Patent ID: 7666158
Filing Date: 2010-02-23
Classification: A61F

Abstract:
1. An apparatus that can be used to reduce a foot drop condition, the apparatus comprising: a molded lower leg member having a height, an opening, and a C-shaped cross section throughout the height, wherein the lower leg member has a size and dimension to be coupled to a portion of a lower leg below a calf muscle and above a foot and encompass a substantial portion of the lower leg such that the opening of the lower leg member is disposed over a front portion of the lower leg when the lower leg member is coupled to the portion of the lower leg, the lower leg member having an inner layer of a first material and an outer layer of a second material, wherein the apparatus is not inserted in the user footwear when coupled to the portion of the lower leg; an elongate closure member disposed on the lower leg member and configured to releasably secure the lower leg member to the portion of the lower leg; a pair of attachment members disposed below the elongate closure member and located on opposing sides of the opening at lower frontal portions of the lower member, wherein the pair of attachment members releasably couple to a lacing member that is coupled to footwear on the foot and the pair of attachment members support a force required to lift and maintain the foot at a desired orientation when the lacing member is secured such that a lifting force is coupled to the pair of attachment members located at the lower frontal portions of the lower leg member and distributed over a dorsal portion of the foot when coupled to the portion of the lower leg; and, a shield attached to one of the opposing sides of the lower leg member and to at least be positioned between a secured lacing member and an exposed portion of the lower leg through the opening when the lower leg member is coupled to the portion of the lower leg.