Abstract: The invention relates generally to methods of treating cancer and other diseases by modulating body temperature. Heat may directed to the hypothalamus of a warm-blooded animal to cool the animal, utilizing the physiological mechanisms that regulate body temperature to effect a compensatory cooling response, thereby lowering body temperature (hypothermia), and rendering other methods of lowering body temperature more effective. Heat may be withdrawn from the hypothalamus of an animal, cooling the hypothalamus, inducing a compensatory increase in body temperature (hyperthermia), and rendering other methods of raising body temperature more effective. Body temperature may be directly modulated by heat-exchange catheter positioned within a blood vessel of a patient.

Abstract: This invention describes a therapeutic sleeping aid device comprising a far infrared radiation layer on the inner surface of the device which can wrap around the user's head, thereof said far infrared radiation permeates into the skin of human being to raise subcutaneous temperature for feeling of warmth simulating the touches from human and pets, and to promote circulation and metabolism within for helping the head recover from stress and fatigue and maintain the health and function of the head while sleeping.

Abstract: A thermal device for maintaining the temperature of body extremities is provided. The device includes a pocket adapted to receive a heating element and a strap attached to the pocket such that the device is adapted to encircle and be secured around a portion of the human body. The pocket has a tri-fold configuration formed from a rear panel, a front panel, and an intermediate panel positioned atop one another, the intermediate panel being positioned between the front panel and the rear panel. Each of the three panels is connected along their respective vertical side edges. The first horizontal edges of the front panel and the rear panel are fixedly attached forming a first open space between the front panel and the intermediate panel and the second horizontal edges of the rear panel and the intermediate panel are fixedly attached forming a second open space therebetween.

Abstract: A thermal treatment pack and corresponding retainer apparatus that provide not only a desirable thermal source, but also a highly configurable retainer apparatus. According to one embodiment, the thermal source includes frozen peas stored in transparent bags. The transparent bags are selectively attachable through hook-and-loop fasteners. According to the preferred embodiment, the retainer apparatus includes two washable cloth strips. The cloth strips include hook-and-loop fasteners for attaching the transparent bags to the retainer apparatus.

Abstract: A device for treating headaches includes an eye mask which may be formed and configured to cover both eyes or, alternatively, one eye of the user. The eye mask is provided with straps which are secured behind the head to hold the eye mask in the desired, operative position. The inner facing side of the eye mask is provided with soft, compliant membrane portions forming rear walls of left and right containers. The containers are provided with a fill cap which removes to facilitate filling of a liquid or gel through an opening and into an interior chamber in direct, temperature transferring relation to the respective compliant membrane portions. The liquid or gel may be brought to a desired temperature just prior to filling or, alternatively, when filled within the reservoir. The compliant membrane portions are provided with a concave configuration for congruent receipt with the periphery of the eyes and the upper and lower eye lids when the user's eyes are closed.

Abstract: A device for cooling an infant's brain includes a cooling liner that may be sandwiched between an outer padded cap and an inner elastic liner. The device fits closely over the infant's skull and is cooled by a recirculating cooling fluid passing through a serpentine conduit. One application for the device is to cool a newborn infant's brain that has suffered a hypoxic shock.

Abstract: The invention provides a system and method for achieving the cosmetically beneficial effects of shrinking collagen tissue in the dermis in an effective, non-invasive manner, which leaves the outer layer of skin intact and undamaged. One embodiment of the invention provides electromagnetic energy to the skin of a patient. The device includes a carrier and an array of electrodes on the carrier. A microporous pad on the carrier overlies the array of electrodes, forming an interior chamber to contain an electrically conductive material. The microporous pad is adapted to contact a patient's skin and ionically transport the applied electromagnetic energy to ohmically heat dermal tissue beneath the epidermal skin region. The shape of the carrier may differ to match different skin topographies and the electrodes may be sized to extend into tissue to heat a dermal skin region.

