Abstract: Embodiments relate to an object comprising a mask comprising a first portion to cover an eye of a person, the first portion comprising: a first layer and a second layer adjacent to the first layer; an eye pocket; an attachable device; and a bio-monitoring system; wherein the first layer and the second layer form a pouch; and wherein the bio-monitoring system monitors a physiological state of the person, a method of providing a therapy to a person using the object and a method for estimating an effect of the therapy through movement of eyes using the object.

Abstract: A harness for securely wearing a hydration scarf while walking, jogging, or running, and for extending the time that a beverage in the hydration scarf remains cool. The harness has straps that secure the hydration scarf to the person wearing it, even while engaged in vigorous activity. The harness also has an insulating layer and an insulating sleeve that substantially slow the transfer of body heat into the hydration scarf. Pockets can be included for holding freezer packs in direct contact with the hydration scarf to chill the beverage. The combined effect of the insulating elements that limit heat flow from the wearer's body to the beverage, and the freezer packs that pull heat out of the beverage, is to keep the beverage at a temperature which is cooler than room temperature, and therefore more refreshing and better tasting than a beverage at room temperature.

Abstract: An apparatus comprises a cooling medium compartment between first and second beverage compartments, and a water permeable membrane. The cooling medium compartment comprises a topside zipper and underside zipper. When the underside zipper is closed, there is no opening between the cooling medium compartment and the water permeable membrane. When the underside zipper is at least a partially open, there is an opening between the cooling medium compartment and the permeable membrane to allow water to move from the cooling medium compartment to the permeable membrane. The apparatus provides the option of whether or not to cool the back of the user's neck with a cooling medium placed in the apparatus that wets a water permeable portion of the apparatus that is in contact with the neck of the user.

Abstract: A molded face mask for treating a user's face, the molded face mask having a rigid, inflexible polycaprolactone body molded to the user's face, the body having: i) two opposed, slightly tapered end portions; ii) a generally straight lower edge; and iii) an upper edge having a concave portion disposed approximately half-way along a length of the upper edge. A kit for providing therapeutic relief and reducing redness and bumps associated with facial shaving.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a therapeutic material incorporating a soft thermoformable elastomer with a phase change material exhibiting high latent heat of fusion. The compound provides elasticity, softness, formability, and heat over an extended duration and to facilitate prolonged skin contact at elevated temperatures. Used in combination with active ingredients the increased temperature and formability provides enhanced transdermal delivery through the skin. Thermoplastic elastomers may be manufactured by mixing together plasticizing oil, a triblock copolymer, a paraffinic substance and one or more additives, e.g., an antioxidant, an antimicrobial agent, and/or other additives to form a mixture which melted then cooled into the thermoplastic elastomer.

Abstract: An eye compress assembly includes two thermally adjustable heating and cooling device and a bridge connecting the two devices is provided. The thermally adjustable device is configured to apply thermal treatment against the eye region. Within the thermally adjustable heating and cooling device the thermoelectric element is powered by a battery. A power input port is provided in the bridge to connect into a power supply in order to recharge the battery.

Abstract: A sleep mask is created comprising a sleep mask cover that can accommodate a weighted mask component and a thermal mask component. The sleep mask cover may include a fastening mechanism at the opening which may be removably engaged or disengaged to disable or enable, respectively, access to the opening for insertion of the weighted mask component and the thermal mask component. The weighted mask component may include a set of eye panels that are devoid of weight material to prevent unwanted pressure on a human user's eyes when the sleep mask is worn around the head of a human user. Further, the weighted mask component may include a pocket for insertion of the thermal mask component.

Abstract: A heat transfer device particularly structured for application of thermal therapy from a contact surface to a human ear. A device may be passive (pre-cooled), active (thermoelectrically active), or include elements of both. A device may be structured to apply thermal treatment from a contact surface of a contact cavity only to a localized posterior area relative to the circumference of an ear. Preferably, a device provides an uninterrupted opening extending in a line-of-sight between an ear canal and the local environment. A device may include both of a contact cavity and a bulk cavity, with heat transfer media disposed in each cavity. Typically, a bulk cavity holds at least twice the media volume contained in a contact cavity. The cavities may be disposed in fluid communication, or separated by a barrier to permit only thermal communication there-between. When a barrier is present, a device may include different heat transfer media in each cavity.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a flexible frame, a coupling portion, and an insulating portion. The flexible frame is configured to support a thermal therapeutic member and is transitioned between a first configuration and a second configuration to place the therapeutic member in substantially continuous contact with a target portion of the body. The coupling portion is coupled to the flexible frame and is transitioned from a first configuration to a second configuration to retain the flexible frame in its second configuration. The insulating portion is transitioned from a first configuration to a second configuration to be coupled to the flexible frame. The insulating portion at least partially controls a transfer of thermal energy between the thermal therapeutic member and the target portion of the body.

