Patent Publication Number: US-2015073317-A1

Title: Device and method for applying pressure to a mammalian limb

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to therapeutic devices. More specifically, the invention relates to a therapeutic pressure band for applying pressure to a mammalian limb. Particularly, the invention relates to a therapeutic pressure band for applying pressure across muscles near the insertion point of those muscles (i.e., near where the muscle inserts into the bone) and/or across the bone itself. Such devices are commonly used to provide pain relief for inflamed and painful muscles, tendons and joint capsules and are especially used for treating medial tibial stress syndrome, also known as “shin splints.” 
     The pathological condition generally known as shin splints afflicts many people. In many instances, shin splints (and other forms of tendonitis) is caused by overexertion and overloading of a muscle group during exercise, sports or simple repetitive motion. For example, if a person begins running extended distances after not running for a period of time, the tendons and muscles of the person&#39;s legs, especially the gastrocnemius, soleus, and plantar muscles, may be unable to absorb the impact of the shock force as they become fatigued. In particular, repetitive stress of the impact forces may eccentrically fatigue the soleus and create repeated tibial bending or bowing. In some instances, pressure across the tibia, and in some cases the fibula, will increase to a point where the bone will be painful as well. 
     Orthopedists observe that many patients having various forms of tendonitis and/or muscle inflammation, and particularly those having shin splints, experience pain relief when pressure is applied across the inflamed muscles, tendons, and bones. For those patients with shin splints placing a compressive band around the lower leg between the knee and ankle may provide some relief. Such bands are also utilized during use of the leg (e.g., jogging or repetitive movement at work) to dampen muscle movement and thereby reduce additional inflammation of the muscles and tendons. 
     However, the mammalian body is a very dynamic system. Treatments, braces, and straps that provide relief for one patient often do not provide relief for another, which is one reason there is such a large number of orthopedic devices on the market for all types of orthopedic conditions. Accordingly, there is a continuing need for new and innovative orthopedic devices to provide treatment and relief to those patients that do not respond to known treatment methods. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In one aspect, the invention is a therapeutic pressure band for applying pressure to a limb. The pressure band comprises a plurality of flexible straps for encircling a limb and a connecting material extending between each adjacent strap to secure the straps together. The straps each have adjustable cooperative fasteners proximate their ends for adjustably fastening the straps about the limb. A plurality of elongated pressure members are attached to the band and positioned between the adjustable cooperative fasteners. Each flexible strap includes one elongated pressure member attached thereto, and the pressure members are separated from each other by a distance and oriented substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the limb. During use, each pressure member creates a discrete line of pressure across the limb. 
     In another aspect, the invention is a method of simultaneously applying a plurality of discrete lines of pressure to a limb. The method comprises the steps of encircling the limb with a pressure band, with the band having a plurality of flexible straps and with each of the straps having adjustable cooperative fasteners proximate ends of the straps for adjustably fastening the straps about the limb. The band also has a plurality of elongated pressure members, with each of the straps having one pressure member attached thereto. The pressure members are separated from each other by a distance and oriented substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the limb when the band is in use. The method also includes the step of adjusting the cooperative fasteners of each of the straps to tighten the band around the limb thereby compressing each pressure member against the limb to create discrete lines of pressure across the limb. 
     A still further aspect of the invention is a method of applying a plurality of independent lines of pressure to a limb. The method comprises the steps of placing a plurality of elongated pressure members against the limb, with each of the pressure members including a force transfer surface, and wherein each of the elongated pressure members are operable to apply a line of pressure that is independent of lines of pressure being applied by other pressure members. The steps additionally include creating a plurality of circumferential compressive forces around the limb. The steps further include concentrating a portion of each of the plurality of the compressive forces at the force transfer surface of each of the pressure members. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       These and other more detailed and specific features of the present invention are more fully disclosed in the following specification, reference being had to the accompanying drawings, in which: 
         FIG. 1A  is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 1B  is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 2  is a top plan view of the embodiment of  FIG. 1B . 
         FIG. 3  is a view taken on lines  3 - 3  of  FIG. 1A . 
         FIG. 4  is a view taken on lines  4 - 4  of  FIG. 1B . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous details are set forth, such as device configurations and movements, to provide an understanding of one or more embodiments of the present invention. Furthermore, the following detailed description is of the best presently contemplated mode of carrying out the invention. The description is not intended in a limiting sense, and is made solely for the purpose of illustrating the general principles of the invention. The various features and advantages of the present invention may be more readily understood with reference to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. 
