Patent Description:
A sacroiliac belt can be worn around the upper hips of an individual to exert a compressive force around the pelvic girdle and to stabilize and reduce strain in the sacroiliac joint. There are a number of commercially available orthoses intended to stabilize and immobilize the lumbar and sacral region of the body for use in the treatment of lower back pain. Such devices are often employed for treating pain associated with conditions such as lumbar sprain, spinal stenosis, disc herniation, as well as pain and discomfort associated with degenerative spinal disorders. Nevertheless, many of these devices do not fully address spinal concerns.

Due to the variability of individuals in terms of size, weight and anatomy, ensuring optimal fit and comfort can be challenging. There remains a need for sacroiliac belts that can be easily adjusted to ensure proper fit, customizable support, and requisite immobilization to the necessary regions of the back when the device is worn.

One type of sacroiliac belt disclosed in the art includes an elastic inner part that wraps around the user's hips and a non-elastic outer part that encircles the inner part to establish an overall non-elastic sacroiliac belt. <CIT> discloses a sacroiliac belt, with elastic panels and a non-elastic cinch strap encircling the panels. Another sacroiliac belt of this type includes elastic Neoprene to wrap around the user's hips and non-elastic Nylon to wrap around the Neoprene. However, this sacroiliac belt is not recommended for wearing directly against the skin because the closed-cell structure of Neoprene causes heat build-up which can lead to skin irritation.

Another type of prior sacroiliac belt is generally elastic, which allows good compression of the sacroiliac joint. However, while such elastic sacroiliac belts can provide a certain measure of lumbar support, such elastic sacroiliac belts will not typically provide sufficient compression to specifically limit motion of the sacroiliac joint below its very low, normal range of motion, e.g., approximately <NUM> degrees. In this way, an overall elastic sacroiliac belt can give a false sense of security to the user because the actions that open the sacroiliac joint, i.e., bending, lifting, and twisting, can force the joint open beyond its normal range of motion even with such elastic sacroiliac belts in place. In other words, elastic sacroiliac belts do not create a stop point at the end of the normal range of motion of the sacroiliac joint. As ligaments are essentially non-elastic, movement of the sacroiliac joint beyond its normal range will stress the ligaments and potentially re-injure the joint.

<CIT> describes a sacroiliac belt with internal distractions. The design includes a belt having an inner belt configured to encircle a waist portion of a user. The inner belt has a first end, a second end, and a length that extends from the first end to the second end. Notably, the belt also includes a plurality of pockets coupled to the internal side of the inner belt, configured to receive distraction devices.

<CIT> describes a supporter constructed from a single sheet of knitted fabric.

International <CIT> describes a length-adjustable belt in which, to both ends of a band-shaped member (a) made of a stretchable material or a material having been subjected to a stretching treatment, either a band-shaped member (B) made of a non-stretchable material or a material having been subjected to a non-stretching treatment or a band-shaped member (B) made of a stretchable material having a lower stretching ratio than the above-described band-shaped member (a) or a material having been subjected to the same stretching treatment is formed and which is wound around and tightens up the body side at the position almost below the anterior superior iliac spine of the iliac bone constituting the pelvis, wherein a pressing member is provided on the back face of the above-described band-shaped member (a) at the site being nearly in contact with the area between the posterior superior iliac spine and the posterior inferior iliac spine when the belt is wound around the body, and locking members are provided at both ends of the belt.

<CIT> describes orthopedic braces and associated methods for treatment of lower back injuries and chronic back pain. An orthopedic brace may include a pair of back panels, a pair of front panels, and a closure system. A lateral end of each front panel is releasably coupleable to a lateral end of each back panel at a desired angle. A ventral end of each front panel includes an attachment provision configured to allow one of the front panels to releasably attach to the other of the front panels generally over an abdomen of a wearer. The brace also includes a pocket on the ventral end of at least one of the front panels, the pocket configured to temporarily receive a hand of the wearer to aid in donning the orthopedic brace.

<CIT> describes an orthopedic device in the form of a lumbar support which includes first and second elongate belt members, an anatomically shaped plate, and a closure system connecting the belt members to the plate. The closure system is arranged to move the belt members relative to the plate, and connects to the belt members via a flexible belt attachment which removably secures to the belt members. The closure system includes tensioning elements corresponding to the belt members, and a pulley system connecting to the tensioning elements. The closure system is slidably mounted to the plate and arranged to the belt members relative to the plate between opposed linear directions. The plate has various contours which provide pressure distribution over a lumbar region of a back. Anatomically shaped and resiliently formed handles secure to the tensioning elements and the belt members.

Accordingly, a need exists for improved sacroiliac belts that provide sufficient support and stabilization to one or more sacroiliac joints of a wearer. Additionally, there remains a need for adjustable belts to enhance the fit of such belts on the wearer.

In some embodiments, an orthopedic sacroiliac brace is provided. The brace includes a belt portion. The brace includes a first posterior sacral panel coupled to the belt portion and configured to be disposed directly posterior of a first posterior side of an ilium of a user. The brace includes a second posterior sacral panel coupled to the belt portion and configured to be disposed directly posterior of a second posterior side of the ilium. The brace includes an anterior abdominal panel coupled to the belt portion and configured to be disposed against an anterior portion of an abdomen of the user, the anterior abdominal panel characterised by: a central portion having a substantially circular or ellipsoid form factor and configured to be disposed directly anterior of at least the sacrum of the user; and first and second extensions that each extend away from the central portion in opposite directions and are configured to be disposed directly anterior of a respective sacroiliac joint and at least a portion of the corresponding side of the ilium. Adjustably tightening the belt portion around the user causes the first and second posterior sacral panels to apply respective anterior forces to the first and second posterior sides of the ilium, and the anterior abdominal panel to simultaneously apply a posterior force to the abdomen of the user, thereby providing adjustable stabilizing support, compression and/or alignment to a sacroiliac joint of the user.

