Intrinsic glove

Abstract

A device may include a flexible outer surface configured to extend over at least a palm, forming a palm side surface comprising (i) a first surface region adjacent to and covering a metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint of a user's hand, and (ii) a second surface region adjacent to a wrist opening defined by the flexible outer surface. The device may include a constriction region on the palm side surface, the constriction region disposed between the first surface region and the second surface region such that the first and second surface regions are in opposition. The device is movable between a first default configuration and a second configuration. Movement between the first default and second configuration includes the constriction region pulling the opposing first and second surface regions of the palm side surface towards each other to bend and maintain the MCP joint to a desired angle.

Description

INTRINSIC GLOVECROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 548,927 filed February 2, 2024 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 697,879, filed September 23, 2024, which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.BACKGROUND

[0002] Generally, surgeons perform hand surgery to treat various conditions and injuries affecting the hand, wrist, and forearm. Hand surgeons may perform procedures to address issues such as fractures, carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis, tendon and nerve injuries, congenital deformities, and traumatic injuries.

[0003] Postoperative recovery plays a crucial role in the success of hand surgery, and various devices are employed to aid patients in rehabilitation. These devices can include splints, dynamic splints, braces, external fixators, and rehabilitation tools designed to support the healing process, reduce swelling, and promote optimal function. The use of such devices is tailored to each patient's specific condition and the nature of the surgical intervention, contributing to improved outcomes and the restoration of hand functionality.

[0004] However, existing devices for post-op rehabilitation fail to adequately support the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints of a user’s hand. Existing devices often result in fatigue on the intrinsic muscles and stiffness throughout the joints of the hand.

[0005] Therefore, a need exists for an improved device for adequately supporting a patient’s hand with MCP flexion.SUMMARY

[0006] One implementation of the present disclosure is a medical device including a flexible outer surface and a constriction region. The flexible outer surface is configured to extend over at least a palm, forming a palm side surface. The palm side surface includes (i) a first surface region adjacent to and covering a metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint of a user's hand and (ii) a second surface region adjacent to a wrist opening defined by the flexible outer surface. The constriction region is on the palm side surface and is disposed between the firstsurface region and the second surface region such that the first and second surface regions are in opposition. The medical device is movable between a first default configuration and a second configuration. Movement between the first default and second configuration includes the constriction region pulling the opposing first and second surface regions of the palm side surface towards each other to bend and maintain the MCP joint to a desired angle.

[0007] In some implementations, the medical device further includes a finger region of the flexible outer surface, the finger region defining at least one finger opening. In some implementations, the finger region extends over a proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint.

[0008] In some implementations, the medical device further includes a separation region including a rigid material disposed between adjacent finger openings, the separation region is configured to prevent skin-to-skin contact between fingers of the user.

[0009] In some implementations, the medical device further includes a rigid section extending over the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint, wherein, in the first default configuration, the medical device maintains the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint in a substantially straight configuration.

[0010] In some implementations, the constriction region includes at least one thread coupled to a cinching mechanism configured to pull the opposing first and second surface regions of the palm side surface of the device towards each other.

[0011] In some implementations, the desired angle of the MCP joint is in the range of 30 to 90 degrees inclusive.

[0012] In some implementations, the medical device further includes an extension region on a back side surface of the flexible outer surface opposite the palm side surface, the extension region including an elastic material allowing the back side surface to stretch towards the first default configuration. In some implementations, the device is disposable.

[0013] Another implementation of the present disclosure is a glove including a flexible body, a plurality of finger sleeves, a wrist opening, and a constriction region. The flexible body includes a top surface (e.g., a dorsal or back side surface) covering at least one MCP joint of a hand and a bottom surface (e.g., a volar or palm side surface). The plurality of finger sleeves includes a first finger sleeve and a second finger sleeve integrally formed with and extending from the flexible body. At least the first finger sleeve includes a separator disposed adjacent to the second finger sleeve. The wrist opening is defined by the flexible body opposite from the plurality of finger sleeves. The constriction region on the bottomsurface of the flexible body is configured to urge the plurality of finger sleeves in a first direction towards the bottom surface and the wrist opening.

[0014] In some implementations, the glove is movable between a resting configuration and a forced configuration. In the resting configuration, the constriction region pulls a user's fingers in the first direction such that the at least one MCP joint is bent at a fist angle and at least one proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint is straight. The resting configuration is the default position of the glove. In the forced configuration, the user either opens or closes the hand to move the glove away from the default resting configuration. The flexible body stretches to accommodate movement.

[0015] In some implementations, the glove further includes an expansion region on the top surface of the flexible body configured to facilitate movement of the plurality of finger sleeves in the first direction. In some implementations, the separator includes a rubber material configured to prevent skin to skin contact between adjacent fingers.

