Health industry medical neoprene latex cooling gel around device

Abstract

The present invention will be used to help reduce/decrease, prevent and avoid swelling/edema to all joints and soft tissue areas of the body, which maybe as a result of surgery, athletic injury, slip and fall or systemic medical disorders. The present invention will have a variety of specific body part supports, which will be provided in different shapes and sizes to address the injury in which the present invention is needed. The present invention will wrap around the body part and is held together by Velcro. The present invention is made of neoprene and will have the capability of being placed in a 32 degree environment to turn the inner latex bag of liquid into a cooling gel.

Description

PRIORITY CLAIM

[0001] The present application is a Continued Application of U.S. Non-Provisional patent application titled Health Industry Medical Neoprene Latex Cooling Gel Wrap Around Device, Ser. No. 10/943,398 filed Sep. 16, 2004. The entire disclosure of the Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 10/943,398 is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention provides a cool gel wrap around device that can be used to help reduce, prevent and/or avoid swelling or edema to all joints and soft tissue areas of the body as a result of surgery, athletic injury, slip and fall or systemic medical disorders. The cool gel wrap around device takes several forms in different shapes and sizes in order to accommodate the various joints and/or tissue to which the cool gel wrap around device will be applied, for example the cool shoulder support, cool knee support or cool elbow support, etc. The present invention is provided in different shapes and sizes to further address the injury for which the cool gel wrap around device will be needed. The cool gel wrap around device will wrap around the body part conforming to the individual's shape and size and can be secured by Velcro.RTM., strips, fasteners, buckles, snaps, a combination of the foregoing or other similar securing means.

[0003] The cool gel wrap around device further comprises of elastic, durable, flexible material suitable for wrapping and supporting various body parts and has an inner bag which contains a chemical solution that when placed in a 32.degree. F. environment converts into a cooling gel without freezing. Once the chemical solution has sufficiently cooled, the cool gel wrap around device provides cooling treatment for a prescribed time.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0004] Injuries to muscles and joint tissue are inevitable as people will invariably injure different body parts resulting in pain and/or swelling in their joints and/or tissues requiring the joints or tissues to be iced. Depending on the location of the injury, the affected area may be difficult to isolate and treat. For instance, injury to a middle finger that requires icing poses a logistic problem as it is difficult to immerse the middle finger in for example, a cup of ice without the index and ring finger getting in the way. Similarly, if icing therapy is needed for a bunionectomy, an injured middle toe or the middle and third toes, it would be difficult to provide cooling treatment without involving the entire foot. Thus there exists a need to be able to isolate certain body parts for cooling treatment without unnecessarily engaging unaffected areas.

[0005] When there is swelling or edema to a joint as a result of surgery, athletic injury, slip and fall or systemic medical disorders, the entire joint swells as fluid spreads throughout the entire joint filling the medial, lateral, posterior, anterior, superior and inferior joints causing pain to radiate throughout the entire joint. However, current non-prescription devices that are readily available to the public to provide cooling treatment for injured joints generally provide localized cooling treatment to the anterior joint only and the other joint components do not receive the benefit of the cooling treatment resulting in persistent pain and swelling until the fluid subsides from the entire joint. Thus, there exists a need to be able to provide a comprehensive cooling treatment suitable for treating all of the various components of a joint that is also readily available to the public and is cost effective to use.

[0006] Another limitation of icing joints or tissues is the lack of portability of the treatment, as traveling with wet ice is not only impractical since it is messy and will melt over time, but finding replacement ice can be challenging when traveling in remote areas. Generally, cooling treatment to certain body parts like an ankle limits the individual's mobility as the individual is required to be stationary for a prescribed period of time with a bag of ice. Additionally, appropriate measures must be taken to accommodate the buildup of condensation as the ice melts. Towels are frequently used to absorb the accumulated moisture, but traveling with a wet towel in a travel bag can ruin or damage your clothes and/or other travel items. Thus there exists a need for a cooling treatment that is travel friendly, convenient and has an appropriate wrap for providing cooling treatment for an injury.

[0007] The present invention satisfies these longstanding unmet needs.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] An object of the present invention is to provide a cool gel wrap around device to help reduce/decrease, prevent and avoid swelling/edema to all joints and soft tissue areas of the body. The cool gel wrap around device takes several forms in order to accommodate the various joints and tissue to which the cool gel wrap around device may be applied. For example, the cool gel wrap around device will fit the shoulders, back, head, feet, wrist, arms, neck, thighs, calves, fingers, legs, toes and ankle.

