Abstract: A compression sleeve includes a first sheet, a second sheet, at least one close-loop sealing contact and at least two open-loop sealing contacts. The at least one close-loop sealing contact is formed between the first and second sheet so as to form an isolated inflatable section within the close-loop sealing contact. The at least two open-loop sealing contacts are disposed within the at least one close-loop sealing contact, wherein at least one of the at least two open-loop sealing contacts includes two through holes respectively at two opposite ends.

Abstract: An inflatable garment for applying to parts of the body such as the calf of the leg as a means of enhancing blood circulation in the body. The garment is of universal application in the sense that it comprises two wrap halves (8, 9) provided with inflatable bladders (4, 5, 6). The two wrap halves can be selectively coupled together in such a way as to provide a variable overall length of garment wrap to suit calf's of differing size while at the same time maintaining the integrity of fluid communication between the bladders on the respective wrap halves.

Abstract: A compression garment for applying compression therapy to a body part of a person. The compression garment includes a bladder including an inflatable chamber having a perimeter and an opening through which the inflatable chamber is inflated. A foam layer is positioned at least partially in the inflatable chamber for reducing a volume of gas required to inflate the inflatable chamber and extends at least partially outside the inflatable chamber for providing structural support to the compression garment.

Abstract: A disposable sleeve for compression therapy including a first wall to be located adjacent a patient's body to be treated and a second wall to be spaced from the patient body by the first wall, each of the walls comprising an internal layer made of an airtight material and an external layer disposed adjacent to the internal layer and made of a porous material, the internal layers of the two walls facing each other, all of the layers bonded to each other along bonding seams and free of such bonding at locations spaced from the bonding seams; and airtight cells defined between the walls, bound by the bonding seams and configured for being inflated, and at least one non-inflatable area spaced from adjacent cells by at least one bonding seam and having one or more through holes formed in the internal layer of each of the walls.

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: A compression device for applying compression treatment to a patient's body. The device includes an inflatable bladder having an inner layer, an outer layer opposite the inner layer, the inner layer and the outer layer are joined to form a hollow interior adapted for periodically receiving fluid to inflate the bladder, the joined layers are joined by a seam having a sealed upstream end, an open downstream end, and sealed lateral sides. The bladder includes an opening positioned between the lateral sides and extending through the inner layer and/or the outer layer of the bladder. The device includes the tube extending toward the open downstream end of the seam and through the opening. The device includes a seal extending between the lateral sides of the seam and across the tube preventing fluid leakage between the tube and the opening in the bladder when the bladder is inflated.

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: The invention relates to a peristaltic system (50), which comprises at least two pumps (30, 30?) that can be separately actuated, each pump comprising a pump chamber (14) suited for receiving a fluid, a pump element (16) suited for suctioning and displacing a fluid into and from the pump chamber (14), two check valves (12, 12?), one of which (12) is in fluid connection with an inlet of the pump chamber (14) and the other (12?) is in fluid connection with an outlet of the pump chamber (14), and a valve (18) which is closed in the idle state of the pump (30, 30?) and in fluid connection with the check valves (12, 12?). The peristaltic system (50) further comprises a container (40) suited for receiving a fluid, the container being in fluid connection with an inlet of the one pump (30?) and with an outlet of the other pump (30) and flexibly designed at least in some regions such that the volume of the container depends on the volume of a fluid that is received.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a device for applying a pulsating pressure to a local region of the body and applications thereof. The device may be used to increase the blood flow in a local region of the body, and in preferred embodiments provides a device for regulating the core body temperature of a patient.

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: The present invention relates to a support for a body part including a compression device in combination with a lower leg protection system. The compression device can be integral with the outer support at a position received over the lower leg. One or more valves can extend from a compression bladder for attachment to a pneumatic device. Inflation of the compression bladder positioner adjacent the lower leg also displaces air in the outer support toward the foot which causes simultaneous massaging of the foot. The pneumatic device can be adjusted to provide either sequential or intermittent therapies.

Abstract: A compression garment includes a wrap member with a proximal end portion and opposed distal end portion. The wrap member is configured to wrap about at least a portion of a lower leg between calf and heel. The wrap member includes an inner sheet configured and adapted to be disposed facing the lower leg in use, and an outer sheet joined to the inner sheet with a leg compression bladder defined between the inner and outer sheets. The leg compression bladder is configured to compress at least a portion of the lower leg to augment venous return flow in the lower leg.

