Extra-articular implantable mechanical energy absorbing assemblies having two deflecting members and methods

Abstract

Implantable assemblies for manipulating energy transferred by members defining an anatomical joint, and methods of implanting and using. The members of the anatomical joint collectively define a path of motion. An assembly includes a first component configured to be attached to a first member of the anatomical joint; a second component configured to be attached to a second member of the anatomical joint; and a joint joining the first and second components. The first component includes a first flex member and the second component includes a second flex member. The first and second flex members are configured to flex to absorb energy transferred by the members of the anatomical joint.

1 - 27 . (canceled) 
     
     
         28 . A method for treating a knee joint having first and second articular surfaces, comprising:
 implanting a first component to a first anatomical member of the knee joint subcutaneously and extra-capsularly on a lateral side of the knee joint; and   reducing the load experienced by the first articular surface during the knee joint's higher loading positions and not reducing the load experienced by the first articular surface during the knee joint's lower load positions.   
     
     
         29 . The method of  claim 28 , wherein in the step of reducing the load comprises reducing the load transient variably experienced by the first articular surface in the range of 1-40%. 
     
     
         30 . The method of  claim 29 , wherein the load transient variably experienced by the first articular surface is reduced in the range of 5-30%. 
     
     
         31 . The method of  claim 28 , further comprising attaching a second component to a second anatomical member of the knee joint, wherein a joint joins said first and second components. 
     
     
         32 . The method of  claim 31 , wherein the first component includes a first flex member and said second component includes a second flex member. 
     
     
         33 . The method of  claim 32 , further comprising flexing said first and second flex members to transiently variably reduce load between the first and second articular surfaces. 
     
     
         34 . The method of  claim 28 , wherein the first component includes a first flex member. 
     
     
         35 . The method of  claim 28 , further comprising permitting at least a limited amount of axial rotation between the first and second articular surfaces of the knee joint.