     While the invention is described with respect to various embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit, scope, and teaching of the invention. Accordingly, the invention herein disclosed is limited only as specified in the claims. 
     Referring now to the drawings in detail, where like numerals refer to like parts or elements, there is shown in  FIGS. 1A and 1B  a therapeutic pressure band generally designated by the numeral  10 . The pressure band  10  is designed to apply pressure to the muscles and/or bones of a limb (not shown). For ease of discussion the detailed description describes an embodiment of the invention in the context of a band used in the treatment of shin splints in a human. This narrative convenience should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the invention. The band  10  of the present invention includes means for applying a plurality of discrete lines of pressure to the muscles, tendons, and/or bones of a limb. Those skilled in the art recognize that depending upon the placement of the band, the lines of pressure provided by the band will be above muscle, tendon, bone, the transition area between the muscle and the tendon, and/or the transition areas between the muscle, tendon, and bone. Therefore, as used herein and for clarity, the term muscle or muscles includes the primarily fibrous portions of a muscle, commonly known as tendons, which attach the muscle to bone as well as the contractive tissue commonly referred to as muscle. 
     In more detail, the pressure band  10  according to embodiment of the present invention broadly comprises a plurality of elongated flexible straps  12  of sufficient length such that the pressure band is capable of encircling the limb to be treated. The pressure band  10  includes connection material  14  that extends between and connects the straps  12  together. In certain embodiments, the pressure band  10  also includes a plurality of adjustable cooperative fasteners proximate ends of the each of the plurality of straps  12  for adjustably fastening and/or securing the straps and thus the pressure band about the limb, for creating a compressive force or pressure about the limb, and for adjusting the force/pressure applied to the limb. Each of the pressure straps  12  contains a pocket  26 ,  26   a  that is integral with the strap. In certain embodiments, the pockets  26 ,  26 A located on adjacent straps  12  are separated from each other by a distance  32 . In certain embodiments, an elongated pressure member  34 ,  34   a  is contained within each of the pockets  26 ,  26 A. During use of the pressure band  10  in certain embodiments, the pressure members  34 ,  34   a  are oriented substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the limb and each pressure member creates a distinct line of pressure across the muscles and/or bone of the limb. Each element is discussed in more detail below. 
     Of note, some embodiments of the present invention include features similarly found in certain portions of the inventive concepts disclosed in co-pending application U.S. Ser. No. 13/731,289 filed on Dec. 31, 2012, and entitled “A DEVICE AND METHOD FOR APPLYING PRESSURE TO A MAMMALIAN LIMB,” the entire disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference into the present application. 
     In certain embodiments, the pressure band  10 , including portions the flexible straps  12  and the connecting material  14 , are constructed of a suitable flexible material such as woven fabric, vinyl, leather, neoprene, nylon, etc. In some embodiments, the material utilized to construct the band  10  has some elastic qualities, or in other embodiments, the material is mostly inelastic. If elastic materials are utilized, then care should be taken when the band  10  is applied to a limb because elastic materials make it easier to inadvertently cut off blood circulation to a limb. In certain embodiments, the pressure band  10  is mostly made of a single material for ease of manufacture or, in alternative embodiments; it is made from a combination of materials where the materials are chosen for specific purposes. For example in some embodiments, one portion of the band  10  is formed from relatively inelastic leather while another portion is formed from somewhat elastic neoprene. In certain embodiments, a portion or multiple portions of the band  10  are formed of solid materials (e.g., thin polymer sheets) to add strength to the strap or focus pressure in a particular area. 
     The architecture of the plurality of straps  12  can vary considerably. In certain embodiments, the straps  12  are formed of a single layer of material, or in alternative embodiments, the straps  12  are made of multiple layers of material. If a single layer of material is used, slight adjustments in the manner of attaching the pressure members  34 ,  34   a  (discussed below) to the straps  12  are necessary. Such adjustments are well within the knowledge of those skilled in the art. 
     In preferred embodiments the straps  12  are formed of multiple layers as shown in  FIGS. 1A and 1B . The band  12  shown in the figures comprises a first layer  28  attached to a second layer  30 . In other embodiments, additional layers can be utilized if desired. For example, in some embodiments, a layer of foam is added to provide comfort for the user. 
