Abstract:
A device for applying pressure to a bone of a human arm. The device includes a flexible member having first and second ends, a linear member fixed to the first end and slidingly coupled to the second end, a cam coupled to one end of the linear member and contacting a surface of the second end, and a lever arm coupled to the cam. The lever arm being movable between: a first position in which the cam to apply a first pressure to the surface of the second end of the flexible member; and a second position in which cam applies a second, larger pressure to the surface of the second end of the flexible member causing the second end of the flexible member to move relative to one end of the linear member and reduce a distance between the first end and second ends of the flexible member.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application claims benefit of priority from Provisional U.S. Patent application Ser. No. 62/029,341, filed Jul. 25, 2014, the contents of which are incorporated by reference. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND 
       [0002]    1. Field of Invention 
         [0003]    The present invention relates generally to medical therapeutic systems, and deals more particularly with methods and devices for treating and managing functional disorders of the human carpus. More particularly, the present invention provides a splint for providing dynamic pressure to the transverse carpal, volar carpal, and intra-carpal ligaments, in a manner tending to relieve contractures of these ligaments and thus relieve the pain caused by the contractures of these ligaments. 
         [0004]    2. Related Art 
         [0005]    Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) may be a very debilitating affliction that can cause a great deal of pain and can in extreme cases render a hand and fingers to a useless state. CTS can occur when there is a constriction or an interference of the median nerve that passes through the carpal tunnel. This constriction of interference can cause numbness and/or tingling of the hand and/or fingers to varying degrees. 
         [0006]    Some related art methods used for treatment (e.g., pain relief) of CTS include physical therapy, bracing, drug therapy, pain management (including injection therapy) and in extreme cases, surgery. 
         [0007]    However, these related art methods may have various disadvantages and side effects. For example, the related art methods may result in high cost, drug addiction, and interference with use of the hands and fingers. Additionally, some of these methods may have diminishing effectiveness over time or iterative usage. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0008]    An aspect of the present application may provide a method and/or an apparatus for treating CTS. Another aspect of the present application may provide a method and/or appliance directed to the relief of pressure on the median nerve. Another aspect may provide an appliance for the treatment of CTS which may be comfortable to the person wearing the appliance. Another aspect may provide an appliance for the treatment of CTS which may not unduly interfere with the normal activities of daily living. 
         [0009]    Another aspect may provide an appliance which may be worn, adjusted, and removed by a patient with ordinary skill without adversely affecting the function of the appliance. Another aspect may provide an appliance which may be simple in construction. 
         [0010]    Another aspect of the present application may allow treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome by using a device to provide lateral compression to the wrist to reduce the constriction of the median nerve and reduce interference thereon. By providing this lateral compression, the symptoms of the nerve compression may be reduced and the resulting numbness, tingling, pins and needle sensation and pain in the hands, forearm and thumb and fingers of the afflicted patient may be reduced, or even eliminated. This approach may also work equally well for ulnar nerve entrapment neuropathy at the level of the wrist by similarly relieving pressure on the Gyon&#39;s Canal at the level of the wrist. The principles for doing so may be the same as applied to relieve pressure for the carpal tunnel syndrome. 
         [0011]    The subject matter of one aspect of the present application may include a device including: a flexible member having a first end and a second end; a linear member having a first end and a second end, the first end of the linear member being fixedly coupled to the first end of the flexible member and the second end of the linear member being slidingly coupled to the second end of flexible member; a cam pivotably coupled to the second end of the linear member, the cam contacting a surface of the second end of the flexible member; and a lever arm coupled to the cam. The lever arm may be movable between a first position in which the lever arm positions the cam to apply a first pressure to the surface of the second end of the flexible member, the first pressure being transmitted to the at least one bone of the human arm by the flexible member; and a second position in which the lever arm positions the cam to apply a second, larger pressure to the surface of the second end of the flexible member causing the second end of the flexible member to move relative to second end of the linear member and reduce a distance between the first end of the flexible member and the second end of the flexible member, the second, larger pressure being transmitted to the at least one bone of the human arm by the flexible member. 
         [0012]    The subject matter of another aspect of the present application may include a device including: a first side arm having a first end and a second end; a second side arm having a first end and a second end, the first end of the second side arm being pivotably coupled to the first end of first side arm; a linear member having a first end and a second end, the first end of the linear member being connected to the second end of the first side arm, and the second end of the linear member slidingly connected to the second end of second side arm; and a cam pivotably coupled to the second end of the linear member, the cam contacting a the surface of the second end of the second side arm; and a lever arm coupled to the cam. The lever arm may be movable between: a first position in which the lever arm positions the cam member to apply a first pressure to the surface of the second end of second side arm, the first pressure being transmitted to the at least one bone of the human arm by at least one of the first side arm and the second side arm; and a second position in which the lever arm positions the cam member to apply a second, larger pressure to the surface of the second end of the second side arm and reduce a distance between the second end of the second side arm and the second end of the first side arm, the second, larger pressure being transmitted to the at least one bone of the human arm by at least one of the first side arm and the second side arm 
         [0013]    The subject matter of another aspect of the present application may include a method for relieving carpal tunnel syndrome of a person. The method may include placing a device around the wrist of the person. The device may include a pair of side arms, a linear member connecting the pair of side arms at one end, and a lever arm coupled to a cam attached to one of the pair of side arms. The method may also include articulating the lever arm to move the cam relative to one of the pair of side arms; applying, by the movement of the cam, a force to one or more of the pair of side arms; and applying, by the force applied to one or more of the pair of side arms, a pressure to at least one bone of the wrist of the person. 
         [0014]    The subject matter of another aspect of the present application may include a method for relieving carpal tunnel syndrome of a person. The method may include placing a device around the wrist of the person. The device may include a flexible member having a first end and a second end, a linear member connecting the first end and second end of the flexible member, and a lever arm coupled to a cam attached to one of the first end and the second end of the flexible member. The method may also include: articulating the lever arm to move the cam relative to one of the first end and the second end of the flexible member; applying, by the movement of the cam, a force to one of the first end and the second end of the flexible member; and applying, by the force applied to one of the first end and the second end of the flexible member, a pressure to at least one bone of the wrist of the person. 
