Abstract: Methods and systems are disclosed for determining patient compliance for using a compression therapy device. The systems may include a compression therapy sleeve and a controller having a non-transitory memory device. During a therapy session, the controller may record in the memory device operational therapy data obtained from sensors associated with the controller and/or sleeve. The controller may calculate a compliance metric based in part on the therapy data. The controller may then communicate the data or metric to one or more recipients. The methods may include allowing the patient to transfer a removable memory device from the controller to a personal computer, and uploading the therapy data or metric stored on it to a recipient website. Alternative methods may include the patient receiving the metric from the controller at the end of the therapy session, and then providing the metric to a recipient by phone.

Abstract: A portable deep vein leg massager apparatus with harness attaching to a human lower leg having a segmented calf surface staged assemblies compressing and decompressing the calf muscle directionally toward the shin. The segmented staged electromechanical assemblies act synchronously to compel deep vein blood vessels to push blood from the ankle towards the heart.

Abstract: A patient support includes a patient support surface, a DVT pump mounted in the patient support, and a port mounted at the patient support in selective fluid communication with the DVT pump. Optionally, the patient support further includes a control system to detect when a DVT device is coupled or in close proximity to the port and/or the type of DVT device. Further, the control system may be configured to control the pump based on the type of DVT device coupled to the port.

Abstract: A medical air mattress has a mattress body, a lower bedspread and an upper bedspread. The mattress body is formed by multiple air cells substantially parallel arranged in a row forming an air cell row. The upper bedspread covers the mattress body and is securely connected to the lower bedspread. The mattress further comprises a pumping assembly with a pump and at least a pipeline connecting the pump with the air cells such that inflating and/or deflating of the air cells is controllable selectively.

Abstract: A method for augmenting blood flow in a limb that is wrapped with a sleeve having at least one chamber for applying compression to the limb in a region generally underlying the chamber includes pressurizing the chamber to a first compression pressure and then reducing the pressure to a refill pressure. Pressure in the chamber is then sensed to determine a first venous refill time. The preceding steps are repeated a second and other times using second and other compression pressures that are different from the first compression pressure and from each other to determine second and other venous refill times. A customized compression pressure is determined by locating the compression pressure at which blood flow out of the region generally underlying the chamber is maximized by finding compression pressure at a maximum venous refill time. A compression device employing such a method is also disclosed.

Abstract: A compression garment apparatus includes a compression garment and a pressurizer. The pressurizer intermittently pressurizes a therapeutic bladder on the compression garment and pressurizes a support bladder on the compression garment to enhance the fit of the compression garment and maintain the therapeutic bladder in position with respect to a target compression zone on a body part on which the garment is worn. The support bladder may be selectively pressurized when needed based at least in part on sensed physical characteristics.

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: A seat having a backrest and a seat cushion is provided with at least one adjusting element on both sides of the longitudinal center plane of the seat. By alternatingly actuating the adjusting elements in the two halves of the seat, mobilization of the spinal column of a seat user occurs. In order to increase the acceptance of such a mobilization, which requires comparatively long stroke lengths of the adjusting elements to achieve a physiological effectiveness, an accustomization phase occurs before the action phase. During the accustomization phase, the adjusting elements exercise, for example, only about half of the stroke during the action phase. Preferably, a transition phase may be interposed between the accustomization phase and the action phase.

Abstract: A human body support, such as a chair, has a plurality of support segments that are arranged in an array. Each support segment has a protrusion elevation that is independently variable and controllable in its distance of protrusion elevation against the supported human body. A sensor is connected to a human body on the support and senses a human body parameter that can indicate the presence of drowsiness. A controller analyzes the sensed parameter to detect whether the sensed parameter is within a range indicating the presence of drowsiness. The controller applies a wave of varying segment protrusion elevation against the human body in response to the detection of drowsiness. The wave progresses in a direction from an inferior location on the human body toward a more superior location. Alternatively, a wave of electrical stimuli is applied by similarly positioned electrodes and causes periodic tightening and relaxing of proximate muscles.

Abstract: A method of treating obstructive sleep apnea comprising reducing an effective amount of extracellular fluid of a patient suffering from obstructive sleep apnea.

