Patent Application
20200360756
The present disclosure relates to an exercise system having an exercise device and sliding board that can be used with rehabilitative exercises.
Patients often require rehabilitative exercises to strengthen and restore movement of their limbs following injury or surgery. Exercises may include movements that focus on certain muscles in need of strengthening or restoration of movement. Patients may be unable to perform certain movements, however, without supporting the target limb or supporting other limbs. For example, neurological patients and orthopedic patients may require lower extremity support for rehabilitation of knee, ankle, and hip joint movement exercises. Additionally, support devices may be needed to isolate movements among one or more defined joint movements, such that the movement exercise is limited to one or few joint movements.
Often, a patient is confined to a bed following a surgery so that they are required to perform any rehabilitative exercises in the bed. Also, some patients may try to use an exercise mat (e.g., compressible foam) to give them padding from a hard floor. However, performing rehabilitative exercises on the bed or the compressible foam exercise mat can cause indentions in the bed or mat from the weight of the body and/or exercise device.
Previously, U.S. Pat. No. 9,468,799 provided an exercise device for lower limbs and ankle rehabilitative exercises. However, this device suffers from causing indentations in a bed, mat, or other soft supporting device, and the indentations restrict movement or prevent the patient from adequately performing the rehabilitative exercise.
Thus, there is a need for improved support devices or systems to both isolate and facilitate proper movements for rehabilitative purposes that can be used on a soft, compressible surface that forms indentations from weight (e.g., bed, exercise mat, etc.).
In some embodiments, and the present invention is a lower extremity positioning exerciser. The lower extremity exerciser can be used to provide positioning and support to the lower extremity. The lower extremity exerciser can be used in an exercise system that can include the lower extremity exerciser (i.e., exercise device) and a sliding board. The exercise device can include: a foot support body; a support wall extending vertically upward from the foot support body and located along medial side of the foot support body; a divider wall extending vertically upward from the support body and extending transversely toward the support wall from an opposing lateral side of the foot support body; an ankle bed rest between the rotational restraint wall and divider wall and having a surface defined by a space between an inner surface of the support wall and an inner surface of the divider wall; and a smooth bottom surface on the foot support body. The sliding board can have a smooth top surface such that the bottom surface of the foot support body is slidable over the top surface of the sliding board.
In some embodiments, the exercise device includes a slider (e.g., weighted slider or non-weighted slider) having the smooth bottom surface, wherein the slider is attached to a base of the foot support body opposite of the support wall and divider wall.
In some embodiments, the smooth bottom surface of the exercise device and the smooth top surface of the sliding board are cooperatively configured for slidability of the smooth bottom surface of the exercise device relative to the smooth top surface of the sliding board.
In some embodiments, the sliding board includes at least one fold line that partitions the sliding board into at least two sliding board segments such that the sliding board is foldable. In some aspects, at least one sliding board segment of the at least two sliding board segments has a surface area that is about the same as a surface area of the smooth bottom surface. In some aspects, the smooth bottom surface of the exercise device is located on a sliding board segment of the folded sliding board.
In some embodiments, the sliding board includes a substrate with a slidable layer thereon, wherein the slidable layer includes the smooth top surface.
In some embodiments, the sliding board is a single member with or without a coating, wherein the smooth top surface is a top surface of the single member.
In some embodiments, the sliding board includes a weighted body.
In some embodiments, the sliding board includes a bottom surface that is configured to be rough or non-slidable.
In some embodiments, the exercise device is devoid of a weighted slider attached to a base of the foot support body opposite of the support wall and divider wall.
In some embodiments, the exercise device includes a compressible pad on a top surface of the foot support body to form the ankle bed rest. In some aspects, the compressible pad extends between the support wall to the divider wall and around the divider wall. In some aspects, the compressible pad is memory foam, gel in pocket, bead bag, or combinations thereof.
In some embodiments, the sliding board is corrugated cardboard with or without one or more folds.
In some embodiments, the exercise device further comprises a smooth slider member having the smooth bottom surface, wherein the smooth slider member is attached to a base of the foot support body opposite of the support wall and divider wall. In some embodiments, the smooth slider member is plastic (e.g., polyethylene, polyurethane, or the like).
In some embodiments, a method for supporting and restraining a patient's knee region can include: providing the system of one of the embodiments; positioning the support wall of the exercise device under a knee region of the patient; and performing flexion and/or extension of the knee of the patent while the knee is on the support wall of the exercise device. In some aspects, the method can include positioning the sliding board under the exercise device before positioning the support wall of the exercise device under the knee region of the patent.
In some embodiments, the exercise device includes a recess in the foot support body located in the ankle bed rest, wherein the recess extends horizontally between the divider wall and the support wall and the recess extends vertically at least a length equal to a width of the divider wall.