[0016] In some implementations, the flexible body includes a first material and the constriction region includes a second material, the first material being more flexible than the second material. In some implementations, the constriction region includes a cinching thread (e.g., suture thread, laces, etc.) configured to pull adjacent sections of the constriction region towards each other to urge the plurality of finger sleeves in the first direction. In some implementations, the constriction region is narrower in shape adjacent to a thumb side of the bottom surface compared to a pinky side of the bottom surface.

[0017] In some implementations, the glove further includes at least one straightener piece disposed on the first finger sleeve and extending over a PIP joint. The at least one straightener piece is configured to maintain the PIP joint in a linear / straight configuration.

[0018] In some implementations, a thumb of the hand is free to abduct, extend, or oppose.

[0019] Another implementation of the present disclosure is a glove configured to preposition a user's hand in a desired position. The glove includes a glove body including a flexible material, a plurality of fingers extending from and integrally formed with the glove body, at least one intermediate region separating adjacent fingers and including a material thicker than the glove body, and a contracting region on a palm side of the glove body. The glove is movable between a default configuration and a stretched configuration. In the default configuration, the contracting region pulls adjacent regions of the glove body towards each other to urge and maintain the plurality of fingers towards a wrist end of the glove such that ametacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint is held at a desired angle. In the stretched configuration, the glove body stretches such that the MCP joints are temporarily moved to an angle different than the desired angle.

[0020] In some implementations, the glove further includes a plurality of rigid members extending along the plurality of fingers such that, in the default configuration, a proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint is urged and maintained substantially straight. In some implementations, the glove further includes a flexible region on a back side of the glove body opposite of the contracting region.

[0021] Additional advantages will be set forth in part in the description which follows or may be learned by practice. The advantages will be realized and attained by means of the elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive, as claimed.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] FIG. 1 shows an image of a cotton glove on a hand with angles diagrammed as a reference for joint angles.

[0023] FIG. 2 shows a glove on the left volar side of the hand, according to one implementation.

[0024] FIG. 3 shows the glove of FIG. 2 viewed from the left dorsal side of the hand.

[0025] FIG. 4 shows a glove on the left volar side of the hand, according to another implementation.

[0026] FIG. 5 shows the glove of FIG. 4 viewed from the left dorsal side of the hand.

[0027] FIG. 6 shows an image of an example implementation of a glove, according to one implementation.

[0028] FIG. 7 shows an image of the left volar side of a glove, according to another implementation.

[0029] FIG. 8 shows the glove of FIG. 7 viewed from the left dorsal side.

[0030] FIG. 9 shows the glove of FIGS. 7-8 worn on a user’s hand in a default configuration, according to one implementation.

[0031] FIG. 10 shows a glove including rigid and semi-rigid sections on a back side surface of the glove, according to one implementation.

[0032] FIG. 11 shows a glove having a plurality of hooks on the front side surface of the glove, according to one implementation.

[0033] Various objects, aspects, features, and advantages of the disclosure will become more apparent and better understood by referring to the detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters identify corresponding elements throughout. In the drawings, like reference numbers generally indicate identical, functionally similar, and / or structurally similar elements.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] Disclosed herein are medical devices used for treating a hand condition (e.g., surgical and non-surgical applications). For example, the present disclosure relates to medical devices used for post-operative rehabilitation of a patient’s hand and upper extremities.

[0035] Hand injuries account for approximately 20% of emergency room encounters. These injuries are often initially managed by healthcare providers without expertise in hand injuries or the critical need for timely management given the complexity of the hand. Early management is linked to preventing permanent disability from dysfunction and has a significant socioeconomic impact. An important factor in this process is the safe positioning of the digits and thumb to prevent soft-tissue contracture, acute edema, and protection of repaired structures.

[0036] The gold standard of care is the use of the Edinburgh Position, also known as the position of safe immobilization (POSI) or the “intrinsic plus” position in which the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints are flexed approximately to 90 degrees, interphalangeal (IP) joints are in 5 to 10 degrees of flexion and the thumb is widely abducted and extended. The optimal position and preferred method for achieving this is debated and varies depending on diagnosis, but the general concept of favoring MCP flexion overextension and comfortable IP extension (slight) flexion is generally accepted. In addition to acute trauma, post-surgery reconstruction benefits from this concept.

[0037] Post-surgery, the skin on the back of the hand may swell, forcing the fingers backward and creating stiffness. Over time, the fingers lose their ability to flex at the MCP joints. Additionally, without proper positioning, a user may experience muscle fatigue (e.g.,in the lumbricals) when performing manual labor. The pre-positioning of the MCP joints in the intrinsic plus position prevents complications during rehabilitation (e.g., stiffness of the joints, and fatigue on the intrinsic muscles).

[0038] A wide range of devices exist that include static and dynamic orthoses, external fixators, and various rehabilitation modalities to support the healing process, reduce edema and promote function. However, existing devices fail to adequately support the MCP joints of the hand while allowing functional mobility. Factors contributing to these shortcomings include variability in hand size, accessibility to appropriate prefabricated or custom orthoses due to availability or cost, or patient compliance due to discomfort or feasibility.

