AU2024278231B1

AU2024278231B1 - Plantar Fasciitis Rehabilitation Station

Info

Publication number: AU2024278231B1
Application number: AU2024278231A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Millie Duemmer
Original assignee: Duemmer Millie Miss
Current assignee: Duemmer Millie Miss
Priority date: 2024-12-09
Filing date: 2024-12-09
Publication date: 2025-02-27
Anticipated expiration: 2044-12-09

Abstract

A plantar fasciitis rehabilitation station comprising: a triangular prism-shaped structure, a first side configured for horizontal foot stretching, including rubber tubes colour-coded by resistance level, designed for durability and resistance to loss of elasticity over extended use, a second side configured for vertical extension, featuring adjustable singular tube supports designed to accommodate various foot widths and lengths based on anthropometric data, and a third side configured for targeted pain relief, incorporating interchangeable irregular sphere rollers, each featuring distinct surface textures for varied intensity of pain relief.

Description

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PLANTAR FASCIITIS REHABILITATION STATION TECHNICAL FIELD

The invention is in the Mechanical field as it is operated using the actions of the human body. There are no automated components to this invention.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Plantar fasciitis is a common condition characterised by damage to the plantar fascia, a thick, fibrous tissue that runs along the sole of the foot, connecting the heel to the toes and supporting the arch of the foot. Damage to this tissue, often accompanied by weakening of the surrounding muscles, can result in severe and debilitating pain that significantly impacts daily activities and quality of life.

Existing footwear designs, while providing substantial arch support, inadvertently contribute to the weakening of the intrinsic foot muscles responsible for maintaining the natural arch. Over time, this dependency on external support exacerbates the risk of plantar fasciitis and related discomfort. Rehabilitation and strengthening of the plantar fascia and associated muscles are therefore essential to addressing the root cause of the condition, rather than merely managing symptoms.

Physiotherapy has proven effective in treating plantar fasciitis, as it targets both pain relief and muscle rehabilitation. However, the cost, frequency, and time commitment required for physiotherapy sessions present significant barriers for many individuals, particularly adults with demanding schedules. Alternative solutions, such as pain relief creams, orthotic insoles, and foot arch supports, are widely available but largely focus on symptom management rather than long-term prevention of recurrence.

The Plantar Fasciitis Rehabilitation Station offers a novel approach to addressing plantar fasciitis by providing a comprehensive, user-friendly, and cost-effective solution. Designed to relieve pain, rehabilitate damaged tissue, and strengthen the foot's muscles, this device empowers users to take control of their recovery. Unlike existing products, this invention targets the underlying causes of plantar fasciitis, promoting sustainable healing and reducing dependency on physiotherapy or external arch supports.

By enabling individuals to rehabilitate and strengthen their feet effectively, the Plantar Fasciitis Rehabilitation Station restores natural arch support and allows users to resume wearing all types of footwear without discomfort. This invention fills a critical gap in current treatment options, providing a practical, accessible, and holistic approach to managing and preventing plantar fasciitis.

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SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The Plantar Fasciitis Rehabilitation Station addresses critical gaps in existing solutions for plantar fasciitis treatment by providing a durable, long-lasting, and ergonomic device that focuses on the root causes of the condition. Current market offerings, including pain relief creams, orthotic insoles, and cushioned foot arch supports, offer only temporary symptom relief without addressing the underlying issue of weakened plantar fascia tissue and associated foot muscles.

Pain relief creams are portable and convenient but offer only short-term relief, requiring frequent reapplication and repeated purchases due to their limited quantity. Orthotic insoles provide adaptability for various footwear and temporary support but contribute to muscle weakening over time, exacerbating the condition. Cushioned foot arch supports similarly offer comfort and temporary pain relief but weaken foot muscles through external reliance and require periodic replacement due to material degradation.

The Plantar Fasciitis Rehabilitation Station overcomes these limitations by delivering a comprehensive, non-invasive, and permanent solution to the problem. Designed as a triangular prism, the device features:

A side for horizontal stretching, equipped with color-coded resistance tubes for muscle engagement and durability over extended use

A side for vertical extension, using adjustable supports tailored to a wide range of foot widths and lengths.

A side for targeted pain relief, incorporating interchangeable rollers with textured surfaces for customisable pain management.