         [0015]    Thus, example implementations of the present application may provide relief from symptoms of nerve compression resulting in numbness, tingling, pins and needle sensation and pain in the hands, forearm and thumb and fingers of the afflicted patient. Further example implementations of the present application may address the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome and ulnar nerve entrapment neuropathy at the level of the wrist through a new and unique approach. This approach may achieved by a mechanical device as illustrated in the attached FIGS. discussed below that may physically change and may lessen the pressure and interference exerted on the nerves passing through the carpel tunnel and Gyon&#39;s tunnel thereby eliminating the painful and debilitating symptoms of the condition. However, example implementations of the present application need not achieve this advantage, or any other advantage. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS 
         [0016]      FIGS. 1 and 2  provide perspective views of a device according to one example implementation of a device according to the present application. 
           [0017]      FIG. 3  provides a front view of the device of the example implementation of  FIGS. 1 and 2 . 
           [0018]      FIGS. 4 and 5  provide perspective views of a device according to another example implementation of the present application. 
           [0019]      FIG. 6  provides a front view of the device of the example implementation of  FIGS. 4 and 5 . 
           [0020]      FIGS. 7 and 8  provide perspective views of a device according to another example implementation of the present application. 
           [0021]      FIG. 9  provides a front view of the device of the example implementation of  FIGS. 7 and 8 . 
           [0022]      FIGS. 10 and 11  provide perspective views of a device according to another example implementation of the present application. 
           [0023]      FIG. 12  provides a front view of the device of the example implementation of  FIGS. 10 and 11 . 
           [0024]      FIG. 13  provides an end view of the device of the example implementation of  FIGS. 10 and 11 . 
           [0025]      FIG. 14  provides a process flow of a treatment process according to an example implementation of the present application. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0026]      FIGS. 1 and 2  provide perspective views of a device  100  according to one example implementation of a device according to the present application.  FIG. 3  provides a front view of the device  100  of the example implementation of  FIGS. 1 and 2 .  FIGS. 1-3  illustrate the device  100  according to an example implementation of the present application. The device  100  includes a pair of side arms  105 , 110 , a pair of swivels  115 , 120 , a connecting piece  125 , a short bar  130 , a cam  135  and a lever  140 . 
         [0027]    The pair of side arms  105 , 110  is joined together by the connecting piece  125  at one end of each of the side arms  105 , 100 . The connecting piece  125  may be pivotally attached to each side arm  105 , 110 , for example. using a spring loaded pin  145  inserted into one of a series of holes  150  formed on the end of each side arm  105 , 110 . The specific hole of the series of holes  150  into which the spring loaded pin  145  is inserted on the end of each side arm  105 , 110 , may be selected based on the size of a patient&#39;s wrist. Providing a series of holes may allow adjustment the device size to the size of the patient&#39;s wrist. As an alternative to the spring loaded pin  145  and holes  150 , any other biasing structure may be substituted therefor, that performs the functions of joining side arms  105 , 110  to each other in a pivotably biased manner, as would be understood by those skilled in the art. Some alternative structures are illustrated in  FIGS. 4-13  discussed below. 
         [0028]    The respective top portions  155 , 160  of the arms  105 , 110  are each fitted to one of the pair of the swivels  115 , 120 . Specifically, the top portion  155  of arm  110  may have a forked, semi-circular structure that receives the swivel  120  with the short bar  130  disposed within the fork. Further, the top portion  160  of the arm  105  may have circular enclosing structure that surrounds the swivel  115 , but allows the short bar  130  to pass through. The structures of the swivels  115 ,  120  and the top portions  155 , 160  permit at least one end of the arms  105 , 110  (e.g., pivot about an axis at spring-loaded pin  145 ) to be movable as discussed in greater detail further below. Alternatively, only one of the arms  105 , 110  may be fitted to a swivel member  115 , 120 , if the other arm  110 , 105  is stationary or formed integral with a short bar  130  as explained in greater detail further below. 
         [0029]    In an alternative example implementation, the pair of arms  105 , 110  may be directly attached to one another without a connecting piece  125 , such that the arms  105 , 110  pivot with respect to each other about a common pivot point (e.g., single unitary structure that is U-shaped or V-shaped). Accordingly, the size of the arms may vary to accommodate users of different sizes. 
         [0030]    Each swivels  115 , 120  includes a hole  165  passing through it and is pivotably mounted to the respective side arm  105 , 110 . Further, the holes  165  of the swivels  115 , 120  may each be aligned to receive the short bar  130  through the hole  165 . As explained above, in an alternative example implementation, it is not necessary for swivels to be provided at both sides, and it is not necessary for the short bar  130  to be formed separately from the swivel  115 , 120 . For example, one end of an arm  105 , 110  may be integrally formed with the short bar  130 , while the other arm  110 , 105  is movably formed with the short bar  130  adjacent to the cam  135  and lever  140 , which are discussed in greater detail below. 
         [0031]    The short bar  130  may pass through the holes  165  of one or more swivels  115 , 120 , and is connected to the cam  135  and the lever  140  at one end. The short bar  130  may be linear, curved, or otherwise shaped in any manner that provides a structure that permits a clamping function to applied to a user&#39;s wrist and other functions as disclosed herein with respect to the present example implementations. For example, if the end  155  of the arm  110  that is distant from the cam  135  and lever  140  may be integrally formed with the end of the short bar  130 , then the short bar  130  may be curved or arc-shaped. 
         [0032]    Further, the cam  135  and lever  140  may be provided to perform a function of providing pressure to the swivel  115  (or similarly structured element) so as to move (e.g., slide) the swivel  115  inward along the short bar  130  so as to move ends  155  and  160  closer to each other, and thus provide the necessary compression to the hand of the user at the wrist region, as further explained below. However, the present example implementations are not limited to the cam  135  and lever  140  structures, and other structures that perform the function of providing compression to the hand of the user at the wrist region may be substituted therefor without departing from the present inventive scope. For example, but not by way of limitation, instead of the cam  135  and lever  140  structures, another structure may be substituted therefor as would be understood in the art. For example, a handle or similar structure may be used that can be twisted, rotated, bent, or otherwise manipulated to perform the above-described function. 