[0039] While existing devices may provide gloves having rubber bands or string systems attached to the fingertips to flex the PIP joints and the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joints, those devices are ineffective at bending the MCP joints. The disclosed device provides adequate support and bending angle to the MCP joints to facilitate recovery and reduce pressure on the lumbrical muscles. Furthermore, existing devices that do bend the MCP joints include plaster or other rigid material casts. These casts may keep the MCP joints at a desired angle. However, they are rigid devices that provide little to no mobility for the patient.Furthermore, existing devices are difficult to install and implement post-surgery. In contrast, the disclosed device is easily donned post-surgery and provides a flexible solution for the patient to bend their hand and generally accomplish everyday tasks as normal. Notably, the contemplated glove urges the hand towards a default position wherein the MCP joints are bent, but the glove is flexible to allow movement away from the default position.

[0040] Disclosed herein is a semi-rigid, flexible glove with strategically placed seams, rubber inserts, and a palmar cinching system for promoting the POSI in such a way as to allow for adjustability, comfort, and ease of movement. The devices disclosed herein support the preferred positional support of gentle MCP flexion, comfortable IP extension, and thumb abduction that allows an active range of motion rather than strict immobilization.Additionally, the disclosed gloves can be used in conjunction with other interventions, such as rigid orthoses after trauma or surgery.

[0041] Referring generally to the figures, a glove or medical device to be worn on a user’s hand is shown, according to various implementations. The glove may be used for non- surgical and / or surgical hand conditions (e.g., dorsal hand burns, flexor tendon repair, metacarpal fracture, lymphedema, etc.). The glove is configured to adequately support theuser’s or patient’s hand (e.g., during post-operative rehabilitation). The glove includes a built- in constriction region (e.g., a seam or a cinch) that applies pressure to bend the metacarpophalangeal joints (MCP joints). For example, the glove may urge the MCP joints towards a desired angle with respect to the palm of the hand. Other aspects of the glove may urge other anatomical structures of the hand in other desired directions or angles as needed (e.g., the thumb or the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joints with angles as shown in FIG. 1).

[0042] In one implementation, the glove or medical device disclosed herein may be donned and used immediately following a hand operation or other hand-related procedure. The glove provides a fast and accessible means of post-operative positioning of the patient’s hand. In some implementations, the glove may comprise a fabric appropriate for wound management. In some implementations, the glove may be a disposable and cheap alternative to other, more permanent devices. For example, the glove may be donned immediately following surgery and may be worn for only a week before disposal. In other implementations (e.g., outpatient applications), the glove includes a more robust material capable of repeated use (e.g., rubber, leather, cloth, and / or other materials capable of everyday use for longer than a week).

[0043] In some implementations, the patient’s hand is positioned in the POSI or the “intrinsic plus” position to preserve ligament relationships. The “intrinsic plus” position is defined by the MCP joints being bent to a desired angle (e.g., in the range of 30-90 degrees) with respect to a plane associated with the palm of the hand. Furthermore, the “intrinsic plus” position may be further defined by the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joints of the hand being substantially straight (e.g., in the range of 0 to 15 degrees) with respect to the metacarpus. The pre-positioning of the glove urges the user’s hand towards a default position when at rest, but it allows for free movement of the hand when desired.

[0044] Various objects, aspects, features, and advantages of the disclosed device will become more apparent and better understood by referring to the flowing examples taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.Example 1

[0045] FIGS. 2 and 3 show a medical device or glove 100 worn on a patient’s left hand 10, according to one implementation. FIG. 2 shows the volar side 12 of the hand 10 while FIG. 3 shows the dorsal side 14 of the hand 10.

[0046] The glove 100 includes a flexible outer surface 102 extending over a palm 16 of the hand 10 to define a palm side surface 104. The palm side surface 104 of the flexible outersurface 102 includes a first surface region 106 adjacent to and covering the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints 18 of the hand 10. The first surface region 106 is generally closer to the fingers 20 of the hand 10. The palm side surface 104 further includes a second surface region 108 adjacent to a wrist opening 110 defined by the flexible outer surface 102. The wrist opening 110 surrounds a wrist 22.

[0047] The glove 100 further includes a constriction region 120 that is disposed between the first surface region 106 and the second surface region 108. As shown in FIG. 2, the constriction region 120 is generally centered on the palm side surface 104 over the palm 16 of the hand 10. The constriction region 120 thus divides the palm side surface 104 such that the first surface region 106 and the second surface region 108 are in opposition. The constriction region 120 includes a generally wedge-shaped portion having a narrow region adjacent to the thumb and a wider region adjacent to the pinky. However, in other implementations, the constriction region may have a different shape (e.g., rectangular, elliptical, circular, square, oblong, or a shape comprising several discrete constriction regions).

[0048] The constriction region 120 is generally configured to pull the opposing first surface region 106 and second surface region 108 of the palm side surface 104 towards each other. As further described herein, the pulling of the opposing first and second surface regions 106, 108 via the constriction regionl20 urges the MCP joints to bend towards a desired angle (e.g., in the range of 30 to 90 degrees with respect to the palm 16).

