Abstract: A method of measuring pressure for a cell in a pneumatic compression device may include performing an inflate/exhaust cycle including, for one or more cells of a plurality of cells in a pneumatic compression device, inflating a cell to a target pressure, wherein the target pressure is based on at least a desired pressure, measuring a pressure of the cell, determining an overpressure value associated with the cell based on at least the measured pressure, determining a subsequent target pressure associated with the cell based on at least the measured pressure and the overpressure value, deflating the cell, and inflating the cell until the subsequent target pressure is achieved.

Abstract: A valve assembly comprises a housing and a plurality of valves disposed within the housing. The housing has a layered body which comprises a first layer and a second layer, which in combination define a fluid supply channel, a first plurality of fluid channels and a second plurality of fluid channels. Each valve of the plurality of valves may be in fluid communication with the fluid supply channel and respectively at least one fluid channel selected from the first plurality of fluid channels and the second plurality of fluid channels. The fluid supply channel partitions the layered body such that the first plurality of fluid channels is arranged on a first side relative to the fluid supply channel and that the second plurality of fluid channels is arranged on a second side opposite to the first side relative to the fluid supply channel.

Abstract: Various orthotic devices for attachment to and for manipulating a user's limb having a joint are provided. The device generally comprises an inflatable motive bladder containing a first fluid and positioned adjacent a first portion of the user's limb, and a separate therapy pad positioned adjacent a second portion of the user's limb. The motive bladder is inflatable from a lesser inflated mode to a more inflated mode, and further configured to provide a motive force to move the first portion of the user's limb so as to cause a flexion in the joint. The therapy pad includes a treatment material configured to provide thermotherapy for the second portion of the user's limb. In certain embodiments, the second portion is the user's joint. Various methods of using the orthotic devices are also provided.

Abstract: A compression device for applying compression to a part of a wearer's body. The device includes a bladder including first and second of fluid impermeable layers secured to one another to define an inflatable chamber. The device includes a substantially rigid counterforce component having an opening. An attachment member extends outward from the first layer of the bladder. The attachment member is received in the opening of the counterforce component to attach the counterforce component to the bladder.

Abstract: Pneumatic compression devices and methods for using the same are disclosed. A pneumatic compression device may include a compression pump, a fill/exhaust valve, a transducer, a plurality of cell valves, and a controller. The compression pump may output a pressurized fluid via an output. The fill/exhaust valve may connect one or more cell valves to the compression pump when in an open state and to the atmosphere when in a closed state. The transducer may sense a pressure level. Each cell valve may correspond to a cell and may connect the fill/exhaust valve to the corresponding cell when in an open state. The controller may determine a state (either open or closed) for each of the fill/exhaust valve and the plurality of cell valves based on at least the pressure level sensed by the transducer.

Abstract: A pneumatic massaging device comprising a first inflatable part (15) to be in contact with a foot of a user, wherein said first inflatable part comprises at least two inflatable chambers (21, 26). The first of said at least two inflatable chambers is designed such that it is in contact with the plantar arch (8) and sole regions of the foot and the second of said at least two inflatable chambers is designed such that it is in contact with the sole region (5), lateral region (4) or vamp region (3) of the foot. The pneumatic massaging device is designed such that the first inflatable part (15) may further comprise a third inflatable (26) chamber. This third chamber is designed such that it is in contact with the sole of the foot. Furthermore, the first inflatable part (15) may also comprise a plurality of inflatable chambers wherein said plurality of inflatable chambers is designed such that it is in contact with or adjacent to the sole of the foot.

Abstract: A hybrid compression garment comprises a sleeve adapted for placement on a limb of a person for applying static compression to the limb. A connecting device on the sleeve enables releasable connection of the sleeve to a machine. The machine is independent of the sleeve and operable to transmit, through the connecting device, a force to the sleeve that constricts the sleeve without inflating the sleeve to apply active compression to the limb. The connecting device is adapted for connection of the sleeve to the machine such that the sleeve can be used to apply active compression to the limb and adapted for disconnection of the sleeve from the machine such that the sleeve can be used to apply static compression to the limb. A method of applying compression to a limb of a person is also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to systems, devices and methods for preventing and treating bedsores. In particular, the invention is directed to the use of feedback mechanisms and application of dedicated protocols to identify and monitor therapeutic efforts, including the use of movement sensors, adjustable beds, adjustable wheel chairs, and a networking interface to deliver comprehensive, interactive therapies for the prevention and treatment of bedsores.