In some embodiments, a method for supporting and restraining a patient's ankle is provided. Such a method can include: providing the system having the exercise device and sliding board; positioning the exercise device under an ankle region of the patient with the sliding board under the exercise device; placing the patient's ankle on the ankle bed rest of the exercise device, thereby supporting the patient's ankle; and maintaining another leg of the patient in a neutral position.
In some embodiments, the method can include exercising by one or more of: with the patient lying on a side, the patient performing with one leg and one foot one or more of hip flexion, hip extension, knee flexion, and knee extension with the patient's foot inserted into the exercise device that is sliding on the sliding board, and the patient's foot in a side position; or with the patient lying in a supine position, performing with one leg and one foot of the patient one or more of hip abduction, hip adduction, knee plus hip flexion, and knee plus hip extension, with the patient's foot inserted into the exercise device and the patient's foot pointing generally upward and with the exercise device sliding on the sliding board.
The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.
The foregoing and following information as well as other features of this disclosure will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only several embodiments in accordance with the disclosure and are, therefore, not to be considered limiting of its scope, the disclosure will be described with additional specificity and detail through use of the accompanying drawings.
The elements and components in the figures can be arranged in accordance with at least one of the embodiments described herein, and which arrangement may be modified in accordance with the disclosure provided herein by one of ordinary skill in the art.
In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof. In the drawings, similar symbols typically identify similar components, unless context dictates otherwise. The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilized, and other changes may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented herein. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein, and illustrated in the figures, can be arranged, substituted, combined, separated, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are explicitly contemplated herein.
Generally, the present technology is related to a lower extremity exerciser and exercise system that includes a limb exercise device and a sliding board adapted with a slidable surface that the exercise device can slide across. The lower extremity exerciser and exercise system having the exercise device and sliding board can be used in methods for ensuring proper limb support and isolated joint movement while the patient is performing rehabilitative exercises on a soft, compressible surface (e.g., bed, exercise mat, etc.) to strengthen and restore movement of their limbs following injury or surgery. The lower extremity exerciser and exercise system may be used to help patients in a rehabilitative environment or other environment, such as for training or regular exercise. However, the lower extremity exerciser and exercise system is particularly useful when performing an exercise on a soft, compressible surface that may otherwise form depressions or recesses due to weight of the device and limb of the patient because the sliding board provides a flat slidable substrate without any depressions or recesses. The flat slidable substrate can be laid on a soft, compressible surface and provide the flat surface to facilitate the movements and sliding of the exercise device. The flat slidable substrate can have a slick top surface that cooperates with a bottom surface of the exercise device for easy sliding motions relative to each other. While the slidable substrate may press into the soft, compressible surface during an exercise with the exercise device, the flat surface of the slidable substrate is of a suitable dimension for allowing the range of movements and sliding motions. The patient, or user, may lie in positions that include supine position and side position, as well as prone position, to allow for various sliding movements of the lower limb with the ankle joint supported and at least partially limited from certain movements by the exercise device throughout the sliding movement exercises across the slidable substrate.
In some embodiments, the exercise device may comprise a foot support body that includes a plurality of walls for providing support and restraint. For example, a support wall and divider wall may be used to prevent rotational movements such as hip rotation and knee flexion. Support and isolation for the ankle joint may be found in an ankle bed rest, the ankle bed rest defined by a space between the support wall and the divider wall such that a foot placed on the exercise device with ankle in the ankle bed rest is prevented from rotational movements.
The sliding board allows for the exercise device to be used in sliding exercise movements. The exercise device may provide a slider with a smooth bottom surface that is attached at a base of the foot support body. This smooth bottom surface can be cooperatively configured with the top sliding surface of the sliding board for improved performance and ability to perform sliding exercises. Other features and advantages may be readily ascertained from the disclosure provided herein.
In some embodiments, the lower extremity exerciser and exercise system may comprise a exercise device having a foot support body that includes several walls for providing support and restraint of a foot. The system also includes a sliding board adapted to permit the exercise device to slide thereover. In some aspects, the exercise device can include a support wall and divider wall than can be used to prevent rotational movements, such as hip rotation and knee flexion. In some aspects, the exercise device can be configured to provide support and isolation for the ankle joint with an ankle bed rest, where the ankle bed rest can be defined by a space between the support wall and the divider wall such that a foot placed on the exercise device with ankle in the ankle bed rest is prevented from rotational movements. The sliding board can be flat or configured to be laid out flat. In some aspects, the sliding board is a single board that is flat and has a flat top surface and a bottom surface. The flat top surface is adapted to have low friction so that the bottom of the exercise device slides thereover. The bottom of the sliding board can be any surface, but may also be flat and may be textured, roughened, or otherwise configured to inhibit the sliding board itself from sliding around during use. In some aspects, sliding exercise movements may further be facilitated with a weighted exercise device with a smooth bottom surface that is attached at a base of the foot support body, which smooth bottom surface can be slidable across the smooth top surface of the sliding board.