A more complete appreciation of the subject matter of the present disclosure and of the various advantages thereof can be realized by reference to the following detailed description in which reference is made to the accompanying drawings in which:.

The present disclosure relates to sacroiliac orthoses, methods of using such orthoses to provide pelvic sacral support, and associated methods of manufacturing such orthoses.

The invention is defined in the claims. Any subject-matter that is disclosed herein, but which is not defined in the claims, does not form part of the invention.

Various aspects of the novel systems, apparatuses, and methods are described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings. The teachings disclosure may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to any specific structure or function presented throughout this disclosure. Based on the teachings herein one skilled in the art should appreciate that the scope of the disclosure is intended to cover any aspect of the novel systems, apparatuses, and methods disclosed herein, whether implemented independently of or combined with any other aspect of the disclosure. For example, a system or an apparatus may be implemented, or a method may be practiced using any one or more of the aspects set forth herein. In addition, the scope of the disclosure is intended to cover such a system, apparatus or method which is practiced using other structure, functionality, or structure and functionality in addition to or other than the various aspects of the disclosure set forth herein. It should be understood that any aspect disclosed herein may be set forth in one or more elements of a claim. Although some benefits and advantages of the preferred aspects are mentioned, the scope of the disclosure is not intended to be limited to particular benefits, uses, or objectives. The detailed description and drawings are merely illustrative of the disclosure rather than limiting, the scope of the disclosure being defined by the appended claims and equivalents thereof.

With respect to the use of plural vs. singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application.

When describing an absolute value of a characteristic or property of a thing or act described herein, the terms "substantial," "substantially," "essentially," "approximately," and/or other terms or phrases of degree may be used without the specific recitation of a numerical range. When applied to a characteristic or property of a thing or act described herein, these terms refer to a range of the characteristic or property that is consistent with providing a desired function associated with that characteristic or property.

In those cases where a single numerical value is given for a characteristic or property, it is intended to be interpreted as at least covering deviations of that value within one significant digit of the numerical value given.

If a numerical value or range of numerical values is provided to define a characteristic or property of a thing or act described herein, whether or not the value or range is qualified with a term of degree, a specific method of measuring the characteristic or property may be defined herein as well. In the event no specific method of measuring the characteristic or property is defined herein, and there are different generally accepted methods of measurement for the characteristic or property, then the measurement method should be interpreted as the method of measurement that would most likely be adopted by one of ordinary skill in the art given the description and context of the characteristic or property. In the further event there is more than one method of measurement that is equally likely to be adopted by one of ordinary skill in the art to measure the characteristic or property, the value or range of values should be interpreted as being met regardless of which method of measurement is chosen.

It will be understood by those within the art that terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are intended as "open" terms unless specifically indicated otherwise (e.g., the term "including" should be interpreted as "including but not limited to," the term "having" should be interpreted as "having at least," the term "includes" should be interpreted as "includes but is not limited to," etc.).

Various modifications to the implementations described in this disclosure can be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and generic principles defined herein can be applied to other implementations without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Thus, the disclosure is not intended to be limited to the implementations shown herein but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the claims, the principles and the novel features disclosed herein. The word "exemplary" is used exclusively herein to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration.

<FIG> illustrates an anatomy of a hip, pelvis and lower back of a human body, in accordance with some embodiments. For example, a hip <NUM> is illustrated, comprising a sacrum <NUM> (forming a bottom of the backbone) and an ilium having a first posterior side 110a disposed immediately adjacent a first side of sacrum <NUM> and a second posterior side 110b disposed immediately adjacent a second side of sacrum <NUM> opposite the first side of sacrum <NUM>. A first sacroiliac (SI) joint 130a is formed between first posterior side 110a of ilium and the immediately adjacent first side of sacrum <NUM> and a second SI joint 130b is formed between second posterior side 110b of the ilium and the immediately adjacent second side of sacrum <NUM>.

Actions that can open first and/or second SI joint(s) 130a, 130b include bending, lifting, and/or twisting motions of the low back. However, the normal range of motion of first and second SI joints 130a, 130b (e.g., a range of motion of first and/or second sides 110a, 110b of ilium with respect to the corresponding immediately adjacent first and/or second sides of sacrum <NUM>) is very low, e.g., approximately <NUM>°. Accordingly, where such actions force first and/or second SI joint 130a, 130b open beyond their normal range(s) of motion, stress or damage to, and/or injury or reinjury of, the ligaments holding the first and/or second SI joints 130a, 130b together can occur. Accordingly, a need exists for a sacral orthosis, brace and/or belt configured to provide support and/or stabilization specifically to first and/or second SI joints 130a, 130b.

Accordingly, this disclosure contemplates sacroiliac orthoses, braces or belts having one or more removable and/or movable panels disposed such that they are configured to create pressure in the coronal plane of the hip/pelvis region as circumferential pressure is applied to the orthosis, brace and/or belt. This pressure compresses the tissues of the hip and, thereby, stabilizes and maintains proper alignment of one or both of SI joints 130a, 130b in that coronal plane. Inventive embodiments described herein benefit, in part, from a surprising discovery that sacroiliac orthoses, braces and/or belts, as described herein, provide a unique level of support and/or stabilization specifically to first and/or second SI joints 130a, 130b.

Several example embodiments of a sacroiliac orthosis, brace and/or belt <NUM> will now be described in more detail in connection with at least <FIG>, wherein like reference numerals designate the same or corresponding parts throughout the several views. Brace <NUM> is configured to provide pelvic-sacral support, reduced motion of SI joint(s) 130a, 130b and reduced SI joint pain.

