Patent ID: 7708708
Filing Date: 2010-05-04
Classification: A41D,A61F

Abstract:
1. A method of donning a potentiating support for a hinge joint of a body, comprising the steps of: (a) positioning a garment proximate an area of the body; (b) positioning an expandable and recoverable framework in abutment with the area of the body such that the framework spans a hinge joint of the body, the framework comprising an integrally molded network of interconnected, elastomeric segments, wherein (c) applying tension at points of the framework such that the framework is expanded and the framework is tensioned in its abutment with the area of the body, said step of applying tension being performed by pulling on fastening components that are attached to the framework; (d) independently affixing each of the fastening components to the garment while applying tension to the framework to secure the expanded framework in its forced abutment with the area of the body; and (e) positioning an alignment member contoured to receive the joint protuberance that is dimensioned to extend within the alignment opening, the alignment member being entirely separable from the framework.