Circumferential walker

摘要

An orthopedic device in the form of a circumferential walker includes a first member (posterior shell) and a second member (dorsal shell) corresponding to the first member. An outsole or plantar shell portion is attached to, or formed on or with the posterior shell. A hinge mechanism is provided between the posterior and dorsal shells to allow the dorsal shell to be swung away from the posterior shell in order to accommodate an anatomical limb therein. Inflatable bladders having perspiration wicking channels and/or openings are provided within a liner for insertion between the posterior and dorsal shells. Quick-connecting buckle and retaining assemblies can be provided to allow a user to quickly don and doff the orthopedic device.

主权项

1. An orthopedic leg walker, comprising:
a posterior shell having semi-rigid or substantially rigid lower leg and ankle portions, and a plantar portion having an open-ended toe end and a close-ended heel end, the plantar portion having an outer surface, the posterior shell forming a cavity and having lateral and medial side shell portions defining a clearance therebetween; a dorsal shell having semi-rigid or substantially rigid proximal and distal shell portions, the dorsal shell removably fitting within the clearance, the proximal shell portion connected to the distal shell portion via a connecting portion to permit movement of the proximal and distal shell portions relative to one another; a plurality of straps secured to the posterior shell, and positioned to extend over the dorsal shell; a raised reinforcing portion protruding from and running longitudinally along a length of the proximal shell portion, the raised reinforcing portion formed in a single piece with the proximal shell portion, and arranged to strengthen the proximal shell portion and provide support and stabilization to a lower leg of a user when the raised reinforcing portion is engaged with at least one of the straps extending over the proximal shell portion; and a plurality of clearance holes defined along the proximal shell portion on opposing sides of the raised reinforcing portion, the clearance holes providing ventilation and resiliency to accommodate swelling of the lower leg of the user, wherein at least some of the clearance holes have varying sizes and are arranged obliquely to the raised reinforcing portion.