<FIG> illustrate wireframes of portions of a sacroiliac orthosis, brace and/or belt <NUM> in an appropriate alignment with portions of the hip region of a user. Brace <NUM> comprises a belt portion <NUM> and a plurality of rigid and/or semi-rigid panels 220a, 220b, <NUM> that are configured to apply pressure in the coronal plane of a user as belt portion <NUM> is cinched or tightened circumferentially around the user's pelvis and/or low back. In some embodiments, one or more of panels 220a, 220b, <NUM> may comprise high density polyethylene (HDPE). However, the present disclosure is not so limited and one or more of panels 220a, 220b, <NUM> may comprise any suitably rigid or semi-rigid material. As illustrated in <FIG>, a first posterior sacral panel 220a is adjustably coupled at a position on belt portion <NUM> such that first posterior sacral panel 220a is disposed directly posterior of a first posterior side 110a of the ilium of a user when brace <NUM> is worn. A second posterior sacral panel 220b is adjustably coupled at a different position on belt portion <NUM> such that second posterior sacral panel 220b is disposed directly posterior of a second posterior side 110b of the ilium of the user when brace <NUM> is worn. In some embodiments, first and second posterior sacral panels 220a, 220b may have a substantially rectangular form factor, for example, having rounded corners and at least one outwardly bowed or convex side as illustrated. However, the present disclosure is not so limited and first and second sacral panels 220a, 220b may have any suitable form factor.

In some embodiments, brace <NUM> also comprises a rigid or semirigid, substantially flat anterior abdominal panel <NUM> coupled to yet another position on belt portion <NUM> such that anterior abdominal panel <NUM> is disposed directly against an anterior side of an abdomen of the user when brace <NUM> is worn.

When brace <NUM> is properly positioned and belt portion <NUM> is cinched around the waist, low back and/or hips of the user, brace <NUM> provides increased pelvic-sacral support. The adjustable pressure system formed by belt portion <NUM> and at least a subset of panels 220a, 220b, <NUM> reduces motion about and thereby stabilizes first and/or second SI joints 130a, 130b. For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, when belt portion <NUM> is tightened along its longitudinal extent (in a circumferential direction about the user's waist, hips and/or low back) a circumferential force <NUM> is generated about belt portion <NUM>. This causes posterior sacral panels 220a, 220b to be pressed in an anterior direction (denoted by respective arrows <NUM>, <NUM>) and apply a respective force to first and second posterior sides 110a, 110b of ilium of the pelvis in the same anterior direction. Similarly, anterior abdominal panel <NUM> is pressed in a posterior direction (denoted by arrow <NUM>) and applies a force to the abdomen of the user in the same posterior direction.

As can be seen in <FIG>, while each of first and second posterior sacral panels 220a, 220b ultimately provide an anterior force to respective posterior sides of the ilium, to optimize SI joint stability, it may be desirable for abdominal panel <NUM> to provide this posterior force across a relatively broader area of the abdomen directly anterior of sacrum <NUM>, SI joints 130a, 130b, and at least a portion of first and second sides 110a, 110b of the ilium. Accordingly, in some embodiments, abdominal panel <NUM> has a substantially "plus", "cross", or "batman emblem"-like shape. For example, in some such embodiments, abdominal panel <NUM> comprises a central portion <NUM> and a first and a second extension 234a, 234b, each extending away from central portion <NUM> in opposite directions. Central portion <NUM> may have an enlarged, substantially circular or ellipsoid form factor such that central portion <NUM> bulges with respect to the immediately adjacent portions of first and second extensions 234a, 234b. Such an enlarged form factor allows central portion <NUM> to distribute a portion of the posterior force across a relatively broader portion of the abdomen directly overlying at least sacrum <NUM>. Similarly, in some embodiments, first and second extensions 234a, 234b may increase in width along their lengths of extension away from central portion <NUM>. Such a form factor allows first and second extensions 234a, 234b to distribute a portion of the posterior force across a relatively broader portion of the abdomen directly anterior of respective SI joints 130a, 130b and at least portions of first and second sides 110a, 110b of ilium along its length of extension. In this way, belt portion <NUM>, posterior sacral panels 220a, 220b and, in some embodiments, anterior abdominal panel <NUM> work together to apply circumferential forces <NUM>, posterior forces <NUM>, <NUM> and distributed anterior force <NUM> to, thereby, stabilize and increase support to SI joints 130a, 130b, specifically.

Several detailed aspects of one or more embodiments of brace <NUM> will now be described in connection with one or more of <FIG>. <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> illustrate an outer side of brace <NUM>. <FIG> illustrate brace <NUM> with a removable anterior abdominal panel housing <NUM> attached to belt portion <NUM>. <FIG> illustrate brace <NUM> with removable anterior abdominal panel housing <NUM> detached from belt portion <NUM>. <FIG> illustrate semi exploded views of brace <NUM> with removable anterior abdominal panel housing <NUM> detached from belt portion <NUM> and panels 220a, 220b, <NUM> outside of belt portion <NUM>. <FIG> illustrate an inner side of brace <NUM>. And <FIG> illustrate various views or wireframe illustrations of brace <NUM> with the second ends of belt portions 220a, 220b attached to one another.

To affect cinching and/or tightening of belt portion <NUM> along its longitudinal extent, in some embodiments, belt portion <NUM> can comprise a first belt portion 210a and a second belt portion 210b. In some embodiments, first and second belt portions 210a, 210b are adjustably coupled to one another at respective first ends via a closure system. As illustrated, the closure system may include a plurality of laces <NUM>; however, it will be appreciated by a skilled artisan that any number of conventional orthotic closure systems may be employed. In some of the embodiments where the closure system includes laces <NUM>, laces <NUM> are configured to provide a predetermined spacing "D" (see <FIG> and <FIG>) between the adjacent and facing first ends of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b. In some other embodiments, laces <NUM> are configured to provide an adjustable spacing "D" between the adjacent and facing first ends of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b (see <FIG> and <FIG>).

