Ankle Orthosis Forefoot Module Anti-Supination Strap
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ankle stabilizing orthoses inadequately address the healing of midfoot ligaments and are often cumbersome and difficult to use, allowing deleterious foot movements that hinder proper recovery from ankle sprains.
Innovation Solution
An anatomically shaped ankle brace with a forefoot module and anti-drawer strap provides functional immobilization, combining anti-supination and anti-drawer actions to stabilize the midfoot area, while being easy to wear and adjust to clinical evolution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If known ankle orthoses with anti-supination action are used, then lateral ligament repair is promoted, but midfoot ligament healing is inadequate and deleterious foot movements are allowed
Solution Approach 1:
The orthosis is divided into distinct functional modules: an ankle support portion for anti-supination action and a forefoot module with anti-drawer strap for midfoot stabilization. This segmentation allows each module to address specific ligament regions independently, ensuring both lateral and midfoot ligaments receive appropriate support without compromising healing.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds a new functional dimension by introducing the anti-drawer strap that acts in the antero-posterior direction, perpendicular to the traditional anti-supination action. This dimensional addition addresses midfoot ligament healing that was previously neglected by conventional orthoses designed only for lateral ligament support.
2Reliability
If elastic bandages or strapping are used for ankle sprain treatment, then immobilization is achieved, but the placement is complex and requires specialized personnel
Solution Approach 1:
The orthosis is designed as a self-applied device with intuitive fastening systems including Velcro straps and a pull-on forefoot module. The anatomical shaping and elastic materials allow the user to independently apply the device without specialized training, eliminating the need for professional personnel while maintaining effective immobilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The orthosis utilizes elastic textile materials and flexible components that conform to the foot's anatomy, allowing easy donning and doffing. The flexible construction with strategic reinforcement zones provides necessary immobilization while maintaining ease of application by the user.
3Reliability
If traditional ankle orthoses are used, then lateral ligament support is provided, but the device is cumbersome and difficult to wear
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the orthosis into a lightweight ankle support portion and a removable forefoot module, the design reduces overall bulk and improves wearability. Users can adjust or remove the forefoot module as clinical evolution progresses, providing adaptability while maintaining comfort during extended wear.
Solution Approach 2:
The orthosis employs elastic materials with varying degrees of stretch and firmness in different zones, optimized for both support and comfort. The adjustable straps and modular design allow parameter changes in tension and positioning to balance stabilization requirements with wearing comfort.
Data Source
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AI summary
The orthosis has a forefoot module comprising a ring (12) that surrounds forefoot of a patient and is provided with a latero metatarsal platform. The platform is supported against an edge of a lateral side of the foot, where the platform is provided with an insert made of plastic material. An end of an anti-slide strap (18) is connected to the platform and extends from the platform under a sub-metatarsal part of the foot, along a lateral face of the anklet (2), to surround a rear part of the foot until a medial part of the anklet on which an end of an anti-supination strap (19) is fixed.