Abstract: An apparatus and corresponding method are provided for treating or preventing at least one of brain, brain-stem and associated nervous tissue injuries in a mammal suffering from decreased or compromised blood flow to the brain. The apparatus includes a helmet configured to rest unsupported on the head of a mammal. The helmet includes outer and inner shells with at least one cavity intermediate the outer and inner shells for holding a coolant fluid within the at least one cavity, and a coolant source in communication with the helmet, the coolant source instantaneously providing a coolant fluid chilled to a temperature sufficient to slow the metabolism of the brain. When the coolant source is activated, the helmet becomes instantly chilled rapidly cooling the brain to a temperature sufficient to slow the metabolism of the brain a sufficient amount so that the mammal remains neurologically intact while efforts are made to restore regular blood flow to the brain of the mammal.

Abstract: A thermal treatment pack and corresponding retainer apparatus that provide not only a desirable thermal source, but also a highly configurable retainer apparatus. According to one embodiment, the thermal source includes frozen peas stored in transparent bags. The transparent bags are selectively attachable through hook-and-loop fasteners. According to the preferred embodiment, the retainer apparatus includes two washable cloth strips. The cloth strips include hook-and-loop fasteners for attaching the transparent bags to the retainer apparatus.

Abstract: The present invention provides a facial treatment device which can repeat warming and cooling of the face of a person while the massages are given to the face at the same time, whereby the beauty effects such as the facial treatment and body slimming can be mutually and efficiently can be obtained. A Peltier element 12 is placed adjacent to a probe 11 having a high thermal conductivity, which can abut the face of a person 19 to be treated. Then, the current is supplied by a DC power supply 101 to the Peltier element 12 as well as the direction of the current is switched between the forward and backward directions by the selector switch 100. Thereby, the cooling and warming of the probe 11 is repeated. At the same time, a motor 15 having an eccentric weight 17 attached thereto is driven, whereby the probe 11 is vibrated.

Abstract: A patient's body temperature is regulated by using an enclosure to enclose a portion of the patient's body in an isolated environment. In accordance with one embodiment, the patient's entire body below his head is enclosed. Once enclosed, the patient is surrounded by heated vapor that is injected into the enclosure. The heated vapor condenses on the patient's skin to warm the patient quickly, efficiently and safely. This embodiment is well suited for the treatment of hypothermia patients. In accordance with alternative embodiments, only a portion of the patient's head is enclosed. In these embodiments, an enclosure is placed on the patient's head, and heated vapor is fed into the enclosure. Excess air and vapor are preferably dissipated by vents in the cap, whereas excess condensate is preferably absorbed by an absorbent layer provided in the cap. These embodiments are well suited for regulating a patient's body temperature in a surgical setting.

Abstract: A face masque that applies cooling therapy to facial features of a patient. The masque is formed of two nylon or plastic layers that define a closed interior space and filled with a cooling medium that includes water, glycerin and hydroxyethyl cellulose. The masque controls the rate of heat dissipation from a user based upon the heat capacity, mass, rheology and composition of the materials used. The masque is lighter than conventional water-filled ice packs. It remains unfrozen and malleable even when cooled to sub-zero temperatures at which water-filled packs would freeze solid. The masque readily conforms to facial features due to the materials used, thereby contributing to improved comfort on the part of a user. Further, the masque possesses improved cooling therapy because it remains cold for longer periods of time relative to water-filled ice packs. Optionally, the masque accommodates eye inserts placed between a main body of the masque and recesses of the patient's eyes.

Abstract: A cooling system for the head, neck, and spine to reduce swelling caused by trauma to the brain is disclosed comprising a head device having a front panel and a back panel, a neck brace supporting the head device using a front rigid member and a back rigid member, and a cooling medium that cools the head device when activated.

Abstract: A sweatband system is provided including a band having an inner cloth layer with a heating element mounted therein and connected to a battery pack situated on the band. The band further has an elastomeric outer layer which is defined by an inner face and an outer face which form an interior space for housing a cold pack. The band further includes a pair of ends each with a fastener mounted thereon for securing the band about a body part of a user.