In some embodiments, laces <NUM> may be strung back and forth between the adjacent and facing first ends of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b a plurality of times utilizing any suitable features, for example, hooks, loops and/or apertures in one or more portions of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b. For example, the outermost passes of laces <NUM> may extend between the adjacent and facing first ends of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b along a path that is substantially parallel to the longitudinal extent of belt portions 210a, 210b; while the innermost passes of laces <NUM> may extend between the adjacent and facing first ends of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b along paths that are askew from the direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal extent of belt portions 210a, 210b such that passes in pairs of the innermost passes of laces <NUM> cross one another in a substantially X-shaped pattern. Employing both types of run extensions of laces <NUM> between the adjacent and facing first ends of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b provides both increased cinching ability as well as increased resistance to misalignment between first and second belt portions 210a, 210b when cinched.

In some embodiments, at least a portion of laces <NUM> may ultimately extend along a portion of second belt portion 210b and attach to an adjustment mechanism <NUM>, for example a pull-tab, configured to adjust the spacing "D" between the adjacent and facing first ends of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b. For example, adjustment mechanism <NUM> may be configured to decrease the spacing "D" when pull tab <NUM> is pulled away from the user's body while brace <NUM> is at least partially secured around the user. In some embodiments, pull tab <NUM> may be positioned proximate a second end of second belt portion 210b opposite the first end. However, the present disclosure is not so limited and pull tab <NUM> may be disposed at any suitable location on brace <NUM>. In operation, upon coupling of the second ends of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b to one another around the user's waist, pull tab <NUM> may be pulled until the desired spacing "D" between the adjacent and facing first ends of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b and circumferential force <NUM> is achieved. Then pull tab <NUM> may be secured to second belt portion 210b, for example, via hook and loop fasteners.

Adjusting pull-tab <NUM> has the effect of potentially providing two simultaneous adjustments to brace <NUM>. First, it adjusts the spacing "D" between the adjacent and facing first ends of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b. Because, as will be described in more detail, first and second posterior sacral panels 220a, 220b are embedded in and/or otherwise secured proximate to the first ends of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b, adjusting the spacing "D" between the adjacent and facing first ends of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b also adjusts a related spacing between first and second posterior sacral panels 220a, 220b. This allows for customization of brace <NUM> to the specific morphologies of the user. Second, if the second ends of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b are already coupled to one another around a user's waist, adjusting pull-tab <NUM> will also have the secondary effect of simultaneously adjusting circumferential tension <NUM> (see <FIG>) in belt portions 210a, 210b. Since this adjustment of circumferential tension <NUM> is directly related to the adjustment in the spacing "D", their mutual adjustments are linked.

In some embodiments, first and second belt portions 210a, 210b are additionally or alternatively adjustably coupled to one another at respective second ends via fastening straps <NUM> (see, <FIG>), e.g., hook and loop fastening straps. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the second ends of each of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b themselves may comprise such fastening straps and may include complementary hook and loop materials configured to overlap one another and secure first and second belt portions 210a, 210b together. In some embodiments, one or both ends of the fastening straps <NUM> comprise a gripping feature <NUM> (e.g., pull tabs, loops or other suitable mechanisms) that allow the user to grasp first and second belt portions 210a, 210b and adjust an amount of circumferential tension <NUM> by controlling the degree of overlap between the second ends of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b, thereby adjusting an amount of force <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, pressure and stabilizing support provided to SI joints 130a, 130b.

As briefly described above, first and second posterior sacral panels 220a, 220b may be embedded, secured or sewn into a pocket within, and/or otherwise secured proximate to, the first ends of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b (see, e.g., <FIG>, <FIG>). In some embodiments, first and second posterior sacral panels 220a, 220b are removably embedded in and/or otherwise secured to first ends of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b. This removability may aid in cleaning or washing of brace <NUM>. In some other embodiments, first and second posterior sacral panels 220a, 220b are permanently embedded in or sewn into a pocket of, and/or otherwise secured to, first and second belt portions 210a, 210b. Such permanent securement may aid in preventing loss or misplacement of panels 220a, 220b.

In some embodiments, an inner, user-facing surface <NUM> of belt portions 210a, 210b may be textured and/or patterned to reduce slippage or drifting of belt portions 210a, 210b while brace <NUM> is worn. For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, surface <NUM> may have a raised or textured pattern that is substantially symmetrical about a midline extending along a length of extension of belt portions 210a, 210b; in some such embodiments and for further example, raised or textured portions of surface <NUM> symmetrically skewing centrally toward the spacing "D" between belt portions 210a, 210b toward its lateral extents.

In some embodiments, brace <NUM> comprises anterior abdominal panel housing <NUM>, which is configured to house and/or secure anterior abdominal panel <NUM> therein (see, e.g., <FIG>). In some embodiments, abdominal panel housing <NUM> comprises a thermoformed foam, formed to have a void substantially in the shape of anterior abdominal panel <NUM>. However, the present disclosure is not so limited and abdominal panel housing <NUM> may comprise any suitable material.