         [0033]    In the example implementation that uses the cam  135  and lever  140 , the cam  135  and lever  140  is pivotally connected to the short bar  130  by a pin  170  (e.g., split pin) inserted through a hole  175  that is formed through the end of the short bar  130 . This configuration may allow the cam  135  and lever  140  to pivot on an axis provided by the split pin  170 . In other words, the spilt pin  170  may act as an axle firmly attached to the swivel  115  by a press fit into the swivel  115 . The cam  135  and lever  140  may have a clearance hole  180  through which the split pin  170  may rotate. However, other structures performing these functions may be substituted therefor without departing from the scope of the example implementations. 
         [0034]    As the lever arm  140  is moved about the axis of the split pin  170  (e.g. lifted) by the hand of a user, the lobe  185  of the cam  135  may contact a side (e.g., lateral side) of the swivel  115 . As the lever arm  140  is further moved about the axis of the split pin  170 , an increasing pressure may be exerted on the swivel  115  by the action of the cam lobe  185  and the increasing pressure on the swivel  115  may cause the side arm  105  to pivot. For example, the pivot may occur due to concentric movement on a spring pin  145  (or equivalent structure as would be understood by those skilled in the art) securing the side arms  105 , 110  to the connecting piece  125 . Alternatively, the pivot may be directly between the two arms  105 , 110  without a connecting piece  125  or about a portion of a single arm  105 , 110 , in the alternative example implementations explained above. 
         [0035]    Further, the side arm  105  may pivot concentrically around the swivel  115  to allow the increasing pressure exerted by the cam  135  to further pull the short bar  130  through the clearance hole  165  of the swivel, thereby allowing the short bar  130  to exert tension on the opposing side arm  110 . 
         [0036]    The action of the lever arm  140 , cam lobe  185 , and short bar  130  may cause the distance between the side arms  105 , 110  to decrease as the cam  135  and lever  140  are moved. If this device  100  is circumferentially mounted around an arm or around a wrist-hand brace surrounding an arm, the device may exert bi-lateral inward pressure on the arm or brace, transferring pressure directly to the bones of the arm via the skin and muscle. Specifically, pressure may be transferred to the lower ends of the radius and ulna bones. This pressure may change the configuration of the carpal tunnel relieving the pressure on the median nerve passing through the carpel tunnel, thereby relieving the accompanying pain and numbness associated with CTS. 
         [0037]    Example embodiments of the present application are not limited to the illustrated structure of the lever arm  140 , cam  135 , and short bar  130  and may have other structures that are capable of causing the distance between the side arms  105 , 110  to decrease in order to exert bi-lateral inward pressure on the arm or brace transferring pressure directly to the bones of the arm via the skin and muscle. For example, an over latch structure (e.g. a so-called “ski-boot buckle” latch) may replace the lever arm  140 , cam  135 , and short bar  130 . The over latch structure could be used to connect the side arms  105 , 110  such that when the over latch structure is articulated by the hand of a user, the side arms  105 , 110  are brought more closely together to exert bi-lateral inward pressure on the arm or brace transferring pressure directly to the bones of the arm via the skin and muscle. 
         [0038]    In some example implementations, one or more of the illustrated components may be formed may be formed using plastic such as nylon, delrin or any other hypoallergenic plastic. In some embodiments, the inherent flexibility and strength of these materials may permit the elimination of the swivels  115 , 120  while still providing a transfer of pressure to the lower ends of the radius and ulna bones. The device  100  may additionally, or alternatively, be injection molded to produce the parts necessary to manufacture a device  100  according to example implementations of the present application. Other materials or manufacturing techniques may be used as may be apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art. 
         [0039]    In order to circumferentially mount the device on an arm, one may disconnect the swivel  120  from the top portion  155  of the side arm  110  that is opposite the lever  140  and cam  135 . This disconnecting may be achieved by extending the length of the side arm  110  and disengaging the swivel  120  from the top portion  155  of the side arm  110  opposite the lever  140  and cam  135 . Alternatively, if there is an integral formation of the short bar  130  and the swivel  120  or related structure at an end  155  that is distant from the cam  135  and lever  140 , the short bar may be shaped such that it is not necessary to disconnect and/or disengage the swivel  120  from the top portion  155  of the side arm  110 . 
         [0040]    In some example implementations, the short bar  130  and the swivel  120  may be removable from the top portion  155  of the side arm  110  opposite the lever  140  and cam  135 . In some example implementations, the top portion  155  of the side arm  110  may not completely encircle the swivel  120  as illustrated, allowing removal and reattachment of the swivel  120  from the top portion  155  of the side arm  110  by moving the ends  155 , 160  of the side arms  105 , 110  towards each other and then moving the swivel  120  upward to disengage the swivel  120  from the top portion  155 . In other example implementations, the top portion  160  of the side arm  105  may completely encircle the swivel  115  as illustrated. As explained above, side arm  105  and side arm  110  may be formed integrally with respect to each other, thus obviating the need for a connecting piece and spring pin, or the like. Further, side arm  110  may be formed integrally with the short bar, such that there is no swivel  120  at the connection of the side arm  110  and the end of the short bar  130 . Additionally, the short bar  130  need not be linear. Further, if a structure different from the cam  135  and lever  140  is used (e.g., handle-like structure as explained above), then the swivel  115  may be modified, formed integrally with the side arm  105 , or eliminated. 
         [0041]    In some example implementations, the short bar  130  and the swivel  120  of the side arm  110  opposite from the lever  140  and cam  135  may be threaded. The threading of the short bar  130  and swivel  120  may allow the width of the device to be adjusted. For example, clockwise rotation of the cam  135  and lever  140  might allow the short bar  130  to thread into the swivel  120 , thereby reducing the effective length of the short bar  130  and increasing the tension and/or pressure applied. This adjustment may enable initial pressure adjustment. Conversely, the cam  135  and lever  140  might be rotated counter-clockwise thereby lengthening the width of the distance between the side arms  105 , 110  allowing the removal of the swivel  120  from the mounting point on the side arm opposite the cam  135  and lever  140 , allowing the device  100  to be installed circumferentially around the arm or installed around a brace installed on the arm. The directions of rotation may be reversed without departing from the inventive scope. 
