Weight-bearing assistive device

Weight-bearing assistive device for ankle patients featuring a 3-point contact structure and shock-absorbing components

This technology is a weight-bearing assistive device that supports the leg to transfer weight to the knee and thigh during walking for ankle patients. It combines a support shaft containing an elastic shock-absorbing component to dampen ground reaction forces with a 3-point contact base.

Existing solutions have significant drawbacks: crutches can cause axillary nerve damage and arm pain, exoskeletons are expensive and cumbersome to use, and single-point contact rehabilitation tools often result in unstable gait.

This technology proposes a system that connects a leg support, which cradles the knee and calf, to a base consisting of three contact points via a support shaft. By integrating a height-adjustment mechanism and a lower shock-absorbing component within the shaft, the device effectively distributes and cushions the load during walking. It is ideal for patients recovering from foot fractures or ankle surgery, allowing for stable mobility without straining the arms and improving quality of life during the recovery period.

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Key Features:

• Leg support that cradles the knee and calf to bear weight while keeping the foot off the ground
• Base support equipped with multiple contact members positioned to enable 3-point gait between the base and the foot
• Support shaft section connected to the leg and base supports, featuring a height-adjustment shaft with a series of alignment holes
• Elastic shock-absorbing component that attaches via a height-adjustment stopper to dampen ground reaction forces during walking