Abstract: A protective goggle assembly having a pair of eye cup assemblies adapted to be easily adjusted by medical personnel. A cooperating ball and socket structure is provided within a housing structure extending from each eye cup assembly and which receive the nose bridge wire ends of a formed nose bridge wire. Each socket ball has a formed channel therethrough to receive the nose bridge wire ends and to provide adjustability. The ball and socket structure permit medical personnel to rotate the nose bridge during a medical procedure without effecting the position of the eye cups covering the patient's eyes.

Abstract: A portable handheld meibomian gland thermal treatment apparatus includes a housing holding a battery and necessary electrical components. A generally rectangular and concave thermal applicator tip terminates the housing, and applies precisely controlled heat to a single eyelid. A bend in the housing enables the apparatus to be held in position with the apparatus extending from the eyelid generally parallel to the ground and then from the bend sloping away from the viewing plane, either down toward the ground or upward away from the ground. As a result, a person may still keep one of the two eyelids on the treatment eye open and see past the housing and supporting hand, thereby simultaneously performing treatment while also performing other tasks. Various embodiments illustrate automatic on and off operation; a telescoping applicator having long-travel application force regulation; and a method of thermally treating meibomian gland dysfunction using the apparatus.

Abstract: Dry eye treatment apparatus and methods are described herein which generally comprise a patch or strip affixed to the skin of the upper and/or lower eyelids to deliver heat or other forms of energy, pressure, drugs, moisture, etc. (alone or in combination) to the one or more meibomian glands contained within the underlying skin. The treatment strip or strips include one or more strips configured to adhere to an underlying region of skin in proximity to one or both eyes of a subject such that the one or more strips allow for the subject to blink naturally without restriction from the one or more patches. Moreover, the one or more strips may be configured to emit energy to the underlying region of skin and where the one or more strips are shaped to follow a location of one or more meibomiam glands contained within the underlying region of skin.

Abstract: Embodiments of a method and system for improving sleep characterization and/or a sleeping-related disorder for a user associated with a sleep session can include receiving a log of use dataset corresponding to user digital communication behavior at a mobile device, the log of use dataset associated with the sleep session; receiving a supplementary dataset characterizing activity of the user and/or mobile device, the supplementary dataset associated with the sleep session; characterizing a sleep-related parameter for the user based on at least one of the log of use dataset and the supplementary dataset; determining a sleep care plan for the user based on the sleep-related parameter, the sleep care plan including a therapeutic intervention; and promoting a therapeutic intervention to the user according to the sleep care plan.

Abstract: In accordance with various aspects of the present teachings, systems and methods for applying treatment energy, e.g., electromagnetic radiation such as laser radiation in the visible and near infrared wavelengths, to body areas having bulges and fat deposits, loose skin, pain, acne and/or wounds. In some aspects, the systems and methods can enable relatively lengthy treatments to be performed by having the practitioner set-up and/or start the treatment, thereafter allowing the treatment to proceed safely and effectively without the continued presence of the practitioner.

Abstract: Disclosed is a device for cooling a body or body part for medical or performance-enhancing purposes, said device consisting of one or more cooling elements (11), said cooling element (11) being provided with a cover (1) that is filled with meltable cooling solid (2). The disclosed device is characterized in that an additional apparatus for displacing the already melted portion (8) of the cooling solid (2) from the contact surface (7) to the body is provided inside the cover (1), the expandable member (4, 6) being preferably designed in the form of a filled member (4) of a spring element (6) or of a foamed article. Also disclosed is an additional device which is characterized in that a layer (16) of thermochromic material indicates when a threshold temperature is exceeded, said layer (16) being applied to the bottom side of the expandable member and thus being pressed against the remaining solid portion of the cooling solid, the cover (1) being transparent in this case.