In some embodiments, anterior abdominal panel housing <NUM> is permanently attached, e.g., sewn, to one of belt portions 210a, 210b. In some other embodiments, anterior abdominal panel housing <NUM> is removably attached to one of belt portions 210a, 210b, e.g., second belt portion 210b as illustrated in <FIG>. Abdominal panel housing <NUM> may be removably attached to one of belt portions 210a, 210b via a fixing mechanism <NUM>, e.g., hook and loop fasteners, a clip, a strap, a band, a loop, an elastic member, a buckle, or any other suitably adjustable fixing mechanism. In some embodiments, such removable attachment aids in proper placement and adjustment of abdominal panel housing <NUM> against the abdomen of variously sized and shaped users. For example, in embodiments where fixing mechanism <NUM> affords such a sliding degree of freedom, abdominal panel housing <NUM> may be slid along the one of belt portions 210a, 210b to which it is attached until abdominal panel housing <NUM> is properly positioned. This may be particularly useful where cinching belt portions 210a, 210b around the waist of the user results in misalignment of abdominal panel housing <NUM> that was initially roughly properly aligned. In embodiments where fixing mechanism <NUM> does not afford such a sliding degree of freedom (e.g., embodiments where fixing mechanism <NUM> comprises hook and loop fasteners), abdominal panel housing <NUM> may be properly fixed to one of belt portions 210a, 210b. In some embodiments, an inner, user-facing side of abdominal panel housing <NUM> may have a textured and/or patterned surface <NUM> configured to reduce slippage or drifting of abdominal panel housing <NUM> while brace <NUM> is worn.

While embodiments of brace <NUM> have been described including anterior abdominal panel housing <NUM> and anterior abdominal panel <NUM>, brace <NUM> may still be at least partially functional without the use of anterior abdominal panel housing <NUM> and anterior abdominal panel <NUM> disposed therein. For example, belt portions 210a, 210b may still be configured to provide sufficient force and pressure against the user's abdomen to suitably stabilize and support SI joints 130a, 130b, as described above, provided they are cinched tightly enough to provide sufficient circumferential force <NUM> and, so, anterior force <NUM>.

As further illustrated at least in <FIG>, brace <NUM> may optionally include pads 1080a, 1080b, configured to provide added cushion and a more flexible fit, particularly when disposed on belt portions 210a, 210b between the user's hips and first and second posterior sacral panels 220a, 220b. In some embodiments, pads 1080a, 1080b are configured to be removable, for example, attached utilizing hook and loop fasteners or one or more elastic bands 1082a (see <FIG>) without taking away the structural support afforded to brace <NUM> by posterior sacral panels 220a, 220b and, optionally, anterior abdominal panel <NUM>. In some other embodiments, pads 1080a, 1080b are permanently secured, e.g., sewn, to belt portions 210a, 210b.

As further illustrated by at least <FIG>, in some embodiment, first ends of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b may be pivotally coupled to the remainder of their corresponding belt portions 210a, 210b via respective pivoting fixtures 1190a, 1190b. In some such embodiments, pivoting fixtures 1190a, 1190b may be sewn into, or otherwise coupled to, the first ends and remainders of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b. Accordingly, in such embodiments, the user is afforded an additional degree of flexibility in that first ends of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b may extend in slightly different directions than the remainder of their respective belt portions 210a, 210b, as necessitated by the features and contours of the user's unique body - for example in the case where a user has a pendulous abdomen. In some other embodiments, the first ends of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b may be non-pivotally coupled to the remainder of their corresponding belt portions 210a, 210b. In other words, the first ends of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b may be fixedly coupled to, and not be configured to pivot with respect to, the remainder of their corresponding belt portions 210a, 210b beyond that afforded by the intrinsic flexibility of the material(s) or fabric(s) comprising the fixedly coupled first ends and remainders of belt portions 210a, 210b.

In some embodiments, brace <NUM> can comprise further design features configured to accommodate a pendulous abdomen. In some embodiments, brace <NUM> can be prefabricated and, thereby, provide an off-the-shelf solution to reduce motion, pain or discomfort about the SI joints 130a, 130b, and/or damage that can result therefrom.

The disclosure now turns to <FIG>, which illustrates a flowchart <NUM> related to an example method of utilizing a sacroiliac orthosis, brace and/or belt to provide pelvic sacral support, as described anywhere in this disclosure.

Although the method(s) disclosed herein comprise(s) one or more steps or actions for achieving the described method(s), such steps and/or actions may be interchanged with one another, and/or a subset of these steps and/or actions may be used, without departing from the scope of the claims. In other words, unless a specific order of steps or actions is specified, the order and/or use of specific steps and/or actions may be modified. One or more additional steps not specifically described herein may also be included.

Step <NUM> includes disposing a belt portion of the brace around a waist of a user such that a first posterior sacral panel, coupled to the belt portion, is disposed directly posterior of a first posterior side of an ilium of the user, and a second posterior sacral panel, coupled to the belt portion, is disposed directly posterior of a second posterior side of the ilium.

For example, as previously described in connection with at least one of <FIG>, belt portion <NUM> of brace <NUM> can be disposed around a waist of a user such that first posterior sacral panel 220a, coupled to belt portion <NUM>, is disposed directly posterior of first posterior side 110a of an ilium of the user, and second posterior sacral panel 220b, coupled to belt portion <NUM>, is disposed directly posterior of second posterior side 110b of the ilium.

Step <NUM> includes adjustably tightening the belt portion around the waist of the user such that the first and second posterior sacral panels are caused to apply respective anterior forces to the first and second posterior sides of the ilium, thereby providing adjustable stabilizing support, compression and/or alignment to a sacroiliac joint of the user.

For example, as previously described in connection with at least one of <FIG>, belt portion <NUM> can be adjustably tightening around the waist of the user such that first and second posterior sacral panels 220a, 220b are caused to apply respective anterior forces <NUM>, <NUM> to first and second posterior sides 110a, 110b of the ilium, thereby providing adjustable stabilizing support, compression and/or alignment to sacroiliac joint(s) 130a, 130b of the user.

