Abstract: A thermal treatment device formed to the shape of the human hand. The device may include an inner layer formed to surround the hand, and having an opening in one end to allow the hand to be inserted therein, and an outer layer formed to surround the inner layer and forming at least one pocket between the inner layer and the outer layer. A thermal gel occupies the pocket, the thermal gel retaining a temperature to which it is subjected and transmitting said temperature via the inner layer.

Abstract: An apparatus for applying a temperature therapy to a hand includes an outer member and an inner member. The inner member functions to at least temporarily maintain a therapy temperature. In one embodiment, the therapy temperature is less than an ambient temperature. The outer member receives the inner member and defines a pocket for receiving a thumb of the hand. The outer member includes a feature for selectively attaching to the hand and further provides for use by either a right or a left hand.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of an exothermic composition having, as essential components, a water absorptive polymer and/or tackifier, carbon component and/or metal chloride and features that the product is as a whole ink-like or cream-like in a method of manufacturing an exothermic device.

Abstract: The present invention provides a thermal treatment pack that includes a tubular body having a first opening, a second opening, an inner surface and an outer surface. The first opening, the inner surface and the second opening cooperate to define a passage through the tubular body for the limb. The inner surface and the outer surface of the tubular body are defined by a continuous film of flexible material such as a copolymer of polyester and polyurethane. A temperature-retaining fluid such as a water-based gel is received between the inner surface and the outer surface. Optionally, a thermal pack according to the invention can be covered with a fabric layer to provide insulation between the continuous film of flexible material and a user's skin. The diameter of the passage through the thermal treatment pack is preferably smaller than or equal to the diameter of the injured limb, which causes the inner surface of the thermal treatment pack to make contact the limb or an insulating wrap placed over the limb.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system for manipulating a core body temperature of a mammal. The system of the invention includes a chamber for enclosing a body portion of a mammal and a seal in operative association with the chamber for sealing the chamber around the body portion and for inhibiting movement of the body portion relative to the chamber when the system is in operation. A thermal energy exchange system in operative association with the chamber includes an energy element assembly coupled to a flexible membrane assembly. The flexible membrane assembly facilitates an exchange of energy between the energy element assembly and the body portion. A vacuum system is operatively associated with the chamber while the thermal energy exchange system is in operation. The vacuum system generates a sub-atmospheric pressure within the chamber.

Abstract: An apparatus for adjusting the body temperature of a patient comprises an enclosure defining an interior space for receiving at least a portion of a patient's body therein. The enclosure is adapted for substantially sealingly enclosing the portion of the patient's body within the interior space with the enclosure. Heat transfer liquid may then be circulated through the interior space of the enclosure via an inlet and an outlet for flow over the patient's body in direct liquid contact therewith to promote heat transfer between the patient's body and said heat transfer liquid. The heat transfer liquid may be either warmer or cooler than the patient's body temperature, to either warm or cool the portion. Controlled cooling may be employed to induce therapeutic hypothermia, while controlled warming may be employed to counteract unintended hypothermia.

Abstract: A blanket system (1) is provided for maintaining or controlling a patient's body temperature before, during, or after surgical and non-surgical procedures. The system includes a non-obtrusive cover blanket (3), a blower (28) to blow the air beneath the blanket (3) and a vacuum source (30) to suction the air from beneath the blanket (3) and away from the patient.

Abstract: An apparatus for applying a temperature therapy to a hand includes an outer member and an inner member. The inner member functions to at least temporarily maintain a therapy temperature. In one embodiment, the therapy temperature is less than an ambient temperature. The outer member receives the inner member and defines a pocket for receiving a thumb of the hand. The outer member includes a feature for selectively attaching to the hand and further provides for use by either a right or a left hand.

