Abstract: A bed pillow with a water-bag support base advantageously includes a compressible foam layer above the water-bag base. The foam layer includes an upper portion of a memory foam and a lower density polyurethane foam therebelow. The low density polyurethane foam includes a convoluted base and vertically extending air vent channels are provided throughout at least a central portion of the pillow. With this arrangement improved air flow is provided. The air vent channels also improve localized compressibility whereby the response characteristics of the water-bag base support are maintained and not greatly dissipated.

Abstract: A cervical traction device advantageously includes a therapeutic pack that can be separately heated or chilled for use with the device. The most common application is a cold pack insertable in a recessed pocket of the device to provide cold therapy as the device is inflated during cervical decompression. The structure preferably includes a series of bladders that cooperate to define a cavity for accepting the therapeutic pack on an inside surface for thermal exchange with the neck of a user.

Abstract: A cervical traction device advantageously includes a therapeutic pack that can be separately heated or chilled for use with the device. The most common application is a cold pack insertable in a recessed pocket of the device to provide cold therapy as the device is inflated during cervical decompression. The structure preferably includes a series of bladders that cooperate to define a cavity for accepting the therapeutic pack on an inside surface for thermal exchange with the neck of a user.

Abstract: A lumbar support uses a molded plastic shell and a series of adjustable straps to provide a support that can be easily fitted to a user's lower back profile. A thing cushion member, preferably a cushion sleeve, is supported on the straps and does not extend to the rear portion of the plastic shell, and preferably does not extend to the sides of the shell. Air circulation channels are defined between the thin cushion member and the rear of the molded plastic shell to assist in heat removal during use of the lumbar support. This lumbar support structure is also readily modified for increased durability that different applications demand.

Abstract: A water based pillow includes a common fluid retaining envelope which is divided into two elongate regions having different fluid support and fluid dynamic characteristics. One region is basically uninterrupted while a second region has a series of heat seal islands joining opposed sides of the envelope. These heat seal islands reduce the amount of fluid retained in the second region. This second region is preferably the head support region and under load. Some fluid is displaced from this region and enters the first region which is preferably the neck support region. The amount of fluid in the envelope can be adjusted or set to maintain a thin layer of fluid beneath the user's head.

Abstract: An adjustable backrest has a series of adjustable straps extending across a front opening cavity of a backrest support. The straps are held in a locked, fitted position by a series of buckles at one side of the backrest which engage and lock the straps. Each strap is acted on by a bias arrangement and urges the straps to a drawn position across the front open cavity. This drawn position is an initial setup position that allows fitting of the backrest for a particular user.

Abstract: An orthopaedic support having a substrate having a series of channels in one surface thereof with a series of vent holes in the channels to promote heat dissipation through the substrate. The channels provide cooling of the skin in contact with the orthopaedic support without rendering the substrate prone to damage. Vent holes are located in the channels to provide venting through the orthopaedic support and the dissipation of heat.

Abstract: An orthopaedic support comprises a substrate having a series of channels in one surface thereof with a series of vent holes in the channels to promote heat dissipation through the substrate. The channels provide cooling of the skin in contact with the orthopaedic support without rendering the substrate prone to damage. Vent holes are located in the channels to provide venting through the orthopaedic support and the dissipation of heat.