Abstract: A disposable sleeve for compression therapy, with at least one inflatable air cell defined between a first airtight wall adjacent a patient's body to be treated and a second airtight wall. Each of the first and second walls includes an external porous layer and an internal layer including air-tight polyethylene (PE). The walls are bonded by molten portions of the PE internal layer penetrating and set in their corresponding external porous layers and welded to each other, the bonding enduring at least 250 inflation-deflation cycles associated with the therapy.

Abstract: Methods, apparatus, and systems for calibrating differential air pressure systems are described. The methods, apparatus, and systems may be adapted for physical training of an individual, e.g. as a training tool to improve performance or as a physical therapy tool for rehabilitation or strengthening. The differential air pressure systems comprise a chamber for receiving at least a portion of a user's body. In one embodiment, a method for calibrating a differential air pressure system for predicting effective body weight of a user versus system pressure is described. In certain variations, the methods, apparatus and systems may comprise adjusting pressure in the system until one or more force values are reached. The methods described herein may comprise determining a relationship between body weight force and pressure, allowing the user to set a pressure or a parameter correlated with pressure to achieve a desired effective body weight.

Abstract: A noninvasive treatment to increase the elasticities of arteries and veins in arms, legs, hands and feet, to reduce heart workload, to increase whole body blood flow, to supply an increased amount of oxygen and nutrients throughout the cardiovascular system and increase the rate of removal of cell waste products, to treat many medical conditions so that symptoms are eliminated or minimized due to improved performance of the body. The noninvasive treatment includes using a vacuum pressure and air pressure system to perform the above, and to passively exercise muscles of arms, legs, hands and feet in a chamber, and is suited for patients who are unable to engage in sufficient exercise on their own.

Abstract: A cardiopulmonary resuscitation device that combines ventilation of a patient's lungs with chest compressions on the patient's sternum area. The device includes a self-inflating bag having a flat top side as a proper position on the self-inflating bag for applying force to the top side of the self-inflating bag, a flat bottom side on the self-inflating bag for properly positioning the bag on the patient's sternum area, an outlet port through which the content of the bag is forced when the flat top side of the bag is pushed toward the flat bottom side of the bag, a connector connecting the bag with a tube extending from the outlet port, a headband face mask for placement over the patient's mouth and nose, and a second connector positioned between the tube and the face mask.

Abstract: An apparatus for clearing mucus from the pulmonary system, utilizing two different types of external excitation applied concurrently to the thorax, the first type of excitation consisting of vibrational stimulations, and the second type of excitation consisting of compressive stimulations, with control means provided to regulate the excitations.

Abstract: An actively controlled orthotic device includes active components that dynamically change the structural characteristics of the orthotic device according to the orientation and locomotion of the corresponding body part, or according to the changing needs of the subject over a period of use. Accordingly, the orthotic device can be effectively employed to provide locomotion assistance, gait rehabilitation, and gait training. Similarly, the orthotic device may be applied to the wrist, elbow, torso, or any other body part. The active components may be actuated to effectively transmit force to a body part, such as a limb, to assist with movement when desired. Additionally or alternatively, the active components may also be actuated to provide support of varying rigidity for the corresponding body part.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and kits for deep vein thrombosis prophylaxis.

Abstract: A chest compression system and method of use for respiratory therapies such as cystic fibrosis, including an air flow generator, a pulse frequency control component having a fan blade for producing a series of air pulses communicated to a patient-worn garment during a therapy session. The system further includes one or more patient physiologic sensors capable of capturing patient information during the therapy session. The sensors may include a blood oximeter or a mouthpiece used to evaluate pulmonary function. An airway congestion monitoring system provides airway and lung congestion trend analysis. Adjustments are made to the series of air pulses based on a patient's therapy session data.

Abstract: A connector assembly 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 assembly can be used with a system for compression therapy to prevent deep vein thrombosis.

Abstract: A compression device for being wrapped around a body portion of a wearer includes an inner layer and an outer cover. First and second bladder layers are secured together to define an inflatable bladder having an outer perimeter. The inner layer, outer cover and first and second bladder layers are joined together at a plurality of discrete spot welds within the outer perimeter of the inflatable bladder.

Abstract: A portable, manual massage device for massaging appendage muscles, having a wrap with vertical edges and a gap defined between the vertical edges. The vertical edges have at least one anchor and are bound by at least one tension transfer member located between the vertical edges. The tension transfer members are encircled with springs between the vertical edges and enclosed by an external tension-transfer guide and an internal tension-transfer guide. The external tension-transfer guide integrally couples between an actuator and the wrap and the internal tension-transfer guide integrally couples between the anchors.

