Abstract
Devices for improvement of the basic crutch, cane, and ambulatory aids to provide needed support to ameliorate potential injuries and improve ambulation for persons suffering from injured lower limbs, lumbar region or other injuries, and who frequently require using crutches for mobility. Normally, the conventional crutches require more energy from the user than merely walking, and frequently, a crutch user may require rest. Prior crutch systems have not provided a convenient way to provide the user with such rest. Also, we show crutch support in sitting position that works as a simple and handy decompression system for herniated or bulged discs and injured/weak back muscles. An integrated crutch and walker system is described.
Claims
1. A hand grip for a crutch system, said crutch system including at least front and rear vertical support poles extending downwardly to ground from an armpit rest, said front and rear poles positioned within a single vertical plane, the hand grip comprising: a main body with opposing end portions, a first end portion connected to said front support pole and a second end portion connected to said rear support pole, said hand grip having a curved profile so that a portion of said hand grip lies outside of the plane of said front and rear support poles; said main body formed of an inner ribbed core surrounded by a pliable material.
2. The hand grip of claim 1 wherein the curved profile is adjusted in curvature in response to measurement from a user.
3. The hand grip of claim 1 wherein said ribbed core is composed of high-density acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS).
4. The hand grip of claim 1 wherein said main body has a front portion and a rear portion, said front portion terminating at said first end portion and said rear portion terminating at said second end portion; said front and rear portions both extending angularly outwardly from said vertical plane to form said curved profile.
5. The hand grip of claim 1 wherein said hand grip has a central portion positioned between said front and rear portions, said central portion offset relative to a central point between said front and rear support poles.
6. The hand grip of claim 1 wherein said hand grip has a non-rectangular cross section.
7. The hand grip of claim 1 wherein a top surface of said hand grip is sufficiently wide to accommodate a user's thumb and forefinger.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0034] FIG. 1 shows a two-part detachable crutch with special ergonomic handle and cushion that is positioned toward the rear.
[0035] FIG. 2 shows a different design that has a curve in top segment of the crutch to provide more space between two crutches around the waist area for people with large/wide hip.
[0036] FIG. 3 shows two small caps which can be used after detaching the top part to prevent the bottom end pipes from piercing or denting the sitting surfaces.
[0037] FIG. 4 shows a totally detachable crutch.
[0038] FIG. 5 shows a mold for creating an alternative embodiment of the handle.
[0039] FIG. 6 shows a front perspective view of the handle of FIG. 5.
[0040] FIG. 7 shows a rear perspective view of the handle of FIG. 5.
[0041] FIG. 8 shows an alternative embodiment of a cane formed in accordance with the invention.
[0042] FIG. 9 shows an alternative embodiment of a forearm crutch formed in accordance with the invention.
[0043] FIG. 10 shows an alternative embodiment of a rubber tip for a cane formed in accordance with the invention.
[0044] FIG. 11 shows an alternative embodiment of yet another forearm crutch formed in accordance with the invention.
[0045] FIG. 12 shows a walker having a storage pouch attachment.
[0046] FIG. 13 shows the storage pouch attachment.
[0047] FIG. 14 shows a walker using a telescoping crutch as a replacement handle in accordance with another aspect of the invention.
[0048] FIGS. 15 and 16 show a walker modified using the crutch shown in FIG. 14.
[0049] FIG. 17 shows the crutch used for modifying the walkers.
[0050] FIG. 18 shows a detail of FIG. 17.
[0051] FIGS. 19-20 show another crutch embodiment.
[0052] FIG. 21 shows the crutch of FIGS. 19-20 used with a walker.
[0053] FIGS. 22 and 23 show the completed handle of FIGS. 6 and 7.
[0054] FIG. 24 shows a comparison of user stress using the handle of the invention and a prior art handle.
[0055] FIG. 25A-25H show several completed handles made using the mold illustrated in FIG. 5.
[0056] FIG. 26 shows another comparison of user stress using the handle of the invention and a prior art handle.
[0057] FIG. 27 shows the handle formed in accordance with the inventive method used on a crutch.
[0058] FIG. 28 shows a perspective view of a shock absorbing tip for a crutch/cane.
[0059] FIG. 29 shows the tip of FIG. 28 used on a cane.
