Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

An orthopaedic support having outer and inner resilient layers wherein the outer resilient layer is comprised of neoprene or another material suitable for surrounding and supporting a portion of the human anatomy through compression and a inner resilient layer generally coextensive with a substantial portion of the outer resilient layer which may be comprised of a material selected to enhance the performance and comfort of the orthopaedic support. The inner and outer resilient layers may be secured together in discrete zones but are otherwise freely stretchable or movable relative to one another. Where desired, the outer resilient layer may be provided with an aperture configured to receive a discrete area of the supported body member such as the knee cap which may be sensitive to pressure. The inner resilient layer of such a support may be provided with a corresponding aperture or, in the alternative, the inner resilient layer may extend across the aperture in the outer resilient layer. In the latter case, it may be advantageous if the inner resilient layer is comprised of material suitable for exerting a light restraining force on the sensitive area. A supplemental resilient member may be provided adjacent the inner surface of the outer resilient layer or the outer surface of the inner resilient layer after which the overlapping portions may be subjected to heat and compression so as to decrease the thickness (and increase the density) of discrete portions of the supplemental resilient member and the overlapping portion of the inner or outer resilient layer and to cause the uncompressed or partially compressed portions of such member and layer to form an interface whereby the non-adjoining surface of the supplemental resilient member is substantially flush with the portion of the surface of the inner or outer resilient layer adjacent thereto.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim