provided.

[0056] Optionally, a method for producing a bending beam for an auxiliary device is also provided, comprising the following steps: - Examining a patient's body joint to be treated,

[0057] - Setting a maximum permissible angle of movement of the body joint,

[0058] - Manufacture of the bending beam depending on the maximum permissible angle of movement.

[0059] If necessary, it is provided that the wedge angle of the recesses is adjusted depending on the maximum permissible angle of movement, that the wedge angle of the recesses is adjusted depending on the maximum permissible angle of movement.

[0060] Further features emerge from the patent claims, the figures and the description of the embodiments.

[0061] Below, certain aspects and features are explained in detail in connection with exemplary embodiments.

[0062] Showing:

[0063] Fig. 1 shows an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a first embodiment, wherein the body joint is in a first position;

[0064] Fig. 2 shows the arrangement of Fig. 1 , wherein the body joint is in a second position;

[0065] Fig. 3 shows the arrangement from Fig. 1 in plan view;

[0066] Fig. 4 shows an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a second embodiment in a side view;

[0067] Fig. 5 shows an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a third embodiment in plan view;

[0068] Fig. 6 shows an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a fourth embodiment in plan view;

[0069] Fig. 7 is a detailed view of a bending beam according to an embodiment in a shell;

[0070] Fig. 8 shows an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a fifth embodiment in plan view; Fig. 9 shows an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a sixth embodiment in plan view;

[0071] Fig. 10 is a view of a bending beam according to an embodiment in a first bending position;

[0072] Fig. 11 is a view of a bending beam according to the embodiment of Fig. 10 in a second bending position;

[0073] Fig. 12 shows an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a seventh embodiment in a side view;

[0074] Fig. 13 shows an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to an eighth embodiment in plan view;

[0075] Fig. 14 a bending beam according to an embodiment in a detailed view;

[0076] Fig. 15 shows an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a ninth embodiment in a side view;

[0077] Fig. 16 shows an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a tenth embodiment in a side view;

[0078] Fig. 17 shows an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to an eleventh embodiment, in a side view;

[0079] Fig. 18 shows an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a twelfth embodiment, side view;

[0080] Fig. 19 shows an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a thirteenth embodiment, in a side view;

[0081] Fig. 20 a bending beam according to an embodiment in a detailed view;

[0082] Fig. 21 shows an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a fourteenth embodiment in plan view;

[0083] Fig. 22 a bending beam according to an embodiment in a detailed view;

[0084] Fig. 23 shows an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a fifteenth embodiment, in a side view;

[0085] Fig. 24 shows an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a sixteenth embodiment, in a side view;

[0086] Fig. 25 shows an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a seventeenth embodiment, in a side view;

[0087] Fig. 26 shows an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to an eighteenth embodiment in plan view; Fig. 27 shows an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a nineteenth embodiment in side view;

[0088] Fig. 28 shows an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a twentieth embodiment, in a side view;

[0089] Fig. 29 shows an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a twenty-first embodiment in plan view;

[0090] Fig. 30 shows an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a twenty-second embodiment in a side view;

[0091] Fig. 31 shows an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a twenty-third embodiment in a side view;

[0092] Fig. 32 shows an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a twenty-fourth embodiment in a side view; and

[0093] Fig. 33 shows an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a twenty-fifth embodiment in a side view.

[0094] Unless otherwise stated, the figures show the following features: angle of movement 1, body joint 2, 2', side surface 3, holding device 4, bending beam 5, 5', segment 6, recess 7, bending beam section 8, connecting part 9, longitudinal direction 10, 10', notch 11, stocking 12, adjusting device 13, adjusting element 14, end 15, 15', sleeve 16, central region 17, holding loop 18, wedge angle 19, cover 20, fixed fastening 21, slot 22, movable fastening 23, form-fitting extension 24, form-fitting recess 25, resistance element 26, rigid holding part 27, filling compound 28, actuation cylinder 29, band 30, holder 31, holding strip 32, release 33.

[0095] Figs. 1 to 3 show schematic views of an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a first embodiment. The body joint 2 in this embodiment is the wrist joint of a person.

[0096] In Fig. 1, the body joint 2 is in a first, extended position. The auxiliary device is arranged on the body joint 2. For positioning, the holding device 4, designed as a stocking 12, is arranged in the area of ​​the wrist joint. In this embodiment, the stocking 12 is an expandable

[0097] Textile material so that the device fits tightly to the body part to be treated.