As shown in
In some embodiments, the sliding board 150 may be a strong corrugated cardboard body with or without a coating. The cardboard body can be slidable itself or coated with a paint or other coating that is slick with a low fiction coefficient.
In some embodiments, the exercise device 100 can include a smooth bottom surface 124 of polyethylene or urethane, which is slidable. The corresponding sliding board 150 may be strong corrugated cardboard.
The foot support body 110 may be a generally flat main body, including a block shape with curved or rounded sides and corners as shown. Embodiments of the foot support body 110 can include the shape as being oblong, circular, or other shapes as desired. The foot support body 110 can have a length that may be longer than the cross-wise width or the cross-wise width may be longer than the length (e.g., in the plane of the body parallel with the bottom surface). Edges may be defined with sharp or curved edges, or a combination thereof.
From the foot support body 110, the support wall 112 (e.g., shown as a half circle shape, but could be other shape, such as square, rectangle, other polygon, elliptical, or other) extends vertically upward and is located near or at along one side of the foot support body 110. The support wall 112 may span a desired length along the width of the foot support body 110, or span the entire side of the foot support body 110. Embodiments include that the support wall 112 have a length that extends beyond one or more foot support body edges, creating an overhang wall formation. The support wall 112 can function to provide support to the knee during extension/flexion, which can facilitate exercises. The support wall 112 can also function to support different sides of the foot during lateral sliding motions to prevent rotation of the foot by providing an inner rotation restraint, and to provide a surface to press the foot against during sliding motions.
The shape, width, or wall thickness, of the support wall 112 may vary. As shown, the width may start at a side edge of the foot support body 110 and end before a centerline or a center area of the foot support body 110. Embodiments include that the width not reach to the outer side edge of the foot support body 110. Also, embodiments include widths that reach the center area of the foot support body 110 or past the center area. Although the width of the support wall 112 is shown as being homogeneous with the inner rotation restraint side 114 extending crosswise from opposite ends in a perpendicular manner, the width may have varying dimensions such that the inner rotation restraint 114 extends in a path that is not truly crosswise. For example, near or at the center area where the ankle is located, the inner rotation restraint 114 may have a hollowed out indention or space section. Thus, the width of the inner rotation restraint 114 may be narrowed or tapered inward near or at the region where the ankle is located. The inner rotation restraint 114 may have a notch or cavity removed to form the indention. Alternatively, an entire sectional portion of the restraint wall may form the indention, forming a curved wall that tapers inward to form a hollowed section. Because the exercise devices may be used for both feet, there may be two hollowed sections, one for each foot. Also, there may be one long hollowed section to accommodate each foot.
As shown, the top surface 136 of the support wall 112 may be curved, with a surface that curves around in an upside down cupping shape (e.g., half circle or half disc). However, the top surface 136 can have any shape and different embodiments can have different contours. For example, the size and shape of the top surface 136 or other features of the support wall 112 can be varied and modified in accordance with the disclosure. In some embodiments, the support wall 112 can be a square or rectangle block. In other embodiments, the support wall can be a half circle or half ellipse. Any suitable number of tops may be provided, however. For example, instead of a curved shape, the top surface 136 may be completely flat, creating a standard wall appearance (e.g., see divider wall 116 with top 149). Alternatively, one or more visually appealing curvatures and shapes may be incorporated to the top surface 136 to increase the appearance or functionality, and thus heighten user experience. The top 149 of divider wall 116 may have similar types of variation in height, thickness, curvatures, and shapes.
Inner rotation restraint 114 of the support wall 112 is used to provide a surface which can be used by a heel of the foot when, for example, a user is lying down in a side position, and pushing against the inner rotation restraint 114 to make leg movements, such as hip extension and knee flexion. When lying down in a side position with the foot in a side position, the foot rests on a right foot platform 126 or left foot platform 128, depending on which foot is using the exercise device 100. The portion of the right foot below the right ankle rests on the right foot platform 126, or in other words, the surface area of the foot support body 110 that is above the divider wall 116. The portion of the left foot below the left ankle rests on the left foot platform 128, or in other words, the surface area of the foot support body 110 that is below the divider wall.
Adjacent to the right foot platform 126 is the inner right foot surface 118, or the surface of the divider wall intersecting with the right foot platform 126, which may be pushed against by right foot. Adjacent to the left foot platform 128 is the inner left foot surface 120, or the surface of the divider wall intersecting with the left foot platform 128, which may be pushed against by the left foot.
