An automated method for generating digital specifications for the manufacture of a custom joint orthosis from a 3D model or scan. A 3D model or scan of a body or body part can be captured using a scanning device that generates a 3D point-cloud data set. A reference point is selected as an origin that measures the distance between it and critical points, either by the user or automatically through machine learning applications of feature identification. Additional biometric data, medical information, or user preference information may be incorporated to generate digital specifications for the manufacture of a supportive brace or an orthotic device. A use of the invention for medical diagnostic applications is also described.

An automated method for generating digital specifications for the manufacture of a custom joint orthosis from a 3D model or scan. A 3D model or scan of a body or body part can be captured using a scanning device that generates a 3D point-cloud data set. A reference point is selected as an origin that measures the distance between it and critical points, either by the user or automatically through machine learning applications of feature identification. Additional biometric data, medical information, or user preference information may be incorporated to generate digital specifications for the manufacture of a supportive brace or an orthotic device. A use of the invention for medical diagnostic applications is also described.

A multi-axis rotation control ankle brace, wherein the direction and magnitude of force can be controlled around three axes of the ankle joint through an adjustable tensioning apparatus. The device may be applied to address conditions such as chronic ankle instability, foot drop, or osteoarthritis by providing such forces around the joint as an external-muscle tendon system to improve function, reduce pain, or restore mobility of the user. While more are contemplated herein, five preferred embodiments are specifically disclosed in the current application. Three preferred embodiments comprise a proximal portion and a distal portion, wherein the proximal portion is anchored above the ankle joint and houses, in aspects, the adjustment mechanism. The proximal portion is connected to the distal portion by tensioning or compressive elements, through which forces can be controlled by the user via the adjustment mechanism. In other preferred embodiments, the device is comprised of one continuous mesh, sock or sleeve through which tension can be controlled by the user. In other preferred embodiments, the device is personalized to the user through multiple aspects including user-enabled adjustment of forces around the joint. The device may be customized by 3D printing a device based on a digital scan, and therefore conforms to the user's ankle and foot.

An orthosis configured to stretch tissue around an ankle joint of a patient and methods for assembling and using the same are provided. The orthosis includes a first member affixable to a lower leg of the patient, a second member affixable to a foot of the patient, the second member including a second extension member having an arcuate shape configured to move along an arcuate path relative to the first member when the second member is moved from a first position to a second position relative to the first member, and a drive assembly coupled to the first member and the second member, the drive assembly configured to move the second member with respect to the first member.

An exoskeleton for supporting an arm of a user includes a torso attachment device for releasably connecting the exoskeleton to a torso of the user, a bracket which is connectable to the torso attachment device, a lifting rod which is connectable to the torso attachment device via the bracket and which is reversibly movable in a first direction and a second direction relative to the bracket, a cantilever for supporting the arm of the user which is releasably connectable to the arm of the user, and a ratchet mechanism. The ratchet mechanism connects a first end of the lifting rod to a first end of the cantilever where the ratchet mechanism allows rotation of the cantilever in a first direction of rotation and blocks rotation of the cantilever in a second direction of rotation.

A connection device for connecting a first component to a second component of an orthopedic device. The connection device includes a first swivel element for arranging on the first component and a second swivel element for arranging on the second component. The first adjustment element is arranged on the first swivel element the adjustment element having a first contact surface. The second swivel element has a second contact surface, wherein the first swivel element is arranged on the second swivel element such that it can be swivelled about a swivel axis, and the first adjustment element is arranged and designed in such a way that the first contact surface lies flat on the second contact surface.

An automated method for applying specific geometric constraints to a starter file and considering external specifications outside of fit to achieve an optimized, restorative joint brace or orthotic device. External specifications may include indications of the patient, biometric data, data from prescribing doctors, X-ray data, MRI data, joint geometry to restore optimized function, and envelope of motion. After the fitting process, the starter file undergoes a process of exact commands in order to finish and/or add additional features. With a vertical integration from scanning an object to producing the custom fitted device, the product can be manufactured at scale more rapidly and at lower cost, improving access to superior devices at a reasonable price to the consumer.

An orthopedic device has a rigid or semi-rigid frame element defining opposed first and second sides, and is adapted to extend about at least a portion of a limb. The device includes straps formed from a variety of segments having stretchable and substantially inelastic segments. The straps adjustably secure to the frame element, and stretch relative thereto. The device also includes a central strap pad arranged to connect two straps together such that a first strap of the two straps is movable relative to a second strap, and the first and second straps are maintained diagonal relative to one another.

An orthosis for stretching tissue around a joint of a patient between first and second relatively pivotable body portions. The orthosis includes a first arm member affixable to the first body portion and including a first extension member extending therefrom. A second arm member affixable to the second body portion is also included and has a second extension member having an arcuate shape extending therefrom. A third arm member including a third extension member having an arcuate shape extending therefrom is interposed between the first and second arm members. The third arm member is operatively connected to the first and second arm members, such that the first and third arm members travel along an arcuate path defined by the second extension member when the third arm member is moved from a first position to a second position relative to the second arm member. Furthermore, the first arm member can slide along the third extension member as the third arm member is moved from the first position to the second position relative to the second arm member.

A customizable knee brace for use in the treatment of osteoarthritis is provided. The customizable knee brace includes a lateral upright. The lateral upright includes at least a first semi-rigid support, a second semi-rigid support, and a hinge physically coupling the first semi-rigid support and the second semi-rigid support. The customizable knee brace further includes a thigh cuff constructed of formable material and coupled to the first semi-rigid support. The customizable knee brace further includes a shin cuff constructed of formable material and coupled to the second semi-rigid support. The customizable knee brace further includes an elastomeric web framework coupled to the lateral upright and configured to secure an area of a knee of a patient when wearing the customizable knee brace. The customizable knee brace further includes at least one tensioning element configured to adjust a tension of the elastomeric web framework.