Abstract: This invention relates to reusable, multi-layered articles having the ability to maintain a desired temperature and be used for cosmetic and/or medical applications. In particular, the invention is directed to cosmetic facial masks and kits used to treat the skin of a user by applying heat or cold along with an optional therapeutic composition, and maintain the desired temperature during the duration of treatment. The multi-layered article is designed to be reusable, washable and sterilizable.

Abstract: A dry eye treatment device is provided having a mask defining a treatment cavity which is positionable on a face of a user over the eyes. A temperature altering pack such as a gel pack is positionable within the treatment cavity and a fabric cover my surround the gel pack and have medication absorbed or placed upon the fabric material.

Abstract: A thermal dissipation system for wearable electronic devices transfers heat away from a housing enclosing a heat source and dissipates the heat through a region of the support assembly that is noncontiguous with the housing. The support assembly may be coupled to the housing to enable the housing to be worn by a user. Various regions of the support assembly have different thermal resistances between a thermal conduit and an ambient environment. The thermal resistances may decrease as the thermal conduit becomes farther away from the heat source. The variations in thermal resistances enable modulation of relative heat flux between the various regions. For example, heat may be internally routed through the wearable electronic device to be dissipated through a surface that a user does not typically touch during operation.

Abstract: An emergency head trauma bandage cap with a detachable strap system and method of use, which, when applied to the head, delivers minimal pressure to control bleeding, doesn't compromise cervical spine immobilization, allows for fast and effective application of cooling gel to control intracranial/internal swelling or hot packs to prevent hypothermia in non-trauma situations, doesn't come apart during treatment and transport, and doesn't require a caregiver to re-wrap the dressing.

Abstract: In one embodiment, there is a computer-implemented method for delivering therapy to a user, comprising: providing data representative of an initial sensory stimulus to a sensory stimulus device and causing the sensory stimulus device to provide the initial sensory stimulus to the user; receiving alpha wave biometric data of the user from a brain electrical activity sensor while the sensory stimulus device provides the initial sensory stimulus; determining whether the alpha wave biometric data meets sensory stimulus adjustment criteria; if the alpha wave biometric data meets sensory stimulus adjustment criteria, adjusting the sensory stimulus provided to the user by providing data representative of an adjusted sensory stimulus to the sensory stimulus device and causing the sensory stimulus device to provide the adjusted sensory stimulus; and if the alpha wave biometric data fails to meet sensory stimulus adjustment criteria, continue causing the sensory stimulus device to provide the initial sensory stimulus t

Abstract: This is a neurological essential oil composition employing oils containing sesquiterpene compounds that cross the blood-brain barrier, such as Vetiver, Black Pepper, Ginger, Ylang Ylang, Sandalwood, Patchouli, Cedarwood, Myrrh, Frankincense, or Lavender, offering calming relief from seizures, migraine, anxiety, tremor, PTSD, and other neurological ailments, minus side-effects often experienced with conventional neurotherapeutics. A case study using FDA guidelines was conducted on the composition by the inventor/nutritionist treating these disorders and more with success, including her own seizure disorder. For neurological stimulation to improve cognitive function, the composition recruits oils such as Coffee, Vanilla, Cinnamon Bark, Clove, Dalmatian Sage, Rosemary, Blood Orange, Lemon, Grapefruit, Peppermint, Lime, Clementine, Spearmint or Coconut.

Abstract: Described herein is a pouch or strap system for holding a temperature control element (i.e., hot/cold element). The system described herein may include multiple straps that may be retained and/or interconnected such that the system may position a temperature control element at various parts of the body. The system may include a central pouch encompassed by a first panel and a second panel, wherein the first panel has a higher thermal resistance than the thermal resistance of the second panel. The system may include a first couple of straps attached to and extending away from the central pouch, each of the first couple of straps including a single quick-release buckle component, and a second couple of straps attached to and extending away from the central pouch, wherein each strap of the second couple of straps includes two quick-release buckle components.

Abstract: The present invention is an improved sleeping mask that concurrently applies beauty products. The sleeping mask, in its preferred embodiment, includes an eye cover, adjustable strap, and internal pockets having applicator sponge pads therein. Any desired beauty care product can be placed on the applicator sponge pads. The device is worn like any conventional sleeping mask so that the internal pockets directly contact the user's skin. In this way, the beauty care product on the applicator sponge pads can be applied to the user's skin throughout the night. The pockets may be perforated to allow beauty care products to permeate therethrough and treat the skin.