When the left foot is being used with the exercise device 100, it is flipped around, or rotated 180 degrees, such that the left foot platform 128 area is positioned where the right foot platform 126 is for the right foot. When flipped around, the support wall 112 is positioned on the opposite side as where it is positioned for the right foot.
When lying down in a supine position with toes pointed generally upward, outer side of the foot may be used to push against the inner rotation restraint 114 of the support wall 112 to make leg movements, such as hip abduction. Additional movements may be possible by pushing against the support wall 112.
Also supporting movement and preventing rotational movement is inner rotation restraint 132 of divider wall 116. As shown, divider wall 116 extends vertically upward from the foot support body 110, similar to the support wall 112. The divider wall 116 extends transversely, or crosswise, along the foot support body 110, from a side opposite and across from the support wall 112, to a location at or near a mid-section of the foot support body 110. The manner in which the divider wall 116 extends may be parallel to a lengthwise axis of the foot support body 110. In other words, the divider wall 116 may extend perpendicularly from the midpoint of the side. Alternatively, the divider wall 116 may extend from a point other than the midpoint of the side. The divider wall 116 may extend past the side of the support body to create an overhang. The width, or thickness, of the divider wall 116 may be similar in proportion to a width of all or a portion of a standard ankle or heel portion. The width of the divider wall 116 may be similar to or the same as the width of the support wall 112. The width may be dimensioned more or less as desired. The width may vary along the length of the divider wall to provide a desired point of contact with the foot. Other variations may be made with the disclosure provided herein.
One or both of the support wall 112 and the divider wall 116 may extend generally vertically upward to a height of at least a general foot length according to anatomical measurements of a standard person. A standard person is a mathematical model of a person based on any suitable data that simulates a person's size, body proportions, and the like. The model can be based upon data, for example, used in the clothing and shoe industry to define sizes for apparel and the like. The standard person used and the data set used to derive the standard person is chosen with the user of the exercise device 100 in mind and can be based upon average values of body proportions from any sample of the population from, for example, total population, gender, age, body size or weight, nationality, or the like. The standard person may also be based upon any particular individual, or group of individuals. Thus, the standard person for a particular exercise device 100 may be designed for marketing to the public in general or be customized to fit a particular group of people, or to fit an individual. The device can be sized for youth (5-18), young adults (18-29), adults (29-50), older adults (50-65), and elderly people (65+). For example, the sizing can range for a shoe size of 13 youth to a 15 adult, or custom sizes can be made for larger or smaller feet.
Accordingly, the heights of the support wall 112 and the divider wall 116 may be the same or different. Embodiments include that the height be increased and decreased using panels or removable wall elements. Standard adhesives, clips, screws, straps, or other means may be used for securement of the panels or removable wall elements.
An ankle bed rest 122 is shown with a surface defined by a space between the inner rotation restraint 114 of the support wall 112 and the inner side 132 of the divider wall 116 such that a foot placed on the exercise device 100 with the ankle in the ankle bed rest 122 is prevented from certain rotational movements during movements associated with extension and flexion of a leg and/or knee. The ankle bed rest 122 may be spaced to provide a tight fit or relaxed fit. Furthermore, the ankle bed rest 122 may be spaced with ample wiggle room to the extent that that the ankle need not even touch the inner rotational restraint (e.g., inner side) 114 and inner side 132, at least when at rest.
Embodiments include that the ankle bed rest 122 have adjustments such that the space may be increased or decreased, as needed, or the sizing can be customized for individual patients. For example, the divider wall 116 may be lengthened or shortened as needed or desired. The divider wall 116 may move inward and outward along the foot support body 110 to form a smaller or larger space, respectively. Alternatively, inserts may be added and removed to either or both the inner side 132 of the divider wall 116 and the inner rotation restraint 114 of the support wall 112 to change the size of the ankle bed rest space. Appropriate attachments for adjustments may include screws, clamps, straps, and other means commonly known in the art.
Also, materials may be added to provide further support, compression, structure, and weight. For example, cushioning (e.g., memory foam, gel packs, bean bags) may be added along the inner rotation restraint 114 of the support wall 112 or inner side 132 of the divider wall 116 to provide a snug or tight fit when a foot is inserted. Cushioning may be added along the inner rotation restraint 114 of the support wall 112 or the inner side 132 of the divider wall 116 in specific areas, for example, near or at the location where the ankle is anticipated to be placed. Alternatively, cushioning may be added on only one side, the inner rotation restraint 114 of the support wall 112 or the inner side 132 of the divider wall 116 at or near the location where the ankle is anticipated to be placed. Cushioning may be added with cutaways or surface definitions in the shape of a standard foot corresponding to various positions anticipated for the foot.