[0098] On the outer surface of the stocking 12, a bending beam 5 is provided, which in this embodiment has five segments 6 arranged one after the other in the longitudinal direction 10 of the bending beam 5. Wedge-shaped recesses 7 are provided between the segments 6. The recesses 7 are delimited by the side surfaces 3 of adjacent segments 6. The recesses 7 point away from the stocking 12. Therefore, dorsal extension of the hand is limited by the auxiliary device, while palmar flexion of the hand is not restricted. In other directions of movement, the auxiliary device acts as a resistance. Depending on the elasticity of the bending beam 5, namely in particular depending on the elasticity of the connecting part 9, a resistance force results during abduction and adduction, which counteracts the corresponding movements.

[0099] In this example, the bending beam 5 is made in one piece from a thermoplastic material. In particular, this bending beam 5 was manufactured using 3D printing to allow its geometry and bending properties to be adapted to the specific conditions of the respective treatment situation. The bending beam 5 is connected to the holding device 4 using an adhesive.

[0100] In Fig. 2, the body joint 2 is in a second, bent position. This position corresponds to the maximum that can be achieved using the auxiliary device according to the invention – the bending beam 5 is therefore in the locked position. The angle of movement 1 here is approximately 60° compared to the straight alignment of the wrist, as shown in Fig. 1. Since a movement angle 1 (extension) of approximately 70° can be achieved with unrestricted mobility of the wrist joint, the auxiliary device according to this embodiment thus results in a restriction of the mobility of the body joint 2 by approximately 10°.

[0101] In this position—the locking position—the side surfaces 3 of the segments 6 arranged in the recesses 7 abut one another, thus limiting further flexion of the body joint 2. In this exemplary embodiment, the segments 6 have low elasticity, so that further movement would require a very high expenditure of force and is therefore practically impossible or only possible to a limited extent. In other exemplary embodiments, however, the segments 6 can also be formed from or comprise an elastic material or have a reduced filling density ("infill"), so that further movement is possible with increased expenditure of force.

[0102] In general, however, flexibility is determined by the design of the connecting part 9. If the connecting part comprises an elastic material, mobility beyond the locked position can be enabled. However, if the connecting part 9 is only slightly elastic, movement beyond the locked position is only possible with considerable force.

[0103] Fig. 3 shows the first embodiment in a schematic view from above. Here, the elongated shape of the bending beam 5 is visible. In this view, the body joint 2 is in the first, extended position.

[0104] Fig. 4 shows a side view of an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a second embodiment. Compared to the first embodiment, the recesses 7 point toward the stocking 12. Therefore, the range of motion during palmar flexion of the hand is restricted, while dorsal extension of the wrist is not restricted. During movement in other directions, the auxiliary device exerts resistance, particularly through the action of the connecting part 9.

[0105] Fig. 5 shows a top view of an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a third exemplary embodiment. In comparison to the first exemplary embodiment, the stocking 12 extends as far as the index finger. In addition to a bending beam 5 with seven segments 6 in the area of ​​the wrist joint, a further bending beam 5' with five segments 6 is provided. This further bending beam 5' spans another body joint 2', namely the metacarpophalangeal joint of the index finger, the mobility of which in the dorsal direction is restricted by the use of the bending beam 5'. Fig. 6 shows a top view of an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a fourth exemplary embodiment. This exemplary embodiment is similar to the third exemplary embodiment, although here no bending beam 5 is provided in the area of ​​the wrist joint.The stocking 12 is arranged in the area of ​​the metacarpal and index finger and the bending beam 5 with eight segments spans not only the metacarpal joint but also the middle joint of the index finger.

[0106] Fig. 7 shows a detailed view of a bending beam according to one embodiment in a casing 20. The casing 20 can be attached to the surface of the holding device 4, for example, by sewing. The bending beam 5 is loosely inserted into the casing 20, allowing it to be moved to a limited extent.

[0107] Furthermore, Fig. 7 shows the wedge angle 19, which is enclosed by the two side surfaces 3 of adjacent segments 6. In other embodiments, the wedge angles 19 can differ from one another and / or their orientation can be asymmetrical. The segments 6 are connected to one another by a connecting part 9, wherein the connecting part 9 forms a continuous web under the segments 6. In this exemplary embodiment, the connecting part 9 is formed integrally with the segments 6. The dashed line serves merely as an illustration and is not intended to represent a physical separation between the connecting part 9 and the segments 6.