         [0042]    As an alternative to the above-described threaded structure of the short bar  130  and the swivel  120 , other structures may be substituted therefor to provide size adjustability (e.g. size of the device  100  could be adjusted to the size of the user&#39;s wrist), as would be understood by those skilled in the art. Further, the device  100  may be made in different sizes (e.g., small, medium large), so as to eliminate or reduce the need for adjustable parts (such as the series of holes  150  and the threading of the short bar  130 ). In other words, the device may be sold or distributed in a plurality of fixed sizes, and a user or a prescribing medical professional (such as a nurse, doctor, physical therapist, etc.) may select the fixed size of the device rather than acquiring a device that is adjusted to the size of the user. 
         [0043]    Further, in some example implementations, padding such as neoprene or other dermatologically inert foam may be provided to improve comfort and wear-ability of the device  100 . For example, padding  190  may be placed on a portion or along the entire inner surfaces of the side arms  105 , 110  as illustrated. Padding may also be applied to the short bar  130  or any other component, which may contact or rub a user&#39;s skin, as may be apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art. 
         [0044]      FIGS. 4 and 5  provide perspective views of a device  200  according to another example implementation of the present application.  FIG. 6  provides a front view of the device  200  of the example implementation of  FIGS. 4 and 5 .  FIGS. 4-6  illustrate the device  200  according to another example implementation of the present application. Some aspects of this example implementation may be similar to the example implementation illustrate in  FIGS. 1-3  discussed above. The device  200  includes a flexible member  205 , a swivel  215 , a short bar  230 , a cam  235  and a lever  240 . 
         [0045]    The flexible member  205  includes a plurality of holes  210  at an end  220  of the flexible member  205  adjacent to the swivel  215 . The flexible member  205  also includes a plurality of holes  210  at an end  225  of the flexible member  205  adjacent the cam  235  and lever  240 . The short bar  230  is inserted through one of the holes  210  on each end  220 , 225  of the flexible member  205 . The short bar  230  may be removed and reinserted through different holes  210  at one or both ends  220 , 225  to enable adjustment of size to a patient. In some embodiments, holes  210  may only be provided at one end  220 , 225  as discussed below. 
         [0046]    The swivel  215  may include a hole  265  passing through the swivel  215  and be positioned outside of the flexible member  205 . Further, the hole  265  of the swivel  215  may be aligned to receive the short bar  230  passing through the hole  265  formed through the swivel  215 . The short bar  230  may pass through the hole  265  of the swivel  215 , through the holes  210  at both ends of the flexible member  205  and be connected to the cam  235  and lever  240  at one end. The short bar  230  may be linear, curved, or otherwise shaped in any manner that provides a structure that permits a clamping function to be applied to a user&#39;s wrist and other functions as disclosed herein with respect to the present example implementations. For example, if the end  220  of the flexible member  205  that is distant from the cam  235  and lever  240  may be integrally formed with an end of the short bar  230 , then the short bar  230  may be curved or arc-shaped. 
         [0047]    Further, the cam  235  and lever  240  may be provided to perform a function of providing pressure to the end  225  of the flexible member  205  (or similarly structured element) so as to move (e.g., slide) the end  225  inward along the short bar  230  so as to move ends  220 , 225  closer to each other, and thus provide the necessary compression to the hand of the user at the wrist region, as further explained below. However, the present example implementations are not limited to the cam  235  and lever  240  structures, and other structures that perform the function of providing compression to the hand of the user at the wrist region may be substituted therefor without departing from the present inventive scope. For example, but not by way of limitation, instead of the cam  235  and lever  240  structures, another structure may be substituted therefor as would be understood in the art. For example, a handle or similar structure may be used that can be twisted, rotated, bent, or otherwise manipulated to perform the above-described function. 
         [0048]    In the example implementation that uses the cam  235  and lever  240 , the cam  235  and lever  240  is pivotally connected to the short bar  235  by a pin  270  (e.g., split pin) inserted through a hole  275  that is formed through the end of the short bar  230 . This configuration may allow the cam  235  and lever  240  to pivot on an axis provided by the split pin  270 . In other words, the split pin  270  may act as an axle firmly attached to an end of the short bar  230  by a press fit into the short bar  230 . The cam  235  and lever  240  may have a clearance hole  280  through which the split pin  270  may rotate. However, other structures performing these functions may be substituted therefor without departing from the scope of the example implementations. 
         [0049]    As the lever arm  240  is moved about the axis of the split pin  270  (e.g. lifted) by the hand of a user, the lobe  285  of the cam  235  may contact a side (e.g., lateral side) of the end  225  of the flexible member  205 . As the lever arm  240  is further moved about the axis of the split pin  270 , an increasing pressure may be exerted on the end  225  of the flexible member  205  by the action of the cam lobe  285  and the increasing pressure on the end  225  of the flexible member  205  may cause the ends  220 , 225  of the flexible member  205  to come together. 
         [0050]    Further, the end  225  of the flexible member  205  may flex to allow the increasing pressure exerted by the cam  235  to further pull the short bar  230  through the hole  210  of the flexible member  205 , thereby allowing the short bar  230  to exert tension on the other end  220  of the flexible member  205 . 
         [0051]    The action of the lever arm  240 , cam lobe  285 , and short bar  230  may cause the distance between the ends  220 , 225  of the flexible member  205  to decrease as the cam  235  and lever  240  are moved. If this device  200  is circumferentially mounted around an arm or around a wrist-hand brace surrounding an arm, the device  200  may exert bi-lateral inward pressure on the arm or brace transferring pressure directly to the bones of the arm via the skin and muscle. Specifically, pressure may be transferred to the lower ends of the radius and ulna bones. This pressure may change the configuration of the carpal tunnel relieving the pressure on the median nerve passing through the carpel tunnel, thereby relieving the accompanying pain and numbness associated with CTS. 
         [0052]    Example embodiments of the present application are not limited to the illustrated structure of the lever arm  240 , cam  235 , and short bar  230  and may have other structures that are capable of causing the distance between the ends  220 , 225  of the flexible member  205  to decrease in order to exert bi-lateral inward pressure on the arm or brace transferring pressure directly to the bones of the arm via the skin and muscle. For example, an over latch structure (e.g. a so-called “ski-boot buckle” latch) may replace the lever arm  240 , cam  235 , and short bar  230 . The over latch structure could be used to connect the ends  220 , 225  of the flexible member such that when the over latch structure is articulated by the hand of a user, the ends  220 , 225  of the flexible member  205  are brought more closely together to exert bi-lateral inward pressure on the arm or brace transferring pressure directly to the bones of the arm via the skin and muscle. 