For structural stability and support, weighted elements may be added within the interior or on the exterior of the support wall 112, the divider wall 116, ankle bed rest 122, or other areas of the exercise device 100. For example, the support wall 112 may further comprise a stiff layer, such as an aluminum surface layer or siding, located along the inner rotation restraint 114 to protect and provide structural support for the support wall 112. The body 110 of the exercise device 100 can be made of various materials, such as described herein. The body 110 is typically made of a rigid or structurally strong material, such as a plastic, hard foam, metal, composite, or other material. The body 110 provides stability when the patient is performing the exercises, and soft cushioning can be used to provide comfort while using the exercise device 100 Other support elements may be readily ascertained.
The support wall 112, along with the divider wall 116, prevents rotational movement of the hip. The following movements may be limited or prevented entirely:
Dorsiflexion: Bending the foot at the ankle toward the shin (bending the foot upward).
Plantar flexion: Bending the foot at the ankle toward the sole (bending the foot downward).
Eversion: Turning the foot so the sole faces laterally.
Inversion: Turning the foot so the sole faces medially.
Circumduction: Moving a part so that its end follows a circular path (moving the toes in a circular motion without significantly moving the ankle).
Other movements may be limited or prevented also. In addition to preventing movements of the foot, the exercise device prevents rotational movements of the leg. Internal and external rotation of the knee or leg may be prevented. For example, the knee may be prevented from turning inwardly or outwardly to face a direction other than a direction that is parallel to the direction of the foot. The foot naturally tends to turn away from the body when lying in a supine position and such rotation of the foot provides torque or torsional effects on the leg. The support wall 112, however, prevents this from happening.
In preventing rotation, a leg may be forced to stay in a generally fixed position such that ice may be applied to a region of the leg to reduce swelling or ease pain (and gain extension motion at the knee). In providing support, orthopedic and neurological patients with reduced strength or limited mobility may be able to accomplish the rehabilitative therapy needed to regain strength, lasting mobility, and even recovery of full range of motion. Along with providing support, the ankle bed rest 122 is advantageous because it makes the exercise device 100 easy to put on and take off.
At a base or bottom of the foot support body 110 is a bottom surface 124 that is configured as a sliding surface. In some embodiments, the bottom surface 124 is formed by a slider member 125 may comprise a slider body that is weighted and has a smooth bottom surface 124 attached to the base of the foot support body 110. The smooth bottom surface 124 may be slick to allow the device to slide or glide with relative ease along the top surface 152 of the sliding board 150. The top surface 152 of the sliding board 150 and bottom surface 124 can be various types of slidable, slick, or low friction (e.g., low coefficient of friction) surfaces. The slider member 125 may be attached in a flush manner with the base of the foot support body 110 such that the entire surface of the slider member 125 rests flat against the base of the foot support body 110. The slider member 125 (e.g., which may be weighted) may comprise wood, plastic, metal, composite, laminate, or other material, and correspondingly the sliding board 150 can be prepared of these same materials. The top surface 152 of the sliding board 150 and the bottom surface 124 of the exercise device 100 may be polished, such as polished wood, or polished laminate, or polished plastic, which can improve slickness and slidability.
In some embodiments, the exercise device 150 and particularly the slider member 125 can be weighted. The weighting is useful because it provides support as well as a stable platform on the bottom of the foot support body 110. It is also useful in movements associated with the orthopedic exercises that can be performed with the exercise device 100, such as gliding in back and forth movements across the sliding board 150. Because the foot support body 110 may not be rigid, the slider member 125 may provide added rigidity and stability that strengthens the exercise device 100. The sliding board 150 may similarly be weighted to provide a heavy platform on top of which the exercise device 100 can slide.
Generally, the exercise device 200 can be configured as described in connection with exercise device 100 with the addition of a recess 237 (e.g., notched ankle bed rest 222) between the top platform 226 and bottom platform 228. The recess 237 is formed by the angled sidewalls 238 and 239 extending from a notched ankle bed rest 222.
The system includes the sliding board of
For sliding movements, the rotation restraint wall 212 and the divider wall 216 restrain movement of the foot. With the right foot resting on the top platform 226, the inner right foot surface 218 of the divider wall 216 may be pressed against by a top front area of the right foot. With the left foot resting on the bottom platform 228, the inner left foot surface of the divider wall 216 may be pressed against by a top front area of the left foot.
An ankle may be placed between the divider inner side 232 and the inner side 214 of the rotation restraint wall 212 and the foot may press against the inner sides 214 and 232 during sliding movements, whether the user is in a side position, supine position or other position.
