Hand Support with Counterforce Traction for Thumb Arthritis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current treatments for moderate to severe hand arthritis, such as thumb arthritis, often rely on invasive methods that either mask pain without addressing the underlying issue or require lengthy recovery times, and non-invasive options fail to effectively treat the source of the arthritis.
Innovation Solution
A hand support device that applies traction to the thumb joints by using a counterforce device connected to an anchor element, allowing incremental adjustment of the force to treat thumb arthritis non-invasively, focusing on the source of the arthritis rather than just alleviating pain.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If invasive surgical treatment is used to treat thumb arthritis, then the source of arthritis is effectively treated, but recovery time is lengthy and the procedure is invasive
Solution Approach 1:
The hand support device acts as an intermediary between the user and the joint, providing continuous distraction force through a wearable apparatus that includes a base component, anchor element, and counterforce device. This mediator approach allows effective treatment without direct surgical intervention, reducing recovery time while maintaining treatment reliability
2Reliability
If joint distraction is applied for extended period to treat osteoarthritis, then tissue structure modification occurs and disease progression halts, but the device must be worn continuously requiring long-term commitment
Solution Approach 1:
The hand support device is designed to be easily donned and doffed by the user themselves, with adjustable components that allow self-customization to anatomical variations. This self-service capability empowers patients to maintain long-term treatment adherence without requiring continuous medical supervision, making extended wear periods more manageable
3Ease of operation
If soft hand supports are used to provide freedom of movement, then ease of operation is improved, but immobilization capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The hand support device incorporates dynamic elements including an adjustable counterforce device that can be modified during use, and a retainer that can be positioned at different locations on the digit. This dynamic adjustability allows the device to transition between providing freedom of movement and ensuring stable immobilization based on treatment stage and patient needs
4Stability of the object's composition
If hard hand supports are used to provide superior immobilization, then joint stability is improved, but freedom of movement and ease of operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The hand support device applies immobilization force locally at specific anatomical points through the anchor element positioned on the digit and the counterforce device positioned on the hand or wrist. This localized approach provides stable joint immobilization where needed while leaving other areas free for normal movement and comfort
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
The hand support device provides a non-invasive means to treat thumb arthritis by creating traction, potentially modifying tissue structure and improving joint alignment, thereby reducing pain and improving hand function without the need for invasive procedures.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic element extending from the joint stabilizer and arranged to bias between the retainer and the joint stabilizer
Implementation Method 2
a counterforce device connected to the base component and the anchor element and arranged to generate a counterforce
Data Source
AI summary
A hand support including a base component arranged for securing to at least a portion of a hand, an anchor element adjustably connected to the base component and arranged for grasping a thumb, and a counterforce device connecting to the base component and the anchor element. The counterforce device arranged to generate a counterforce in combination with or against the base component and anchor element. The hand support may be arranged to provide traction for an extended period to remedy complications of the hand and associated joints.