Abstract: The invention relates generally to methods and apparatus for inducing hypothermia in an animal. Known methods for inducing hypothermia all involve cooling the outside or inside of an animal, sometimes in conjuction with drugs that disable the animal's homeostatic responses. The present invention is directed to a method and apparatus for applying heat to the hypothalamus of a warm-blooded animal in order to utilize the physiological mechanisms that regulate body temperature to effect a compensatory cooling response, thereby lowering body temperature. It is new and unsuggested in the art to apply heat in an effort to reduce body temperature.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for regulating the temperature of the scalp of a person undergoing chemotherapy or like treatment, for instance. The apparatus comprising a head covering (1) that includes a plurality of chambers (4) that extend from the edge (5) of the head covering up towards the crown (7) of said covering, such that the coolant inlets (9) are located at the bottom of the head covering in the vicinity of its edge (5) and the outlets (10) are located at the top of the head covering in the vicinity of its crown (7).

Abstract: An improved structure of a multifunctional eye mask comprising an elastic tightening strap, a main body, a heat healing device and a controller, characterized in that the elastic tightening strap is used to tie the mask to the eyes of user, the front section of the belt is mounted with the main body and the heat healing device, and the main body includes an air pump, an air releasing valve, a tube, a pair of vibration motors, a buzzer, a wiring board, and the exterior of the main body is provided with wires linked to the controller, the heat healing device consists of a front and a rear protective plate formed into a mask-like structure containing an air sac, a heat-emitting element, an air inlet for the air sac and the heat-emitting element are connected to the main body, the controller is provided with a circuit device with controlling switches and adjusting knobs on the surface thereof, thereby when in use, by means of the circuit device, the air sac and the heat emitting element expand and contract and em

Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating hiccups is disclosed. In the method, a physiological cold block is applied to the neck of a hiccuping individual at the level of the Adam's apple lateral to the sternocleidomastoid muscles near the superficially coursing phrenic nerve and/or medial to the sternocleidomastoid muscles near the superficially coursing vagus nerve. The apparatus provides a means for applying such a physiological cold block.

Abstract: A device to treat the temporomandibular and maxillomandibular region of patient with cryo, thermal and/or compression therapy is disclosed. The device comprises a fabric layer anatomically designed to contact the temporomandibular joint and the maxillomandibular region, an inflatable layer, and a heater for heating the masticatory muscles, the temporomandibular joint and temporal regions. In an alternative embodiment, a device comprises a fabric layer designed to contact the maxillomandibular region, an inflatable layer, a hard plate placed on said fabric layer to resist bulging of said inflatable layer when inflated, and a conductive layer covering said inflatable layer. Methods to use the device to treat the maxillomandibular region and temporomandibular joint of a patient are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to disposable thermal neck wraps having one or more thermal packs comprising a unified structure having at least one continuous layer of semirigid material, which has different stiffness characteristics over a range of temperatures, and a plurality of heat cells, wherein the heat energy is applied to specific areas of the upper back, neck and shoulders. More particularly, the present invention relates to disposable thermal neck wraps having good conformity to user's upper back, neck, and shoulders which provides consistent, convenient, and comfortable heat application.

Abstract: The present invention relates to disposable thermal neck wraps having one or more thermal packs comprising a unified structure having at least one continuous layer of semirigid material, which has different stiffness characteristics over a range of temperatures, and a plurality of heat cells, wherein the heat energy is applied to specific areas of the upper back, neck and shoulders. More particularly, the present invention relates to disposable thermal neck wraps having good conformity to user's upper back, neck, and shoulders which provides consistant, convienent, and comfortable heat application.

Abstract: A gel pad and gel pad system for application of heat or cold to various parts of a human body through the use of a pad and headpiece, pad and strap or a combination of pad, headpiece, pad and strap.