In some embodiments, an optional step <NUM> may include coupling an anterior abdominal panel to the belt portion, and disposing the anterior abdominal panel against an anterior portion of an abdomen of the user.

For example, as previously described in connection with at least one of <FIG>, anterior abdominal panel <NUM> may be coupled to belt portion <NUM> and disposed against an anterior portion of an abdomen of the user.

In some embodiments, adjustably tightening belt portion <NUM> causes anterior abdominal panel <NUM> to apply posterior force <NUM> to the abdomen of the user, thereby contributing to the adjustable stabilizing support, compression and/or alignment to sacroiliac joint(s) 130a, 130b of the user.

In some embodiments, coupling anterior abdominal panel <NUM> to belt portion <NUM> comprises coupling anterior abdominal housing <NUM>, which holds anterior abdominal panel <NUM>, to belt portion <NUM>, and disposing anterior abdominal panel <NUM> against the anterior portion of the abdomen of the user comprises disposing anterior abdominal housing <NUM>, which holds anterior abdominal panel <NUM>, to the anterior portion of the abdomen of the user.

In some embodiments, a user-facing surface <NUM> of the anterior abdominal housing is textured and/or patterned to reduce slippage or drifting of anterior abdominal housing <NUM> while brace <NUM> is worn. In some embodiments, anterior abdominal panel <NUM> is substantially flat and rigid or semi-rigid. In some embodiments, anterior abdominal panel <NUM> comprises a central portion <NUM> and first and second extensions 234a, 234b, which each extend away from central portion <NUM> in opposite directions, and central portion <NUM> comprises an enlarged, substantially circular or ellipsoid form factor such that central portion <NUM> bulges with respect to immediately adjacent portions of first and second extensions 234a, 234b. In some embodiments, for each of first and second extensions 234a, 234b, a respective width of the extension increases as the extension extends away from central portion <NUM>. In some embodiments, central portion <NUM> is configured to be disposed directly anterior of at least sacrum <NUM> of the user when brace <NUM> is worn. In some embodiments, each of first and second extensions 234a, 234b are configured to be disposed directly anterior of a respective sacroiliac joint 130a, 130b and at least a portion of the corresponding one of first and second sides 110a, 110b of the ilium of the user when brace <NUM> is worn.

In some embodiments, belt portion <NUM> comprises a first belt portion 210a, a second belt portion 210b, and a plurality of laces <NUM> that couple adjacent and facing first ends of the first and second belt portions with an adjustable spacing (D) therebetween. First posterior sacral panel 220a is coupled proximate to the first end of first belt portion 210a and second posterior sacral panel 220b is coupled proximate to the first end of second belt portion 210b. In some embodiments, first and second posterior sacral panels 220a, 220b are permanently secured within respective pockets disposed proximate to the first end of the corresponding first and second belt portions 210a, 210b. In some embodiments, first and second posterior sacral panels 220a, 220b are removably secured proximate to the first end of the corresponding first and second belt portions 210a, 210b before brace <NUM> is worn by the user. In some embodiments, first and second posterior sacral panels 220a, 220b have substantially rectangular form factors. In some embodiments, first and second posterior sacral panels 220a, 220b have rounded corners and at least one outwardly bowed or convex side. In some embodiments, first and second posterior sacral panels 220a, 220b are rigid or semi-rigid.

In some embodiments, first and second belt portions 210a, 210b comprise fastening straps <NUM> at respective second ends and adjustably tightening belt portion <NUM> around the waist of the user comprises adjusting an amount of tension in belt portion <NUM> based at least in part on an amount of overlap between the second ends of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b. In some embodiments, fastening straps <NUM> comprise one or more gripping features <NUM> and adjustably tightening belt portion <NUM> around the waist of the user comprises grasping gripping feature <NUM> while adjusting the amount of overlap between the second ends of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b.

In some embodiments, plurality of laces <NUM> extend between the adjacent and facing first ends of first and second belt portions 20a, 210b a plurality of times, thereby forming a plurality of passes of the plurality of laces. In some embodiments, a first subset of the plurality of passes of laces <NUM> extend between the adjacent and facing first ends of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b along a path that is substantially parallel to a longitudinal extent of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b, and a second subset of the plurality of passes of laces <NUM> extend between the adjacent and facing first ends of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b along paths that are askew from the longitudinal extent of first and second belt portions 20a, 210b such that passes in pairs of the second subset of the plurality of passes cross one another in a substantially X-shaped pattern.

In some embodiments, at least a portion of laces <NUM> extend along a portion of second belt portion 210b and attach to adjustment mechanism <NUM>. In some embodiments, adjustment mechanism <NUM> comprises a pull tab and adjustably tightening belt portion <NUM> around the waist of the user comprises pulling pull tap <NUM> away from the user's body to decrease the spacing "D" while brace <NUM> is at least partially secured around the user. In some embodiments, pull tab <NUM> is configured to simultaneously increase an amount of circumferential tension <NUM> in first and second belt portions 210a, 210b when pull tab <NUM> is pulled away from the user's body while brace <NUM> is at least partially secured around the user. In some embodiments, pull tab <NUM> is configured to simultaneously decrease a spacing between first and second posterior sacral panels 220a, 220b when pull tab <NUM> is pulled away from the user's body while brace <NUM> is at least partially secured around the user.

In some embodiments, an optional step <NUM> may include removably attaching the adjustment mechanism to the second belt portion at least in part to maintain a desired value of the spacing "D". For example, as previously described in connection with at least <FIG>, adjustment mechanism <NUM> may be removably attached to second belt portion 210b at least in part to maintain a desired value of the spacing "D".