Abstract: Methods and devices for extracting thermal energy from the core body of a mammal are provided. In practicing the subject methods, a portion of the mammal, e.g. a limb or portion thereof, is placed in a sealed enclosure to produce an enclosed portion of the mammal. A surface of the enclosed portion of the mammal is then contacted with a low temperature medium under negative pressure conditions for a period of time sufficient to provide for the desired core body thermal energy extraction. The subject methods and devices find use in a variety of applications, e.g. providing relief from temperature sensitive disorders, such as multiple sclerosis, and the treatment of hyperthermia, among other treatments. The subject methods and devices are particularly suited for use in enhancing the physical ability of a mammal.

Abstract: An apparatus for melting paraffin wax is provided. It includes an integral plastic inner tub attached to an integral aluminum plate holder, each of which has a flat bottom and a sloped wall. A positive temperature coefficient heating element is attached to the flat bottom of the aluminum plate holder for self regulating to a preset temperature by autonomously varying the positive temperature coefficient heating element electrical resistance in response to the temperature of the positive temperature coefficient heating element thereby varying a power dissipation of the positive temperature coefficient heating element in order to maintain the positive temperature coefficient heating element at the preset temperature. Heat from the positive temperature coefficient heating element is transferred from the integral aluminum plate holder to the integral plastic inner tub via the flat bottoms and the sloped walls thereby melting any wax inside the integral plastic inner tub.

Abstract: A thermal treatment device formed to the shape of the human hand. The device may include an inner layer formed to surround the hand, and having an opening in one end to allow the hand to be inserted therein, and an outer layer formed to surround the inner layer and forming at least one pocket between the inner layer and the outer layer. A thermal gel occupies the pocket, the thermal gel retaining a temperature to which it is subjected and transmitting said temperature via the inner layer.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for bathing body parts, such as the feet. The apparatus includes a bath chamber for containing fluid, such as water, and receiving the body part therein. The bath chamber includes a bottom surface and a wall structure extending upwardly therefrom. A pump is disposed adjacent to the bottom surface of the bath chamber, and a bubble egress tube is provided in communication with the pump and the bath chamber bottom surface. The bubble egress tube has a continuous configuration which traverses a surface area of the bath chamber bottom surface having a width dimension greater than the width of the egress tube. Air from the pump is directed into the bath chamber through egress holes formed in the bubble egress tube, thereby generating air bubbles in the fluid contained in the bath chamber.

Abstract: An apparatus for warming a portion of a human body, such as a foot of a neonatal infant, comprising an elongated, flexible pouch defining an internal chamber containing a selecting initiable heat generating material, the pouch including a first relatively longer segment and a second relatively shorter segment joined along a narrower neck region. The two segments are independently securable to, for example, the foot of an infant, the longer first segment being secured to the bottom of the foot and extending to the heel and the shorter segment extending upwardly from the heel. Independent securement may be effected by a strap secured to and extending transversely from each segment and having adhesive at a distal end thereof, one strap being wrapped over the instep of the infant to secure the larger segment and the other strap being wrapped forwardly about the ankle, the distal ends of both straps being adhered to their respect segments.

Abstract: A therapeutic device and boot designed to provide hot or cold therapy to the foot of a patient. The boot has a sole, said sole has a top and bottom surfaces, said top surface has placed on it a plurality of thermal bumps. The thermal bumps have an elongated shape and are filled with a thermal substance, which is capable of maintaining a heated or cooled state. Once the thermal device or the boot are initially heated or cooled, the foot is placed therein. When the thermal bumps contact the foot, heating or cooling of the contacted area is accomplished, and will continue for a prolonged period of time.

Abstract: The Topical Therapeutic Thermos for Humans and Other Animals herein described has been invented for the purpose of providing; an effective means of reducing and/or preventing swelling and pain that is often associated with physical injury, strenuous work and/or exercise; an effective means of reducing swelling and pain following surgery; an effective means of supplying cooling temperature uniformly to areas of a living body in order to avoid injury caused by swelling due to repetitive physical stress; an effective means of supplying warming temperature uniformly to areas of a living body to aid in physical therapy and speed in recovery of injury; and an effective means of extending the athletic lives of professional and amateur human and non-human athletes.