Abstract: A support surface system provides alternating pressure therapy and low air loss therapy simultaneously using a single pump. The system includes a plurality of cells. Each cell has a foam-filled lower chamber and an upper chamber. Fluid communication between the lower and upper chambers is controlled by a normally closed valve that opens if the pressure within the lower chamber exceeds a predetermined threshold pressure. Pressurized air is alternatingly supplied to the lower chambers of a first subset of cells and the lower chambers of a second subset of cells, thereby providing alternating pressure therapy. When the pressure in the lower chamber exceeds the threshold, the valve opens to allow air from the lower chamber to flow into the upper chamber. Air is expelled from the upper chamber through perforations therein, to remove moisture and humidity and possibly reducing the temperature of the micro-climate beneath a patient.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a massage device, and more particularly, to a leg and foot massage device capable of achieving foot swing. The device includes an electrical machinery deceleration element, a wobbler machine element and an air inflatable bag massage element. The electrical machinery deceleration element drives the air inflatable bag massage element through the wobbler machine element, and the electrical machinery realizes the one-off deceleration. Therefore mechanical transmission steps are simplified and transmission noise obviously dropped, wobbler machine element cooperates with air inflatable bags' inflation and deflation, generating many kinds of different massage motions and obtaining a comprehensive massage effect on leg and feet muscles and joints.

Abstract: Traction devices, systems, and methods for their use provide simultaneous axial distraction and one of flexion, extension, or lateral flexion of the spine. The devices permit aligning at least a portion of the spine prior to traction. Traction is applied through air chambers configured and dimensioned to independently apply traction to the chin, and both occipital processes. Spiral traction procedures use sequential inflation of the air chambers, thereby providing axial distraction with spinal joint decompression and simultaneous paraspinal soft-tissue mobilization and/or manipulation. Automated systems and methods are also provided.

Abstract: A massage apparatus includes a main frame and an air-bag for massage. The air-bag includes an air-bag front section and an air-bag main body fixed to the dorsal side of the air-bag front section. The air-bag is arranged that the dorsal side of the air-bag main body is disposed toward the main frame so that the front side of the air-bag front section makes up a contact side with a human body. The dorsal surface of the air-bag main body is configured to be able to expand and shrink, and the air-bag front section is configured so as to remain flat even when the air-bag main body is expanded or shrunken.

Abstract: There is provided a non-invasive pulsation and counterpulsation medical treatment apparatus for treating reduced cardiac output in heart patients. A flexible cuff is passed over the patient's lower body and/or extremities, and is attached a hydraulic actuator. Through a mechanical linkage, the actuator sequentially tensions and releases the cuff, thereby sequentially compressing and releasing pressure on the patient, and thereby augmenting the patient's blood pressure. The actuator includes a hydraulic cylinder that axially extends and retracts a shaft. A curved plate on the apparatus supports the patient's body or extremity in a fixed position during the treatment. A pressure sensor in the cuff transmits pressure data to an operator or electronic processor. Based on physiological data continuously obtained from the patient, various treatment parameters may be changed during the patient's treatment by an attending clinician or by a computer processor controlling the treatment.

Abstract: The invention relates in some aspects to therapeutic pressure application devices and methods of manufacturing and using the same. In some aspects, the devices comprise a support structure shaped to conform to a portion of a body of an individual; a bladder having a port for the passage of a fluid, the bladder being supported by the support structure; a pump having a fluid outlet, the pump being secured to the support structure; and separable fluid connectors operably connecting the pump with the port.

Abstract: A portable device for enhancing circulation in a limb by applying intermittent squeezing force on the limb, the device comprising at least one inflatable fluid-cell having a proximal face and a distal face; a rigid member juxtaposed with the distal face of the air-cell, the rigid member is having two lateral sides; at least one adjustable strap connectable to the lateral ends of the rigid member for encircling the limb; and a mechanism for intermittently inflating and deflating the at least one fluid cell.

