Thumb Brace Elastic Strap Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current treatments for thumb CMC arthritis, such as splints and medication, do not adequately stabilize the thumb metacarpal bone during activities, leading to continued pain and joint wear due to improper alignment and distribution of forces across the carpometacarpal joint.
Innovation Solution
A thumb brace comprising a glove with a strap system that includes a first strap to extend the distal end of the thumb metacarpal bone and a second strap to reduce dorsal subluxation at the proximal end, aligning the thumb metacarpal bone with the trapezium bone and distributing load across the entire joint interface, thereby reducing pain and abnormal wear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If splints or braces are applied to the affected area, then pain and joint wear are reduced, but hand function and mobility are impeded
Solution Approach 1:
The brace uses a flexible glove as the base structure instead of rigid splints, allowing the hand to move freely while providing support. The glove material conforms to the hand shape and allows natural hand movements while maintaining joint alignment and stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The brace incorporates elastic straps that can dynamically adjust to hand movements and swelling, maintaining optimal support throughout the day. The elastic properties allow the brace to adapt to changing hand dimensions and movement requirements.
2Ease of operation
If the thumb metacarpal bone is left unstable, then hand mobility is maintained, but pain and abnormal wear on the joint continue
Solution Approach 1:
The first elastic strap is positioned and attached in advance to extend the distal end of the thumb metacarpal bone into proper alignment with the trapezium bone before hand activities begin. This preliminary alignment prevents abnormal wear during subsequent hand use.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic straps act as intermediaries between the glove and the thumb metacarpal bone, transmitting forces to maintain proper joint alignment. The straps mediate the interaction between the external glove structure and the internal bone, ensuring proper positioning without direct rigid contact.
3Device complexity
If forces are concentrated on a small area of the CMC joint, then the joint structure is simplified, but abnormal wear and pain increase
Solution Approach 1:
The second elastic strap distributes forces across the proximal end of the thumb metacarpal bone in a different spatial dimension, spreading the load over a larger area rather than concentrating it at a single point. This dimensional distribution of forces reduces pressure on any single area of the joint.
Solution Approach 2:
The second elastic strap provides a counterbalancing force to offset the concentrated loads on the CMC joint. By applying opposing forces through the strap system, the brace creates a balanced force distribution that prevents abnormal wear patterns.
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 thumb brace effectively stabilizes and aligns the thumb metacarpal bone, reducing pain and abnormal wear on the carpometacarpal joint by distributing forces evenly across the joint interface, allowing for engagement in activities without impeding hand function.
Implementation Method 1
a first elastic strap having a first end, a mid-portion, and a second end, wherein the mid-portion is disposed within a cradle of the glove between the thumb portion and an index finger portion of the glove, whereby the first strap extends a distal end of a thumb metacarpal bone
Implementation Method 2
a second elastic strap having a first end, a mid-portion, and a second end, wherein the first end is attached to the palm side of the glove and the second end is releasably attached to the second attachment region, whereby the second strap reduces a proximal end of a thumb metacarpal bone
Implementation Method 3
a pad attached to the glove and positioned proximate the second attachment region and adjacent the base of the thumb portion on the back side of the glove such that the pad cushions a CMC joint of the user of the brace from impact
Data Source
AI summary
A thumb brace comprising a glove having a thumb portion disposed between a palm side and a back side and comprising a first attachment region positioned adjacent a base of the thumb portion and a second attachment region positioned on the back side of the glove; a first elastic strap whereby the first strap extends a distal end of a thumb metacarpal bone of a user of the brace; a second elastic strap having a first end attached to the palm side of the glove and the second end releasably attached to the second attachment region, whereby the second strap reduces a proximal end of a thumb metacarpal bone of a user of the brace; and a pad attached to the glove such that the pad cushions a CMC joint of the user of the brace from impact.