Abstract: A portable apparatus and corresponding method is provided for treating or preventing at least one of brain, brain-stem and associated nervous tissue injuries in a mammal suffering from decreased blood flow to the brain. The apparatus includes a flexible enveloping member for enveloping a head, neck and upper back of a mammal. The enveloping member includes outer and inner shells with at least one cavity intermediate the outer and inner shells for holding a coolant fluid within the at least one cavity. A coolant source is provided in communication with the enveloping member.

Abstract: A head supporting therapeutic pillow including an outer cover containing a pair of spaced pressure stimulators, a layer of cushioning material and a freezable liquid enclosed in at least one flexible pouch. The pressure stimulators are preferably spaced apart by a stabilizer bar. In a preferred method of use, the pillow is placed on the back of an individual's neck while the liquid is in a frozen or semi-frozen state. In an alternative embodiment, the pillow includes slots for supporting a strap enabling the pillow to be worn.

Abstract: An anti-cold ears cushion is provided. The ears cushion is composed of an arcuate headband in conforming with the head of human and a pair of ear cushions coupled with two ends of the headband. The cushion each includes a base having a lock and a first electrical socket on outer surface and an electrical heating plate on the inner surface connecting to the socket by a pair of first cords, and a pad of warm soft material sleeve onto the base and engageable with the ears of human. A battery seat is receivable in the front pocket of garment and includes a switch and a second electrical socket connected to the first electrical socket by a second cords, when the switch is turned-on, the heating plate inside each of the ear cushions will provide adequate heat to warm the ears in a cold weather.

Abstract: A therapeutic wrap adapted to use with a vaporizing ointment for relieving the discomfort of colds and sore throats. The invention includes a therapeutic kit having a vaporizing ointment and a wrap. The wrap is composed of an elongated piece of fabric, preferably flannel. The fabric has a throat end and a chest end. The throat end has a width approximately corresponding to the length of a human neck. The chest end has a width greater than the width of the throat end. At least two mating portions of hook and loop fastener are attached to opposite surfaces of the fabric. The hook and loop fastener secures the wrap around the neck so that the chest end drapes over the chest. The wrap helps to keep the patient's neck and chest warm and protected from drafts so that the vaporizing ointment can have its maximum effect. The wrap also protects the patient's clothing. The wrap is comfortable, looks neat, and holds securely, so that the patient's mobility is enhanced.

Abstract: An ice cooling apparatus and method therefor that comprise a number of ice pockets slideably attached to an adjustable strap for securing them in place around a wearer's body. By positioning the ice pockets on the painful areas, a wearer is assured of continuous contact and cooling effect, with the attendant benefits resulting from ice treatment. Because the apparatus is strapped around the wearer's body, it is not necessary to use one's hands to keep it in place, thus allowing the wearer to be freed from the usual constraint of having to hold the ice bag on the sore site.

Abstract: A facial steamer having an adjustable steamer arm, which includes a steamer spread arm, a first adjustable device, a second adjustable device hingedly and rotatably connect to the first adjustable device by means of two connecting means, a steam transporting mean, and a mounting device for rotatably mounting the second adjustable device in position, enables the adjustable steamer arm to be selectively rotated along an connecting axis thereof and swung up and down for enabling the cosmetician to selectively adjust the adjustable steamer arm to an adequate position with respect to the face position of the patient more easily. Moreover, the facial steamer is specifically designed to be located at a hand reaching position close to the cosmetician for ensuring easy operation.

Abstract: A method for skin treatment consists of the steps of applying a moisturizing cream to the face, covering the face from the scalp to the neck with a soft light weight moist towel, covering this towel with a plastic sheet, and applying towels soaked in very hot water to the plastic sheet slowly bringing the temperature up to a level comfortable to the client and maintaining this temperature by continuously replacing the hot towels for a period sufficient to perform the skin treatment. The towels and plastic sheet are then removed and the face cleansed of the material drawn from the pores.