Abstract: Systems and methods for providing dry hydrotherapy, augmented by thermal, visual, olfactory, and auditory sources and sinks, to a reclined human subject. A dry hydrotherapy bed includes a canopy which programmatically emits light in varying frequencies, amplitudes, and durations. Other embodiments control the temperature of the pressurized liquid, and the aromas and sounds presented to the user. A variable speed pump motor control and a twin gear drive system improve control of hydrotherapy forces. A separate, liquid filled barrier on the top surface of the bed reduces the noise created from the pressurized liquid discharge. A combined cover and sheet system uses a loose fitting sheet over the massage window with a cover for a flat top surface. An electrical grounding means discharges any accumulated electricity from the user's body. The invention can be embodied in a stand-alone unit or adapted to an existing home or commercial building.

Abstract: An apparatus for hydro-therapy massage characterized by a low profile enclosure structure surrounding a user support surface at a nominal elevation thereabove. The apparatus comprises a housing structure having an outwardly facing opening, a user support surface covering the opening, and a fluid spray arrangement within the housing structure for imparting a massaging effect through the support surface to a user thereon. The housing structure has a horizontal perimeter flange extending about the opening and a clamp plate affixed in substantially parallel superposed facing relation to the perimeter flange for clamping a continuous edge margin of the user support surface. An enclosure panel has an essentially planar mounting flange affixed in substantially parallel superposed facing relation to the clamp plate and has a skirt portion extending from the mounting flange for enclosing the housing structure.

Abstract: A chair type massager includes a seat part on which a person to be treated sits on, a backrest part with a reclining mechanism to perform a raising/tilting operation, and right and left armrest parts in which the arms are inserted. The massager further includes air bags provided at the armrest parts, the air bags holding the arms placed in the armrest part by being swelled by air supplied from an air supply pump; a control part for controlling the raising/tilting operation of the backrest part and the air supply to the air bags; and a manipulation part for giving instructions to the control part. When controlling the reclining mechanism to tilt the backrest part in response to the instructions from the manipulation part to perform the arm stretch, the control part controls the air supply pump to supply air into the air bags intermittently.

Abstract: The present invention provides a device for enhancing circulation by intermittently tightening and relaxing a closure encircling a limb. The device comprises a continuously operating motor, at least one rotating element and a mechanism driven by the motor for intermittently rotating the rotating element in a first direction to tighten the closure and in a second opposite direction to relax the closure, thereby applying a cyclic pressure on the limb.

Abstract: Two plastic sheets are selectively joined to create parallel air cells with connecting passageways at alternate ends. The sheets form a mattress for full body, back or leg massages. An air pumped reservoir supplies air flow to a fluidic switch. Air from a right arm pushes air to a left leg and sequentially fills a first cell. Alternating passageways at opposite ends of cells sequentially fill the cells. After the last cell is filled, air flowing out from the last cell through a right arm of the switch pushes the supplied air flow to a right leg of the switch for exhaust, emptying the cells. The cycle repeats automatically, sequentially filling the cells and pushing blood toward the heart and then emptying the cells then sequentially filling the cells.

Abstract: The present invention is to provide a swinging water massage bed for a user to lie on a bed board. The user can operate a controller to ascend the bed board and swing the bed board through a swing driving unit, or descend the bed board to a resilient layer of a water container. With a water jet device in the water container, water jets out to knock against the resilient layer for the user to be massaged so as to help the user sleep or relax.

Abstract: A compression device for a limb of a patient comprises an inflatable sleeve arranged to surround the limb and a conduit attached to the sleeve arranged to deliver fluid to the sleeve. The compression device also comprises a control system arranged to control fluid flow in the device and a memory arranged to store gathered data relating to use of the device.

