Self-adjusting system for joint protection

Abstract

A self-adjusting system for joint protection comprising a joint protector pad aligned relative to a joint and disposable between an operative orientation and a spaced orientation in relation thereto. A first attachment assembly of at least one elongate strap connects the joint protector to a foot or hand of the wearer, and a second attachment assembly of an elongate strap(s) connecting the joint protector to a point near the torso of the wearer, such as a waistband or belt. In a spaced orientation when the joint is straight, the joint protector is spaced apart from the joint so as not to impede movement. In an operative orientation when the joint is flexed, the joint protector at least partially covers the joint, supporting and protecting it from the underlying surface. The strap(s) ensure the joint protector is automatically properly aligned in moving between the spaced and operative orientation.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A system for protecting a joint of a wearer, comprising:
 at least one joint protector disposable in aligned relation to a joint of the wearer between an operative orientation and a spaced orientation,   a first attachment assembly comprising at least one strap connected to said joint protector at a proximal end and securable at a limb extremity at a distal end, and   a second attachment assembly comprising at least one strap connected to said joint protector at a proximal end and securable at a torso of the wearer at the distal end.   
     
     
         2 . The system as recited in  claim 1  wherein said operative orientation is defined as at least partially covering the joint of the wearer when the joint is at least partially flexed. 
     
     
         3 . The system as recited in  claim 1  wherein said spaced orientation is defined as disposed in spaced apart relation to the joint of the wearer when the joint is straightened. 
     
     
         4 . The system as recited in  claim 1  wherein said first attachment assembly is securable to a foot of the wearer at said distal end. 
     
     
         5 . The system as recited in  claim 1  wherein said first attachment assembly is securable to apparel of the wearer at said distal end. 
     
     
         6 . The system as recited in  claim 1  wherein said second attachment assembly is securable at a torso of the wearer at said distal end. 
     
     
         7 . The system as recited in  claim 1  wherein said second attachment assembly securable to apparel of the wearer at said distal end. 
     
     
         8 . The system as recited in  claim 1  wherein each of said at least one strap is adjustable. 
     
     
         9 . The system as recited in  claim 1  wherein each of said at least one strap comprises at least partially elastic qualities. 
     
     
         10 . A system for self-adjusting joint protection of a wearer, comprising:
 at least one joint protector disposable in aligned relation to a joint of the wearer in aligned relation to a joint of the wearer between an operative orientation and a spaced orientation,   a first attachment assembly comprising at least one elongate strap connected to said at least joint protector at a proximal end and extending distally therefrom,   said at least one elongate strap of said first attachment assembly securable at a limb extremity at a distal end thereof,   a second attachment assembly comprising at least one elongate strap connected to said at least one joint protector at a proximal end and extending distally therefrom,   said at least one elongate strap of said second attachment assembly securable at a torso of the wearer at the distal end thereof,   said joint protector is automatically positionable in relation to the joint of the wearer when moving between said spaced orientation and said operative orientation.   
     
     
         11 . The system as recited in  claim 10  wherein said at least one elongate strap of said first attachment assembly is disposable in at least partially surrounding relation to a foot of the wearer, or portion thereof. 
     
     
         12 . The system as recited in  claim 10  wherein said first attachment assembly further comprises at least one attachment member disposed in securing relation of said at least one elongate strap to apparel of the wearer at said distal end. 
     
     
         13 . The system as recited in  claim 10  wherein second attachment assembly further comprises at least one attachment member disposed in securing relation of said at least one elongate strap to apparel of the wearer at said distal end. 
     
     
         14 . The system as recited in  claim 10  wherein said second attachment assembly comprises a plurality of elongate straps each attached to said joint protector and extending distally therefrom. 
     
     
         15 . The system as recited in  claim 10  wherein each of said at least one strap of said first attachment assembly and said at least one strap of said second attachment assembly are adjustable. 
     
     
         16 . The system as recited in  claim 10  wherein each of said at least one strap of said first attachment assembly and said at least one strap of said second attachment assembly comprise at least partially elastic material. 
     
     
         17 . The system as recited in  claim 10  wherein said joint protector comprises at least one cushioning portion disposed on an inner surface of said joint protector and structured to provide relief from pressure applied to the joint in a flexed position. 
     
     
         18 . The system as recited in  claim 10  wherein said joint protector comprises at least one impact resistant portion disposed on an outer surface of said joint protector structured to reduce force applied to the joint from a supporting surface. 
     
     
         19 . The system as recited in  claim 10  wherein said joint protector comprises at least one frictional portion disposed on an outer surface of said joint protector and structured to increase friction between said joint protector and a supporting surface, or disposed on an inner surface of said joint protector and structured to increase friction between said joint protector and the joint of the wearer.