Orthosis with joint distraction

Abstract From the Canadian patent

An orthosis for extension and flexion of a joint of a limb provides for distraction of the joint upon extension. In one embodiment a, spreading arrangement positively moves the orthosis arms longitudinally outwardly relative to each other upon rotation from a flexed position to an extended position. In another embodiment the axis of rotation of the, orthosis arms is located outwardly from the axis of rotation of the limb. Upon rotation of the arms relative to each other from a flexed position to an extended position, the orthosis arms move longitudinally outwardly because of the geometry of the orthosis. Because the cuffs on the arms are clamped to the limb segments, the limb segments are …