Abstract: A personal heat control has a housing (4) accommodating a Peltier-effect unit (1), one or more batteries 15 and a timing switch (9) for selective energisation of the unit (1). The housing (4) is releasably attached to a part of a person's body, e.g. the wrist, by a strap (5) with a cooling surface cooled by the unit (1) in contact with the body part to enhance heat transfer between the person's body and the surrounding air for comfort and refreshment purposes when the unit (1) is energised.

Abstract: Flexible icecaps for overlying the top of a user's head. The icecaps have plural chambers formed between inner and outer flexible material layers. A first embodiment includes an ice cap having a front chamber two side chambers and a rear chamber which are each separated from one another wherein at least one chamber can be filled with a coolant liquid such as ice, so that icecap can be partially used for localized headaches. A second embodiment includes two front chambers, on the right and left side, and two rear chambers, on the right and rear side. Chin straps can be used to hold the cap in place. Elastic bands can be used to separate each of the chambers and aid in elastically holding the cap in place on the user's head. Waterproof portals can be used to access each of the chambers on the top of the icecap. Portals can be either screw on caps or rubberized plugs. A third embodiment includes a single flexible layer shaped as a helmet to fit over the head of a user.

Abstract: A computer-controlled, servo-mechanism associated with a system for treating a subject having a neuro-cerebral disorder characterized by internal lesions, the system including an applicator that projects a corona discharge beam toward an external site on the subject adjacent the lesions. The servo-mechanism is adapted to position the applicator to cause the beam projected therefrom to trace a pattern of movement on the site in accordance with a program entered into the computer controlling the mechanism, whereby all areas on the lesions are subjected by the beam to ion bombardment that acts to alleviate the disorder. To maintain the site steady during treatment, the subject is seated in and confined to a jig chair behind whose back rest is installed the servo-mechanism.

Abstract: A therapeutic system comprises a generator for generating moist heat in vapor form. The generator comprises a housing having a vapor chamber and a fluid reservoir, the fluid reservoir for receiving a fluid to be vaporized. The housing further contains a heater for heating the fluid received in the fluid reservoir in a first controlled manner to produce the moist heat in vapor form, wherein the moist heat in vapor form produced is contained in the vapor chamber. An interface remote from the generator interfaces the moist heat in vapor form with a desired treatment area. A delivery mechanism connected between the generator and the interface delivers the moist heat in vapor form from the generator to the interface in a second controlled manner.

Abstract: This invention discloses a device and a method for resuscitating the brain as result of ischemic and anoxic injuries whereby the patient survives neurologically intact. The device includes a head enveloping helmet and neck supporting back plate with interconnected hollow cavities to allow chilled fluid from an activated coolant source to pass therethrough and subsequently chill the brain and upper spinal column. Once chilled, the brain's metabolism is slowed whereby resuscitation efforts can continue while neurologic damage is minimized. The method includes placing and adjusting the helmet on the patient's head, placing the back plate under the patient's neck and into abutment with the helmet, connecting the helmet to the coolant source and activating the coolant source.

Abstract: Headwear (2) for use in applying cold to a person's scalp, which headwear (2) is flat when it is not being worn, is foldable around a person's head (4) when it is being worn, and is securable on the person's head (4), by a plurality of fastener means (6), the headwear (2) being such that the folding nature of the headwear (2) and the plurality of fastener means (6) enables the headwear (2) to be folded as a close fit on the person's head (4) irrespective of different persons with different shapes and sizes of head, and the headwear (2) being such that is has double skinned portions (8, 10) which contain a cold retaining medium which gives up its cold to the person's scalp when the headwear (2) is being worn.

Abstract: A migraine reliever is provided including a headband. Further provided is at least one of pressure applicator situated on the head band for effecting the application of pressure to selected points on a head of a user.

Abstract: An inexpensive heat transfer device which is readily pliable at freezing temperatures conforms to living tissue regions. The heat transfer device conforms to the contours of the living tissue to facilitate heat transfer between the device and the tissue regions which in turn reduces pain or swelling in the tissue regions from surgical procedures. The heat transfer device includes a first container and several second smaller containers disposed and freely flowable in the first container.