In some embodiments, the first end of each of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b is pivotally coupled to a remainder of the respective first and second belt portion 20a, 210b by a respective pivoting fixture 1190a, 1190b such that the first end of each of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b is configured to extend in slightly different direction than the remainder of the respective belt portion 210a, 210b when brace <NUM> is worn. In some embodiments, a user-facing surface <NUM> of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b is textured and/or patterned to reduce slippage or drifting of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b while brace <NUM> is worn. In some embodiments, the texture and/or pattern of user-facing surface <NUM> is substantially symmetrical about a midline extending along a length of extension of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b.

In some embodiments, an optional step <NUM> may include removably attaching the first pad to the belt portion between the first posterior sacral panel and the first posterior side of the ilium of the user, and removably attaching the second pad to belt portion between the second posterior sacral panel and the second posterior side of the ilium of the user.

For example, as previously described in connection with at least one of <FIG>, first pad 1080a may be removably attached to belt portion 210a between first posterior sacral panel 220a and first posterior side 110a of the ilium of the user, and second pad 1080b may be removably attached to belt portion 210b between second posterior sacral panel 220b and second posterior side 110b of the ilium of the user.

The disclosure now turns to <FIG>, which illustrates a flowchart <NUM> related to an example method of manufacturing a sacroiliac orthosis, brace and/or belt for providing pelvic sacral support, as described anywhere in this disclosure.

Although the method(s) disclosed herein comprise(s) one or more steps or actions for achieving the described method(s), such steps and/or actions may be interchanged with one another, and/or a subset of these steps and/or actions may be used. In other words, unless a specific order of steps or actions is specified, the order and/or use of specific steps and/or actions may be modified. One or more additional steps not specifically described herein may also be included.

Step <NUM> includes providing a belt portion. For example, as previously described in connection with at least <FIG>, belt portion <NUM> may be provided as described anywhere in this disclosure.

Step <NUM> includes coupling a first posterior sacral panel to the belt portion and a second posterior sacral panel to the belt portion such that: (A) the first posterior sacral panel is configured to be disposed directly posterior of a first posterior side of an ilium of a user when the brace is worn, (B) the second posterior sacral panel is configured to be disposed directly posterior of a second posterior side of the ilium of the user when the brace is worn, and (C) adjustably tightening the belt portion around the user causes the first and second posterior sacral panels to apply respective anterior forces to the first and second posterior sides of the ilium, thereby providing adjustable stabilizing support, compression and/or alignment to a sacroiliac joint of the user.

For example, as previously described in connection with at least <FIG>, first posterior sacral panel 220a may be coupled to belt portion 210a and second posterior sacral panel 220b to belt portion 210b such that: (A) first posterior sacral panel 220a is configured to be disposed directly posterior of first posterior side 110a of an ilium of a user when brace <NUM> is worn, (B) second posterior sacral panel 220a is configured to be disposed directly posterior of second posterior side 110b of the ilium of the user when brace <NUM> is worn, and (C) adjustably tightening belt portion <NUM> around the user causes first and second posterior sacral panels 220a, 220b to apply respective anterior forces <NUM>, <NUM> to first and second posterior sides 110a, 110b of the ilium, thereby providing adjustable stabilizing support, compression and/or alignment to sacroiliac joint(s) 130a, 130b of the user.

In some embodiments, an optional step <NUM> may include disposing an anterior abdominal panel within an anterior abdominal housing, wherein the anterior abdominal housing is configured to be removably coupled to the belt portion and disposed against an anterior portion of an abdomen of the user. For example, as previously described in connection with at least <FIG>, anterior abdominal panel <NUM> may be disposed within anterior abdominal housing <NUM>, wherein housing <NUM> is configured to be removably coupled to belt portion <NUM> and disposed against an anterior portion of an abdomen of the user.

In some embodiments, anterior abdominal panel <NUM> is configured to apply a posterior force <NUM> to the abdomen of the user, thereby contributing to the adjustable stabilizing support, compression and/or alignment to sacroiliac joint(s) 130a, 130b of the user.

In some embodiments, a user-facing surface <NUM> of anterior abdominal housing <NUM> may include a texture and/or pattern configured to reduce slippage or drifting of anterior abdominal housing <NUM> while brace <NUM> is worn.

In some embodiments, anterior abdominal panel <NUM> is substantially flat and rigid or semi-rigid. In some embodiments, anterior abdominal panel <NUM> comprises central portion <NUM>, and first and second extensions 234a, 234b that each extend away from central portion <NUM> in opposite directions. In some such embodiments, central portion <NUM> comprises an enlarged, substantially circular or ellipsoid form factor such that central portion <NUM> bulges with respect to immediately adjacent portions of first and second extensions 234a, 234b. In some embodiments, for each of first and second extensions 234a, 234b, a respective width of the extension increases as the extension extends away from central portion <NUM>. In some embodiments, anterior abdominal panel <NUM> is disposed within anterior abdominal housing <NUM> such that central portion <NUM> of anterior abdominal panel <NUM> is disposed directly anterior of at least sacrum <NUM> of the user when brace <NUM> is worn. In some embodiments, anterior abdominal panel <NUM> is disposed within anterior abdominal housing <NUM> such that each of first and second extensions 234a, 234b is disposed directly anterior of a respective sacroiliac joint 130a, 130b and at least a portion of the corresponding one of first and second sides 110a, 110b of the ilium of the user when brace <NUM> is worn.