[0049] In some implementations, the constriction region 120 includes an elastic material configured to pull the opposing first and second surface regions 106, 108 towards each other. In some implementations, the constriction region includes a thread coupled to a cinching mechanism configured to pull the opposing first and second surface regions towards each other. For example, such a cinching mechanism is shown in FIG. 8.

[0050] The flexible outer surface 102 defines several finger openings 112 adjacent to the first surface region 106. Several fingers 20 are disposed within the finger openings 112 in FIGS. 2 and 3. The area of the flexible outer surface 102 having the plurality of finger openings 112 may generally be defined as a finger region.

[0051] The glove 100 further includes separation regions 114 comprising a rigid material. The separation regions 114 are defined between adjacent finger openings 112. The separation regions 114 are configured to prevent skin to skin contact between adjacent fingers 20 on thehand 10. The separation regions 114 positioned between the thumb and the index finger also maintains a web spacing therebetween.

[0052] In some implementations, the separation regions 114 are removable. In some implementations, the separation regions 114 include a removable material that is rigid and / or firm to forcefully keep open the webspace between adjacent fingers. In some implementations, the rigid material of the separations regions 114 is added to the glove 100 via one or more pockets embedded into the glove. In some implementations, the rigid material of the separations regions 114 is added to the glove 100 via an external coupling mechanism (e.g., a hook-and-loop fastener such as a Velcro system).

[0053] As shown in FIG. 3, the flexible outer surface 102 includes a back side surface 116 that is opposite the palm side surface 104. For example, the back side surface 116 covers the dorsal side 14 of the hand 10 and is generally symmetrical to the palm side surface 104.

[0054] The back side surface 116 of the flexible outer surface 102 includes a third surface region 132 adjacent to and covering the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints 18 of the hand 10. The third surface region 132 is generally closer to the fingers 20 of the hand 10. The back side surface 116 further includes a fourth surface region 134 adjacent to the wrist opening 110.

[0055] The back side surface 116 further includes an extension region 130 that is disposed between the third surface region 132 and the fourth surface region 134. As shown in FIG. 3, the extension region 130 is generally centered on the back side surface 116. The extension region 130 divides the back side surface 116 such that the third surface region 132 and the fourth surface region 134 are in opposition.

[0056] The extension region 130 may comprise a flexible or elastic material. The extension region 130 is generally configured to expand or stretch, allowing the third and fourth surface regions 132, 134 of the back side surface 116 to move away from each other. For example, the third and fourth surface regions 132, 134 of the back side surface 116 may move away from each other while the opposing first and second surface regions 106, 108 of the palm side surface 104 move towards each other.

[0057] In some implementations, the third surface region of the back side surface (on the dorsal side of the hand adjacent to the MCP joints) includes a built-in pocket. In some implementations, a pocket on the back side surface extends over the fingers of the hand (e.g., the metacarpals bones). Such an implementation including a pocket may be sized andconfigured to accept an insert into the pocket to cover at least a portion of the MCP joints and / or the metacarpals bones. For example, a foam or padding insert may be inserted into the pocket to put pressure on the top of the metacarpals bones. Pressure in this anatomical region may help with scar remodeling and with limiting the space available for fluid to accumulate, which can reduce swelling. Such a pocket may be formed by a flexible material similar to that of the flexible surface of the glove, and it may include a closure (e.g., a hook and loop closure).

[0058] In use, the glove 100 is movable between a first default configuration and a second configuration. The first default configuration is accomplished by the constriction region 120 pulling the opposing first surface region 106 and second surface region 108 of the palm side surface 104 of the flexible outer surface 102 towards each other. The constriction may be accomplished immediately after donning the glove 100 (e.g., via cinching of threads or wires), or the constriction may be inherent to the glove 100 (e.g., elastic material pulling inwards on the opposing first and second surface regions 106, 108). Constriction of the palm side surface 104 in this manner pulls the finger region (and the fingers 20 therein) towards the wrist opening 110 (and the wrist 22 therein), thus bending the MCP joints 18. The first default configuration may be the “intrinsic plus” position defined by the MCP joints being bent to a desired angle (e.g., in the range of 30-90 degrees with respect to a plane associated with the palm of the hand).

[0059] In the first default configuration, the extension region 130 may correspondingly expand to match the rate or distance of constriction of the constriction region 120. For example, the extension may be accomplished immediately after donning the glove 100 (e.g., via cinching of threads or wires), or the expansion may be inherent to the glove 100 (e.g., elastic material easily pulled outwards by the opposing third and fourth surface regions 132, 134). In some implementations, the extension region is merely the flexible outer surface without any material change.