Abstract: Provided is an electromagnetic valve system for carrying out a compressed air supply to and evacuation from a plurality of air chambers of massage instruments of an air-type massage device, comprising: a plurality of first electromagnetic valves which are connected to each air chamber via supply tubes; a second electromagnetic valve further comprising a first aperture which communicates with external air; and a plurality of first check valves which are disposed within a header in an intermediate location between the second electromagnetic valve and each air chamber with a connection tube therebetween, and allow air to pass from the air chambers toward the second electromagnetic valve only when air pressure on the second electromagnetic valve side is lower than air pressure on the air chamber side.

Abstract: A method for selecting and controlling massage functions of a motor vehicle seat having a control system comprising the steps of: switching the system to a selection mode and starting the selection mode; providing a menu list having options for querying the user's requirements during the massage; selection of an option by the user and providing predefined responses to the respective query and selection of the response by the user and if necessary repeating the steps for further queries; and terminating the selection mode and automatically determining suitable massage settings on the basis of the user's selection and controlling the massage actuators in the motor vehicle seat on the basis of determined massage settings to perform the massage function.

Abstract: A boot assembly and method that simulates, in a static equine animal (stalled or hauled), the natural mechanical action of walking or other gaited exercise. The assembly has a boot, containing a shock absorbing pad that is fitted with dual pulsing bladders disposed under or inside the shock absorbing pad. Pressuring and relaxing the pulsing bladder in the bottom of the boot rhythmically pushes against the sole and frog and against the toe of the equine hoof in much the same way that the hoof is exercised when the animal is moving. The pulsing action helps stimulate blood flow through the hoof and is beneficial to shod, injured, and transported horses. The assembly may be fitted on one or more hooves, and may be automated to provide timing and sequencing to simulate different gaits of the animal. In some aspects the assembly is disc posed in an ice boot or ice spa boot to also provide cryotherapy as well as simulated exercise.

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: A controller assembly for delivering pressurized fluid to a compression treatment device includes a first pump assembly including a first pump unit and a first electrical contact. The first pump assembly defines a first pneumatic passage configured for fluid communication with the pump unit. A second pump assembly includes a second pump unit and a second electrical contact. The second pump assembly defines a second pneumatic passage fluidly communicable with the second pump unit. The first pump assembly defines a receptacle into which the second pump assembly is slidingly receivable. The sliding reception of the second pump assembly into the first pump assembly establishes fluid communication between the first and second pneumatic passages and establishes electrical communication between the first and second electrical contacts.

Abstract: A system for applying compression treatment to a wearer's body includes a compression garment positionable on the wearer's body. The garment includes an inflatable bladder and fasteners. The fasteners are electrically conductive and form part of an electric circuit. Connection of the fasteners closes the electric circuit and disconnection of the fasteners opens the circuit. A controller that provides air pressure to the garment is able to detect whether the electric circuit is opened or closed.

Abstract: A system including a compressible element configured to compress a muscle in a limb of a user, a controller configured to control a sequence, rate or amount of compression of the compressible element, and a generator configured to move a working fluid to compress the compressible element as controlled by the controller. The sequence, rate or amount of compression of the compressible element is established to reduce an amount of effort expended by a heart of a user to move a volume of blood. Another system and a method are also disclosed.

Abstract: A patient support for supporting a patient includes an inflatable mattress defining a support surface and a pneumatic system for inflating the inflatable mattress. The pneumatic system includes a pressurized reservoir for holding pressurized air and selectively releases pressurized air from the reservoir to the mattress.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed for creating a massaging and heating/cooling operation with a closed-loop circulation system for working fluid, and in particular, a closed-loop circulation system that includes a controlled leak adjacent a pump for the working fluid to inject and release the working fluid.

Abstract: A method for improving the cardiac output of a patient who is suffering from pulseless electrical activity or shock and yet still displays some myocardial wall motion including sensing myocardial activity to determine the presence of residual left ventricular pump function having a contraction or ejection phase and a filling or relaxation phase. In such cases, a compressive force is repeatedly applied to the chest based on the sensed myocardial activity such that the compressive force is applied during at least some of the ejection phases and is ceased during at least some of the relaxation phases to permit residual cardiac filling, thereby enhancing cardiac output and organ perfusion. Also incorporated may be a logic circuit capable of utilizing multiple sensing modalities and optimizing the synchronization pattern between multiple phasic therapeutic modalities and myocardial residual mechanical function.