Abstract: A new heatable hair cap for providing heat to a wearer's head to aid in the styling of the wearer's hair. The inventive device includes a cap member having an interior layer and an exterior layer defining a cap member interior space between them. Provided within the cap member interior space is a heatable gel solution for providing heat to the head cavity.

Abstract: A cold pressure apparatus for relieving headache pain including an elongate member constrictively engagable about a head, and a cooling material carried by the elongate member for compressive and cooling engagement with the head.

Abstract: A device to reduce pain, relax muscle spasm, decrease swelling, and increase circulation to the bones, joints, and muscles of the face of a patient having temporomandibular joint dysfunction, the device having a thin, hexagonal configuration with an essentially uniform cross-section, and a flexible outer envelope having a perimeter limited to covering an area on one side of a patient's face to minimally include the area over the rear portion of the patient's mandible, the zygomatic arch, the front portion of the temporal bone, the great wing of the sphenoid bone, the lower front portion of the parietal bone, the outer envelope also having hook material on both sides of the upper panel placed away from the patient's face so that it can also be used inside-out against the opposite side of the patient's face and the lower rear portion of the frontal bone.

Abstract: A disposable thermal pad includes a substantially planar laminate structure having a first side and a second side and a plurality of heat generating cells embedded between the first and the second sides. The plurality of heat generating cells each are spaced apart and fixedly attached to the laminate structure. The laminate structure provides oxygen permeability to each of the plurality of heat generating cells. Oxygen permeability is achieved entirely on the first side of the laminate structure. The disposable thermal pad is releasably attachable to an inside portion of a user's clothing. The disposable thermal pad is releasably attachable on its first side of the laminate structure so that the second side of the thermal pad may be placed directly against a user's body.

Abstract: An article of headgear has a headband portion and ear covering portions which cover the ears of the wearer and pair of open ended pockets in the ear covering portions which removably receive and carry a packet of exothermic heat dispensing material to warm the ears of the wearer. In a first embodiment, the headband is formed of a pair of curved bands of resilient flexible material curved to fit over the top of the person's head and slidably connected in overlapped relation such that the length of the headband portion may be adjusted to fit various head sizes, and the ear covering portions are ear pads secured on the outer ends of the headband. In a second embodiment, the headband is a continuous circular configuration formed of flexible elastic material which encircle the person's head and the laterally opposed ear covering portions and pockets are integrally formed on the circular headband.

Abstract: A thermal blanket including an inflatable covering having a plurality of apertures for delivering a thermally-controlled medium to a patient sitting in a chair. The inflatable covering includes an upper sheet and a base sheet connected at a periphery. The periphery includes a shoulder-facing head section proximate to the head of the patient, a foot section opposite thereto, a first side section extending from the head section to the foot section, and a second side section opposite thereto. A non-inflatable shoulder drape is formed in the head section. The shoulder drape includes an aperture for accommodating the head of the sitting patient so that the thermal blanket is affixed to the sitting patient. An uninflatable first side drape is formed in the first side section and an uninflatable second side drape is formed in the second side section. An uninflatable foot drape may also be formed in the foot section of the inflatable covering.

Abstract: A piece of flexible material forms a neck wrap having a first wing portion, a second wing portion, a central body portion therebetween, and a body-facing side. The neck wrap also has a plurality of individual thermal elements embedded therein. The plurality of thermal elements have a pattern which approximates the shape and location of muscles in the user's upper back, lower neck, and shoulders. The pattern has a gap bisecting the central portion corresponding to the user's spine. The neck wrap also has means for maintaining the piece of flexible material in a desired position once the piece of flexible material has been draped over the user's shoulders. The central portion is centered at the user's upper back and lower neck and the first and second wing portions lay across the user's shoulders and rest on the user's chest. One means for maintaining the piece of flexible material in position includes adhesive patches attached to the first and second wing portions on said body-facing side thereof.