Unlike existing products, this invention rehabilitates and strengthens the plantar fascia and related muscles, addressing the root cause of plantar fasciitis while reducing reliance on external supports. It is suitable for use in relaxed settings, such as at a desk or on a couch, eliminating the limitations of shoe-bound solutions. Durable and reusable, the device provides a cost-effective alternative to temporary and consumable products, empowering users to achieve long-term relief and recovery without recurring expenses.

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BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Figure 1 is the horizontal stretch side

This side is for strengthening the abductor hallucis muscle. The rubber tubes for horizontal stretches of the foot, are comfortable to use when stretched, colour coordinated by resistance level and will not undergo serious stretching and loss of elasticity when used over extended periods of time.

Figure 2 shows the vertical extension side

This side is for strengthening the quadtratus plantae muscles. Through utilising anthropometric data, I was able to design and produce singular tube supports that were positioned on the wood to suit a variety of foot width measurements, with the option of adjusting for foot length.

Figure 3 is the pain relief side

This sids is for targeted pain relief. I chose irregular spheres for the rollers, with one having rounded bumps for a smooth and subtle pain relief effect, while the other has bumps that come to more of a point, allowing for a more intense relief of pain.

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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

The frame of the rehabilitation station is made from plywood, cut out using a jigsaw.

The rollers on the pain relief side are 3D printed using PLA filament and designed using Fusion 360 (CAD software). The rod is metal that connects the rollers and was purchased from a local hardware.

The rubber bands were sourced from a third party. They were cut and are attached to the plywood through a PLA 3D printed holder made through 3D printing.

The heel supports are 3D printed, using PLA filaments and designed using Fusion 360.

The frame of the structure is made from resin. The replicas for the resin were 3D designed and printed, then using Pinky Sil, moulds were made. These moulds were then used to produce resin copies. These fimal structures were spray painted with grit granite spray paint.

Claims

1/2 CLAIMS

1. (Independent Claim) A plantar fasciitis rehabilitation station comprising:

o a triangular prism-shaped structure,

o a first side configured for horizontal foot stretching, including rubber tubes colour-coded by resistance level, designed for durability and resistance to loss of elasticity over extended use,

o a second side configured for vertical extension, featuring adjustable singular tube supports designed to accommodate various foot widths and lengths based on anthropometric data,

o and a third side configured for targeted pain relief, incorporating interchangeable irregular sphere rollers, each featuring distinct surface textures for varied intensity of pain relief,

wherein the combination of these features is adapted for comprehensive rehabilitation by providing stretching, muscle strengthening, and pain relief.

2. (Dependent Claim) The plantar fasciitis rehabilitation station of claim 1, wherein the rubber tubes on the first side are ergonomically designed for user comfort during stretching.

3. (Dependent Claim) The plantar fasciitis rehabilitation station of claim 1, wherein the singular tube supports on the second side are adjustable along a track system to precisely fit different foot sizes.

4. (Dependent Claim) The plantar fasciitis rehabilitation station of claim 1, wherein the irregular sphere rollers on the third side are constructed from materials with varying hardness levels to suit user preference.

2/2 5. (Dependent Claim) The plantar fasciitis rehabilitation station of claim 1, further comprising risen frame vertices for stability and protection of the other sides during use.

6. (Dependent Claim) The plantar fasciitis rehabilitation station of claim 1, further including a storage cavity for spare rollers and rubbers.

7. (Independent Claim) A plantar fasciitis rehabilitation station comprising:

o a triangular prism-shaped structure with three distinct functional sides,

o one side for horizontal stretching of the foot, utilising durable and resistance level colour-coded rubber tubes,

o one side for vertical extension of the foot, incorporating adjustable tube supports designed using anthropometric data,

o and one side for pain relief, featuring rollers with interchangeable surface textures for varied pressure intensity, wherein the sides are designed to operate independently or collectively to provide a customisable and targeted rehabilitation experience.

8. (Dependent Claim) The plantar fasciitis rehabilitation station of claim 7, wherein the rollers on the pain relief side include one roller with rounded bumps and another with pointed bumps to offer different levels of stimulation.

9. (Dependent Claim) The plantar fasciitis rehabilitation station of claim 7, further comprising an integrated storage compartment for accessories such as additional rollers or resistance tubes.