[0060] FIGS. 30 and 31 show a base of a crutch that can be used for walking on various non-paved surfaces.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0061] A method and various devices as improvements for the traditional crutch and its usage is disclosed. The current invention has the design and function that far exceeds those of a traditional crutch/walking/sitting aid. It deals particularly with a more comfortable construction in crutch design. This invention is designed to provide help and relief for more effective ambulation and improved posture, for disabled as well as pre- and post-operative population, e.g., patients with chronic herniated or bulging discs.
[0062] FIG. 1 shows a two-part detachable crutch 100 with a special ergonomic handle 102 and cushion 103 that sits or is positioned toward the rear 104. The top portion 106 can be slidably received in the bottom portion 108 with a fitting 110 which can be tightened to secure the relative positions of top and bottom in the well known manner. FIG. 2 shows a different design 111 that has a curve 7002 in the top part/segment 112 of the crutch to provide more space between two crutches around the waist area for people with large/wide hips.
[0063] FIG. 3 shows two small caps 7001 which can be used after detaching the top part to prevent the bottom end pipes 114 from piercing/denting the sitting surfaces. FIG. 4 shows a user using the detachable crutch 100, 111 of FIGS. 2 and 3 in the sitting position, to stretch the upper body or decompression of back/spine, which is a secondary use of the crutch 100.
[0064] The pair of crutches 100, 111 are designed for usage in the sitting position, in addition to standing and walking positions. This apparatus 100, 111 can adjust to about one third of the regular height in order to allow the user to use them in the sitting position to prop up their torso, therefore, it takes most of the upper body weight off the back and lower spine, in which it helps the user with back injury in sitting position. Each one of the crutches 100, 111 has two segments that telescopically slide into each other, in order to adjust to the height between a supporting sitting surface, such as chair, to the underarm or armpit of the user, while the user is in the sitting position.
[0065] This function helps patients with back and spine injury that are having a hard time to sit and encountering lots of pain, as all the upper body weight is bearing on lower injured back, while sitting. This function also creates a traction system in sitting position, as the adjusted crutch pushes up the user's body/torso against the gravity force, therefore, helps to reduce the spine pressure over possible bulge discs and pinching nerves, which cause pain and numbness in body, and also improves postural alignment, while seated. The pair of crutches also have an ergonomic grip that eases the handling process and reduces the pressure on the wrist (and allows/encourages the user to distribute some of the weight on the handles, instead of leaving all the weight on the vulnerable under arm area).
[0066] Some of the features are as follows:
[0067] A pair of multi-functional crutches comprising of underarm cushions and three body segments which telescopically slide into each other to transform the regular crutch to a sitting crutch for patients who may have difficulty and pain, while sitting, due to the body weight pressure on the injured back and spine. It also has the new ergonomic handle design 500 which helps user to bear most of the user's weight on the palm of her hands, and not on her wrists.
[0068] The material and size of the system or apparatus described here can be widely diverse and different, e.g., made of wood, plastic, elastic, rubber, artificial materials, partially wool for cover (or fabric), glass, fiber glass, crystal, metal, alloy, carbon, carbon fiber, polymers, ceramic, transparent materials, translucent materials, glued materials, layered or stacked materials, or the like, and e.g., for sizes from about 0.25 ft as lower end of the range, to 6 ft, as upper range or values, in overall length and height, or from a few mm to a few inches for other dimensions for components and connections/connectors, in the images shown, just as examples. However, these numbers and materials are just examples, and not limiting the invention by any means, in spec or figures or for any purpose.
[0069] FIG. 5 shows a mold apparatus exemplifying the method of forming a mold 498 and the subsequent crutch handle 500 produced thereby. The shape of the mold 498 is determined by creating, on a user by user basis preferably, an impression formed of a compressible molding material grasped by the intended user. A scan of the molding material formed by the user's hand impression is then taken and the digital results are used to create the crutch handle 500. This is done for both the user's right and left hands.
[0070] FIGS. 6-11 show the handle 500 made as described above for a cane or crutch used in various settings. The handle 500 consists of two main parts: an inner ribbed structure 550 and an outer soft covering. The solid, ribbed material 550 in the core of the grip provides a sturdy base for support and enables the overall mass and volume of the grip 500 to extend outward from the crutch 100, 111. It is composed of high-density acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), a material known for its toughness and impact resistance. The complexity of the inner structure 550 allows for adjusting the axis and angle to best match the arm and hand's natural posture.
[0071] The outer cover 552 (see especially FIG. 22) is composed of textured thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), which is both durable and pliant. Tough but supple, the TPE minimizes pressure to users' fingers. The handle's 500 much larger surface area provides more ergonomic support and a more comfortable hand rest.