Abstract: A portable, self-contained compression device is wearable by a person for applying intermittent compression on a limb of the person. The compression device comprises a sleeve having a longitudinal axis and adapted for placement on the limb. The device includes an actuator assembly on the sleeve comprising a flexible shaft operably connected to the sleeve and extending generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the sleeve. The shaft is flexible to allow for conformance of the shaft to the limb when the sleeve is on the limb. The actuator assembly also comprises an actuator for rotating the flexible shaft in a first direction to constrict the sleeve to apply compression on the limb and for rotating the flexible shaft or allowing the flexible shaft to rotate in a second direction to relax constriction of the sleeve to relieve compression on the limb. Springs or elastic sections may be used to impart sequential, gradient compression on the limb.

Abstract: Devices and methods for compressing a patient's limb or limbs (e.g., legs or arms) for treating or preventing ailments due to compromised venous or lymphatic circulation of the limb. Exemplary embodiments include, but are not limited to, sub-atmospheric compression, micro-pneumatic compression, and active fabric compression devices and methods.

Abstract: Apparatus for promoting blood flow in an extremity are disclosed including a gas source and a bladder assembly including a first bladder and a second bladder independently coupled to the gas source. The bladder assembly may be sized to fit within a shoe of a patient and may include a first bladder encircling a second bladder. A controller is operably coupled to the gas source and is configured to control the flow of gas from the gas source to the first and second bladders in order to periodically commence inflation the first and second bladders in sequence.

Abstract: A method and system for non-invasive treatment of a soft tissue, such as adipose tissue, muscle tissue or connective tissue. The apparatus comprises an applicator configured to apply a pressure pulse to the skin surface having a negative pressure phase with respect to ambient pressure. The method comprises applying at least one pressure pulse to the skin surface overlying the soft tissue, where the pressure pulse has at least one negative pressure phase.

Abstract: A device and method for treating a foot and ankle with a splint and an adjustable bladder. The method includes providing a device including a rigid splint that maintains a heel of the foot and at least one adjustable bladder provided underneath only a front of the foot; adjusting an inflation of the at least one bladder to a treatment inflation state; and maintaining a foot and ankle within the device for an extended period of time such that the foot and ankle are substantially immobilized in a dorsiflexion position or the foot and ankle are substantially immobilized in a position whereby plantarflexion is provided to the ankle.

Abstract: The invention provides a leg massage machine comprising recessed receiving portions and leg receiving portions which are made movable together rockingly for massaging the feet and calves of the user, respectively. The leg massage machine has recessed receiving portions (70) for inserting the respective feet of the user and leg receiving portions (74) for inserting the respective calves of the user, the recessed receiving portions (70) and the leg receiving portions (74) each having massage means on side walls and/or a bottom wall thereof. The massage machine has a base assembly (20) to be placed on the floor, and a reclining movable assembly (50) rockingly movable forward and rearward relative to the base assembly (20). The recessed receiving portions (70) and the leg receiving portions (74) are provided in the reclining movable assembly (50) and movable together rockingly.

Abstract: A compression treatment system is provided that detects the number of and type of garments connected thereto. The system includes a plurality of ports, valves connected thereto and a number of garments having one or more bladders. The bladders are in fluid communication with a fluid source in a pneumatic circuit, to provide compression therapy once a user confirms the number of and type of garments connected to the system for use by a patient. A single pressure sensor communicates with a plurality of detected bladders located in the one or more garments.

Abstract: An apparatus for high frequency chest wall oscillation (HFCWO) comprises a patient interface which includes an expandable air chamber and an air pulse generator in fluid communication with the patient interface. The air pulse generator includes a variable displacement air chamber and programmable controller which controls the air pulse generator to vary the frequency and volume of air pulses delivered to the patient interface such that HFCWO therapy may be programmed for a particular patient.

Abstract: A vehicle seat may include a seat back that has a back frame, a cushion pad attached to the back frame, and a massaging unit having a plurality of massaging elements. The cushion pad has a plurality of through bores that pass therethrough in the direction of thickness thereof. The massaging elements are constructed so as to be elastically deformed or compressed along moving axes and to be pneumatically expanded and contracted along the moving axes. The massaging elements are disposed in the through bores in a manner that the moving axes of the massaging elements extend along longitudinal axes of the through bores. The massaging elements have deformability or compressibility identical with or greater than the deformability or compressibility of the cushion pad when the massaging elements are not operated.