Abstract: A thermal eye pod assembly for use in efficiently heating and/or cooling a plurality of thermal eye patch members, as desired. A portable thermal eye pod assembly for use in efficiently treating a user's recurring ophthalmic conditions, accelerating a user's healing process, and providing a user with a relatively faster means of pain relief.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to a brain cooling and spinal cord cooling system, device or mechanism for use in military helmets, and in an adapted format in non-military helmets. The system is comprised of an inflatable pad, or a set of interconnected pads, attached to the interior surface of the helmet, together with a series of valves that allow cooling gases to be delivered from a high pressure canister. The use of different cooling gases permits the achievement and maintenance of cooling of the brain for 24 to 96 hours at a mild (36° C.) or moderate (33° C.-35° C.) brain hypothermia, which is 1.5° C.-4.5° C. below the core temperature.

Abstract: The invention relates to a multipurpose first aid apparatus for a person or animal including, a body adapted for carrying items, securing means for use with the body; and at least one attachment means. In use, at least one attachment means can be used to attach the body so as to be transported with the person or animal. The items can be carried within or about the body and in the case of an injury to a limb of the person or animal, the body can be used with the securing means, to firmly support the limb of the person or the animal until professional medical or veterinary assistance can be sought. The invention also relates to variants of the apparatus and a method of use.

Abstract: A heat management structure for a wearable electronic device includes a first thermally conductive layer, a second thermally conductive layer, and insulating layer. The first and second thermally conductive layers and the insulating layer are arranged in a stacked configuration along their surface areas with the insulating layer disposed between and in physical contact with the first and second thermally conductive layers. At least one edge of the second thermally conductive layer extends beyond an edge of at least one of the first thermally conductive layer or the insulating layer.

Abstract: A device that is used to reduce the pain of a needle stick to a person, the device having a casing containing a vibratory device and a temperature reducing device, and a method for using the device to reduce the pain of a needle stick by applying both thermal and vibration analgesia to a subject during a needle stick.

Abstract: A torso wrap is disclosed for providing relief to a person suffering from back pain, including: an inner layer of water-retaining material; a middle layer of moisture-barrier material; and an outer layer of stretchable material having first and second securing ends that secure to each other when the torso wrap is placed around the torso of a person. The inner layer is configured to be moistened with water and is worn in contact with the torso of a person wearing the torso wrap. The middle moisture-barrier layer is attached to the inner layer so as to trap moisture within the inner layer. The middle layer is attached to the outer layer of stretchable material that includes attachment ends for securing the torso wrap around the torso of a person.

Abstract: Methods are provided for regulating bone remodeling or tooth movement, comprising allowing a functional appliance to exert a force on oral or maxillofacial bone, muscle, or soft tissue, or one or more teeth of a patient in need thereof; and administering an effective amount of light to the oral or maxillofacial bone, muscle, or soft tissue, or one or more teeth, wherein the light is administered before, during, or after the force is exerted. Methods are also provided for regulating bone remodeling, comprising administering an effective amount of vitamin D to an oral or maxillofacial bone, muscle, or soft tissue, or to one or more teeth of a patient in need thereof; and administering an effective amount of light to the oral or maxillofacial bone, muscle, or soft tissue, or to the one or more teeth. Apparatuses useful for providing light therapy and/or vitamin D is also provided.

Abstract: In one embodiment, an apparatus for treating mammalian meibomian glands involves clearing the meibomian glands. The apparatus comprises a heater configured to apply a regulated heat to an eyelid containing the meibomian glands to a temperature adequate to melt obstructions in the meibomian glands to put the obstructions in a fluid or suspension (melted) state, and a controller maintaining the heat for a time period adequate to melt the obstructions. The glands can then be mechanically treated by a mechanical treatment applicator to express fluid from the glands by using a compressive force, wherein the treating is carried out either during the time period or after the time period but while the obstruction remains in a fluid state. Subsequent pharmacological treatment of the glands by use a pharmacological agent (topical or systemic) can then be used to assist in maintaining proper flow of lipids from the glands.

