Perforated Insole with Dynamic Support Layer

Abstract

An insole installed on top of existing footwear with a sealed chamber extending across the plantar surface of the foot filled with a fluid that can traverse across the chamber in response to pressure caused by a weight shift by the wearer. The movement of the fluid (which may be a liquid, gas, or gel) serves to massage the foot muscles and tendons, release toxins, and increase circulation. The chamber may also have restrictions or unique shapes to guide the fluid for maximum effectiveness.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]Original Non-Provisional ApplicationBACKGROUND[0002]The benefits of wearing insoles are well known in the fields of sports medicine and health sciences. There are a number of common foot ailments which may be associated with either a particular lifestyle activity or a pre-existing medical condition. Runners, for instance, often suffer from plantar fasciitis, wherein the band of tissue between the toes and the heel become tight and tear, while those living and coping with diabetic neuropathy require additional stimulation across the base of the foot to increase circulation. To address these conditions people often seek out therapeutic massage to encourage oxygenation, venous return, and increased lymphatic return in order to relieve pain and reduce fatigue.[0003]Use of an insole designed to massage and stimulate the tissues of the foot can provide immediate relief as well as long-term benefits in addressing these issues. A dynamic insole is...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0006]The present invention is a therapeutic insole which may be installed by the user on top of the existing insole of the footwear. The insole is designed with a sealed chamber which may extend across the toe, arch, or heel portion of the foot—or across any combination therein. This chamber is filled with a fluid substance that can traverse across the chamber in response to changes in pressure caused by a weight shift by the wearer. The fluid may consist of any number of materials including gas, liquid, or gel-like substance. The movement of the fluid serves to massage the foot muscles and tendons, promote the release of toxins, and encourage circulation. The chamber may also have areas with restrictions or unique shapes which restrict and guide the fluid for maximum effectiveness.

[0007]As each foot is unique, a retailer may be challenged to maintain shelf space to accommodate the large variety of products. The insole needs to be personally matched not only to match the user's requirements to their different activities or support level but also to the size and shape of each foot. Herein, the present invention also discloses an apparatus and method for adjusting the size and changing features without the use of tools, thus allowing the retailer to carry a limited number of products while accommodating a broad span of consumer needs.

Problems solved by technology

As each foot is unique, a retailer may be challenged to maintain shelf space to accommodate the large variety of products.

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