[0060] The pre-positioning of the glove in the first default configuration urges the user’s hand towards the default configuration or position when at rest. In other words, the constriction region 120 pulls on the user’s fingers 20 such that the user’s MCP joints 18 are bent to a desired angle in a default state. As the patient performs everyday activities, their hand 10 will be automatically placed in the default position with bent MCP joints 18. For example, the thumb is completely movable in the first default configuration. The thumb canbe abducted, extended, and / or opposed while the glove 100 is worn. The thumb can be used to grasp objects and generally perform activities as normal.

[0061] The glove 100 is easily movable from the first default configuration to a second configuration defined by the MCP joints 18 being bent to a different angle than the desired angle. For example, a user may open their hand 10 wider, increasing the relative angle of the MCP joints 18 between the plane of the palm 16 and the plane of the fingers 20. In other examples, a user may close their hand (e.g., making a fist), decreasing the relative angle of the MCP joints 18 between the plane of the palm 16 and the plane of the fingers 20. However, the flexible outer surface 102 of the glove 100 allows for such movement. Then, once the movement is complete and the user relaxes their hand 10, the glove 100 urges the hand 10 back to the first default configuration with the MCP joints 18 bent at the desired angle.Example 2

[0062] FIGS. 4 and 5 show a medical device or glove 200 worn on a patient’s left hand 10, according to another implementation. FIG. 4 shows the volar side 12 of the hand 10 while FIG. 5 shows the dorsal side 14 of the hand 10. The glove 200 is substantially similar in structure and function to the glove 100 of FIGS. 2 and 3 such that like reference numerals denote like elements. The differences between the implementations are described below.

[0063] The glove 200 includes a flexible outer surface 102 having a palm side surface 104 and a back side surface 116, similar to the glove 100. The flexible outer surface 102 of the glove 200 includes a first surface region 106 on the palm side surface 104 and a third surface region 132 on the back side surface 116, each adjacent to a finger region. The flexible outer surface 102 defines a plurality of finger openings 112.

[0064] However, the distance between the several finger openings 112 and the MCP joints 18 of the glove 200 is greater than the same distance in the glove 100. In other words, the glove 200 includes finger sleeves 240 that extend from adjacent the MCP joint 18 along the fingers 20 to cover the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint 24. The finger sleeves 240 cover the finger region of the hand 10 with the separation regions 114 in between each finger sleeve 240 extending to the finger opening 112 of each finger sleeve 240.

[0065] Each finger sleeve 240 includes a rigid section 242 on the dorsal side, or back side surface 116, of the glove 200. The rigid section 242 may include a rigid, rubber material similar to that of the separation regions 114. The rigid section 242 extends over the PIP joints24 of the hand 10. The rigid section 242 is configured to keep the PIP joints 24 straight in the first default configuration. In some implementations, the rigid section 242 covering the PIP joints is a removable rigid or semi-rigid section (e.g., coupled to the flexible outer surface via hook- and- loop fasteners or other fasteners).

[0066] In use, the glove 200 operates similarly to the glove 100. However, the first default configuration of the glove 200 is further defined by the PIP joints 24 being urged to a substantially straight or linear configuration (e.g., having an angle in the range of 0 to 15 degrees) (e.g., the angle being with respect to the metacarpus). Thus, in the first default configuration of the glove 200, the user’s MCP joints 18 are held at a desired bent angle while the user’s PIP joints 24 are held at a desired straight angle. Such a default configuration provides an advantageous position for healing during post-op recovery.

[0067] Furthermore, the user may still move their hand to a second configuration wherein the PIP joints 24 are bent to a greater angle instead of being substantially straight. The flexible outer surface 102, including that of the finger sleeves 240, and the rubber material of the rigid section 242 enable such movement (e.g., to a closed fist). However, the hand 10 will be moved back to the default first configuration when the movement is complete.Example 3FIG. 6 shows an example image of a glove device of this disclosure, according to one implementation. The glove 300 of FIG. 6 is a prototype adapted from an existing device. The constriction region 320 of the glove 300 has been manufactured using suture thread through the palm side surface 304. The sutures pull the opposing sides of the palm side surface 304 towards each other, as elsewhere described with reference to other example devices. The flexible outer surface of the glove enables the back side surface to stretch corresponding to the constriction by the sutures. In particular, the palm side surface 304 is permanently altered, via the sutures, to pull the opposing sides of the palm side surface 304 towards each other. Thus, the glove 300 is configured to provide a permanent, semi-permanent, or non-adjustable flexed position (e.g., the “intrinsic plus” position) as the default position. Thus, a hand donning the glove 300 will be urged to a first default configuration wherein the MCP joints are bent to a desired angle. The glove 300 may provide maximal flexion at all times, which may be used in treating intrinsic muscular atrophy or clawing of the hand.Example 4

[0068] FIGS. 7-9 show another example glove 400 having a cinching mechanism. The glove 400 is substantially similar in structure and function to the glove 100 of FIGS. 2 and 3 such that like reference numerals denote like elements. The differences between the implementations are described below.