[0108] Fig. 8 shows a top view of an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a fifth exemplary embodiment. This exemplary embodiment is largely similar to the first exemplary embodiment, with the difference that the bending beam 5 is oriented obliquely. In other exemplary embodiments, the auxiliary device can also be used to limit abduction and / or adduction of the wrist. This would be possible, for example, if the bending beam 5 were rotated by 90° along its longitudinal direction 10 compared to the illustration in Fig. 8. Furthermore, multiple bending beams 5 can be provided at one joint.

[0109] Fig. 9 shows an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a sixth

[0110] Embodiment in plan view. This embodiment is largely similar to the first embodiment, with the difference that the bending beam 5 is arranged laterally on the holding device 4. In other embodiments, the bending beam 5 can also be arranged on the palmar side of the wrist or generally on the ventral side of a joint.

[0111] Fig. 10 shows a schematic view of a bending beam 5 according to an embodiment in a first bending position, and Fig. 11 shows a view of the bending beam 5 according to the embodiment of Fig. 10 in a second bending position. These two views illustrate the behavior of the bending beam 5 when it is placed in different bending positions.

[0112] In the first bending position shown in Fig. 10, the bending beam 5 essentially does not restrict movement. Here, the side of the bending beam 5 where the recesses 7 are located has a convex curvature. The side surfaces 3 of adjacent segments 6 do not abut one another.

[0113] In comparison, in Fig. 11, the side of the bending beam 5 where the recesses 7 are arranged has a concave curvature. The side surfaces 3 of adjacent segments 6 abut one another, so that compression of the segments or other deformation of the material of the segments 6 or expansion of the material of the connecting part 9 would have to be caused to enable further curvature of the bending beam 5. Thus, when the bending beam 5 is bent in this direction, movement is restricted. The bending beam 5 is therefore in the locked position here.

[0114] Fig. 12 shows a side view of an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a seventh embodiment. This embodiment is largely similar to the first embodiment, with the difference that the bending beam 5 has recesses 7 on two opposite sides. The recesses 7 point in the dorsal and palmar directions. This enables a restriction of movement of the body joint 2, namely during extension and flexion. The connecting part 9 runs in the central region of the bending beam 5; the dashed lines are intended merely for illustration and do not represent a physical separation of segments 6 and connecting part 9.

[0115] Fig. 13 shows a side view of an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to an eighth embodiment. This embodiment is largely similar to the first embodiment, with the difference that the bending beam 5 has recesses 7 on three sides. The recesses 7 point in the dorsal direction as well as in the lateral and medial directions. This not only enables a restriction of the dorsal flexion of the wrist joint, but also movement in the lateral and medial directions.

[0116] Fig. 14 shows a detailed view of a bending beam 5 according to one exemplary embodiment. The bending beam 5 is formed from two bending beam sections 8, which are connected to one another via a positive-locking connection. For this purpose, a positive-locking extension 24 is provided on one bending beam section 8, and a corresponding positive-locking recess 25 is provided on the other bending beam section 8. This allows for particularly long bending beams 5 to be provided, for example, for use in an extended region of the spine.

[0117] Fig. 15 shows a side view of an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a ninth embodiment. This embodiment is largely similar to the seventh embodiment, with the difference that a resistance element 26 is arranged on the upper side of the bending beam 5. In this embodiment, the resistance element 26 is formed from an elastomer material and generates passive resistance during partial flexion of the wrist joint.

[0118] Fig. 16 shows a side view of an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a tenth embodiment. This embodiment is largely similar to the ninth embodiment, with the difference that the resistance element 26 is arranged on the underside of the bending beam 5. Here, too, the resistance element 26 generates resistance during a movement of the wrist joint in the dorsal direction. The resistance element 26 can be connected to all segments 6 or only to selected segments 6. For example, the resistance element 26 can be connected only to the two segments 6 located at the ends 15 of the bending beam 5.