Abstract: Apparatuses and methods to enhance sleep, reduce sleep onset latency, extend sleep duration and/or increasing the duration of deeper sleep stages relative to stage 1 sleep. In general, these apparatuses and methods apply and maintain one or more target “warm” temperatures to a subject's forehead for a time period. The target temperature may be between 25° C. and 42° C. The target temperature may be a fixed amount greater than ambient temperature. The time period may be a fixed time period or a variable time period. These methods and apparatuses may limit the application of thermal energy to the subject's forehead region.

Abstract: A cervical collar includes a flexible, elongate support member having two ends, a longitudinal axis, an initial length, and a plurality of slits near at least one end. Each slit defines a terminal segment of the support member and a connective link between the terminal segment and the remainder of the support member. A connector is provided for securing together the two ends. The support member may be manufactured by forming slits near at least one end of a flexible support member. The collar may be applied to a patient by providing a support member which is longer than is needed for the patient's neck, removing a terminal segment of the support member to adjust the length so that the support member is sized to appropriately encircle the patient's neck, flexing the support member around the patient's neck, and connecting the ends of the support member together.

Abstract: Method, systems and devices for treating insomnia by non-invasive hypothermic treatment are described. In general, these devices, systems and method enable cooling of the frontal cortex prior to and/or during sleep to enhance sleep, which may be particularly beneficial to treat insomnia.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating gland dysfunction caused by gland obstruction in order to restore the natural flow of secretion from the gland comprises the application of a combination of energy, suction, vibration, heat, aspiration, chemical agents and pharmacological agents to loosen and thereafter remove the obstructive material.

Abstract: The invention provides methods for treating a neurological disorder or deficit, such as tinnitus and phantom limb pain.

Abstract: An apparatus for generating focused currents in biological tissue is provided. The apparatus comprises an electric source capable of generating an electric field across a region of tissue and means for altering the permittivity of the tissue relative to the electric field, whereby a displacement current is generated. The means for altering the permittivity may be a chemical source, optical source, mechanical source, thermal source, or electromagnetic source.

Abstract: An apparatus for generating focused currents in biological tissue is provided. The apparatus comprises an electric source capable of generating an electric field across a region of tissue and means for altering the permittivity of the tissue relative to the electric field, whereby a displacement current is generated. The means for altering the permittivity may be a chemical source, optical source, mechanical source, thermal source, or electromagnetic source.

Abstract: A system and method for portably delivering a therapeutic dose of heat to the skin to relieve pain, reduce accommodation of thermal nerve receptors, promote healing, and deliver transcutaneous medications. The heating device is user programmable or preprogrammed to deliver according to a variety of cycles, patterns and algorithms. The cycles, patterns, and algorithms of the heat are programmable parameters, are under the user's control, and increase the effectiveness and efficiency of the device. The heating algorithms are designed to interact with an individual user's thermal nerve receptors and other tissue characteristics and to reduce the tendency of the receptors to accommodate to the external stimuli with back pain, muscular pain, dysmenorrhea, headaches, fibromyalgia, post-herpetic neuralgia, nerve injuries and neuropathies, and sprains and strain.

Abstract: A moist heat therapy compress for therapeutic treatment of a treated body part. The moist heat therapy compress includes a fluid-permeable shell, a flexible backing fastened to the shell to define an enclosure, and hydrophilic zeolite fill granules loosely contained within the enclosure. The moist heat therapy compress is exposed to a source of moisture to cause absorption of water into the hydrophilic zeolite, and the moisture is delivered from the hydrophilic zeolite through the fluid permeable shell to the treated body portion.

Abstract: Apparatuses and methods to enhance sleep, reduce sleep onset latency, extend sleep duration and/or increasing the duration of deeper sleep stages relative to stage 1 sleep. In general, these apparatuses and methods apply and maintain one or more target “warm” temperatures to a subject's forehead for a time period. The target temperature may be between 25° C. and 42° C. The target temperature may be a fixed amount greater than ambient temperature. The time period may be a fixed time period or a variable time period. These methods and apparatuses may limit the application of thermal energy to the subject's forehead region.