[0072] The location and angle of the ergonomic grip 500 within the overall crutch structure creates two unique aspects which allow better positioning of the hand. First, unlike conventional crutches, the ergonomic grip or handle 500 sits outside of the plane of the rest of the crutch 100. This location prevents the patient from twisting their hand and wrist inward and their elbow outward in order to hang onto the crutch. Second, the handle itself is set with a slight downward slope from back to front, akin to the natural angle of a person's fist as it rests by their side. This keeps the patient from twisting their hand and wrist upward as they hold the crutch. Overall, the grip is positioned so that the patient's hand and arm sit in a natural position as they hold the crutch.
[0073] Supportive Hand Rest
[0074] The shape of the inventive grip 500 was designed to perfectly fit the shape of the hand. The molded fit allows the hand to maintain a natural shape when holding on to the handle, with even points of contact across the palm and all fingers. A flat, broad surface creates a wide plane for pressure distribution that does not put excess pressure on any one point in the hand. The longer handle also avoids hand and finger cramping and slipping that occurs with smaller, shorter handles that come with standard crutches. Softer material also helps to cushion the weight that is applied. The grip 500 is formed using molding material to form into the shape of the inside grip of the hand. This was scanned into a digital image to allow this shape to be perfectly replicated.
[0075] FIG. 6 shows the structure of the new ergonomic handle 500 with special brackets 502 attached to the structure as one embodiment. The structure 552 between the two brackets is specifically designed to support the ergonomic shape of the ergonomic grip 500. This new method helps with design challenges of proper and even ergonomic surface weight bearing support and shifting the weight bearing surface from main rod support in standard grips to outside of the rod support axis without losing the sufficient support needed in shifted weight bearing area. FIG. 7 is the same as FIG. 6 from a different angle.
[0076] FIG. 8 shows a cane 560 designed with the inventive grip 500. The upright support can be made from any material and color. The tip 519 (bottom elastic part) can be removed and replaced with another tip optimized for a particular surface as will be discussed in more detail later. The height of the cane 560 is adjustable.
[0077] FIG. 9 is a forearm crutch with the inventive handle 500. Two straps 504 adjacent to each side of the cuff 506 which can wrap around the user's arm while placed in the cuff and come together in the front and connect by any means such as buttons or Velcro or other attachment to secure the forearm crutch to the arm of the user. Also, if the user needs to free their hand and let go of the grip for activities such as opening a door, the strap 504 will hold the crutch to their arm and prevent from falling onto the ground or need of fetching the crutch again.
[0078] FIG. 10 shows a tread pattern 563 for the cane or crutch tip 519 which allows for greater traction on slippery surfaces.
[0079] FIG. 11 shows a different forearm crutch design 570 where there is a horizontal support 572 with a diagonal axis coming out of the upright support 574 and bearing to the right. The grip 500 is then bearing to the right. This new design helps with positioning the user's hand according to the natural human hand position to prevent strains and damages on carpal and other parts of the hand and arm.
[0080] Referring now to FIGS. 12-18 a first embodiment of a multifunctional cane/crutch ambulatory assistance apparatus (520) is shown. The apparatus 520 replaces the front support and handle of a walker 522. In the position (closed position) shown in FIG. 12 it provides additional height to the handle 521 of the walker 522 to prevent the user from slouching that happens with standard walkers, and keep the body straight during ambulation to prevent other side effects of unnatural position and strains on shoulders, arm and spines. This FIG. (12) also shows a multipurpose pouch/seat 515 with a rectangular solid frame and 4 hooks 525 in each corner (FIG. 13). The hooks 525 are hooked into the small hoops 527 on each of 4 clips secured on the walker supports. This position secures the pouch 515 vertically in order to place any belonging into the pouch to keep them handy for the user during the use of the walker 522.
[0081] FIG. 13 shows the multifunctional pouch/seat 515. The pouch 515 could include one or more pockets to support and hold items such as phone, wallet, pen, pad, etc. when is installed in vertical position. This pouch 515 can be used as a seat of the walker 522 when unhooked from the two top hoops 527 and then hooked to the two hoops 527 in the back supports. Once this change is done the pouch 515 can function as a seat for the user to take a sit on it and rest as needed.