[0069] The glove 400 includes a flexible outer surface 402 having a palm side surface 404 and a back side surface 416. The palm side surface 404 includes a first surface region 406 configured to be adjacent to and cover the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints of the hand. The palm side surface 404 further includes a second surface region 408 adjacent to a wrist opening 410 dined by the flexible outer surface 402.

[0070] The back side surface 416 of the glove 400 also includes extension region 430 similar to the extension regions elsewhere described. The back side surface 416 also includes a rigid section 442 configured to extend over the PIP joints of a hand, similar to those in the glove of FIG. 5.

[0071] In some implementations, the rigid or semi-rigid material covering the PIP joints can extend proximally to other portions of the glove. For example, FIG. 10 shows a glove 400b that is a variation of the glove 400. The glove 400b includes the back side surface 416 including the rigid sections 442 extending along the PIP joint portions of the glove 400b. Each of the rigid sections 442 may maintain the PIP joints of a hand in a linear configuration. The rigid sections 442 may further create a shield from trauma and may extend further down the back of the hand and across the metacarpals to create a shield from trauma. For example, a shield section 490 is shown in FIG. 10 extending across the back hand portion of the glove 400b. The shield section 490 includes a semi-rigid material that may be built into the fabric on the back side surface 416 of the glove. In some implementations, the rigid sections 442 and the shield section 490 are coupled to and / or integrally formed with each other, extending over a larger portion of the back side surface 416. In some implementations, the rigid sections 442 and / or the shield section 490 are inserts removably couplable to the glove 400b.

[0072] The glove 400b of FIG. 10 further includes a wrist opening 411 similar to the wrist opening 410 of gloves described elsewhere herein. However, the glove 440b includes a wrist portion 413 extending between the “hand portion” of the glove 400b (e.g., that includes the back side surface 416) and the wrist opening 411. The wrist portion 413 extends proximally from the base of a user’s hand to the forearm. The wrist portion 413 surrounds the wrist and / or a portion of the forearm. The wrist portion 413 includes a rigid material (e.g., similarto that of the shield section 490) to provide additional support for the user’ s wrist. For example, the wrist portion 413 may prevent the wrist from flexing or maintain the wrist in a neutral position. Thus, the glove 400b is configured to bias the user’s fingers to the “intrinsic plus” position and prevent flexing of the user’s wrist. In some implementations, a glove device described herein may be provide in a kit including a separate wrist supporting device. For example, the wrist supporting device may include a thumb loop securement portion configured to fit underneath or on top of the glove device.

[0073] Referring back to FIGS. 7-9, the glove 400 includes a constriction region 420 that is disposed between the first surface region 406 and the second surface region 408. The constriction region 420 of the glove 400 includes a cinching mechanism 450. The cinching mechanism 450 includes an opening 452 defined between the first surface region 406 and the second surface region 408. The cinching mechanism 450 further includes a plurality of hooks 454 disposed on either side of the opening 452 (e.g., coupled to each of the first surface region 406 and the second surface region 408).

[0074] The cinching mechanism 450 further includes a flexible cord 456 extending through each of the plurality of hooks 454. The flexible cord 456 extends through the plurality of hooks 454 in a serpentine or alternating pattern forming a cross or “X” pattern. The cinching mechanism 450 further includes a stopper 458 coupled to the ends of the flexible cord 456. The stopper is configured to fix the length of the flexible cord 456 on either side of the stopper 458 (e.g., to maintain tension in the flexible cord 456).

[0075] In some implementations, a coupler is provided on the back side surface 416, the coupler configured to attach to and / or retain the free end of the flexible cord 456. For example, a coupler may include a Velcro member and / or a closable latch configured to retain one or more of the free end of the flexible cord 456 and the stopper 458 attached thereto.

[0076] In some implementations, the tension provided by the flexible cord 456 may be adjusted to obtain the desired angle of the hand and the MCP joints. In some implementations, the tension provided by the cinching mechanism 450 is preconfigured based on a calculated or estimated MCP joint angle. In some implementations, the tension provided by the cinching mechanism 450 is preconfigured based on the length of the flexible cord 456 on one side of the stopper 458. In some implementations, multiple levels of tension are provided by the cinching mechanism 450 for different levels of support.

[0077] In use, pulling the flexible cord 456 tight closes the opposing sides of the palm side surface 404 on each other, reducing the overall width of the constriction region 420. The stopper 458 may be opened and closed to allow the flexible cord 456 to extend away or towards the constriction region 420. For example, the stopper 458 may be opened as the constriction region 420 is moved to the default or constricted position. The stopper 458 may be closed to maintain tension in the flexible cord 456 as the constriction region 420 is in the default or constricted position, as shown in FIG. 9.