Abstract: A portable device of coiled copper tubing and copper sheet metal construction that is ergonomically designed to provide a combination of beneficial practices into one more effective method, and devices for inflammation control, injury immobilization and therapy. The combination of copper in contact with the skin, the ability to perform hot and cold treatments, or steady cold treatments for an extended period of time, and the ability to provide adjustable ergonomic support provide an improve method and devices for the treatment of injuries, aches, and pains.

Abstract: A therapeutic device and boot designed to provide hot or cold therapy to the foot of a patient. The boot has a sole, said sole has a top and bottom surfaces, said top surface has placed on it a plurality of thermal bumps. The thermal bumps have an elongated shape and are filled with a thermal substance, which is capable of maintaining a heated or cooled state. Once the thermal device or the boot are initially heated or cooled, the foot is placed therein. When the thermal bumps contact the foot, heating or cooling of the contacted area is accomplished, and will continue for a prolonged period of time.

Abstract: A heating or cooling pad for reducing pain or swelling, or increasing range of motion, includes: (a) phase change material having a melting point of between about 42 and 65 degrees Centigrade, or between about −10 and 6 degrees Centigrade; (b) a gel or viscous fluid carrier in which the phase change material is relatively evenly distributed; and (c) a fluid-impermeable, conformable envelope surrounding the phase change material and the carrier. A preferred embodiment herein includes: (a) a fluid-impermeable, flexible, conformable envelope; (b) a mixture of from about 10 to about 75 weight % of alkanes having a carbon chain length of between 12 and 14 or 22 and 30, and from about 25 to about 90 weight % of a gel or viscous fluid carrier in which the alkanes are substantially evenly distributed, the mixture being sealed within the envelope; and (c) at least one layer of insulation adjacent to a first side of the envelope.

Abstract: A therapeutic slipper for retaining heat or cold, and that is comfortable and permits normal and comfortable walking, comprises a sole, and an upper portion disposed in overlying relation above the sole. The upper portion has compartments comprising an outer layer of material and an inner layer of material, and containing a granular temperature retentive material. Preferably, the sole is void of granular temperature retentive material. Alternatively, a pouch contains temperature-retentive granular material and is disposed within a corresponding compartment of the upper portion. A method of fabricating a therapeutic slipper is also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system for manipulating a core body temperature of a mammal. The system of the invention includes a chamber for enclosing a body portion of a mammal and a seal in operative association with the chamber for sealing the chamber around the body portion and for inhibiting movement of the body portion relative to the chamber when the system is in operation. A thermal energy exchange system in operative association with the chamber includes an energy element assembly coupled to a flexible membrane assembly. The flexible membrane assembly facilitates an exchange of energy between the energy element assembly and the body portion. A vacuum system is operatively associated with the chamber while the thermal energy exchange system is in operation. The vacuum system generates a sub-atmospheric pressure within the chamber.

Abstract: An apparatus for raising or maintaining the core temperature of a mammal comprising a radiant heater, for example an LED array for heating the areas of high concentration in Arteriovenous Anastomoses. The LEDs are energised to provide radiant heat energy to the patient hand to achieve a skin temperature with in a predetermined range or a desired core temperature. A pulse oximeter may also be included to sense biological parameters.

Abstract: A band is provided for effecting body temperature changes, locally as well as core body temperature changes. The band includes a shell containing and easily replaced thermal insert filled with a high thermal capacity substance, and may also include thermal insulation, a radiant barrier, or an insulating airs space in order to increase thermal efficiency. The band may be strapped or otherwise attached to a user's body, preferably inside the forearms, directly over the wrists, where core body temperature changes may be effected.

Abstract: The present invention relating to an exothermic decomposition has, as essential components, a water absorptive polymer and/or tackifier, carbon component and/or metal chloride and features that the product is as a whole ink-like or cream-like.

Abstract: The present invention relating to an exothermic decomposition has, as essential components, a water absorptive polymer and/or tackifier, carbon component and/or metal chloride and features that the product is as a whole ink-like or cream-like.

