Orthotic apparatus and method for using same

Abstract

An inflatable bladder position a distance from a joint is attached to an external structural support which crosses the joint but does not support it. By inflating the bladder one limb segment is forced towards the external support thereby increasing the ranges of motion of that joint. Further, the inflatable bladder has an instant release valve which, when pressed, will instantly release the pressure within the bladder. The limb is positioned intermediate the bladder and the external structural support for optimal biomechanical efficiency.

1 . An orthotic device for providing motion to a user's limb through movement of a joint, said device comprising:
 a strap;   an inflatable member connected to said strap and including an inflatable bladder, said inflatable member being spaced from said joint; and   a device operatively associated with said inflatable bladder for inflating and deflating said inflatable member such that as said inflatable member is inflated, said strap is placed in increasing tension so as to cause said joint to be moved.