[0078] When the cinching mechanism 450 of the glove 400 is tightened, the fingers of a user’s hand are move to and / or biased towards the default, “intrinsic plus” position elsewhere described herein. Additionally, the thumb of the user’s hand is moved to and / or biased in a direction towards the fingers of the user’s hand. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, the thumb may be biased to a position substantially aligned with the fingers and the angle thereof. In some implementations, the position and / or angle of the thumb may be affected by the arrangement of the cinching mechanism 450 and the plurality of hooks 454 thereof. For example, one or more hooks of the plurality of hooks may be disposed adjacent to the base or the thumb, the middle of the thumb, or the space between the thumb and the index finger. In some implementations, the plurality of rings are in a different arrangement than that shown in FIG. 7 (e.g., closer to the space between the index finger and the thumb). In some implementations, the thumb is pulled by the cinching mechanism to be more adducted than the position shown in FIG. 9. For example, the thumb may be biased to a position with a greater angle of abduction and / or more opposition.

[0079] In some implementations, the cinching mechanism is a spooled ratcheting mechanism configured to pull and tighten the thread from a central location (e.g., via rotation of a handle). In other implementations, the flexible cord may include a thread, suture, wire, or other string-like material extending back and forth across a constriction region through corresponding holes defined in the fabric / surface. In some implementations, the plurality of hooks may be through holes in the fabric and may include rigid eyelets.

[0080] In some implementations of the glove described herein, an additional strap or loop mechanism is provided at the base of the fingers to facilitate full flexion of the hand. For example, FIG. 11 shows a glove 400c that is substantially similar to the glove 400 or other gloves described herein, except as described below. The glove 400c includes a palm side surface 404 with a constriction region 421. The glove 400c includes a plurality of finger portions 441 each configured to receive and cover at least a portion of a finger of a userdonning the glove 400c. The glove 400c further includes a set of loops or hooks 451 positions along each of the finger portions 441 (e.g., proximal to the PIP joints of a hand). The hooks 451 are substantially similar in structure to the plurality of hooks 454 of the glove 400.

[0081] As shown in FIG. 11, each of the finger portions 441 includes two of the hooks 451. However, in other implementations, a different number and / or orientation of hooks is contemplated. The hooks 451 are positioned adjacent to the user’s fingers and are configured to connect to forcibly maintain full flexion of the hand. A cord or string may be threaded through the hooks 451 and another portion of a cinching mechanism (e.g., the cinching mechanism 450). For example, a cord may thread through the hooks 451 and another set of hooks disposed more proximally along the glove (e.g., with the same or an additional flexible cord as in FIGS. 7-9). In other implementations, a cord may thread through the hooks 451 and a portion of the wrist opening.

[0082] Referring back to FIGS. 7-9, the glove 400 further includes a strap 460 coupled to the wrist opening 410. The strap 460 is a couplable strap having at least one D-ring for tightening and maintaining a tight configuration of the strap 460. The strap 460 further includes a hook-and-loop fastener (e.g., Velcro) on one or more surfaces to facilitate the tightening and maintenance of the tight configuration. The strap 460 may include a flexible material or a non-flexible material.

[0083] Further examples of the disclosed medical device and the disclosed glove are shown and described in the drawings and the images presented therein. It is understood that various combinations or permutations of the elements presented in the specification and drawings are contemplated by this disclosure. Therefore, one or more of the features presented in the glove(s) shown and described herein may be incorporated with any of the above-described features and / or those shown in the drawings.Configuration of Certain Implementations

[0084] In some implementations, the flexible outer surface may be referred to as the flexible body of the glove. In some implementations, the palm side surface may be referred to as a bottom or volar surface. In some implementations, the back side surface may be referred to as a top surface or a dorsal surface. In some implementations, the constriction region is referred to as an intermediate region. In some implementations, the constriction region pulls the fingers in a first direction towards the wrist opening. In some implementations, the first default configuration is referred to as a resting configuration, and the second configuration isreferred to as a forced configuration. In some implementations, the rigid section of the finger sleeve is referred to as a straightener piece.

[0085] The construction and arrangement of the systems and methods as shown in the various implementations are illustrative only. Although only a few implementations have been described in detail in this disclosure, many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes, and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.). For example, the position of elements may be reversed or otherwise varied, and the nature or number of discrete elements or positions may be altered or varied. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure. The order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative implementations. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the implementations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0086] It is to be understood that the methods and systems are not limited to specific synthetic methods, specific components, or to particular compositions. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular implementations only and is not intended to be limiting.

[0087] As used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” one particular value, and / or to “about” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another implementation includes from the one particular value and / or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another implementation. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint.

[0088] “Optional” or “optionally” means that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description includes instances where said event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not. Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the word “comprise” and variations of the word, such as “comprising” and “comprises,” means “including but not limited to,” and is not intended toexclude, for example, other additives, components, integers or steps. “Exemplary” means “an example of’ and is not intended to convey an indication of a preferred or ideal implementation. “Such as” is not used in a restrictive sense, but for explanatory purposes.