Abstract: A device for applying compression treatment to a part of a wearer's body comprises first and second inflatable bladders spaced apart from one another along an axis of the device. A line of weakness in a connecting section between the first and second bladders extends generally transverse to the axis of the device for selectively separating the inflatable bladders from one another. The device includes an overlying layer in generally opposing relationship to one of the first and second bladder layers. The overlying layer is discontinuous generally adjacent to the line of weakness to define terminal edge margins of the overlying layer extending generally along the line of weakness. Each of the terminal edge margins are connected to at least one of the first and second bladder layers on an opposite side of the line of weakness from the other terminal edge margin.

Abstract: A pump supplies pressurized air to inflate compression garments, mattresses, cushions, or similar at the desired times and to desired pressures appropriate to the therapy. The garments are each identified by small steps generated in the pressure waveform during inflation, with the identifying means including a flat sheet valve in the connector chamber having vents to atmosphere and being situated along the flow path from the pump to the garment(s). As the air flows through the connection tubing and through the connector a pressure wave is generated by the valve and fed back upstream to a pressure sensor in the pump. The shape of the pressure waveform identifies a particular compression garment, the pump supplying the appropriate inflation regime upon detection of this pressure waveform.

Abstract: A light-weight pneumatic massage apparatus with low operation noise is provided. This apparatus includes a pneumatic massage device and a pump separated from the massage device. The apparatus further includes electromagnetic valves for controlling supply and discharge of pressurized air to and from air chambers of the pneumatic massage device, respectively. Each of the electromagnetic valves includes a displaceable valve member having an armature, and a solenoid for attracting the armature to move the displaceable valve member when a voltage is applied to the solenoid. The apparatus further includes an electromagnetic valve control unit which controls a voltage supplied to the solenoid to open the electromagnetic valves such that the voltage increases from gradually with the passage of time. The armature is attracted onto the end surface of the solenoid within the time period. Then, in a state in which the voltage is reduced to, the armature is maintained attracted onto the solenoid to keep the open state.

Abstract: The invention is to provide a gas mist pressure bath system, which is possible to control the amount of gas and liquid, pressure and others, and cause a gas mist to be absorbed through a skin and mucous membrane of a human living-body under an optimum condition, in which a mist is prepared by pulverizing and dissolving carbon dioxide or oxygen or a mixed gas of carbon dioxide and Oxygen and a liquid at a density of not less than a predetermined value, and the thus prepared gas mist is directly contacted to the skin and mucous membrane of the living-body, the gas mist pressure bath system comprises a gas supply, a liquid supply, a gas mist supply for generating and supplying the gas mist prepared by the liquid nozzle of pulverizing and dissolving the gas supplied from the gas supply as well as the liquid supplied from the liquid supply, and the living body cover member of covering the skin and mucous membrane of the living-body and forming a space of sealing the gas mist inside thereof, and the gas mist pressu

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: 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: A device for applying compression treatment to a part of a wearer's body has an inner face for being placed adjacent to the part of the wearer's body in use and an outer face opposite the inner face. The device includes a pressure applicator to apply compression to the wearer's body part. First and second fastener elements are mounted on the device. Hook indicia on the outer face of the device generally overlie patches of hook material on the inner face of the device. The hook indicia includes first colored areas and hook-engagement areas include second colored areas. Upon wrapping the device around the wearer's body part and fastening the patches of hook material at the respective hook-engagement areas, each first colored area and corresponding second colored area form a predetermined shape indicating that the device is properly placed on the body part.

Abstract: A device for applying compression treatment to a part of a wearer's body includes at least one inflatable bladder formed from opposed layers of bladder material. The bladder is constructed so that when worn on the part of the wearer's body inflation of the bladder applies a compressive force to the part of the wearer's body to move blood within the wearer's body part. The at least one bladder has a generally S shape compression region with first, second and third spaced apart sections in fluid communication. At least one opening is formed between the first and second sections. The at least one opening extends through both layers of bladder material to provide communication from an area under the layers of bladder material to a location above the layers of bladder material.

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: A compression sleeve includes an inner layer, an outer cover and first and second bladder layers. The layers define adjacent, generally flexible sleeve sections, where each section includes an inflatable bladder. The inner layer, outer cover and first and second bladder layers are joined together at a plurality of discrete spot welds within an outer perimeter of the inflatable bladder to provide further structural integrity to the sleeve.

