Reconfigurable heel elevator
US7909787B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 17, 2006 |
| Grant date | Mar 22, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 17, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61G13/1265
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method and apparatus for eliminating or otherwise reducing or mitigating pressure on an individual's heel while the leg is in an extended position, while allowing for ambulation without completely removing the device. An apparatus comprises a support member configured to be attached to a lower leg portion of an individual between the calf and heel region, the support member having an inner surface portion to be disposed facing the leg when attached thereto, and having an opposite outer surface; and a reconfigurable elevation member configured (i) to be disposed at the outer surface of the support member such that when the support member is attached to the lower leg portion of the individual the elevation member is selectively capable of providing elevation of the heel from an underlying surface in the event that the lower leg portion is extended above the underlying surface, and (ii) to be reconfigured for ambulation without removing said support member from the lower leg. In some implementations, the reconfigurable elevation member is integral with the support member and is inflatable and deflatable. In other implementations, the reconfigurable elevation member is removably atta…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.