Abstract: Described are improved apparatus and devices for intermittently and sequentially compressing a body site and methods for using said apparatus and devices, especially for site specific treatment to achieve a desired temperature of the underlying tissue. The apparatus includes a first segment cooperative with a fluid chamber, the fluid chamber adapted for inflation by fluid; and a second segment cooperative with the first segment, the second segment housing a temperature sensitive material, wherein the temperature sensitive material is uniquely compartmentalized in the second segment.

Abstract: A therapeutic device that reduces localized subcutaneous pressure while allowing capillary flow in a medical setting is disclosed.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems, and methods are sized and configured to effectively and efficiently augment the flow of fluid within body vessels, not only during conditions in which a patient is bedbound and immobile, but also in conditions when the individual is out of bed, and completely mobile and ambulatory.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems, and methods are sized and configured to effectively and efficiently augment the flow of fluid within body vessels, not only during conditions in which a patient is bedbound and immobile, but also in conditions when the individual is out of bed, and completely mobile and ambulatory.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems, and methods are sized and configured to effectively and efficiently augment the flow of fluid within body vessels, not only during conditions in which a patient is bedbound and immobile, but also in conditions when the individual is out of bed, and completely mobile and ambulatory.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems, and methods are sized and configured to effectively and efficiently augment the flow of fluid within body vessels, not only during conditions in which a patient is bedbound and immobile, but also in conditions when the individual is out of bed, and completely mobile and ambulatory.

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: A care system including a medical device, a mobile computing device, and a information system. The medical device configured to generate data graphics to transfer information from the medical device to the mobile computing device.

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: The apparatus comprises an inflatable sleeve 6 to be wrapped around a limb, typically a thigh, of a patient. The sleeve 6 comprises three inflatable chambers 3, 4, 5. Inflation is controlled by a pump 1 so that the distal chamber 3 is inflated first to a low pressure to act as a tourniquet, followed by inflation of the central chamber 4 to a pressure to drive fluid flow upwards, and then inflation of the proximal chamber 5 to a low pressure to act as a tourniquet and deflating both the distal 3 and central 4 chambers to produce a negative pressure gradient down-stream in the limb causing fluid to be drawn up the limb. This cycle is repeated a number of times over a period of two minutes before allowing the limb to rest for two minutes, resulting in increased mean arterial blood flow.

Abstract: A vibration and modulation system is provided for an array of air cells. The vibration and modulation system includes an air source, a high-pressure reservoir in fluid communication with the air source, and at least one valve coupled between the high-pressure air source and the array of air cells. A control assembly is coupled with the at least one valve and selectively controls a position of the valve to effect a vibratory action in the array of air cells.

Abstract: A compression garment apparatus includes a compression garment and a pressurizer. The pressurizer intermittently pressurizes a therapeutic bladder on the compression garment and pressurizes a support bladder on the compression garment to enhance the fit of the compression garment and maintain the therapeutic bladder in position with respect to a target compression zone on a body part on which the garment is worn. The support bladder may be selectively pressurized when needed based at least in part on sensed physical characteristics.

Abstract: A device is disclosed for generating controlled pneumatic pressure to a human body to achieve mucus clearance from the pulmonary system. Controlled pneumatic pressure consisting of individual vibratory pressure and constrictive pressure variations are generated and applied to the thorax to promote mucus clearance. The vibratory pressure variation is channeled to a pressure receiver secured to the upper thorax of the body, and the constrictive pressure variation is channeled to a pressure receiver secured to the lower thorax of the body. The vibratory pressure variation serves to loosen the mucus, while the constrictive pressure variation provides the motive force that promotes mucus expulsion from the pulmonary system.

Abstract: A HFCWO apparatus includes a housing having a port, a therapy system carried by the housing and operable to deliver HFCWO therapy to a patient in accordance with a set of operating parameters, and a memory device couplable to the port for storing at least a portion of the set of operating parameters. The therapy system may be operable in accordance with the portion of the set of operating parameters stored in the memory device. The apparatus may comprise a wireless transmitter carried by the housing and operable to wirelessly transmit data relating to HFCWO therapy to a wireless device, such as a printer, PC, a PDA, and the like.