Abstract: A compression garment apparatus including a compression garment and a pressurizer. The pressurizer intermittently pressurizes a therapeutic bladder on the compression garment and maintains a baseline pressure in the therapeutic bladder to maintain the therapeutic bladder in position with respect to a target compression zone on a body part on which the garment is worn. The baseline pressure is adjusted in response to sensed physical characteristics.

Abstract: A compression device for applying compression treatment to a patient's body. The device includes an inflatable bladder having an inner layer, an outer layer opposite the inner layer, the inner layer and the outer layer are joined to form a hollow interior adapted for periodically receiving fluid to inflate the bladder, the joined layers are joined by a seam having a sealed upstream end, an open downstream end, and sealed lateral sides. The bladder includes an opening positioned between the lateral sides and extending through the inner layer and/or the outer layer of the bladder. The device includes the tube extending toward the open downstream end of the seam and through the opening. The device includes a seal extending between the lateral sides of the seam and across the tube preventing fluid leakage between the tube and the opening in the bladder when the bladder is inflated.

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: 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: 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: A connector for attaching a flexible tube to a fluid passage of another object includes a housing and a connector port on the body. The connector port is sized and shaped for connecting the connector port in fluid communication with the fluid passage of the object. The connector includes a tube port projecting from the body. The tube port is adapted for fluid communication with the connector port and is sized and shaped for being received in an end of the flexible tube to establish fluid communication with the flexible tube. The tube port includes a tube retainer that projects from the body toward the tube port. The retainer has an engaging end portion disposed in relation to the tube port to engage the flexible tube when the tube port is received in the flexible tube. The flexible tube is restrained from lateral movement with respect to the tube port.

Abstract: A compression sleeve for being wrapped around a leg of a wearer includes adjacent flexible sleeve sections. At least one of the sleeve sections has an air bladder therein adapted to inflate for compressing a portion of the leg. A structural component is secured to the sleeve and extends generally between the flexible sleeve sections to maintain a spacing of the adjacent sleeve sections lengthwise of the leg when the sleeve is wrapped around the leg. Bladder layers are joined together to form the air bladder. The bladder is joined together at least at two weld points on opposite sides of the structural component to locate the structural component on the sleeve so as to maintain the spacing of the adjacent sleeve sections.

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: A compression device has improved cooling capability. The device includes a wicking layer adapted to move moisture. A portion of the wicking layer is exposed from under bladder material defining a bladder. In use, the wicking layer wicks moisture from the patient's limb and the wicked moisture is able to evaporate through the device at the portion of the wicking layer that is exposed.

Abstract: A circumferential compression sleeve has bladder openings extending through a bladder, making the sleeve generally breathable and comfortable for the wearer. The device has a static evaporation rate through the device of at least about 20 mg/minute. The device has a convective evaporation resistance of less than about 80 m2 Pa/W. In one example, the device includes a wicking layer for contacting the wearer's skin. The wicking layer wicks moisture from the wearer's skin and generally moves the moisture to portions of the layer in registration with the openings where the moisture is allowed to evaporate therethrough.

Abstract: In a method of forming a compression sleeve, flexible bladder layers are secured together to define first and second adjacent flexible sleeve sections. A rigid structural component, such as a tube for delivering air to a bladder of the sleeve or another structure, is secured between the first and second flexible sleeve sections to prevent buckling a movement of the sleeve sections downward when the sleeve is wrapped around a leg the wearer. An inner layer and an outer cover are secured to the bladder layers at a plurality of discrete weld spots to provide further structural support to the sleeve.

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 or pad for selective application for treatment of lymphedema evidenced at various locations of the body. The pad includes a pair or series of layers of hermetically sealed material, that can capture pressurized air, when applied therein, and is formed through the patterned sealing of the layers of the pad together, at select locations, to form air pockets that can selectively apply isolated points of pressure to the patient's affected area, without disrupting normal vascular and lymphatic functioning. The pad is design cut, for either use in that matter, or for application as a garment to various segments of the body and can apply pressure over the entire affected area. The pad includes valves that allows for injection of measurable air, to the desired pressure points, or its deflation, after treatment.

Abstract: An adjustable orthostatic intolerance garment formed of a knitted spandex powernet construction in order to provide compression when on the leg, and including legs and a torso portion that extends upwardly into the abdominal area below the pectoral muscles; and a respective pair of elongate panels that are retained in place by attaching elements, and that are introduced into or removed from the garment to increase or reduce compression on the wearer's body as desired.