Abstract: In one form, an eye mask includes an eye mask core assembly, a covering, a band, and first and second insulated wires. The eye mask core assembly has first and second heat producing areas separated by a distance corresponding to a separation of human eyes and having first and second ends. The eye mask core assembly produces heat in response to the application of a voltage thereto. The covering surrounds the eye mask core assembly. The band is attached to the first and second ends of said eye mask core assembly. The first and second insulated wires have first ends connected to the eye mask core assembly, and second ends for connection to a power supply.

Abstract: In one form, an eye mask includes an eye mask core assembly, a band, and first and second insulated wires. The eye mask core assembly has first and second heat producing areas separated by a distance corresponding to a separation of human eyes and having first and second ends. The eye mask core assembly produces heat in response to the application of a voltage thereto. The covering surrounds the eye mask core assembly. The band is attached to the first and second ends of said eye mask core assembly. The first and second insulated wires have first ends connected to the eye mask core assembly, and second ends for connection to a power supply.

Abstract: A personal thermal regulating device (PTRD) typically includes a heat generating device, a power source, a switchable control operably coupled with each of the heat generating device and the power source, and a head retention device coupled with the heat generating device and configured to retain the heat generating device positioned centrally at and in thermally conductive contact with a user's forehead. The present invention affects a tangible warming of the extremities, particularly the hands and feet, extending retention of manual dexterity and peripheral comfort under cold conditions.

Abstract: A device and method for non-invasive treatment of menopausal hot flashes. The device includes a hand-held assembly sized to be held in the palm of a user's hand; a cooling plate within the assembly and a cradle which docks with the assembly. The cradle plugs into an AC power source and includes a Peltier-effect element for cooling a contact plate. The contact plate in the cradle abuts the cooling plate in the docked assembly and cools the same, keeping it at the lowered temperature and ready for immediate use. The cradle includes a heat sink for dissipating heat generated by the Peltier-effect element. The assembly is undocked from the cradle. The cooled plate is placed against the skin on the back of the neck and is moved back and forth to stimulate cold thermoreceptors in the skin, thereby counteracting the false trigger which caused the hot flash.

Abstract: It is an object of the invention to provide devices and methods for thermal treatment, e.g., cooling and heating, of body parts for purposes of alleviating discomfort, pain, stress and inflammation.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus of evaporative cooling which targets one or more of an animal's muscle tissue areas, as the head and neck, chest, shoulder, back or gluteal muscles, and leg and ankle of the body chest, shoulder, back and gluteal muscles, and does not otherwise restrict movement of the animal. The apparatus of the present invention is formed of a lower layer and an upper layer, which together form a pocket for receiving a cooling means, wherein the pocket is adapted to open and dose. The apparatus of the present invention is contoured to position around one or more body areas of the animal and secured in the position for evaporative cooling of the animal.

Abstract: A headliner is provided for controlling a temperature of a head of a patient. A cap is provided which fits securely over the head of the patient. A fluid pathway is routed through the cap with a fluid space adapted to receive heat transfer fluid therein and route the heat transfer fluid between an inlet and an outlet on the cap. The inlet and outlet are each coupled to a cooler for the heat transfer fluid and the heat transfer fluid is circulated through the cap and the cooler such that heat is drawn from the head of the patient. An air bladder is optionally provided outboard of the fluid space which is filled with pressurized gas to increase contact between the fluid space and the head of the patient. A neck brace is integrated with the cap portion of the headliner, particularly for treatment of head trauma.

Abstract: A heating/cooling system facilitates heating and/or cooling a person's anatomy. In one implementation, the system comprises a mask, a strap extending from the mask to retain the mask against the anatomy; and at least one pocket behind the mask to receive a heating/cooling pack. In one implementation, the system comprises a soft and flexible head supported portion, a pocket on an inside surface of the head supported portion to be supported against a person's head and a cooling/heating packet removably received within the pocket.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a flexible frame, a coupling portion, and an insulating portion. The flexible frame is configured to support a thermal therapeutic member and is transitioned between a first configuration and a second configuration to place the therapeutic member in substantially continuous contact with a target portion of the body. The coupling portion is coupled to the flexible frame and is transitioned from a first configuration to a second configuration to retain the flexible frame in its second configuration. The insulating portion is transitioned from a first configuration to a second configuration to be coupled to the flexible frame. The insulating portion at least partially controls a transfer of thermal energy between the thermal therapeutic member and the target portion of the body.