In some embodiments, providing belt portion <NUM> comprises providing first belt portion 210a, providing second belt portion 210b, and coupling adjacent and facing first ends of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b with the adjustable spacing "D" therebetween utilizing laces (<NUM>). In some such embodiments coupling first posterior sacral panel 220a to belt portion <NUM> comprises coupling first posterior sacral panel 220a proximal to the first end of first belt portion 210a, and coupling second posterior sacral panel 220b to belt portion <NUM> comprises coupling second posterior sacral panel 220b proximal to the first end of second belt portion 210b. In some embodiments, first and second posterior sacral panels 220a, 220b are permanently secured within respective pockets disposed proximate to the first end of the corresponding first and second belt portions 210a, 210b. In some embodiments, first and second posterior sacral panels 220a, 220b are removably secured proximate to the first end of the corresponding first and second belt portions 210a, 210b. In some embodiments, first and second posterior sacral panels 220a, 220b have substantially rectangular form factors. In some embodiments, first and second posterior sacral panels 220a, 220b have rounded corners and at least one outwardly bowed or convex side. In some embodiments, first and second posterior sacral panels 220a, 220b are rigid or semi-rigid.

In some embodiments, first and second belt portions 210a, 210b are each provide with a fastening strap <NUM> disposed at their respective second ends and configured to adjust an amount of tension in first and second belt portions 210a, 210b based at least in part on an amount of overlap between the second ends of first and second belt portions 20a, 210b.

In some embodiments, an optional step <NUM> may include disposing one or more gripping features on one of the first and second belt portions, the one or more gripping features configured to be grasped by the user while adjusting the amount of tension in the first and second belt portions. For example, as previously described in connection with at least <FIG>, one or more gripping features <NUM> may be disposed on one of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b and configured to be grasped by the user while adjusting the amount of tension in first and second belt portions 210a, 210b.

In some embodiments, extending laces <NUM> between the adjacent and facing first ends of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b a plurality of times comprises: (A) extending a first subset of the plurality of passes of laces <NUM> between the adjacent and facing first ends of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b along a path that is substantially parallel to a longitudinal extent of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b, and (B) extending a second subset of the plurality of passes of laces <NUM> between the adjacent and facing first ends of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b along paths that are askew from the longitudinal extent of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b such that passes in pairs of the second subset of the plurality of passes cross one another in a substantially X-shaped pattern.

In some embodiments, an optional step <NUM> may include extending at least a portion of the plurality of laces along a portion of the second belt portion and attaching the portion of the plurality of laces to an adjustment mechanism. For example, as previously described in connection with at least one of <FIG>, at least a portion of laces <NUM> may extend along a portion of second belt portion 210b and attach to adjustment mechanism <NUM>.

In some embodiments, adjustment mechanism <NUM> comprises a pull tab configured to decrease the spacing "D" when pull tab <NUM> is pulled away from the user's body while brace <NUM> is at least partially secured around the user. In some embodiments, pull tab <NUM> is configured to simultaneously increase an amount of circumferential tension <NUM> in first and second belt portions 210a, 210b when pull tab <NUM> is pulled away from the user's body while brace <NUM> is at least partially secured around the user. In some embodiments, pull tab <NUM> is configured to simultaneously decrease a spacing between first and second posterior sacral panels 220a, 220b when pull tab <NUM> is pulled away from the user's body while brace <NUM> is at least partially secured around the user. In some embodiments, adjustment mechanism <NUM> is configured to be removably attached to second belt portion 210b at least in part to maintain a desired value of the spacing "D".

In some embodiments, providing first belt portion 210a comprises pivotally coupling the first end of first belt portion 210a to a remainder of first belt portion 210a utilizing a first pivoting fixture 1190a such that the first end of first belt portion 210a is configured to extend in a slightly different direction than the remainder of first belt portion 210a when <NUM> brace is worn; and providing second belt portion 210b comprises pivotally coupling the first end of second belt portion 210b to a remainder of second belt portion 210b utilizing a second pivoting fixture 1190b such that the first end of second belt portion 210b is configured to extend in a slightly different direction than the remainder of second belt portion 210b when <NUM> brace is worn.

In some embodiments, user-facing surface <NUM> of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b is textured and/or patterned to reduce slippage or drifting of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b while brace <NUM> is worn. In some embodiments, the texture and/or pattern of user-facing surface <NUM> is substantially symmetrical about a midline extending along a length of extension of first and second belt portions 210a, 210b.

In some embodiments, an optional step <NUM> may include providing a first pad and a second pad, each configured to be removably attached to the belt portion between a respective one of the first and second posterior sacral panels and the corresponding one of the first and second posterior sides of the ilium of the user. For example, as previously described in connection with at least one of <FIG>, first and second pads 1080a, 1080b may be provided such that each is configured to be removably attached to belt portion <NUM> between a respective one of first and second posterior sacral panels 220a, 220b and the corresponding one of first and second posterior sides 110a, 110b of the ilium of the user.

Claim 1:
An orthopedic sacroiliac brace (<NUM>) comprising:
a belt portion (<NUM>);
a first posterior sacral panel (220a) coupled to the belt portion and configured to be disposed directly posterior of a first posterior side (110a) of an ilium of a user;
a second posterior sacral panel (220b) coupled to the belt portion and configured to be disposed directly posterior of a second posterior side (110b) of the ilium, and
an anterior abdominal panel (<NUM>) coupled to the belt portion and configured to be disposed against an anterior portion of an abdomen of the user, the anterior abdominal panel characterised by:
a central portion (<NUM>) having a substantially circular or ellipsoid form factor and configured to be disposed directly anterior of at least the sacrum of the user; and
first and second extensions (234a, 234b) that each extend away from the central portion in opposite directions and are configured to be disposed directly anterior of a respective sacroiliac joint and at least a portion of the corresponding side of the ilium;
wherein adjustably tightening the belt portion around the user causes the first and second posterior sacral panels to apply respective anterior forces (<NUM>, <NUM>) to the first and second posterior sides of the ilium, and the anterior abdominal panel to simultaneously apply a posterior force (<NUM>) to the abdomen of the user, thereby providing adjustable stabilizing support, compression and/or alignment to a sacroiliac joint (130a, 130b) of the user.