Abstract: A compression garment assembly comprises a compression garment adapted for placement on a body part in a self-retaining configuration and for removal from the body part. The compression garment has at least one inflatable bladder for applying compression to the body part. A portable controller unit is adapted for fluid connection to the inflatable bladder and is configured for cyclically inflating the bladder. The compression garment and portable controller unit are configured so that the portable controller unit must be disconnected from the compression garment before the compression garment can be removed from the body part. Loss of the portable controller unit by, for example, accidental disposal with the compression garment is thus prevented.

Abstract: A limb compression device to which a cuff unit wound around a limb of a patient is connected controls compression and release of the limb by controlling air supply and exhaust of the cuff unit to repeat an compression period and a reperfusion period a predetermined number of times. At the start of the compression period, pressurization using the cuff unit is performed up to a compression pressure value based on a systolic blood pressure of the patient measured by detection of pulsation. During the compression period, the device repeats depressurization of the cuff unit at a low rate until pulsation is detected and pressurization of the cuff unit after the depressurization so as to eliminate pulsation.

Abstract: A compression bag having an upper portion for applying a pressure at least to the abdominal area of a patient, and a lower portion for applying a pressure to at least a part of the patient's legs, the bag comprising a back part, a second, front part and a closure means configured for detachably attaching the parts to each other; a separating insert configured for being detachably attached to at least one of the back and front parts of the bag, at least at the lower portion of the bag, to separate between left and right regions of the first and second parts, thereby forming pants in said bag defined by said regions and said insert; and a plurality of inflatable cells in the first and second parts of the bag and in the separating insert, that are sealingly separated from adjacent inflatable cells and configured to be individually inflated and deflated.

Abstract: Apparatus for promoting blood flow in an extremity is 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 of the first and second bladders in sequence.

Abstract: A device for compressing an extremity of a user includes a wearable support member operable to be worn on the extremity of the user. The device also includes a plurality of chamber members that are arranged across and coupled to the support member. The chamber members each have a respective chamber therein. The chamber is at least partially defined by a base wall that is disposed adjacent the support member, a side wall that is attached to and that extends away from the base wall, and a top wall that is attached to the side wall and that is spaced away from the base wall. Furthermore, a foot pump member is operable to be disposed underneath a foot of the user. The foot pump member is operable to change a pressure inside the chambers as a result of being stepped upon by the user.

Abstract: An adjustable pressure cuff device is provided for the arm or leg of a user for stimulating blood flow and preventing blood clots. The pressure cuff contains a number of bladders which wrap in the direction of the cuff and which are arranged in succession down the arm or leg of a user. An air compressor is connected to the bladders via a multiplicity of tubes, each of which contain a valve. A control module runs the air compressor and sequentially opens the valves to provide air pressure to the bladders in succession along the arm or leg of a user. Further, between the bladders and the valves, additional tubes containing valves are provided to equalize pressure between bladders before exhausting the air from a previously pressurized bladder to save power and allow for increased patterns of bladder pressure. The pressure levels and bladder dwell times may be adjusted by the user or based on predetermined settings. Optionally, the device provides electrical stimulation, pulsations, heating, and cooling.

Abstract: An external counterpulsation apparatus has an efficient cuff and bladder system. Embodiments of this system generally allow effective treatment at lower pressures and a reduced total body surface area being compressed. An accurate and reliable combination of automatic and preset timing for inflation and deflation of the bladder system is used to simplify use of the apparatus.

Abstract: An air vest for supplying successive percussive forces to a patient during a therapy session is described. The air vest includes an air bladder and at least one belt for securing the vest to a patient, with the vest adapted to engage at least a portion of the thoracic region of the patient. The vest may define an inner surface, an outer surface, and one or more extension portions for controlling movement of the inner and outer surfaces relative to each other along at least a portion of the vest. Securement and fitting of the vest to the patient may be achieved with a plurality of releasable straps.