         [0053]    In some example implementations, one or more of the illustrated components may be formed may be formed using plastic such as nylon, delrin or any other hypoallergenic plastic. In some embodiments, the inherent flexibility and strength of these materials may permit the elimination of the swivel while still providing a transfer of pressure to the lower ends of the radius and ulna bones. The device  200  may additionally, or alternatively, be injection molded to produce the parts necessary to manufacture a device  200  according to example implementations of the present application. Other materials or manufacturing techniques may be used as may be apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art. 
         [0054]    In order to circumferentially mount the device on an arm, one may disconnect the cam  235  and lever  240  from the short bar  230  to remove from the end  225  of the flexible member  205 . This disconnecting may be achieved by removing the pin  270  holding the short bar  230  to the cam  235  and lever  240  and sliding the short bar  230  through the hole  210  formed in the end  225  of the flexible member  205 . 
         [0055]    In some example implementations, the short bar  230  and the swivel  215  opposite from the lever  240  and cam  235  may be threaded. The threading of the short bar  230  and swivel  215  may allow the width of the device  200  to be adjusted. For example, clockwise rotation of the cam  235  and lever  240  might allow the short bar  230  to thread into the swivel  215 , thereby reducing the effective length of the short bar  230  and increasing the tension and/or pressure applied. This adjustment may enable initial pressure adjustment. Conversely, the cam  235  and lever  240  might be rotated counter-clockwise thereby lengthening the width of the distance between the ends  220 , 225  of flexible member  205  allowing the removal of the swivel  215 , allowing the device  200  to be installed circumferentially around the arm or installed around a brace installed on the arm. The directions of rotation may be reversed without departing from the inventive scope. 
         [0056]    As an alternative to the above-described threaded structure of the short bar  230  and swivel  215 , other structures may be substituted therefor to provide size adjustability (e.g. size of the device  200  could be adjusted to the size of the user&#39;s wrist), as would be understood by those skilled in the art. Further, the device  200  may be made in different sizes (e.g., small, medium large), so as to eliminate or reduce the need for adjustable parts (such as the series of holes  210  and the threading of the short bar  230 ). In other words, the device may be sold or distributed in a plurality of fixed sizes, and a user or a prescribing medical professional (such as a nurse, doctor, physical therapist, etc.) may select the fixed size of the device rather than acquiring a device that is adjusted to the size of the user. 
         [0057]    Further, in some example implementations, padding such as neoprene or other dermatologically inert foam may be provided to improve comfort and wear-ability of the device  200 . For example, padding  290  may be placed on a portion or along the entire inner surfaces of the flexible member  205  as illustrated. Padding may also be applied to the short bar  230  or any other component, which may contact or rub a user&#39;s skin, as may be apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art. 
         [0058]      FIGS. 7 and 8  provide perspective views of a device  300  according to another example implementation of the present application.  FIG. 9  provides a front view of the device  300  of the example implementation of  FIGS. 7 and 8 .  FIGS. 7-9  illustrate the device  300  according to another example implementation of the present application. Some aspects of this example implementation may be similar to the example implementation illustrated in  FIGS. 1-6  discussed above. The device  300  includes a flexible member  305 , a swivel  315 , a short bar  330 , a cam  335  and a lever  340 . 
         [0059]    At one end  320 , the flexible member  305  includes a housing  360  configured to hold the swivel  315 . The flexible member  305  also includes a plurality of holes  310  at an end  325  of the flexible member  305  adjacent the cam  335  and lever  340 . The short bar  330  is inserted through one of the holes  310  on the end  325  of the flexible member  305 . The short bar  330  may be removed and reinserted through different holes  310  at the end  325  to enable adjustment of size to a patient. 
         [0060]    The swivel  315  may include a hole  365  passing through the swivel  315  and be positioned with the housing  360  integrally formed on the end  320  of the flexible member  305 . Further, the hole  365  of the swivel  315  may be aligned to receive the short bar  330  passing through the hole  365  formed through the swivel  315 . The short bar  330  may pass through the hole  365  of the swivel  315 , through the housing  360  at one end  320  of the flexible member  305 , through the hole  310  at the other end  325  of the flexible member  305  and be connected to the cam  335  and lever  340 . The short bar  330  may be linear, curved, or otherwise shaped in any manner that provides a structure that permits a clamping function to be applied to a user&#39;s wrist and other functions as disclosed herein with respect to the present example implementations. For example, as the housing  360  integrally formed with the flexible member  305  may also be integrally formed with an end of the short bar  230 , then the short bar  230  may be curved or arc-shaped. 
         [0061]    Further, the cam  335  and lever  340  may be provided to perform a function of providing pressure to the end  325  of the flexible member  305  (or similarly structured element) so as to move (e.g., slide) the end  325  inward along the short bar  330  so as to move ends  220 , 225  closer to each other, and thus provide the necessary compression to the hand of the user at the wrist region, as further explained below. However, the present example implementations are not limited to the cam  335  and lever  340  structures, and other structures that perform the function of providing compression to the hand of the user at the wrist region may be substituted therefor without departing from the present inventive scope. For example, but not by way of limitation, instead of the cam  335  and lever  340  structures, another structure may be substituted therefor as would be understood in the art. For example, a handle or similar structure may be used that can be twisted, rotated, bent, or otherwise manipulated to perform the above-described function. 
         [0062]    In the example implementation that uses the cam  335  and lever  340 , the cam  335  and lever  340  is pivotally connected to the short bar  335  by a pin  370  (e.g., split pin) inserted through a hole  375  that is formed through the end of the short bar  330 . This configuration may allow the cam  335  and lever  340  to pivot on an axis provided by the split pin  370 . In other words, the split pin  370  may act as an axle firmly attached to an end of the short bar  330  by a press fit into the short bar  330 . The cam  335  and lever  340  may have a clearance hole  380  through which the split pin  370  may rotate. However, other structures performing these functions may be substituted therefor without departing from the scope of the example implementations. 