Abstract: A substantially triangular piece of flexible material, which has the appearance of a delta-winged aircraft when flattened. The piece of flexible material has a first wing portion, a second wing portion, a central body portion therebetween, and a body-facing side. The neck wrap also has a plurality of individual thermal elements embedded therein. The plurality of thermal elements have a pattern which approximates the shape and location of muscles in the user's upper back, lower neck, and shoulders. The pattern has a gap bisecting the central portion corresponding to the user's spine. The neck wrap maintains piece of flexible material in a desired position once the piece of flexible material has been draped over the user's shoulders. The central portion is centered at the user's upper back and lower neck and the first and second wing portions lay across the user's shoulders and rest on the user's chest.

Abstract: A thermal blanket including an inflatable covering having a plurality of apertures for delivering a thermally-controlled medium to a patient sitting in a chair. The inflatable covering includes an upper sheet and a base sheet connected at a periphery. The periphery includes a shoulder-facing head section proximate to the head of the patient, a foot section opposite thereto, a first side section extending from the head section to the foot section, and a second side section opposite thereto. A non-inflatable shoulder drape is formed in the head section. The shoulder drape includes an aperture for accommodating the head of the sitting patient so that the thermal blanket is affixed to the sitting patient. An uninflatable first side drape is formed in the first side section and an uninflatable second side drape is formed in the second side section. An uninflatable foot drape may also be formed in the foot section of the inflatable covering.

Abstract: A disposable thermal pad comprises a substantially planar laminate structure having a first side and a second side and a plurality of heat generating cells embedded between the first and the second sides. The plurality of heat generating cells each are spaced apart and fixedly attached to the laminate structure. The laminate structure has means for providing oxygen permeability to each of the plurality of heat generating cells. The means for providing oxygen permeability is located entirely on the first side of the laminate structure. The disposable thermal pad also comprises means for releasably attaching the thermal pad to an inside portion of a user's clothing. The means for releasably attaching is also located on the first side of the laminate structure so that the second side of the thermal pad may be placed directly against a user's body.

Abstract: The present invention is a heating and cooling pad for therapeutically treating the orbital, frontal, nasal, and temporal regions of a patient's head with a non-ambient temperature fluid that circulates through the pad. The pad includes a pair of molded membranes that enclose a central reservoir. Capillaries extend outwardly from opposing sides of the central reservoir into collector channels that extend around the outer periphery of the pad. The reservoir and collector channels are connected to an external source of the fluid. The design of the reservoir and capillaries is optimized to deliver the temperature-adjusting fluid to key anatomical structures. The pad includes a unique integral support structure including a universal joint, that allows adjustment of its shape.

Abstract: A therapeutic massage mask comprises an elongated resilient plastic pouch having a length and width which is greater than the thickness thereof. The pouch is filled with a plurality of spherical balls made of a thermal transfer material, such as hard plastic, ceramic, or hollow spheres filled with BLUE ICE.RTM. material. The pouch is placed in a freezer to lower the temperature of the balls located within it. Subsequently, the pouch then may be applied to overlie a portion of the human body and a gentle rolling action on the side of the pouch opposite the body causes the balls to transfer a massaging action to the portion of the body underlying the pouch. At the same time, the balls function to cool the underlying body portion, thereby serving a dual function.

Abstract: A garment applies heat to the neck, head or torso with air-activated chemical heating packets. The garment is formed from cloth and is preferably soft and sufficiently supple to conform to the body contours during use. The garment has at least one pouch positioned between two layers of cloth for holding the air-activated heat-producing packet. A layer of cloth between the heating packet and the body is a high pile cloth with air-trapping qualities for diffusing heat supplied by the heating packet to distribute the heat evenly to the body for assuring comfort for the user. In one form of the invention, the garment comprises a neck wrap, scarf, bandanna, a head covering in the form of a hat liner, or a cap insert. The neck wrap, scarf or bandanna includes an elongated pouch for holding the heating packet and has overlapping ends that can be fastened together by means of hook-and-loop fasteners.