[0082] FIG. 14 shows the two parts crutch as the front upright of the walker 522 in opened position. In this position the user can take advantage of the second function in which is a combination of handle for a hand grip and a under arm crutch to alleviate the user weight pressure and strains over the shoulders, arms, wrist, hand and spine. This function turns two points support of two hand grips seen on a standard walker to four point support consisting of two hand grip supports and two underarm supports at the same time. The small lever in the front wheels can lock the wheel so it prevents the walker 522 from moving as needed in the well known manner.
[0083] FIG. 15 is an example of conventional walker 522 which has two multifunctional canes 520. The inventive cane/ambulatory assistance device 520, can be used as a conventional cane but in accordance with one embodiment of the invention is attached to right and left sides of the walker which turns a conventional walker 522 to a multi-functional one. This design has many advantages including:
[0084] a) Adjustable height for the walker handle to prevent slouching.
[0085] b) Can be detached to be used as a cane.
[0086] c) Can be opened as shown in FIG. 14 to provide handles and underarm crutch with 4 points of body support.
[0087] FIG. 16 shows the open position of the cane 520 that provides 2 points of hand grip support for right and left hand in addition to extra 2 points support of underarm crutch.
[0088] FIG. 17 shows the multifunctional ambulation device 520 by itself in open position in which is this position can be used as a crutch. However when closed can be used as cane, or when is installed on a walker can be used as an adjustable handle.
[0089] FIG. 18 showing a detail of the two parts 524, 526 of the multifunctional device 520 which can move relative to each other and adjust inside of the main support telescopically, that is adjacent to the upper half of the handle 521 when the core support is pulled out of the body the adjacent top half 524 of the handle separates form the bottom half 526. Once the top part 524 is completely pulled out as shown in FIG. 17, the top 524 of the handle can be placed under arm as an underarm support while the bottom part of the handle 526 stays in the same place and can be used as a handle or grip.
[0090] FIG. 19 shows a crutch 600 designed for obese or people with larger hip to prevent unsafe angles of crutch positioning to the ground. This will allow the user 602 with abnormal body form to keep the crutch 600 close to the body and perpendicular to the ground therefor creating a more upright position which prevents slip of the crutch 600 to the sides and provides more secure ambulation. This crutch 600 also can be designed and produced with different curvature to accommodate the different hip size or specific body shape of a person. Both crutches 100, 600 have top 610 and bottom 612 sections with the top 610 slidably receivable within the bottom.
[0091] FIG. 20 shows the crutch 600 modified so the top part 610 of the crutch can be installed on a walker 522, in order to create 4 points of support; 2 handle and 2 underarm supports for the user.
[0092] FIG. 21 shows the top part of the crutch 600 separated and installed on a walker 522 in order to create 4 points of support; 2 handle and 2 underarm supports for the user.
[0093] FIGS. 22 and 23 show the handle 500 after a flexible and cushion overmold that can be made of gel or TPE or any other elastic or cushion material is installed on it to create the utmost comfort by providing a natural position for human hand while using any kind.
[0094] FIGS. 24 and 26 show a comparison of the stresses on the 10 user's hand of the handle 500 of the invention versus a conventional handle on the right side of the illustration. Stresses are highlighted by shading and broken lines, so it can be seen that the conventional grip produces more stress than the handle 500 of the invention because of the angling and contouring of the handle 500 as explained in detail above. FIGS. 25A-25H show the various shapes possible using the inventive molding technique as described above. FIG. 27 shows the handle 500 in use on a standard crutch.
[0095] FIGS. 28 and 29 show a spring loaded tip 700 for a cane 702. The tip 700 has an opening 710 for receiving a fitting 712, the fitting 712 sized to receive the bare end 714 of the cane 702. The base 716 has a broad footprint so as to ease walking on uneven or porous surfaces such as dirt, sand, or grass/vegetation. The spring portion 720 is in the form of a living hinge arrangement which allows weight transfer in rolling fashion from front to back. This action distributes loading on impact with the walking surface to reduce shock which reduces carpal tunnel syndrome and other undesirable effects of high impact ambulation.
[0096] Referring now to FIGS. 30, 31, 1, and 20 a base 800 for the top 610 or bottom 612 of crutch 100, 600 is shown. The base 800 can be used with the top 610 portion to facilitate the exercises as discussed above in conjunction with FIG. 1-4. The base 800 includes two receiving sockets 810 for receiving the vertical supports of the crutch 100, 600.
[0097] Any variations and any combinations of the above teachings are also intended to be covered by this patent application.