Abstract: A thermal regulatory system to reduce swelling caused by trauma to a variety of tissues and limbs is provided. One or more substantially flexible, at least partially thermally conductive housing containing optionally activatable thermal regulatory medium may be coupled with one or more applicator, such as a splint, that is adapted to apply the medium housing to the tissue. Methods of therapeutically regulating tissue temperature are also provided.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for bathing body parts, such as the feet. The apparatus includes a bath chamber for containing fluid, such as water, and receiving the body part therein. The bath chamber includes a bottom surface and a wall structure extending upwardly therefrom. A pump is disposed adjacent to the bottom surface of the bath chamber, and a bubble egress tube is provided in communication with the pump and the bath chamber bottom surface. The bubble egress tube has a continuous configuration which traverses a surface area of the bath chamber bottom surface having a width dimension greater than the width of the egress tube. Air from the pump is directed into the bath chamber through egress holes formed in the bubble egress tube, thereby generating air bubbles in the fluid contained in the bath chamber.

Abstract: A conformal therapy component of an animate body heat exchanger is described. The therapy component is designed for the foot and ankle of a wearer and includes both calf and vamp parts. A packet containing a thermally conductive gel is positioned at a gap between the vamp and calf parts to transfer the thermal energy state and the air pressure at the remainder of the component to the portion the wearer's foot under the gap. A pressure reactor sole also is provided to inhibit the pressure applied to the foot from tending to “flatten out” the foot.

Abstract: A body warmer for use in footwear is disclosed which is prevented from slipping in footwear and is capable of warming a desired portion accurately, and which includes an exothermic composition capable of generating heat in the presence of air, an air-permeable bag accommodating the composition, and an air-tight bag sealingly enveloping the air-permeable bag, the air-permeable bag being formed with a non-slip layer in at least a portion thereof.

Abstract: By providing an integrated, easily employed holding or support member which is uniquely constructed for cooperating with a heat delivery patch or exothermic pad for optimizing the application of heat directly to a precisely desired location, a local, easily employed, convenient, consumer oriented treatment system for providing heat therapy for a wide variety of medical problems is achieved. In accordance with the present invention, a fully integrated treatment system is realized which possesses broad applicability for a wide range of medical conditions which can be treated or improved by heat penetration into the skin, subcutaneous tissues, joints, muscles, blood streams, etc. In addition, it has also been found that the delivery of drugs, penetration enhancing agents and/or cosmetics through the skin for the purpose of achieving a non-oral and/or non-parenteral, systemic, transdermal delivery is effectively enhanced by the presence of a controlled heat gradient.

Abstract: A wrist/hand therapy component of an animate body heat exchanger is described. Such component is designed to be wrapped snugly about the hand and associated wrist of a human, and has a penetration shaped to receive the thumb of a wearer.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a foot warming exothermic device comprises placing an exothermic composition of a viscous fluid form by printing or coating on one surface of a thin sheet base material and in at least one predetermined portion of the one surface to such a configuration as to cover a desired site of a human foot, and then placing a thin sheet covering material on the fluid exothermic composition so as to cover the exothermic composition, at least one or part of the base material and the covering material being gas permeable.

Abstract: A collapsible posterior splint capable of sustained biplanar (frontal and sagittal) dorsiflexion of the foot. The splint is comprised of a compression support sleeve, inserted into a flexible frame, and utilizing adjustable tension straps. This splint is a method of treatment for foot pain, including plantar fasciitis.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a foot warming exothermic device comprises placing an exothermic composition of a viscous fluid form by printing or coating on one surface of a thin sheet base material and in at least one predetermined portion of the one surface to such a configuration as to cover a desired site of a human foot, and then placing a thin sheet covering material on the fluid exothermic composition so as to cover the exothermic composition, at least one or part of the base material and the covering material being gas permeable.

