Forearm Brace and Digit Immobilizer for Mobile Therapy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing therapeutic devices for upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders require users to remain stationary and use both hands, lacking a versatile, portable, and efficient solution for simultaneous stretching and strengthening of forearm muscles without immobilizing the digits for proper muscle orientation.
Innovation Solution
A modular therapeutic device comprising a brace and digit immobilizer connected by straps, allowing for adjustable immobilization of the hand and arm to facilitate both stretching and strengthening exercises while enabling the user to move around and use their free hand for other tasks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a user performs therapeutic exercises for forearm muscles using conventional methods, then the muscles can be stretched and strengthened, but the user must remain stationary and use both hands
Solution Approach 1:
The therapeutic device is divided into separate components: a wearable brace that attaches to the arm and a handheld controller. This segmentation allows the therapeutic function to be worn on the body while the controller can be used independently, enabling users to perform exercises without being stationary and freeing the other hand for additional support or tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The device enables self-administered therapy through the wearable brace with integrated sensors and actuators that automatically provide resistance and guidance. The system self-regulates the therapeutic parameters based on sensor feedback, eliminating the need for manual adjustment or stationary positioning with bilateral hand use.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a versatile therapeutic device is designed to provide both stretching and strengthening functions, then the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wearable brace incorporates universal components that serve multiple functions: sensors detect various motion parameters, actuators provide both passive stretching support and active resistance for strengthening, and the control system manages different exercise protocols. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated devices for stretching and strengthening.
Solution Approach 2:
The device employs dynamic elements including adjustable resistance levels, variable stretching ranges, and real-time parameter modification based on user feedback. The system can dynamically transition between stretching and strengthening modes, and adjust therapeutic parameters during exercise execution, providing versatility without requiring multiple fixed-function devices.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided herein are therapeutic devices for the manipulative treatment of soft tissue of the human body. The devices of the present disclosure comprise a brace comprising a curved body that partially or completely encompasses a portion of an arm, and a digit immobilizer comprising at least one plate to receive a hand in a flat position. The brace and the digit immobilizer are in communication with one another through at least one strap extending from the curved body of the brace to one of the plates of the digit immobilizer. Related methods of use and kits are further provided.