[0089] Disclosed are components that can be used to perform the disclosed methods and systems. These and other components are disclosed herein, and it is understood that when combinations, subsets, interactions, groups, etc. of these components are disclosed that while specific reference of each various individual and collective combinations and permutation of these may not be explicitly disclosed, each is specifically contemplated and described herein, for all methods and systems. This applies to all aspects of this application including, but not limited to, steps in disclosed methods. Thus, if there are a variety of additional steps that can be performed it is understood that each of these additional steps can be performed with any specific implementation or combination of implementations of the disclosed methods.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A medical device comprising: a flexible outer surface configured to extend over at least a palm, forming a palm side surface comprising (i) a first surface region adjacent to and covering a metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint of a user’s hand, and (ii) a second surface region adjacent to a wrist opening defined by the flexible outer surface; and a constriction region on the palm side surface, the constriction region disposed between the first surface region and the second surface region such that the first and second surface regions are in opposition, wherein the medical device is movable between a first default configuration and a second configuration, wherein, movement between the first default and second configuration includes the constriction region pulling the opposing first and second surface regions of the palm side surface towards each other to bend and maintain the MCP joint to a desired angle.

2. The medical device of claim 1, further comprising a finger region of the flexible outer surface, the finger region defining at least one finger opening.

3. The medical device of claim 2, further comprising a separation region comprising a rigid material disposed between adjacent finger openings, the separation region configured to prevent skin to skin contact between fingers of the user.

4. The medical device of claim 2, wherein the finger region extends over a proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint.

5. The medical device of claim 4, further comprising a rigid section extending over the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint, wherein, in the first default configuration, the medical device maintains the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint in a substantially straight configuration.

6. The medical device of claim 1, wherein the constriction region comprises at least one thread coupled to a cinching mechanism configured to pull the opposing first and second surface regions of the palm side surface of the device towards each other.

7. The medical device of claim 1, wherein the desired angle of the MCP joint is in the range of 30 to 90 degrees inclusive.

8. The medical device of claim 1, further comprising an extension region on a back side surface of the flexible outer surface opposite the palm side surface, the extension region comprising an elastic material allowing the back side surface to stretch towards the first default configuration.

9. The medical device of claim 1, wherein the device is disposable.

10. A glove comprising: a flexible body comprising a top surface covering at least one MCP joint of a hand and a bottom surface; a plurality of finger sleeves including a first finger sleeve and a second finger sleeve, integrally formed with and extending from the flexible body, at least the first finger sleeve comprising a separator disposed adjacent to the second finger sleeve; a wrist opening defined by the flexible body opposite from the plurality of finger sleeves; and a constriction region on the bottom surface of the flexible body configured to urge the plurality of finger sleeves in a first direction towards the bottom surface and the wrist opening.

11. The glove of claim 10, wherein the glove if movable between a resting configuration and a forced configuration, wherein, in the resting configuration, the constriction region pulls a user’s fingers in the first direction such that the at least one MCP joint is bent at a fist angle and at least one proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint is straight, the resting configuration being a default position of the glove, and wherein, in the forced configuration, the user either opens or closes the hand to move the glove away from the default resting configuration, wherein the flexible body stretches to accommodate movement.

12. The glove of claim 10, further comprising:an expansion region on the top surface of the flexible body configured to facilitate movement of the plurality of finger sleeves in the first direction.

13. The glove of claim 10, wherein the flexible body comprises a first material and the constriction region comprises a second material, the first material being more flexible than the second material.

14. The glove of claim 10, wherein the separator comprises a rubber material configured to prevent skin to skin contact between adjacent fingers.

15. The glove of claim 10, wherein the constriction region comprises a cinching thread configured to pull adjacent sections of the constriction region towards each other to urge the plurality of finger sleeves in the first direction.

16. The glove of claim 10, wherein the constriction region is narrower in shape adjacent to a thumb side of the bottom surface compared to a pinky side of the bottom surface.

17. The glove of claim 10, further comprising at least one straightener piece disposed on the first finger sleeve and extending over a PIP joint, wherein the at least one straightener piece is configured to maintain the PIP joint in a linear / straight configuration.

18. The glove of claim 10, wherein a thumb of the hand is free to abduct, extend, or oppose.

19. A glove configured to pre-position a user’s hand in a desired position, the glove comprising: a glove body comprising a flexible material; a plurality of fingers extending from and integrally formed with the glove body; at least one intermediate region separating adjacent fingers and comprising a material thicker than the glove body; and a contracting region on a palm side of the glove body; wherein the glove is movable between a default configuration and a stretched configuration,wherein, in the default configuration, the contracting region pulls adjacent regions of the glove body towards each other to urge and maintain the plurality of fingers towards a wrist end of the glove such that a metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint is held at a desired angle; and wherein, in the stretched configuration, the glove body stretches such that the MCP joints are temporarily moved to an angle different than the desired angle.

20. The glove of claim 19, further comprising a plurality of rigid members extending along the plurality of fingers such that, in the default configuration, a proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint is urged and maintained substantially straight.

21. The glove of claim 19, further comprising a flexible region on a back side of the glove body opposite of the contracting region.

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