Abstract: A method and device for increasing microcirculation in the lower limb are described. The device includes a means for immobilizing the limb, for example a plaster cast, and an electrical stimulation device, which applies electrical stimulation to opposed leg muscles such that antagonistic and agonistic muscle groups contract near simultaneously, resulting in near isometric contraction. The combination of this contraction and the leg restraint have been found to markedly increase blood circulation and in particular microcirculation in the limb.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and device for reduction of or treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), the method comprising causing isometric stimulation of the leg muscles to promote blood flow. Other embodiments provide treatment for other circulatory disorders of the lower limbs and/or the systemic circulation.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and device for reduction of or treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), the method comprising causing isometric stimulation of the leg muscles to promote blood flow. Other embodiments provide treatment for other circulatory disorders of the lower limbs and/or the systemic circulation.

Abstract: Apparatus is described for objectively testing the condition of a support surface such as mattress. The apparatus comprises a frame (8, 21, 22) for extending over the support surface, an indenter (5) mounted on said frame and a load sensor (4) disposed between the indenter and the frame, manually operated means (6) for pressing the indenter into the support surface, displacement measuring means for measuring the movement of the indenter into the support surface and data processing means (7) for analyzing the force applied to the indenter in relation to the displacement of the indenter into the support surface.

Abstract: A skin evaluation apparatus and method for rapidly assessing the degree of erythema of the skin and the skin's response to blanching. The apparatus includes a housing comprising a probe head having an emitter and sensor and a blanching edge. The emitter consists of bundles of optical fibers by means of which light from LEDs is delivered to and recovered from the skin. In use, the probe head is held flush with the skin surface causing the blanching edge to indent a fixed area of skin causing a local blanche. As the probe head is moved, the blanching edge slides along the skin surface evacuating blood as it moves. During the blanche, the LEDs are switched on and the scattered signal collected using a photodiode. A processor measures the attenuation of scattered light and gives a display of blood content against time, providing an indication of the blood circulation in that area.

Abstract: A method and equipment for assessing the suitability of support surfaces such as mattresses and chairs is disclosed. The method comprises applying a load to each of two such support surfaces with a first indenter having a given profile and a substantially rigid form and measuring the interface pressure, applying the same load to each said surface with a second indenter having substantially the same profile as said first indenter, but having a viscoelastic form and measuring the interface pressure and deriving information as to the characteristics of the supporting surfaces by comparing said measurements.