The top surface 236 of the rotation restraint wall 212 and the top surface 249 of the divider wall 216 may have variations in height, variations in design, as well as variations in location, as desired and as described in connection to the exercise device 100. Heights may correspond to standard feet length or slightly longer, such as 1 to 2 inches longer than standard feet length. The heights may be the same or different. One of the walls 212 and 216 may be weighted or have materials added to increase durability and strength in the wall.
For the ankle, embodiments may include the notched ankle bed rest 222, which includes a notch, divot, recess, or carved cutout area that is anatomically dimensioned with lengths and widths, circumference, edging, or other dimensioning, that conform to a standard heel and standard ankle member. The area may be larger or somewhat smaller than a heel and ankle member. The recess may be a general ankle width or heel width in depth, corresponding to standard anatomical measurements. The recess may extend horizontally between the divider wall 216 and the rotation restraint wall 212. Also, the recess may extend vertically at least a length equal to a width of the divider wall 216. The recess may further extend to a length greater than the width of the divider wall 216. The recess may span up to the entire width of the foot support body 210.
This recessed area may provide a meaningful grip for the heel or ankle to use and to apply pressure when pushing and pulling, extending and retracting, and performing movements provided herein. The ankle and heel may rest comfortably within the recess of the ankle bed rest 222, with placement that conforms to and supports the user's foot and ankle in use.
Note that the ankle bed rest 222 may have angled sidewalls 238 and 239 on opposing sides, as shown. The sidewalls 238 and 239 may have curvature, such as a seamless curvature from horizontal to vertical positions, such that there are no sharp edges. Alternatives include that the sidewalls 238 and 239 extend generally vertical upward, like the rotation restraint wall 212 and the divider wall 216. Edges may be curved or have other surfacing features. Edges, as well as other surfaces described herein, may be smooth, pebbled, rough-textured, contoured, or have other features that improve and aid the user experience. For example, a textured surface may improve foot grip with the exercise device. Embodiments further include that the ankle bed rest 222 have cushioning to provide comfort. Extra cushioning material or padding may be added to provide a snug fit for the ankle and further prevent joint rotational movements.
Embodiments further include that the foot support body 210 has a height and/or flexibility, coupled with sufficient firmness, so as to maintain a minimum elevation of the patient's ankle of one inch up to one foot, from the surface beneath the exercise device 200, whether it be a ground surface, level plane, or uneven terrain, during use. Also, embodiments include that the foot support body 210 has a firmness with sufficient yield to reduce pressure at and provide a comfortable support for high-pressure, soft-tissue areas. Other parts of the slider support body may share these characteristics. The foot support body 210 can be made of the same materials as the exercise device 100, which can include memory foams for malleable embodiments or rigid foams, plastics, metals, or the like.
The exercise device 200 may have a skin layer 240. The skin layer 240 may comprise a coating or extra surface layer on the exterior surface of the exercise device 200, which may also be included on the exercise device 100. The skin layer 240 may cover the bottom surface 224, or the bottom surface 224 may be devoid of the skin layer. In some instances, the skin layer 240 is textured or has a high friction coefficient, and thereby the bottom surface 224 may omit the skin layer 240. However, embodiments can include that the skin layer 240 be a covering that uniformly surrounds the entire exercise device 200. Embodiments further include that the skin layer 240 cover one or more of the foot support body 210, the rotation restraint wall 212, the divider wall 216, and the slider member 225 separately.
The skin layer 240 may comprise a polymer coating or other coating. Note that the skin layer 240 may make the exercise device 200 impermeable, fluid-impermeable, stain-resistant, radiolucent, or have other features that enable the exercise device 200 to be reusable.
Moreover, it should be recognized that features of the exercise device 100 can be applied to the exercise device 200, and vice versa.
For the ankle bed rest 122, the location of the inner rotation restraint 114 of support wall 112 and inner side 132 of divider wall 116 may vary, depending on the desired placement of the ankle relative to the foot support body 110. With the inner rotation restraint 114 of the rotation restraint wall and inner side of divider wall 116 defining a central area relative to the foot support body 110, the ankle bed rest 122 may be centered on the foot support body 110. Embodiments include placement of the ankle bed rest 122 directly above the center of mass of the foot support body 110, which may not be a center relative to the plan view area of the foot support body 110. Embodiments include that the ankle bed rest 122 be located off center to the left or off center to the right of the foot support body 110. Further embodiments include that the ankle bed rest 122 be located above center or below center relative to the area of the foot support body 110. Thus, the ankle of right foot 442 may be properly isolated with restricted movement whether the user is lying in a supine position with toes facing generally upward or whether the user is lying on a side with toes facing toward a side.