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: A device which is shaped like a mitt or a glove with separate sheaths for the thumb and fingers. The mitt or glove has surfaces for covering the palm and back of the human hand. Each of the palm and back surfaces is formed as a plenum which is filled with a heat exchange material. The heat exchange material is selected to provide cooling over a reasonably extended period of time, at an appropriate therapeutic temperature. The heat exchange material is preferably a phase change material such as a paraffinic phase change material having a phase change temperature on the order of 50 degrees F. However, other temperatures and materials are contemplated. The mitt or glove is made of a flexible plastic sheet material such as a tripolymer material or polypropylene. The mitt or glove is formed of four die cut sheets of the plastic sheet material which are shaped in the pattern of the outline of a human hand and forearm. The patterned sheets are stacked together and heat sealed together along their periphery.

Abstract: Non-reusable, medicament-dispensing applicator electrodes adapted for use with an iontophoresis device for facilitating delivery of medication across the cutaneous membrane into adjacent underlying tissues and blood vessels. The embodiments of the iontophoresis electrode include an open mesh having cells in the medicament dispensing portions of the electrode which retain a medicament in the form of liquid, gel or ointment. The cells are adapted to contain and iontophoretically dispense and deliver medicament formulations, which have been previously approved for therapeutic use by cognizant regulatory authorities obviating the need for reformulation. The medicament-dispensing electrodes are composite or unitary in construction and may be useful in the treatment of acne and also genital herpes simplex infection which produces cutaneous lesions, including lesions above and below the waist.

Abstract: Fiber, fabric, clothes, and shoes having a material incorporated therein which, when stimulated by energy, emits a predetermined spectrum having a first electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength range selected from the group consisting of about 0.2 .mu.m to about 50 .mu.m, and about 0.4 .mu.m to about 25 .mu.m, and a second radiation having a wavelength range selected from the group consisting of about 7500 .mu.m to about 100,000 .mu.m, and about 5400 .mu.m to about 500,000 .mu.m, similar to radiation generated by the human body over similar ranges. A reflecting layer is adjacent to a fabric having the material incorporated therein such that body heat is conserved so as to achieve a therapeutic result. The energy stimulating the material can be body heat, electrical heat, magnetic energy, or other energy forms.

Abstract: A thermal applicator for medical use which is worn upon or applied directly to the body of a patient to modify its temperature for therapeutic treatment. The preferred embodiment of the present invention contemplates the utilization of a heat pipe having first and second ends and a length, the first and second ends communicating with first and second thermally conductive plates, respectively, the first thermally conductive plate configured to communicate with an exterior portion of the body of the patient and to provide localized thermal treatment, the second thermally conductive plate placed at an area removed from the area to be treated, and configured to accept, for example, an ice pack (or other thermal material or apparatus) to affect a change in the temperature of the second thermally conductive plate, cooling the second end of the heat pipe and allowing the heat pipe to cool the first thermally conductive plate, thereby providing localized cooling of the area to which it is applied.

Abstract: A bootie is provided including a sleeve having a tubular configuration and adapted to be slid onto a foot of a user. At least one pocket is mounted on the sleeve. At least one thermal pack is included to be removably situated within the pocket.

Abstract: A therapeutic pad for heating or cooling has a liquid absorbent to prevent liquid leakage in the event the sealed envelope of the pad is ruptured. The method of forming the pad includes vacuuming the thermoplastic envelope prior to sealing. The pad can be used alone or with a comforter to provide warmth or to remove heat from the body of the user.

Abstract: A sports sandal with a removable insole inside the body of the sandal, which, when removed, allows a user to install a therapeutic comfort device. The therapeutic device can be frozen or warmed according to the user's preference.

Abstract: A device which is shaped like a mitt or glove and has surfaces for covering the palm and back of the human hand. Each of the palm and back surfaces is formed as a plenum which is filled with a heat exchange material. The heat exchange material is selected to provide cooling over a reasonably extended period of time, at an appropriate therapeutic temperature. The heat exchange material is preferably a phase change material such as a paraffinic phase change material having a phase change temperature on the order of 50.degree. F. However, other temperatures and materials are contemplated. The mitt or glove is made of a flexible plastic sheet material such as a tripolymer material or polypropylene. The mitt is formed of four die cut sheets of the plastic sheet material which are shaped in the pattern of the outline of a human hand and forearm. The patterned sheets are stacked together and heat sealed together along their periphery.