     The therapeutic pressure band  10  includes adjustable cooperative fasteners proximate the ends of each of the straps  12  for adjustably fastening the band about the limb to create compressive forces or pressures about the limb and for adjusting the forces/pressures applied to the limb. In certain embodiments, such as illustrated in the drawings, a Velcro type fastener is utilized on the ends of the straps  12 , including a strip of hook portion  22  on a first end and a strip of fiber loop portion  24  on a second end. In other embodiments, a single, large piece of Velcro (either a hook portion or a loop portion) extends between and connects together each of the straps  12  on their first end. As such, the second ends of each of the straps  12 , which also include Velcro, are capable being fastened to the large piece of Velcro. Although Velcro type fasteners are preferred due to ease of use, in other embodiments, other types of fasteners such as buckles, snaps, latches, or the like can be used in the practice of the invention. For example, in certain embodiments, a metal or polymeric loop is attached to a first end of a strap  12  via a small tube extending across the first end of the strap, and a second end of the strap is capable of being inserted through loop and secured in place with Velcro, prongs, clasps, or the like. 
     As illustrated by  FIGS. 1A and 1B , the straps  12  of the band  10  are secured together and interconnected by the connecting material  14 . In certain embedment&#39;s, such as those shown in the drawings, the connecting material  14  extends between the straps  12 , such that the connecting material presents an egg-shaped or oval-shaped form. The egg-shaped or oval-shaped form may be preferred in embodiments in which the band  10  is secured to a user&#39;s lower log leg, such as for instance to treat shin splints. As such, the egg-shaped form or oval-shaped form corresponds to a shape of the user&#39;s lower leg to facilitate proper placement and fit. In other embodiments, the connecting material  14  extends between the straps  12 , such that the connecting material presents other-shaped forms, such as circular, triangular, rectangular, or the like. 
       FIG. 2  illustrates the engagement of the fasteners of the band  10  and how such an engagement creates compressive forces/pressures around a limb. As the ends of the straps  12  are secured together, the circumference of the band  10  contracts causing compressive forces around the interior of the band. These forces are illustrated by the force vector arrows  16  shown in  FIGS. 2 ,  3  and  4  and are discussed in more detail below. 
     In one embodiment of the band  10  according to the invention the means for applying a plurality of discrete lines of pressure to a limb comprise the plurality of pockets  26 ,  26   a  that are integral to each of the straps  12 . In certain embodiments, the pockets  26 ,  26   a  are formed within the straps  12 , or in alternative embodiments, are formed separately and attached to the straps  12 . 
     In certain embodiments, the manner in which the pockets  26 ,  26   a  are formed vary with the methods used to manufacture the band  10 . For example, in the embodiment of the invention shown in  FIGS. 1A and 3 , the band  10  is formed of multiple layers of material. In this embodiment the band  10 , and more specifically the straps  12 , is formed of a first layer  28  of material attached to a second layer  30  of material. The method of attaching the first layer  28  to the second layer  30  includes any method known in the art such as sewing or gluing. Those skilled in the art can pick the method of attachment that is most suitable for the materials used to construct the band  10 . 
     In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 3  the first  28  and second  30  layers are joined by sewing the layers together. The pockets  26  are located intermediate the first and second layer  28 ,  30  in the potential space that exists between the layers. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 3  there exist three pockets  26  formed between the layers  28 ,  30  and extending longitudinally along each of the straps  12 . In certain embodiments, the pockets  26  are completely enclosed, or in other embodiments, they have small openings (not shown) at one end. Providing small openings allows the user to change out the pressure members (described in more detail below) that reside therein (e.g., remove a more rigid member for a more compliant member). 
     Turning now to  FIG. 4 , in an alternative embodiment, the band  10 , and more specifically the straps  12 , is constructed such that the pockets  26   a  are primarily arranged to be on one side of the straps  12 . In both embodiments and particularly the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 3 and 4 , the band  10  can be described as having an inside surface  36  and an outside surface  38  where the inside surface  36  faces the limb as shown in  FIG. 2 . In the embodiments shown in  FIG. 4 , the pockets  26   a  are positioned primarily on the inside surface  36  of the band  10 . In some embodiments, the pockets  26   a  have small openings (not shown) that allow a user to change out pressure members. 
     The pockets  26   a  shown in  FIG. 4  are similar to the pockets shown in  FIG. 3  in that they are positioned intermediate a first  28  and second  30  layer. They are different in that the portion of the straps  12  that is between pressure members  34   a  and the outside surface  38  is reinforced to be more rigid and less capable of deforming to conform to the shape of the pressure member  34   a  as shown in  FIG. 4 . 