Abstract: A garment based airway clearance system for mobilizing secretions in a patient's airway and related methods are disclosed. The garment based airway clearance system comprises a therapy chamber mounted substantially around the circumference of the garment such that inflation of the therapy chamber causing a compressive force to be applied on the thorax or chest of the wearer of the garment.

Abstract: A high frequency chest wall oscillation (HFCWO) apparatus for the purpose of lung airway clearance of people includes an inflated vest type garment worn around the chest of a person. An oscillating pressure generator with reduced power requirements and a power source is integrated with the garment so that the complete apparatus is wearable by the person. Improvements in pressure waveforms, safety and compliance to prescribed use are disclosed.

Abstract: A pneumatic or hydraulic massage sock including a unitary molded insole formed with one or more internal pump chambers for generating fluid pressure throughout the user's gait, and a plurality of interconnected compression pads each containing an array of fluid feed tubes. The compression pads fold up and around the foot and calf substantially enveloping them in a low-profile sock-like configuration. An outer shell is worn overtop to maintain the compression pads against the user's calf. The fluid feed tubes are in fluid communication with the pump insole to provide a self-compressive non-constricting deep-kneading, undulating (wavelike) pattern massage action up the leg in accordance with the full-length heel-to-ball-to-toe foot plant. The massage sock appears as a conventional sock so it can be worn with virtually any conventional pair of shoes. This provides effective unobtrusive relief for individuals with circulatory disabilities, diabetes, arthritis, etc.

Abstract: Pneumatic and therapeutic compression systems are disclosed including treatment protocols that may be used with such systems. A pneumatic compression system may include a source and sink of a pressurizing fluid. The pressurizing fluid may be sourced to a number of valves, each valve controllable by a control device including a computing device. The computing device may control each valve separately to allow any one or more of the valves to connect to the fluid source or the fluid sink. The computing device may include one or more therapeutic protocols that may direct one, two, or more valves to switch between fluid sourcing and fluid sinking, substantially simultaneously or in a sequence. A therapeutic compression system may include the pneumatic system in fluid communication with an inflation sleeve composed of multiple cells. Each cell may be inflated or deflated by a valve according to the therapeutic protocol.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for treatment of patients suffering from lymphedema. The apparatus includes a multiple chamber sleeve positioned in a wrap around fashion on a body extremity to be treated. The chambers are sequentially inflated and maintained so until all chambers are inflated and then all the chambers are simultaneously deflated except the proximal end chamber to move edema fluids out of the afflicted area. The apparatus includes the capability of applying interferential therapy either alone or in combination with compression therapy. Advantageously, the sleeve chambers capture pressurized air when applied thereto, at designated locations, so as to form air pockets that can selectively apply isolated points of pressure, and in combination with the application of electrical current to a patient's affected area, provide effective lymphedema therapy without disrupting normal vascular and lymphatic functioning.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include methods and devices for increasing blood flow and controlling the temperature of a mammal. The device generally includes collapsible and pliant body elements, capable of expanding from a first volume into an expanded second volume so which can then be reduced from the expanded second volume into a pressurized third volume. One or more thermal exchange units can be positioned in the one or more collapsible and pliant body elements. Accordingly, the temperature of the extremity of a mammal can be regulated by providing heating or cooling to the one or more thermal exchange units.

Abstract: A system for providing reduced-pressure treatment to a tissue site of a patient includes a reduced-pressure source for supplying reduced pressure, a fluid source for supplying a fluid, and a plurality of inflatable bladders for placing adjacent the tissue site. The inflatable bladders are operable to receive the fluid to expand from an uninflated position to an inflated position. The system also includes a plurality of chambers that are compressible. At least one of the plurality of chambers is disposed between a first inflatable bladder and a second inflatable bladder of the plurality of inflatable bladders.

Abstract: A method of selecting and using a compression garment is disclosed. The method may include selecting a garment comprising a compression sleeve including a proximal end and a distal end. The compression sleeve may comprise material having one of short-stretch function and inelastic function. The method may include donning the garment by inserting a limb of an animal or human through an opening in the proximal end and positioning the compression sleeve such that the material extends over at least a portion of a muscle mass of the limb. When the muscle mass is activated, the compression sleeve may augment the venous muscle return produced by the muscle mass.