Abstract: A device for applying therapy to a human foot having a plantar and a dorsum. The device includes a flexible member adapted to extend around the plantar and dorsum of the foot. The flexible member is formed from a flexible material and has at least one first pouch formed integral therewith for engaging a substantial portion of the plantar of the foot and at least one second pouch formed integral therewith for engaging a substantial portion of the dorsum of the foot. Each of the at least one pouches has a liquid therein for applying heating or cooling to the foot.

Abstract: The present invention relates to disposable elastic thermal uniaxial joint wraps having an elastic laminate structure formed from a polymeric mesh and two fabric carrier layers, and one or more heat cells, preferably one or more thermal packs comprising a plurality of individual heat cells, wherein heat is applied to specific areas of the user's body, preferably for the knee and/or elbow, preferably for pain relief. These wraps provide good conformity to user's body to deliver consistent, convenient and comfortable heat application.

Abstract: A hot/cold digit pack is provided having a molded unit with hollow chambers, dimensioned to accommodate a thumb and different sized fingers, and a heat transferring substance encased by the external walls of the molded unit. The unit has a body formed from a durable and resilient plastic material, capable of withstanding heat and cold, and is adapted to be collapsed upon application of slight hand pressure and a face where the openings to the chambers are located.

Abstract: A prevention and therapeutic support system for body parts susceptible to repetitive strain injury comprising an assembly having a centrally located gel-pack sandwiched between, upper and lower foam layers each having downwardly depending perimeter edges which when placed adjacent to one another form a cavity into which the gel-pack can be placed, the foam layers to to completely encompassing the gel-pack during use, the gel-pack substantially filling the cavity, the gel-pack and foam layers being placed into an outer covering into which maintains the foam in its optimal position around the gel-pack during use, the outer envelope has an opening through which the foam layer and gel-pack can be moved for independent heating and cooling of the gel-pack, the gel-pack being capable of being both heated and chilled, the viscous non-hardening gel material in the gel-pack being able to maintain hot and cold temperatures for extended periods of time.

Abstract: A flexible plastic warming bag may carry a flexible strip having opposed end portions. The strip is attached to the bag at at least one end portion of the strip, in which circumstance the other end portion of the strip projects across the periphery and carries an adhesive surface. Thus the bag may be rolled into essentially tubular configuration about the limb of a patient and retained there. The strip may also be attached at both ends by an adhesive, with the points of attachment being on opposed faces of the bag. The adhesive preferentially adheres to the strip end portion, so that one of the strip end portions may be peeled away, and the bag. rolled in either direction and retained in such configuration.

Abstract: A shallow pouch comprises a broad bottom panel, a plurality of narrow side panels, and a closable flap opposite the bottom panel. The flap includes a plurality of fasteners configured to releasably fasten the flap in a closed position over the pouch. The pouch is adapted to receive a cooling pack therein such that the cooling pack rests on the bottom panel between the side panels and such that the flap covers the cooling pack when the flap is in a closed position over the pouch. A strap is attached to the pouch and includes a strap fastening means adapted to releasably fasten the strap about a human wrist such that the bottom panel rests against an inside of the wrist.

Abstract: A convertible therapeutic wrap includes indicia designating where a pad of the wrap is to be cut to provide a separate, smaller therapeutic wrap when the overall pad is not needed.

Abstract: A computer pad is heated for reducing repetitive motion stress and increasing comfort for a user and for providing potential therapeutic treatment by warming the hand(s) and/or wrist(s) of the user while operating a computer input device such as a mouse or a keyboard. The pad includes an electrical heating device such as a resistance-type heating element embedded in it. If a mouse is used as the input device, it can be either a stationary mouse or a conventional movably positioned mouse that is operated on the level section of the top surface of the pad's upper layer. If a stationary mouse or a keyboard is utilized, the user's hand(s) and/or wrist(s) can be supported by a suitably shaped area within an elevated section of the working surface of the pad. The lower layer of the pad may conveniently include a non-skid bottom surface.