     In embodiments of the present invention, the reinforcement of the straps  12  to form the style of pockets  26   a  shown in  FIG. 4  takes several forms. One option is to place a backing plate  40  intermediate the pressure members  34   a  and the outside surface  38 . In certain embodiments, the backing plate  40  is semi-flexible (for example, a thin piece of plastic). In other embodiments, the backing plate  40  is formed from a rigid material that has a curvature to conform to the natural curvature of the limb. Another alternative embodiment for reinforcing the straps  12  is to use multiple layers of material (e.g., fabric, leather) to create the “outer” portion the straps. Either method of reinforcement, results in pockets  26   a  that generally protrude toward the inside of the band  10 . 
     The pressure members  34 ,  34   a  used in the practice of the invention are sized to fit within the pockets  26 ,  26   a.  The pressure members are elongated to provide continuous lines of pressure that extend for a distance across a muscle, muscle group, and/or bone of a limb. Those skilled in the art recognize that the pressure (and force vectors) applied by the pressure members  34 ,  34   a  to a limb extends along lines that are generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the limb. 
     Pressure members having a circular or hemispherical cross-section are preferred because they create a generally smooth and uniform force transfer surface (generally represented by numeral  42 ) when compressed against a limb. In other embodiments, other cross sections (for example, hexagonal or star shaped) are used in the practice of the invention and may provide more relief for some patients. In addition, embodiments provide for the pressure members  34 ,  34   a  to be either solid or hollow as shown in  FIGS. 3 and 4  respectively. Similarly, embodiments provide for the material used to construct the pressure members to vary depending upon the amount of pressure desired. For example, a hollow tube of very flexible and soft rubber would have a pressure distribution profile that is different from a solid tube of fairly rigid nylon. One patient may prefer one type of pressure member over another. 
     In certain embodiments, each of the pressure members  34 ,  34   a  on the straps  12  will have similar lengths. For instance, in some specific embodiments, each of the pressure members  34 ,  34   a  will have a length within a range from about  2  inches to about  4  inches. In certain specific embodiments, each of the pressure members  34 ,  34   a  will have lengths that are about 2.25 inches, 2.75 inches, or 3.00 inches. In certain other embodiments, one or more of the pressure members  34 ,  34  of the straps  12  will have different lengths. For instance, in certain embodiments in which the band  10  is positioned on a user&#39;s lower leg, the pressure members  34 ,  34   a  that are positioned higher will be longer than the pressure members  34 ,  34   a  that are positioned lower. With reference to  FIGS. 1A and 1B , for example, the pressure members  34 ,  34   a  positioned near an upper portion of the band  10  are longer than the pressure members  34 ,  34   a  positioned near a lower portion of the band. Such embodiments may be beneficial for use on a user&#39;s leg because a width of the user&#39;s leg generally decreases moving from an upper portion of leg to a lower portion leg. In certain embodiments in which the pressure members  34 ,  34   a  are of different lengths, a first pressure member that is positioned directly below a second pressure member will have a length that is about 95 percent, 90 percent, 85 percent, 80 percent, 75 percent, or less than the length of the second pressure member. In certain specific embodiments of the band  10 , such as illustrated in the drawings and that include three straps  12  and  3  pressure members  34 ,  34   a,  the band will include an upper pressure member that is about 3.00 inches long, a middle pressure member that is about 2.75 inches long, and a bottom pressure member that is about 2.25 inches long. 
     In all embodiments of the band  10 , the pockets  26 ,  26   a  are separated from each other by a distance  32 . The length of the distance  32  is that which is sufficient to create a plurality of separate and discrete lines of pressure across the band  10 . Stated alternatively, the pressure members do not touch or adjoin or abut to create a single, concentrated, uniform area of pressure when the band is applied to a limb. Stated in yet a further alternative, the lines of force vectors  16  created by the pressure members  34 ,  34   a  and which are directed toward the limb are separated by a distance “D” that is greater than the sum of the radii of any two adjacent pressure members  34 ,  34   a.  Stated more simply, there is a gap between adjacent pressure members  34 ,  34   a.    