         [0063]    As the lever arm  340  is moved about the axis of the split pin  370  (e.g. lifted) by the hand of a user, the lobe  385  of the cam  335  may contact a side (e.g., lateral side) of the end  325  of the flexible member  305 . As the lever arm  340  is further moved about the axis of the split pin  270 , an increasing pressure may be exerted on the end  325  of the flexible member  305  by the action of the cam lobe  385  and the increasing pressure on the end  325  of the flexible member  305  may cause the ends  320 , 325  of the flexible member  305  to come together. 
         [0064]    Further, the end  325  of the flexible member  305  may flex to allow the increasing pressure exerted by the cam  335  to further pull the short bar  330  through the hole  310  of the flexible member  305 , thereby allowing the short bar  330  to exert tension on the other end  320  of the flexible member  305 . 
         [0065]    The action of the lever arm  340 , cam lobe  385 , and short bar  330  may cause the distance between the ends  320 , 325  of the flexible member  305  to decrease as the cam  335  and lever  340  are moved. If this device  300  is circumferentially mounted around an arm or around a wrist-hand brace surrounding an arm, the device  300  may exert bi-lateral inward pressure on the arm or brace transferring pressure directly to the bones of the arm via the skin and muscle. Specifically, pressure may be transferred to the lower ends of the radius and ulna bones. This pressure may change the configuration of the carpal tunnel relieving the pressure on the median nerve passing through the carpel tunnel, thereby relieving the accompanying pain and numbness associated with CTS. 
         [0066]    Example embodiments of the present application are not limited to the illustrated structure of the lever arm  340 , cam  335 , and short bar  330  and may have other structures that are capable of causing the distance between the ends  320 , 325  of the flexible member  305  to decrease in order to exert bi-lateral inward pressure on the arm or brace transferring pressure directly to the bones of the arm via the skin and muscle. For example, an over latch structure (e.g. a so-called “ski-boot buckle” latch) may replace the lever arm  340 , cam  335 , and short bar  330 . The over latch structure could be used to connect the ends  320 ,  325  of the flexible member such that when the over latch structure is articulated by the hand of a user, the ends  320 , 325  of the flexible member  305  are brought more closely together to exert bi-lateral inward pressure on the arm or brace transferring pressure directly to the bones of the arm via the skin and muscle. 
         [0067]    In some example implementations, one or more of the illustrated components may be formed may be formed using plastic such as nylon, delrin or any other hypoallergenic plastic. In some embodiments, the inherent flexibility and strength of these materials may permit the elimination of the swivel  315  while still providing a transfer of pressure to the lower ends of the radius and ulna bones. The device  300  may additionally, or alternatively, be injection molded to produce the parts necessary to manufacture a device  300  according to example implementations of the present application. Other materials or manufacturing techniques may be used as may be apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art. 
         [0068]    In order to circumferentially mount the device on an arm, one may disconnect the cam  335  and lever  340  from the short bar  330  to remove from the end  325  of the flexible member  305 . This disconnecting may be achieved by removing the pin  370  holding the short bar  330  to the cam  335  and lever  340  and sliding the short bar  330  through the hole  310  formed in the end  325  of the flexible member  305 . 
         [0069]    In some example implementations, the short bar  330  and the swivel  315  opposite from the lever  340  and cam  335  may be threaded. The threading of the short bar  330  and swivel  315  may allow the width of the device  300  to be adjusted. For example, clockwise rotation of the cam  335  and lever  340  might allow the short bar  330  to thread into the swivel  315 , thereby reducing the effective length of the short bar  330  and increasing the tension and/or pressure applied. This adjustment may enable initial pressure adjustment. Conversely, the cam  335  and lever  340  might be rotated counter-clockwise thereby lengthening the width of the distance between the ends  320 , 325  of flexible member  305  allowing the removal of the swivel  315 , allowing the device  300  to be installed circumferentially around the arm or installed around a brace installed on the arm. The directions of rotation may be reversed without departing from the inventive scope. 
         [0070]    As an alternative to the above-described threaded structure of the short bar  330  and swivel  315 , other structures may be substituted therefor to provide size adjustability (e.g. size of the device  300  could be adjusted to the size of the user&#39;s wrist), as would be understood by those skilled in the art. Further, the device  300  may be made in different sizes (e.g., small, medium large), so as to eliminate or reduce the need for adjustable parts (such as the series of holes  310  and the threading of the short bar  330 ). In other words, the device may be sold or distributed in a plurality of fixed sizes, and a user or a prescribing medical professional (such as a nurse, doctor, physical therapist, etc.) may select the fixed size of the device rather than acquiring a device that is adjusted to the size of the user. 
         [0071]    Further, in some example implementations, padding such as neoprene or other dermatologically inert foam may be provided to improve comfort and wear-ability of the device  300 . For example, padding  390  may be placed on a portion or along the entire inner surfaces of the flexible member  305  as illustrated. Padding may also be applied to the short bar  330  or any other component, which may contact or rub a user&#39;s skin, as may be apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art. 
         [0072]      FIGS. 10 and 11  provide perspective views of a device  400  according to another example implementation of the present application.  FIG. 12  provides a front view of the device  400  of the example implementation of  FIGS. 10 and 11 .  FIG. 13  provides an end view of the device  400  of the example implementation of  FIGS. 10 and 11 .  FIGS. 10-13  illustrate the device  400  according to another example implementation of the present application. The device  400  includes a flexible member  405 , a pair of upper blocks  410 , 415 , a swivel  420 , a short bar  430 , a cam  435  and a lever  440 . 
         [0073]    The flexible member  405  is joined to each of the upper blocks  410 ,  415  at both ends of the flexible member  405  by an adjustment relief mechanism  425  of each side. The adjustment relief mechanism  425  may include a flexible notch that engages serrated portions  445  formed on each end of the flexible member  405 . By changing the depth of insertion of the serrated portion  445  into the adjustment relief mechanism  425  on one or both upper blocks  410 , 415  may enable adjustment of size of the device  400  to a patient. In some example implementations, the adjustment relief mechanism  425  and serrated portion  445  may only be provided on one side of the flexible member  405  or any other equivalent adjustment structure that allows for adjustment of the size of the device  400  may be substituted therefor, as would be understood by those skilled in the art. 
