| 摘要 |
<p>An improved orthopedic device for protecting and supporting a body portion has been developed. A structural support panel, moldable to the contours of the body portion at elevated temperatures while remaining substantially rigid and resilient at ambient temperature, is supported by a belt-like device which encircles the body portion. The belt-like device consists of a web adapted to encircle the body portion being supported formed of a resilient, stretchable material, a heat barrier which protects the body portion during molding of the structural support panel and a cinch strap for tightening the orthopedic device about the body portion. The heat barrier forms a pocket with the web which permits insertion of the structural support panel into the orthopedic device at elevated temperatures. The invention also includes a process for fitting the device to a body portion which provides maximum comfort for the patient because of its speed and accuracy. The structural support panel is molded directly to the body contours at elevated temperature and retains the molded shape as it cools. The invention promotes optimum support of the body portion in an inexpensive, removable brace or cast.</p> |
