Knee-Tensioning Device Relieves Arthritic Knee Pain

A novel knee biomechanical dosing system allows a patient to adjust precisely the amount of pain-relieving force applied to an osteoarthritic (OA) knee.

The Bellacure treatment device is a noninvasive, visually discreet device worn against the skin that gives patients the ability to apply reproducibly a therapeutic force known as the valgus moment, which urges the femur and tibia apart on the affected side of the OA knee. The force application efficiency is achieved by using a cable tensioning system that creates a true three-point-force system, where nearly 100% of the force developed by the device contributes to the therapeutic effect, namely the relief of OA knee pain. The cables automatically set to the proper initial length, matching the patient's unique anatomy, thus maximizing force efficiency and minimizing weight at a high pain-relief intensity level.

The device, which is worn around the knee, is made up of a lightweight, high stretch, and breathable outer fabric structure that conceals the integrated mechanical elements, allowing the patient to receive consistent pain relief. Once the device is pulled up the leg and positioned around the knee, the patient simply engages and rotates the dosing mechanism until the prescribed pain-relief level is attained. Patients can choose to release the applied pressure or change the dosage in one-step without removing the device.

The dosing mechanism is comprised of four independent microcables, which automatically adjust themselves to the patient's leg diameter. After the device is pulled into place, the patient engages the dosing cap by pressing in toward the leg until the dial snaps into place, and then simply rotates the cap to apply the dose. The dosing mechanism presses against an air bladder to distribute pressure comfortably around the knee. The Bellacure treatment device was developed by Bellacure (Seattle, WA, USA), and has been awarded a patent by the U.S. Patent Office.

"Advancements in biomechanics, microelectronics, micromechanics, and the technical garment industry have enabled us to produce an arthritis treatment device that is efficient and effective,” said Shane Sterling, CEO of Bellacure. "I think the greatest achievement we've made with the Bellacure treatment device is how all this technology is transparent and easy for the patient to use. Our goal is to provide the arthritic pain relief patients need to seamlessly maintain or return to their previous lifestyles.”

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