Gait Re-training Device Medial Force Elastic Bands
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current rehabilitation methods for lower extremity musculoskeletal injuries are non-functional, failing to effectively strengthen knee, ankle, and hip muscles in a way that translates to improved gait during activities like running, walking, or jogging.
Innovation Solution
A gait re-training device and method that applies medial force via elastic bands on a motorized treadmill to strengthen ankle, knee, and hip muscles functionally, with varying resistance levels to accommodate individual needs and progress rehabilitation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional non-functional exercises are used for strengthening lower extremity muscles, then muscle strength can be improved, but the functional translation to gait improvement is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The device applies dynamic resistive forces through elastic bands that vary during the gait cycle, matching the natural movement patterns of walking, jogging, or running. This dynamic resistance provides functional strengthening that directly translates to improved gait mechanics rather than static muscle isolation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system independently targets different lower extremity muscle groups (ankle, knee, hip) with separate elastic band applications on each leg, allowing customized functional strengthening for specific muscle groups while maintaining overall gait coordination.
2Reliability
If standardized rehabilitation programs are used, then treatment consistency is maintained, but individualized progression and personalization are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows modification of resistance parameters through different elastic band selections and configurations, enabling progressive overload and individualized rehabilitation progression. Patients can advance through rehabilitation stages by adjusting band tension and resistance levels to match their recovery pace.
Solution Approach 2:
The device serves multiple rehabilitation functions within a single system: it can strengthen various muscle groups, provide progressive resistance training, and accommodate different activity intensities (walking, jogging, running) while maintaining consistent therapeutic principles.
3Adaptability or versatility
If functional exercises with varying resistance are implemented, then personalized rehabilitation is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses elastic bands as flexible resistance elements instead of complex mechanical resistance mechanisms. These bands provide variable resistance through their elastic properties alone, simplifying the device structure while enabling personalized resistance adjustments for different patient needs and progression stages.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Improves gait mechanics, allows for cardiovascular and musculoskeletal training, and provides personalized and progressive rehabilitation by effectively strengthening frontal plane stabilizing muscles during functional exercises.
Implementation Method 1
an embodiment of the present invention re-training device applies a medial force via elastic bands to each lower extremity independently
Data Source
AI summary
A gait device and method for rehabilitating or developing a subject's lower extremity. The device may include a movable belt configured for the subject to ambulate thereon; a track provided above the movable belt that is generally aligned with the movable belt; and a coupler that is configured to travel along the track and attach to the distal portion of the lower extremity of the subject while the subject is ambulating on the movable belt.