[0119] Fig. 17 shows a side view of an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to an eleventh exemplary embodiment. In comparison to the first exemplary embodiment, the auxiliary device according to this exemplary embodiment additionally comprises an actuating device 13, which can be used to exert an axially directed force on the bending beam 5. This makes it possible, in particular, to support or carry out a movement of the carpal joint in the dorsal direction. The actuating device 13 in this exemplary embodiment is an actuating element 14, which is designed as a cable and is connected to the bending beam 5. Advantageously, the segments 6 block further deflection of the bending beam 5 in this direction when the side surfaces 3 abut one another, which enables an increased safety of use in conjunction with a motorized actuating device 13 or an actuator.

[0120] Fig. 18 shows a side view of an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a twelfth embodiment. This embodiment is largely identical to the eleventh embodiment, with the difference that the recesses 7 point in the palmar direction. The adjusting device 13 can therefore be used to assist or perform the movement of the wrist joint in the palmar direction.

[0121] Fig. 19 shows a side view of an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a thirteenth exemplary embodiment. The structure of the auxiliary device corresponds to the seventh exemplary embodiment, in which the adjusting device 13 has two adjusting elements 14 in the form of cables. As in the eleventh and twelfth exemplary embodiments, the adjusting elements 14 can also be used here to support or carry out the movement of the body joint 2. Fig. 20 shows a bending beam 5 according to an exemplary embodiment in a detailed view. The individual segments 6, the wedge-shaped recesses 7, and the connecting part 9 formed integrally with the segments 6 are shown here.

[0122] Fig. 21 shows a top view of an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a fourteenth embodiment. The structure of the auxiliary device corresponds to the eighth embodiment, but is supplemented by two actuating devices 13 in the form of actuating elements 14. The function of the actuating devices 13 has already been described in connection with other embodiments.

[0123] Fig. 22 shows a detailed view of a bending beam 5 according to an embodiment. Compared to the bending beam 5 of Fig. 20, the recesses 7 are designed with notches 11 at their base. This improves the mobility of the bending beam 5 until the locking position is reached.

[0124] Fig. 23 shows a side view of an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a fifteenth embodiment. The bending beam 5 is held at its two ends 15 in sleeves 16 arranged on the holding device 4. The bending beam 5 is held loosely in the sleeves 16, allowing limited movement.

[0125] Fig. 24 shows a side view of an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a sixteenth embodiment. This arrangement essentially corresponds to the fifteenth embodiment, with the difference that the bending beam 5 is also attached to the holding device in its central region 17, namely with a holding loop 18.

[0126] Fig. 25 shows a side view of an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a seventeenth embodiment. Here, the bending beam 5 is attached to the holding device 4 by means of a sleeve 20.

[0127] Fig. 26 shows an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to an eighteenth

[0128] Embodiment in plan view. The holding device 4 or the sock 12 is formed in two parts here. Furthermore, the connection between the bending beam 5 and the holding device 4 is established via screw connections. Specifically, one end 15 of the bending beam 5 is rigidly connected to the holding device 4 via a fixed attachment 21, while the other end 15' of the bending beam 5 is connected to the holding device 4 via a movable attachment 23. For this purpose, the holding device 4 has a slot 22 that allows for the guidance of the movable attachment 23.

[0129] Fig. 27 shows a side view of an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a nineteenth embodiment. This embodiment largely corresponds to the fifteenth embodiment, with the difference that the bending beam 5 is held at one of its two ends 15 in a sleeve 16 arranged on the holding device 4. Furthermore, the bending beam 5 is attached to the holding device in its central region 17, namely with a holding loop 18.

[0130] Fig. 28 shows a side view of an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a twentieth embodiment. This embodiment largely corresponds to the nineteenth embodiment, with the difference that the holding device 4 comprises two rigid holding parts 27.

[0131] Fig. 29 shows a top view of an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a twenty-first embodiment. This embodiment largely corresponds to the first embodiment, with the difference that the recesses 7 do not run orthogonally to the longitudinal direction 10 of the bending beam 5, but rather obliquely thereto.

[0132] Fig. 30 shows a side view of an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a twenty-second embodiment. This embodiment largely corresponds to the first embodiment, with the difference that the recesses 7 are partially filled with an elastic filling compound 28. This creates resistance when moving the wrist, even before reaching the locked position. Fig. 31 shows a side view of an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a twenty-third embodiment. This embodiment largely corresponds to the eleventh embodiment, with the difference that an actuation cylinder 29 is provided for actively moving the actuating element 14. The actuating element 14 can be attached in any suitable position, for example, to the holding device 4.

