Abstract:
A source of pressurized gas is attached to a dynamic pressure wave appliance. The pneumatic control circuit connects the source of pressurized gas to a first chamber of the appliance. When the pressure in the first chamber reaches a first predetermined level, a valve seals the first chamber and connects the source so as to inflate a second chamber about the first. When the pressure in the second chamber reaches a second predetermined level, a valve permits the first chamber to deflate while continuing to connect the second chamber for inflation. A valve for sealing the inflated sleeve discontinues the inflation of the sleeve when the pressure therein reaches a third predetermined level. The sequence of operation of the pneumatic control circuit will cause a suitable dynamic pressure wave appliance to apply a pressure to a human or animal extremity which begins at the most distant end and travels up the extremity in the nature of a pressure wave.
Abstract:
This disclosure relates to device for providing continuous negative abdominal pressure (CNAP) which selectively recruits (inflates) the dorsal (spinal region) collapsed areas of the lung, while enabling the patient to remain in the supine (usual) position. The CNAP device includes a rigid frame configured to have a shape and size to envelop a patient's lower chest and abdominal area while in a supine position with the frame having opposed edges which sit on a surface on which the supine patient is resting. A series of panels are mounted in the frame such that the series of panels extend around the patient's lower chest and abdominal area. A flexible sheet wrapped around the outside of the panels and is long enough to extend up to the patient's upper chest and down to the patient's thighs and wide enough to envelop the supine patient's lower chest and abdominal area. Sealing members are to seal the flexible sheet over the frame and panels and around the patient's lower chest and pelvis, wherein a chamber is formed between the patient and said device when the patient is enveloped by the device. An air inlet coupling extends through one of the panels and is attachable to a suction source which is configured to generate negative pressure of between about -5 to about -10 cm H 2 O inside the chamber.
Abstract:
A physical therapy or palpation evaluation or diagnosis device, system, and method for evaluating the condition of a patient's body, for example, the spine and/or soft tissue. The physical therapist currently uses palpation to subjectively evaluate the condition of the spine, soft tissue and/or muscle of the patient. The physical therapist assigns a subjective score (from 0-1 0) based on the stiffness and /or mobility of the vertebrae. If a different physical therapist examines the same patient later in the treatment process, the subjective evaluation from the prior therapist would be difficult to interpret.
Abstract:
Acoustical-based methods that increase tissue oxygenation, and equipment for carrying out the methods, are provided. The methods involve exposing tissue to low frequency sound in order to increase blood flow in the tissue, and hence oxygenation of the tissue. The methods may be used to treat or prevent disorders related to ischemia and low blood flow, such as shock, stroke and congestive heart failure.
Abstract:
The invention provides a compression device for the limb of a mobile patient. The device includes an inflatable sleeve adapted to surround the limb; a conduit attached to the sleeve for delivering fluid to the sleeve; and a portable, wearable controller attached to the conduit that generates and controls the flow of fluid in the device.