Abstract: A program-controlled knitting machine provides a method of knitting circular knit elasticized tubular goods, e.g., compressive stockings, in which the size of the goods and the amount of compression asserted when worn are controlled according to the specific size and needs of the individual using the goods.

Abstract: An improved support stocking exhibits a compression profile customized to the patient's needs and corresponding to a computer program determined profile.

Abstract: A hosiery article stretching and marking device and a leg form are provided to accurately measure and compare the relative compressive forces of longitudinally spaced portions of stretchable hosiery articles. The form includes integral leg and foot portions with the leg portion being circular in cross-section throughout its length and with successive segments increasing in circular diameter from the foot portion and throughout the length of the leg portion. Flat flexible and radii conformable sensor devices are supported in spaced longitudinal positions along the leg form and pressure indicating gauges are operatively connected to the sensor devices and provide a visual indication of the relative compressive forces applied by the hosiery article on the areas of the leg form where the sensor devices are located.

Abstract: A belt assembly comprising, a housing having an elongated tunnel, and an elongated belt passing through the housing tunnel. The housing and belt have cooperating surface restraining means interengaging in the housing tunnel and providing substantial restraint against movement of the belt through the housing tunnel, with the surface means permitting movement of the belt through the housing tunnel responsive to relatively large forces applied against the belt.

Abstract: A therapeutic stocking comprising, a boot portion, and a circumferentially elastic foot portion for covering the foot of a patient. The stocking has a lower non-slip region of the foot portion comprising, sheet means of a thermoplastic material fused to the outside of a circumferentially prestretched area of the foot portion underlying the foot. The region is located to contact the floor beneath the patient's foot and provide a relatively high friction surface to minimize slippage of the patient on the floor.

Abstract: A belt assembly comprising, a housing having an elongated tunnel, and an elongated belt passing through the housing tunnel. The housing and belt have cooperating surface restraining means interengaging in the housing tunnel and providing substantial restraint against movement of the belt through the housing tunnel, with the surface means permitting movement of the belt through the housing tunnel responsive to relatively large forces applied against the belt.

Abstract: A therapeutic stocking comprising, a circumferentially elastic boot portion having an upper thigh panel for exerting a desired compressive pressure against the upper thigh of a wearer's leg. The upper thigh panel has a limited vertical stretch relative a hip panel for accurate placement of the upper thigh panel on the wearer's upper thigh. The stocking has waist support means, and the hip panel extends between the support means and the upper thigh panel along the side of the wearer's hip. The hip panel is vertically stretchable between the support means and the upper thigh panel to permit placement of the support means on the wearer's waist a variable distance from the upper thigh while the upper thigh panel remains at its proper position on the wearer's upper thigh.

Abstract: A therapeutic stocking comprising, a boot portion, and a circumferentially elastic foot portion for covering the foot of a patient. The stocking has a lower non-slip region of the foot portion comprising, sheet means of a thermoplastic material fused to the outside of a circumferentially prestretched area of the foot portion underlying the foot. The region is located to contact the floor beneath the patient's foot and provide a relatively high friction surface to minimize slippage of the patient on the floor.