     Embodiments of the present invention provide for the distance between the pockets and pressure members to vary depending upon the size of the pressure members, the width of the straps, the pocket material thickness, and the size of the limb. For those bands used in the treatment of shin splints, embodiments provide for the distance  32  to range between about ¾ inch to about 2 inches or greater. In other embodiments, the distance  32  ranges between about ¼ inch to about ¾ inch. In still other embodiments, the distance  32  ranges from about  2  inches to about  4  inches. Furthermore, it is envisioned that a certain distance  32  that provides relief for some patients will not provide relief for other patients. Thus, it is expected that bands  10  that include various sizes and distances  32  will be manufactured in accordance with the practice of the invention. 
     As described, embodiments of the present invention allow for the pressure members  34 ,  34   a  to apply discrete lines of pressure to muscle, tendon, and/or bone of a limb. In particular, the lengths of the pressure members  34 ,  34   a  (as described above) and the separation distance between the pressure members (as described above), allow for the discrete lines of pressure to be applied to the limb in a plurality of arrangements. For example, in some embodiments, all of the band&#39;s  10  pressure members  34 ,  34   a  will be applied only to the muscles or muscle group of the limb, only to the tendon of the limb, or only to the bone of the limb. In other embodiments, one or more of the pressure members  34 ,  34   a  will be applied to the muscles or muscle group of the limb, while one or more other of the pressure members will simultaneously be applied to the tendons that connect the muscle or muscle group to the bone of the limb. In still further embodiments, one or more of the pressure members  34 ,  34   a  will be applied to the muscles, muscle group, and/or tendon of the limb, while one or more other of the pressure members will simultaneously be applied to the bone of the limb. Such varying arrangements for the application of the pressure members  34 ,  34   a  are due, in part, to the placement, length, and separation of each of the pressure members of the band  10  according to embodiments of the present invention. 
     Another aspect of the invention is a method of simultaneously applying a plurality of discrete lines of pressure to the muscles and/or bone of a limb such as a human leg. The method comprises the step of encircling a limb with an elongated band such as the band  10  with the plurality of straps  12  discussed above. In particular, the band utilized in the method has adjustable cooperative fasteners proximate the ends of the straps for adjustably fastening the band about the limb. The band also possesses a plurality of elongated pressure members, such as those described previously, where the pressure members are separated by a distance and oriented substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the limb when the band is in use. The pressure members are preferably retained within discrete pockets that are integral to the straps of the band as discussed previously. 
     The method continues by adjusting the cooperative fasteners for each of the straps to tighten the band around the limb thereby compressing each pressure member against the limb to create discrete lines of pressure across the muscles and/or bone of the limb where the lines of pressure are separated by a distance. Because each of the straps includes its own pressure member, embodiments of the present invention provide for a user to independently adjust a magnitude of the pressure applied via each the pressure members. As such, the band of the present invention is capable of applying varying magnitudes of pressure for each of its straps and pressure members, such that a user can customize the applied lines of pressure as may be required for the user&#39;s individual needs. For example, if a user applies the band  10  of embodiments of the present invention to the user&#39;s shin to treat shin splints, the user can individually adjust the amount of pressure applied to the user&#39;s leg via each pressure member  34 ,  34   a.  In more detail, if an upper portion of the user&#39;s shin is more inflamed than a lower portion, the user can apply greater pressure to the upper portion than the lower portion. Specifically, the user can adjust the cooperative fasteners of the straps  12  so that upper straps are fastened tighter than lower straps. As such, the pressure members  34 ,  34   a  associated with the upper straps will impart greater pressures, than the pressure members associated with the lower straps. 
     In yet another aspect, the invention is a method of simultaneously applying a plurality of discrete lines of pressure to the muscles and/or bone of a limb. The method comprises the step of placing a plurality of discrete elongated pressure members against a limb where the elongated pressure members are the same as those discussed in relation to the pressure band  10  according to the invention. When the band is in use the elongated pressure members are substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the limb and are separated from each other by a distance. The pressure members also have a force transfer surface that extends for a distance across the surface of the limb. 
     The method continues with the step of creating a circumferential compressive force around the limb. This step is typically accomplished by tightening the band  10  around the limb to create compressive forces similar to those illustrated in  FIG. 2 . Tightening the straps  12  of the band  10  forces the pressure members, more specifically the force transfer surfaces  42  of the pressure members  34 ,  34   a  into the limb, which concentrates a portion of the compressive force applied to the limb at the force transfer surface  42 . This in turn creates the continuous lines of pressure that aid in dampening movement of the muscles, tendons, and/or bone. 
     In the drawings and specification, there have been disclosed typical embodiments on the invention and, although specific terms have been employed, they have been used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation, the scope of the invention being set forth in the following claims.