Abstract: A portable human body pulsating apparatus has an air pulse generator mounted on a pedestal having wheels to facilitate movement of the apparatus on a surface. The pedestal has an upright piston and cylinder assembly operable to adjust the elevation of the air pulse generator.

Abstract: The present invention provides seating apparatuses that may reduce an effect of an ailment such as sciatica, joint illness, degenerative disc condition, hip bursitis, tendinitis, or sacral/coccyx pain. A seating apparatus includes a back portion and a seating portion, each portion having at least one encased bladder that is inflated by a pumping component in a timed sequence. The bladders may be differently shaped, asymmetrically situated with respect to a center axis, and spatially overlapping. The bladders are inflated and deflated in accordance with a predetermined time sequence and are independently controlled. The seating apparatus may contain a set of encased bladders that may be configured for different aliments. A user selects a treatment for one of the ailments through a remote control unit. Consequently, a subset of bladders is configured so that the selected subset of bladders is inflated and deflated.

Abstract: A cushion for a patient interface includes two or more bladders arranged in concentric relation. Each of the bladders includes a face-contacting portion adapted to engage the patient's face, and each of the bladders is adapted to be pressurized independently from one another. At least one of the bladders is an active bladder that is pressurized to at least a sealing pressure to form a continuous seal with the patient's face in use.

Abstract: A chair with articulable support sections and an integrated lift system may have support sections mechanically linked such that a single actuation control device may articulate multiple sections. The chair includes configurable accessories directed to the comfort of an occupant of the chair. The support sections may include air cells to adjust firmness of support section surfaces.

Abstract: A chair-type massage machine includes a seat portion on which a user can sit, a backrest arranged at the rear of the seat portion so that the backrest can be tilted by a reclining mechanism, a footrest arranged at the front of the seat portion so that the footrest can be swung upwards and downwards by a swinging mechanism, and a control unit for inflating and deflating a waist airbag provided in the backrest toward and away from the waist of the user. The control unit is configured to control the inflation of the waist airbag in conjunction with the upward swinging movement of the footrest to perform a waist curving operation on the user.

Abstract: A flexible fluid filled actuator has an elastic bladder and a guide surrounding the bladder. The guide has asymmetrical elastic properties. When the bladder is inflated the guide directs the bladder to expand preferentially in a selected direction or directions. The actuator has utility in the traction and/or unloading of portions of the body. A fluid-filled traction apparatus is disclosed which has particular advantages in spinal unloading.

Abstract: A reduced pressure treatment system includes a compressible chamber positionable beneath a foot of a user and being movable between an expanded position and a compressed position. The compressible chamber includes an inlet and an outlet. An inlet valve is in fluid communication with the inlet to prevent fluid within the compressible chamber from exiting the inlet, and an outlet valve is in fluid communication with the outlet to prevent fluid from entering the compressible chamber through the outlet. A biasing member is disposed within the compressible chamber to bias the compressible chamber toward the expanded position, and a manifold is positionable at a tissue site and in fluid communication with the inlet of the compressible chamber.

Abstract: A bath and its method of use are disclosed, such bath containing fluid and producing waves of sufficient size to provide exercise to a user, such bath having areas of movement in its bottom, the sequential movement of which causes such waves to move to cause the user to exercise his or her body by maintaining equilibrium in the bath.

Abstract: The present invention provides an exterior counterpulsation (ECP) system that includes a garment for being worn on the exterior of a patient's body. The garment includes electroactive polymer (EAP) actuators connected thereto. In one embodiment, the EAP actuators are woven into the garment. In another embodiment, they are mounted to the garment surface.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a massage device, and more particularly, to a leg and foot massage device capable of achieving foot swing. The device includes an electrical machinery deceleration element, a wobbler machine element and an air inflatable bag massage element. The electrical machinery deceleration element drives the air inflatable bag massage element through the wobbler machine element, and the electrical machinery realizes the one-off deceleration. Therefore mechanical transmission steps are simplified and transmission noise obviously dropped, wobbler machine element cooperates with air inflatable bags' inflation and deflation, generating many kinds of different massage motions and obtaining a comprehensive massage effect on leg and feet muscles and joints.

