Thumb Brace Strap System for CMC Joint Stabilization
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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 abnormal wear due to uneven 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 of the proximal end, aligning the thumb metacarpal bone with the trapezium bone and distributing load evenly across the joint.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a thumb brace with strap system is applied to stabilize the thumb metacarpal bone, then joint stability and alignment are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The brace is divided into separate functional components: a glove portion for base support and multiple independent elastic straps (first and second straps) that can be independently adjusted and attached at different locations. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while maintaining overall system stability without requiring a monolithic complex structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic straps are disposed within a cradle of the glove, with the cradle providing a structured framework that holds the straps in proper position. The strap system is nested within the glove structure, creating a compact integrated design that reduces overall device complexity while maintaining the necessary stabilization functions.
2Manufacturing precision
If elastic straps are used to extend and reduce the thumb metacarpal bone, then alignment precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic straps provide dynamic adjustment capability, allowing the distal end of the thumb metacarpal bone to be extended and the proximal end to be reduced according to the patient's specific alignment needs. The elasticity of the straps enables fine-tuning of the alignment force without requiring complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The cradle of the glove serves as an intermediary structure that positions and supports the elastic straps, ensuring they apply force at the correct locations on the thumb metacarpal bone. This intermediary structure simplifies the overall design by providing a built-in positioning mechanism rather than requiring separate complex alignment devices.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a comprehensive strap system is implemented to distribute load evenly, then joint protection is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Different straps are applied to different locations on the thumb metacarpal bone (distal end vs. proximal end), with each strap providing localized support and load distribution. This local quality approach ensures even load distribution across the joint while keeping each individual strap simple to apply and adjust.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic straps are designed to be self-adjusting through their elastic properties, automatically distributing load evenly across the joint interface as the thumb moves and bears weight. This self-service characteristic reduces the need for complex adjustment mechanisms while maintaining effective joint protection.
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 carpometacarpal joint, reducing pain and abnormal wear 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
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
Implementation Method 3
a glove comprising first, second, and third hook and loop fasteners
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 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, the first end is releasably attached to the first attachment region, and the second end is releasably attached to the first attachment region, whereby the first strap extends a distal end of a thumb metacarpal bone of a user of the brace; and 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 of a user of the brace.