[0009] Another object of the present invention is to surround all of the various component parts of a joint, the anterior, posterior, lateral, medial, superior and inferior joints, so that the cooling treatment can be uniformly applied to the entire joint.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to provide uniform cooling treatment to an injured tissue area to reduce the swelling.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to provide a cool gel wrap around device which includes a chemical solution such that when the chemical solution is refrigerated the chemical solution may gel without freezing at 32.degree. F. Once the present invention has been refrigerated for at least 30 minutes the cool gel wrap around device will cool the joint and/or tissue for 15-30 minutes or more depending on the other external factors like geographical location, room temperature or the environmental temperature.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to provide a convenient, travel friendly cool gel wrap around device that is portable without being messy.

[0013] Another object of the present invention is the ability of the present invention to stretch, conform and fit the body part being treated.

[0014] Another object of the present invention is to provide a cooling gel wrap around device that is durable, elastic, yet supportive and is suitable for wrapping joints and/or tissues.

[0015] Yet another object of the invention is the ability to provide cooling treatment to isolated joints or tissues without unnecessarily impacting non-affected body parts.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] The present invention is illustrated by way of example and not limitation in the accompanying figures, in which like references indicate similar elements, and in which:

[0017] FIG. 1 illustrates a front, perspective view of the cool shoulder support.

[0018] FIG. 1B illustrates an individual wearing the cool shoulder support.

[0019] FIG. 2 illustrates a rear, perspective view of the cool shoulder support of FIG. 1.

[0020] FIG. 3 illustrates a cross section view of the invention.

[0021] FIG. 4 illustrates the individual chamber configuration of the inner bag for use in the cool shoulder support.

[0022] FIG. 5 illustrates a front, perspective of the cool elbow support.

[0023] FIG. 6 illustrates a rear, perspective view of the cool elbow support.

[0024] FIG. 7 illustrates the individual chamber configuration of the inner bag for use in the cool elbow support.

[0025] FIG. 8 illustrates a front, perspective of the cool knee support.

[0026] FIG. 9 illustrates rear, perspective view of the cool knee support.

[0027] FIG. 10 illustrates the individual chamber configuration of the inner bag for use in the cool knee support.

[0028] FIG. 11 illustrates the top view of the cool footy support and the front view of the cool ankle support.

[0029] FIG. 11B illustrates the side view of the cool footy support.

[0030] FIG. 12 illustrates a bottom view of the cool footy support and the cool ankle support.

[0031] FIG. 13 illustrates the individual chamber configuration of the inner bag for use in the cool foot support and the cool ankle support.

[0032] FIG. 14 illustrates a top view of the cool toe support.

[0033] FIG. 15 illustrates a bottom view of the cool toe support.

[0034] FIG. 16 illustrates the individual chamber configuration of the inner bags for use in the cool toe support.

[0035] FIG. 17 illustrates a front, perspective view of the cool thigh support and the cool calf support.

[0036] FIG. 18 illustrates rear, perspective view of the cool thigh support and the cool calf support.

[0037] FIG. 19 illustrates the individual chamber configuration of the inner bag for use in the cool thigh support and the cool calf support.

[0038] FIG. 20 illustrates a front, perspective view of the cool head and face support.

[0039] FIG. 21 illustrates rear, perspective view of the cool head and face support.

[0040] FIG. 22 illustrates the individual chamber configuration for use in the cool head and face support.

[0041] FIG. 23 illustrates a front, perspective view of the cool back support.

[0042] FIG. 24 illustrates rear, perspective view of the cool back support.

[0043] FIG. 25 illustrates the individual chamber configuration for use in the cool back support.

[0044] FIG. 26 illustrates a front, perspective view of the cool wrist support.

[0045] FIG. 27 illustrates rear, perspective view of the wrist support.

[0046] FIG. 28 illustrates the individual chamber configuration of the inner bag for use in the cool wrist support.

[0047] FIG. 29 illustrates a top view of the cool finger support.

[0048] FIG. 30 illustrates a bottom view of the cool finger support.

[0049] FIG. 31 illustrates the individual chamber configuration of the inner bags for use in the cool finger support.

[0050] FIG. 32 illustrates a front, perspective view of the cool thumb support.

[0051] FIG. 33 illustrates rear, perspective view of the cool thumb support.

[0052] FIG. 34 illustrates the individual chamber configuration for use in the cool thumb support.

[0053] FIG. 35 illustrates a front, perspective view of the cool neck support.

[0054] FIG. 36 illustrates rear, perspective view of the cool neck support.

[0055] FIG. 37 illustrates the individual chamber configuration for use in the cool neck support.

[0056] For a further and more fully detailed understanding of the present invention, various objects and advantages thereof, reference is made to the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0057] Further objectives and advantages of the invention will become more apparent from the following description and claims and from the accompanying drawings herein. The detailed description stated below is intended as a description of the presently preferred embodiments of the invention and is not intended to represent the sole forms in which the present invention may be constructed or utilized. By reference to the exemplary drawings in detail wherein like numerals indicate like elements throughout the various views.