Abstract: A massage machine includes a backrest having a support surface for sustaining a back of a user, the support surface having an opening, a massage member for making contact with the back of the user through the opening of the support surface to perform a massage and a drive unit for causing the massage member to perform the massage. In the massage machine, a first intensity adjustment unit is arranged for changing the position of the massage member to adjust the massage intensity of the massage member and a second intensity adjustment unit is arranged for changing the position of the support surface to adjust the massage intensity of the massage member. A control circuit controls the operation of the drive unit, the first intensity adjustment unit and the second intensity adjustment unit.

Abstract: Pneumatic compression devices and methods for using the same are disclosed. A pneumatic compression device may include a compression pump, a fill/exhaust valve, a transducer, a plurality of cell valves, and a controller. The compression pump may output a pressurized fluid via an output. The fill/exhaust valve may connect one or more cell valves to the compression pump when in an open state and to the atmosphere when in a closed state. The transducer may sense a pressure level. Each cell valve may correspond to a cell and may connect the fill/exhaust valve to the corresponding cell when in an open state. The controller may determine a state (either open or closed) for each of the fill/exhaust valve and the plurality of cell valves based on at least the pressure level sensed by the transducer.

Abstract: A chair-type massage machine is provided which is adapted to give a twisting massage to the upper half of the body of the user. The massage machine comprises a seat 12 for the user to sit in, and a backrest 20 disposed at a rear end of the seat, the backrest being provided with a pair of opposite therapeutic air bags 30, 32 for massaging the back of the user. The pair of opposite therapeutic air bags 30 32 are arranged in a V shape and spaced apart by a large distance at an upper side of the backrest 20, the distance decreasing from portion to portion downward.

Abstract: A therapy device for biomechanical rehabilitation massage for use on CP patients comprises at least one inflatable bladder with inflation means and deflation means adapted to provide compressive forces against the body to stimulate smooth muscles in a controlled manner.

Abstract: A connector apparatus includes first and second mating connectors that can be joined to make a fluid connection. The connectors are constructed to discriminate improper connectors so that no fluid tight connection can be formed with improper connectors. The connector apparatus can be used with a system for compression therapy to prevent deep vein thrombosis.

Abstract: An apparatus and/or appliance to provide hydrotherapy coupled with thermotherapy, massaging, and/or application of topical medication or holistic natural remedies for one's extremities.

Abstract: A dual use massage chair has inflatable and deflatable air bags and bladders in a chair back to provide a massage function and serve as a comfortable chair. The main structure thereof includes the air bags disposed at two sides of a seat and in a front cover, and the bladders and recovering springs disposed between a massage mechanism and a back frame. Inflating the air bags and the bladders respectively or simultaneously can form a separating space for separating the massage mechanism from a back of a human body and thus to form a comfortable sofa chair. Also, the bladders and the air bags may be deflated to recover the use of the normal massage chair. Thus, the utilities of the comfortable chair and the typical massage chair can be achieved.

Abstract: A compression apparatus including an expandable body configured for disposal about a foot. A strap extends from the body. The strap is configured for disposal about the foot adjacent an ankle. The strap has a first layer configured to engage an outer surface of the foot adjacent the ankle, a second layer and a third cushion layer disposed therebetween. The body may include a metatarsal portion. The first layer and the second layer may be configured to provide a barrier to the third cushion layer. The first layer may be configured to prevent engagement of the third cushion layer with the outer surface of the foot.

Abstract: The invention provides a leg massage machine comprising recessed receiving portions and leg receiving portions which are made movable together rockingly for massaging the feet and calves of the user, respectively. The leg massage machine has recessed receiving portions (70) for inserting the respective feet of the user and leg receiving portions (74) for inserting the respective calves of the user, the recessed receiving portions (70) and the leg receiving portions (74) each having massage means on side walls and/or a bottom wall thereof. The massage machine has a base assembly (20) to be placed on the floor, and a reclining movable assembly (50) rockingly movable forward and rearward relative to the base assembly (20). The recessed receiving portions (70) and the leg receiving portions (74) are provided in the reclining movable assembly (50) and movable together rockingly.