Orthoses for joint rehabilitation

Abstract

Orthoses with microprocessor control placed around the joint of a patient are used to perform and to monitor isometric, range-of-motion, proprioception and isotonic exercises of the joint. A variety of improved hardware elements result in an orthosis that is easier to use and interacts more efficiently with the controller to allow the monitoring of a greater range of motions while holding down cost and provide suitable accurate evaluation of the exercises. Efficient ways of programming the exercises, monitoring the exercises and evaluating the exercise provide a comprehensive program for the rehabilitation of an injured or weakened joint.

1 . An orthosis comprising: 
 a first support portion that fits around a first body portion on a first side of a patient's joint;    a second support portion that fits around a second body portion, the second body portion being on the opposite side of the joint from the first body portion;    a flexible connection connecting the first support portion and the second support portion;    a position sensor operably connected to the flexible connection such that the position sensor detects the relative orientation of the first support portions with respect to the second support portion; and    a microprocessor based portable controller connected to the position sensor, where the first support portion and the second support portion each have a connection for attachment to a continuous passive motion device.