In some embodiments, the bottom surface 124, 224 of any embodiment of the exercise device 100, 200 can be part of the body that is adapted to be slidable with or without the sliding board or can be a slidable member attached to a bottom of the body of exercise device. In any configuration, the bottom surface 124, 224 can be slidable with or without the sliding board. While the embodiments show use with the sliding board, which is useful on a soft or compressible surface (e.g., on bed), the exercise device 100, 200 can be used without the sliding board, such as when the user is on a harder surface that does not sink or form a recess that inhibits sliding. The bottom surface 124, 224 can be a smooth surface of the body or base plate that may or may not be adhered or fastened in any way to a bottom of the body of the exercise device 100, 200. The smooth surface or base plate may be, but not limited to, wood, plastic or metal or other material that aids in the ease of sliding of the supportive exercise device 100, 200 whether sliding on the sliding board or on any other surface. The sliding is achieved by reducing the minimal force required to initiate and maintain a sliding movement of the supportive exercise device 100, 200 when under the compressive load applied by the weight of the users supported lower extremity.
As indicated above, the
Embodiments also include further exercises that can be performed with the exercise device 100 sliding on the sliding board 150. Embodiments also include isolation such that no movement is performed. Embodiments further include exercises where both lower limbs have movement.
Although the exercise device 100 may include that the foot support body, the rotation restraint wall, and the divider wall be formed from one body such that no attachment is required, alternatives include the elements being attached. Turning to
In some embodiments, one or more of the foot support body, rotation restraint wall, and the divider wall may be made of lightweight polymer foam, open cell polyurethane, foams, plastics, composites, metal, rubber, and other types of material.
In some embodiments, the sliding board can include a substrate that can be made of one or more of plastics, cardboard, woods, metals or other rigid materials, which may be unitary or segments linked together at folds. In some instances, the substrate can form the smooth sliding top surface. In some instances, a slidable low friction coating, such as Teflon, can be applied to the substrate.
In some embodiments, the exercise system having the exercise device and sliding board is used in methods of exercise on a bed, such as a home bed or hospital bed. This allows for full leg extension in the first few days after surgery. As such, the system can be used immediately after surgery on the hospital bed or home bed. The sliding board inhibits the exercise device embedding into, digging into, or otherwise forming a recess in a mattress of a bed. The sliding board allows for use of the exercise device on soft surfaces by providing a solid flat surface for sliding the exercise device over.
In some embodiments, the exercise device can include lightweight materials or malleable materials. The exercise device can be open cell polyurethane, and may be configured for use with a single patient. The exercise device can be disposable or disposed of after use by the single patient.
In some embodiments, the exercise device can be devoid of a weighted slider attached to the bottom of the body. As such, the body of the exercise device can be adapted to be slidable without also having a weighted slider member attached to the exercise device. For example, a bottom surface of the body of the exercise device can be processed to be smooth or have a smooth coating applied thereto. A smooth layer may also be attached, but the smooth layer may or may not be weighted.
In some embodiments, an exercise device can include: a foot support body; a rotation restraint wall extending vertically upward from the foot support body and located along one side of the foot support body; a divider wall extending vertically upward from the support body and extending transversely from an opposing side of the foot support body, an ankle bed rest with a surface defined by a space between an inner surface of the rotation restraint wall and an inner surface of the divider wall such that a foot placed on the exercise device with an ankle of the foot in the ankle bed rest is prevented from rotational movements during extension and flexion of a leg; and a smooth bottom surface, which may be the bottom of the foot support body, a layer, a coating, or slidable member.
In some embodiments, a slider with a smooth bottom surface is attached in a flush manner to a base of the foot support body such that an entire surface of the slider rests flat against the base of the foot support body. In some aspects, the slider comprises polished wood or a polished laminate or polyethylene or polyurethane.
In some embodiments, a recess is formed in the foot support body located in the ankle bed rest. In some aspects, the recess extends horizontally between the divider wall and the rotation restraint wall. In some aspects, the recess extends vertically at least a length equal to a width of the divider wall.
In some embodiments, a skin layer is provided that includes a polymer coating around an outer surface of the exercise device. In some aspects, the skin layer includes a polymer coating around the one or more of the foot support body, the rotation restraint wall, the divider wall, and the slider. In some aspects, a protective layer is around an outer surface of the exercise device that makes the exercise device reusable.
In some embodiments, the divider wall separates a top space for a right foot support and a bottom space for a left foot support. In some aspects, the foot support body prevents rotational movement of one or more of dorsiflexion, plantarflexion, inversion, eversion, and circumlocution. In some aspects, the foot support body, rotation restraint wall, and the divider wall are made of lightweight polymer foam. In some aspects, the foot support body, the rotation restraint wall, and the divider wall comprises open cell polyurethane material. In some aspects, the rotation restraint wall and the divider wall are attached to the foot support body by an adhesive. In some aspects, the foot support body, the rotation restraint wall, and the divider wall are formed from one body such that no attachment is required.
In some embodiments, a method for supporting and restraining a patient's ankle while performing leg exercises is provided. Such a method can include: with a patient lying on a side, positioning an exercise device under an ankle region of the patient; placing the patient's ankle on an ankle bed rest of the device, thereby supporting the patient's ankle; the patient performing with one leg and one foot one or more of hip flexion, hip extension, knee flexion, and knee extension with the patient's foot inserted into the exercise device and the patient's foot in a side position; and maintaining another leg of the patient in a neutral position. The device can be located and slidable over a sliding board configured as described herein.
In some exercise embodiments, the patient can be lying in a supine position, performing with one leg and one foot of the patient one or more of hip abduction, hip adduction, knee plus hip flexion, and knee plus hip extension, with the patient's foot inserted into the exercise device and the patient's foot pointing generally upward; and maintaining another leg of the patient in a neutral position.
In some embodiments, the exercise device can include: a foot support body; a rotation restraint wall extending vertically upward from the foot support body and located along one side of the foot support body; a divider wall extending vertically upward from the support body and extending transversely from an opposing side of the foot support body, an ankle bed rest with a surface defined by a space between an inner surface of the rotation restraint wall and an inner surface of the divider wall such that a foot placed on the exercise device with an ankle of the foot in the ankle bed rest is prevented from rotational movements during extension and flexion of a leg; and a weighted slider with a smooth bottom surface that is attached to a base of the foot support body, wherein the foot support body, rotation restraint wall, and the divider wall are made of lightweight polymer foam.
In some embodiments, the exercise device can include: a foot support body; a rotation restraint wall extending vertically upward from the foot support body and located along one side of the foot support body; a divider wall extending vertically upward from the support body and extending transversely from an opposing side of the foot support body, an ankle bed rest with a surface defined by a space between an inner surface of the rotation restraint wall and an inner surface of the divider wall such that a foot placed on the exercise device with an ankle of the foot in the ankle bed rest is prevented from rotational movements during extension and flexion of a leg; and a weighted slider with a smooth bottom surface that is attached to a base of the foot support body, wherein the foot support body, the rotation restraint wall, and the divider wall comprises open cell polyurethane material.
In some embodiments, the exercise device can include: a foot support body; a rotation restraint wall extending vertically upward from the foot support body and located along one side of the foot support body; a divider wall extending vertically upward from the support body and extending transversely from an opposing side of the foot support body, an ankle bed rest with a surface defined by a space between an inner surface of the rotation restraint wall and an inner surface of the divider wall such that a foot placed on the exercise device with an ankle of the foot in the ankle bed rest is prevented from rotational movements during extension and flexion of a leg; and a weighted slider with a smooth bottom surface that is attached to a base of the foot support body, wherein the weighted slider comprises polished wood or a polished laminate.
The present disclosure may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the disclosure is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. Changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.
With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The various singular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity.
It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as “open” terms (e.g., the term “including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “includes but is not limited to,” etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation, no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to embodiments containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an” (e.g., “a” and/or “an” should be interpreted to mean “at least one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of “two recitations,” without other modifiers, means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, and C, etc.” is used, in general, such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, and C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, or C, etc.” is used, in general, such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, or C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase “A or B” will be understood to include the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B.”
In addition, where features or aspects of the disclosure are described in terms of Markush groups, those skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosure is also thereby described in terms of any individual member or subgroup of members of the Markush group.
As will be understood by one skilled in the art, for any and all purposes, such as in terms of providing a written description, all ranges disclosed herein also encompass any and all possible subranges and combinations of subranges thereof. Any listed range can be easily recognized as sufficiently describing and enabling the same range being broken down into at least equal halves, thirds, quarters, fifths, tenths, etc. As a non-limiting example, each range discussed herein can be readily broken down into a lower third, middle third and upper third, etc. As will also be understood by one skilled in the art all language such as “up to,” “at least,” and the like include the number recited and refer to ranges which can be subsequently broken down into subranges as discussed above. Finally, as will be understood by one skilled in the art, a range includes each individual member. Thus, for example, a group having 1-3 cells refers to groups having 1, 2, or 3 cells. Similarly, a group having 1-5 cells refers to groups having 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 cells, and so forth.
From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that various embodiments of the present disclosure have been described herein for purposes of illustration, and that various modifications may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the various embodiments disclosed herein are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims.
All references recited herein are incorporated herein by specific reference in their entirety.
This patent application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/920,791 filed May 17, 2019, which provisional is incorporated herein by specific reference in its entirety.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62920791 | May 2019 | US |