[0133] Fig. 32 shows a side view of an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a twenty-fourth embodiment. This embodiment largely corresponds to the ninth embodiment, with the difference that the resistance element 26 is designed as an elastic band 30 that is stretched between two holders 31 at the ends 15 of the bending beam 5.

[0134] Fig. 33 shows a side view of an arrangement of an auxiliary device according to a twenty-fifth embodiment. This embodiment largely corresponds to the first embodiment, with the difference that the holding device 4 is not designed as a stocking 12, but as two holding strips 32, each having a hook-and-loop section. The holding strips 32 are guided through corresponding recesses 33 in the bending beam 5.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Medical auxiliary device, in particular an orthosis, for influencing an angle of movement (1 ) of a body joint (2), wherein the auxiliary device comprises a holding device (4) which can be fastened in the region of the body joint (2) and a bending beam (5) connected to the holding device (4), characterized in that the bending beam (5) has a plurality of segments (6) arranged in a row, and in that adjacent segments (6) are separated by a recess (7), in particular by a wedge-shaped recess (7).

2. Auxiliary device according to claim 1, characterized in that the side surfaces (3) of the segments (6) which delimit a recess (7) abut one another when the bending beam (5) bends.

3. Auxiliary device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the bending beam (5) comprises a connecting part (9) which connects the individual segments (6) to one another, wherein the connecting part (9) is connected to the segments (6) or formed integrally with the segments (6).

4. Auxiliary device according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the recesses (7) have a notch (11) at their base.

5. Auxiliary device according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the bending beam (5) has at least three segments (6) arranged along its longitudinal direction, wherein the corresponding recesses (7) are arranged in particular on one side of the bending beam (5).

6. Auxiliary device according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that recesses (7) are arranged on two or more sides of the bending beam (5), and / or that the recesses (7) are designed differently.

7. Auxiliary device according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the holding device (4) is designed as a stocking (12) which can be applied to the body, as a rigid structure or as a belt, and / or that the holding device (4) comprises holding strips (32) which are guided through cutouts (33) in the bending beam (5), the holding strips (32) optionally comprising a Velcro section.

8. Auxiliary device according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the bending beam (5) is manufactured by an additive manufacturing process.

9. Auxiliary device according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the bending beam (5) comprises an adjusting device (13), wherein the adjusting device (13) optionally comprises at least one adjusting element (14), for example a cable, a Bowden cable or a rod, which runs along the longitudinal direction (10) of the bending beam (5).

10. Auxiliary device according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the bending beam (5) is arranged displaceably on the holding device (4) in its longitudinal direction (10). 11 . Auxiliary device according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that at least one end (15) of the bending beam (5) is slidably connected to the holding device (4).

12. Auxiliary device according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that - both ends (15) of the bending beam (5) are fastened to the holding device (4) by means of form-fitting connections, in particular sleeves (16), or - one end (15) of the bending beam (5) is rigidly connected to the holding device (4), in particular glued, screwed, positively connected or strapped.

13. Auxiliary device according to claim 12, characterized in that the bending beam (5) is additionally connected in its central region (17) to the holding device (4), optionally with a holding loop (18) provided on the holding device (4), a holding belt or a holding ring.

14. Auxiliary device according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the bending beam (5) is in particular completely surrounded by a sheath (20) which is connected to the holding device (4).

15. Arrangement of an auxiliary device according to one of claims 1 to 14 on the body of a patient, wherein the bending beam (5) bridges the body joint (2) to be treated or several body joints (2) to be treated.

16. Use of an auxiliary device according to one of claims 1 to 14 for influencing an angle of movement (1) of a body joint (2) and / or for influencing the force load of a body joint (2).

17. A method for producing a bending beam (5) for an auxiliary device according to one of claims 1 to 14, comprising the following steps: - Examination of a patient's body joint (2) to be treated, - Setting a maximum permissible angle of movement (1 ) of the body joint (2), - Manufacture of the bending beam (5) depending on the maximum permissible angle of movement (1 ).

18. Method according to claim 17, characterized in that the wedge angle (19) of the recesses (7) is adjusted as a function of the maximum permissible angle of movement (1 ).

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