Importance

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Abstract

An automatic feedback and adjustment setup is integrally connected to a body joint support. The support may be of the flexible, semi-rigid, or rigid type. The support contains one or more inflatable/deflatable bladders, each bladder individually controlled by a hydraulic pump. Sensors embedded in the support monitor muscle activity (EMG) and transmit those electronic measurements to a microprocessor which processes the measurements according to one of a variety of prestored algorithms. The result of this processing is compared to preset minimum and maximum levels. The inflation level of each bladder is then automatically adjusted by activating the hydraulic pumps to keep the calculated level between these preset minimum and maximum. The combination of support, bladders, sensors, microprocessor, comparison device, and hydraulic pumps creates a closed-looped biofeedback system for controlling the degree of joint stress the person is experiencing while wearing the support. Thus, the likelihood of joint, muscular, or soft tissue damage can be minimized. Also disclosed is a method for using the support.

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First Claim