         [0074]    On one side of the device  300 , the swivel  420  may be fitted into one of the upper blocks  415  joined to an end of the flexible member  405 . Specifically, the upper block  415  may have a forked, semi-circular structure that receives the swivel  420  with the short bar  430  disposed within the fork. On the other end of the flexible member  405  of the device  300 , the upper block  410  may have a forked, semi-circular structure that receives the cam  435  with the short bar  430  disposed within the fork. The structures of the upper blocks  410 , 415  permit at least one end of the flexible member  405  to be movable relative to the other end of the flexible member  405  as discussed in greater detail further below. 
         [0075]    The swivel  420  includes a hole  465  passing through it and is pivotably mounted to the upper block  415 . Further, the hole  465  of the swivel  420  may be aligned to receive the short bar  430  through the hole  465 . As discussed above, in an alternative example implementation, swivels may be provided on both sides, and it is not necessary for the short bar  130  to be formed separately from the swivel  420 . For example, one upper block  410 , 415  may be integrally formed with the short bar  430 , while the other upper block  415 , 410  is movably formed with the short bar  430  adjacent to the cam  435  and lever  440 . 
         [0076]    The short bar  130  may pass through the holes  465  of the swivel  420  at one end and be connected to the cam  435  and the lever  440  at the other, opposite end. The short bar  430  may be linear, curved, or otherwise shaped in any manner that provides a structure that permits a clamping function to be applied to a user&#39;s wrist and other functions as disclosed herein with respect to the present example implementations. For example, if the upper housing  415  that is distant from the cam  435  and lever  440  may be integrally formed with the end of the short bar  430 , then the short bar  430  may be curved or arc-shaped. 
         [0077]    Further, the cam  435  and lever  440  may be provided to perform a function of providing pressure to the upper block  410  (or similarly structured element) so as to move (e.g., slide) the upper block  410  inward along the short bar  430  so as to move the upper blocks  410  and  415  closer to each other, and thus provide the necessary compression to the hand of the user at the wrist region, as further explained below. However, the present example implementations are not limited to the cam  435  and lever  440  structures, and other structures that perform the function of providing compression to the hand of the user at the wrist region may be substituted therefor without departing from the present inventive scope. For example, but not by way of limitation, instead of the cam  435  and lever  440  structures, another structure may be substituted therefor as would be understood in the art. For example, a handle or similar structure may be used that can be twisted, rotated, bent, or otherwise manipulated to perform the above-described function. 
         [0078]    In the example implementation that uses the cam  435  and lever  440 , the cam  435  and lever  440  is pivotally connected to the short bar  430  by a pin  470  (e.g., split pin) inserted through a hole  475  that is formed through the end of the short bar  430 . Further, the cam  435  and lever  440  may have a clearance hole  480 . In some example implementations, the clearance hole  480  may be offset from a center of the cam  435 , such that pivoting the lever  440  causes the cam  435  to rotate relative to the upper block  410  and the relative rotation of causes the clearance hole  480  (and the pin  470 ) to move relative to the upper block  410 . However, other structures performing these functions may be substituted therefor without departing from the scope of the example implementations. 
         [0079]    As the lever arm  440  is moved upward (e.g. lifted) by the hand of a user, the relative movement between clearance hole  480  (and the pin  470 ) and the upper block  410  causes a shortening of the relative length of the short bar  430 . As the lever arm  440  is further moved upward, an increased tension may be exerted on the upper block  410  causing the upper blocks  410 , 415  to be pulled together causing the ends of the flexible member  405  to come together. 
         [0080]    Further, the action of the lever  440  and the movement of the clearance hole  480  (and the pin  470 ) relative to the upper block  410  may further pull the short bar  430  through the upper block  410 , thereby allowing the short bar  130  to exert tension on the opposing upper block  415 . 
         [0081]    The action of the lever arm  440 , cam  435  and short bar  530  may cause the distance between the upper blocks  410 , 415  (and the ends of the flexible member  405  attached thereto) to decrease as the cam  435  and lever  440  are moved. If this device  400  is circumferentially mounted around an arm or around a wrist-hand brace surrounding an arm, the device may exert bi-lateral inward pressure on the arm or brace transferring pressure directly to the bones of the arm via the skin and muscle. Specifically, pressure may be transferred to the lower ends of the radius and ulna bones. This pressure may change the configuration of the carpal tunnel relieving the pressure on the median nerve passing through the carpel tunnel, thereby relieving the accompanying pain and numbness associated with CTS. 
         [0082]    Example embodiments of the present application are not limited to the illustrated structure of the lever arm  440 , cam  435 , and short bar  430  and may have other structures that are capable of causing the distance between the upper blocks  410 , 415  (and the ends of the flexible member  405  attached thereto) to decrease in order to exert bi-lateral inward pressure on the arm or brace transferring pressure directly to the bones of the arm via the skin and muscle. For example, an over latch structure (e.g. a so-called “ski-boot buckle” latch) may replace the lever arm  440 , cam  435 , and short bar  430 . The over latch structure could be used to connect the upper blocks  410 , 415  (and the ends of the flexible member  405  attached thereto) such that when the over latch structure is articulated by the hand of a user, the upper blocks  410 , 415  (and the ends of the flexible member  405  attached thereto) are brought more closely together to exert bi-lateral inward pressure on the arm or brace transferring pressure directly to the bones of the arm via the skin and muscle. 
         [0083]    In some example implementations, one or more of the illustrated components may be formed may be formed using plastic such as nylon, delrin or any other hypoallergenic plastic. In some embodiments, the inherent flexibility and strength of these materials may permit the elimination of the swivel  420  while still providing a transfer of pressure to the lower ends of the radius and ulna bones. The device  400  may additionally, or alternatively, be injection molded to produce the parts necessary to manufacture a device  400  according to example implementations of the present application. Other materials or manufacturing techniques may be used as may be apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art. 
         [0084]    In order to circumferentially mount the device on an arm, one may disconnect the swivel  420  from the upper block  415  that is opposite the lever  440  and cam  435 . This disconnecting may be achieved by disengaging the swivel  420  from the upper block  415  opposite the lever  440  and cam  435 . Alternatively, if there is an integral formation of the short bar  430  and the swivel  420  or related structure at an end of the flexible member that is distant from the cam  435  and lever  440 , the short bar  430  may be shaped such that it is not necessary to disconnect and/or disengage the swivel  420  from the upper block  415 . 
         [0085]    In some example implementations, the short bar  430  and the swivel  420  may be removable from the upper block  415  opposite the lever  440  and cam  435 . In some example implementations, the upper block  415  may not completely encircle the swivel  420 , allowing removal and reattachment as illustrated. In other example implementations, the upper block  415  may completely encircle the swivel  420  as illustrated, allowing removal and reattachment of the swivel  420  from the upper block  415  by moving the upper blocks  410 , 415  towards each other and then moving the swivel  420  upward to disengage the swivel  420  from the upper block  415 . The upper blocks  410 , 415  may be formed integrally with the flexible member  405  obviating the need for one or more of the serrated portions  445 . Further, the upper blocks  410 , 415  may also or alternatively be formed integrally with the short bar  430 , such that there is no swivel  420  at the connection of the upper block  415  and the end of the short bar  430 . Additionally, the short bar  430  need not be linear. 
         [0086]    In some example implementations, the short bar  430  and the swivel  420  of the upper block  415  opposite from the lever  440  and cam  435  may be threaded. The threading of the short bar  430  and swivel  420  may allow the width of the device  400  to be adjusted. For example, clockwise rotation of the cam  435  and lever  440  might allow the short bar  430  to thread into the swivel  420 , thereby reducing the effective length of the short bar  430  and increasing the tension and/or pressure applied. This adjustment may enable initial pressure adjustment. Conversely, the cam  435  and lever  440  might be rotated counter-clockwise thereby lengthening the width of the distance between the upper blocks  410 ,  415  allowing the removal of the swivel  420  from the upper block  415  opposite the cam  435  and lever  440 , allowing the device  400  to be installed circumferentially around the arm or installed around a brace installed on the arm. The directions of rotation may be reversed without departing from the inventive scope. 
         [0087]    As an alternative to the above-described threaded structure of the short bar  430  and the swivel  420 , other structures may be substituted therefor to provide size adjustability (e.g. size of the device  400  could be adjusted to the size of the user&#39;s wrist), as would be understood by those skilled in the art. Further, the device  400  may be made in different sizes (e.g., small, medium large), so as to eliminate or reduce the need for adjustable parts (such as the serrated portions  445 , the relief adjustment mechanism  425  and the threading of the short bar  130 ). In other words, the device may be sold or distributed in a plurality of fixed sizes, and a user or a prescribing medical professional (such as a nurse, doctor, physical therapist, etc.) may select the fixed size of the device rather than acquiring a device that is adjusted to the size of the user. 
         [0088]    Further, in some example implementations, padding such as neoprene or other dermatologically inert foam may be provided to improve comfort and wear-ability of the device  400 . For example, padding  490  may be placed on a portion or along the entire inner flexible member  405  as illustrated. Padding may also be applied to the short bar  430  or any other component, which may contact or rub a user&#39;s skin, as may be apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art. 
         [0089]      FIG. 14  provides a process flow of a treatment process  1400  according to an example implementation of the present application. In process  1400 , a device is wrapped around a user or patient&#39;s wrist in  1405 . The device may be a device according to an example implementation of the present application. For example, device  100  of  FIGS. 1-3 , device  200  of  FIGS. 4-6 , device  300  of  FIGS. 7-9 , or device  400  of  FIGS. 10-14  may be used. The device may be wrapped around the user or patient&#39;s wrist may be installed by separating the short bar ( 130 , 230 , 330 , 430 ) from the flexible member ( 205 , 305 , 405 ) or one of the side arms ( 105 , 110 ) as discussed above. In some embodiments, the device may be wrapped around the user or patient&#39;s wrist such that the short bar ( 130 , 230 , 330 , 430 ) is extends across the inside of the user or patient&#39;s wrist. In other embodiments, the device may be wrapped around the user or patient&#39;s wrist such that the short bar ( 130 , 230 , 330 , 430 ) is extends across the outside of the user or patient&#39;s wrist. 
         [0090]    Once the device ( 100 , 200 , 300 , 400 ) has been placed around the user&#39;s wrist, the lever arm ( 140 , 240 , 340 , 440 ) is articulated to move the cam ( 135 , 235 , 335 , 435 ) in  1410 . The lever arm ( 140 , 240 , 340 , 440 ) may be articulated by the user, a medical professional (such as a nurse, doctor, physical therapist, etc.) administering treatment to the user, or any other third party assisting or treating the user. As discussed above, articulation of the lever arm ( 140 , 240 , 340 , 440 ) and movement of the cam ( 135 , 235 , 335 , 435 ) in  1410  causes a force to be applied to one or both ends of the flexible member ( 205 , 305 , 405 ) or one or both of the side arms ( 105 , 110 ) in  1415 . In  1420 , the force applied to one or both ends of the flexible member ( 205 , 305 , 405 ) or one or both of the side arms ( 105 , 110 ) is translated to a pressure applied to the at least one bone of the user or patient by the flexible member ( 205 , 305 , 405 ) or one or both of the side arms ( 105 , 110 ). 
         [0091]    The specific strength of the applied pressure can be adjusted based on the relative length of the short bar ( 130 , 230 , 330 , 430 ). The specific values of pressure applied to the user&#39;s wrist may be specifically modulated and selected by a treating medical professional to ensure enough pressure is applied while also ensuring excessive pressure, which might cause temporary or permanent damage, may be prevented. 
         [0092]    In  1425 , after a sustained period of time, the lever arm ( 140 , 240 , 340 , 440 ) is returned to an initial position, reducing the force applied by the cam and thereby reducing the pressure applied to the user&#39;s wrist. The specific period of sustained pressure may be on the order of  30 - 90  seconds, or any duration as prescribed by a treating medical professional to ensure effective treatment. 
         [0093]    While certain example implementations have been described, these example implementations have been presented by way of example only, and are not intended to limit the scope of the protection. Indeed, the novel methods and apparatuses described herein may be embodied in a variety of other forms. Furthermore, various omissions, substitutions and changes in the form of the methods and systems described herein may be made without departing from the spirit of the protection. The accompanying claims and their equivalents are intended to cover such forms or modifications as would fall within the scope and spirit of the protection.