[0058] The present invention is directed to a cool gel wrap around device for joints, tissues and various body parts for which a cooling treatment may be applied to an affected area. The cool gel wrap around device takes several forms in order to accommodate the various joints and/or soft tissue areas to which the cool gel wrap around device will be applied. The cool gel wrap around device is made of a sturdy, waterproof material or the like, that is durable, flexible and suitable for wrapping around joints and tissues. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the cool gel wrap around device comprises of elastic material such as neoprene, allowing the cool gel wrap around device to stretch or conform to the shape and size of the area being treated. Other materials with same or similar functionality as neoprene that are well known and used in the art may also be used in the present invention to accomplish its intended purposes.

[0059] In the preferred embodiment, the cool gel wrap around device may be sized to fit a wide range of individuals, from a small person to a very large adult. In the preferred embodiment, an individual may obtain his or her appropriate size for the cool gel wrap around device to ensure a snug and secure fit, e.g. Extra Small, Small, Medium, Large, Extra Large and Extra, Extra Large. The cool gel wrap around device further comprises of an inner bag 106 which further comprises of two single layers coupled together to define a single cavity which stores a liquid which when refrigerated forms a cooling gel 108, which may gel but will not freeze at 32.degree. F. Once refrigerated, the cooling gel 108 will provide cooling function to the joint being treated for 15-30 minutes or more. In the various embodiments of the invention, the cool gel wrap around device can therefore surround the affected joint and/or tissue being treated and provide a cooling treatment to reduce swelling or edema in the affected or injured area.

[0060] FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of the cool gel wrap around device used for rehabilitation of the shoulder in the form of a cool shoulder support 100. The cool shoulder support 100 further comprises of an inner bag 106, which uses an individual chamber configuration of the invention with several individual chambers 102, 102'. Each individual chamber 102, 102' contains a chemical solution which when refrigerated forms a cooling gel 108 (not shown). The cooling gel 108 (not shown) produces a cooling sensation that can sustain itself for 15 to 30 minutes or more after refrigeration.

[0061] The inner bag 106 is housed in an exterior cover 114 (not shown), where the exterior cover 114 comprises of an elastic supportive material like neoprene of 4 to 6 millimeters ("mm.") in thickness. In the preferred embodiment, the inner bag 106 may comprise of latex or other like waterproof and flexible materials that are well known and used in the art. The inner bag 106 is secured to the outer rim 104 of the cool shoulder support 100 by stitches 101. In alternate embodiments of the invention, other securing means e.g. glue or bonding or other securing means that are well known and used in the art may be used to secure the inner bag 106 to the outer rim 104. The outer rim 104 of the cool shoulder support 100 comprises of a thicker reinforced material that is resistant to damage caused by flexing, twisting, normal wear and tear.

[0062] The cool shoulder support 100 is configured to surround the entire shoulder, i.e. front, back, top and side of the shoulder providing the entire shoulder with cooling treatment when in use. This is accomplished by the center portion 112, flaps 110, 110' and the sleeve 105 of the cool shoulder support 100 that together surround the top, front, back and side of the shoulder providing cooling treatment to the entire joint.

[0063] Referring to FIG. 1B where the individual is wearing the cool shoulder support 100, the center portion 112 of the cool shoulder support 100 is large enough to wrap around and encompass the top, side, front and back of the individual's shoulder. The flaps 110, 110' are contoured to comfortably extend across the individual's chest and his/her back (not shown) joining under the opposing armpit of the shoulder being treated where, the cool shoulder support 100 is secured by strapping type strips 113, 113' made of Velcro.RTM.. The cool shoulder support 100 is further secured by other strapping type strips 103, 103' that are secured under the armpit of the shoulder being treated. It is understood that other securing means, e.g. fasteners, buckles, snaps or other like securing means that are well known and used in the art may be applied to secure the cool shoulder support 100.

[0064] As seen in FIG. 1, the cool shoulder support 100 further comprises of a sleeve 105 that encircles the individual's upper arm to further lock the cool shoulder support 100 to the individual's body. On the opposing ends of the sleeve 105 there are additional securing means to secure the cool shoulder support 100 in place. In the preferred embodiment, the securing means comprise of strapping type strips 123, 123', 123'', 123''' as shown in FIG. 1.

[0065] FIG. 2 illustrates a rear, perspective view of the cool shoulder support 100 of FIG. 1. In the preferred embodiment, the inner bag 106 (not shown) is reinforced on the rear of the cool shoulder support 100 with an exterior cover 114 which is moldable, stretchable, and has the ability to conform to the shape of the shoulder. In the preferred embodiment, the exterior cover 114 comprises of neoprene type material of 4 to 6 mm. thickness to add stretching to the cool shoulder support 100 and help contour the invention to the shoulder. Another advantage of neoprene is its wearability as it is comfortable against the wearer's skin as well as its resistance to normal wear and tear. In the preferred embodiment, the exterior cover 114 is of a more durable material of 4 to 6 mm. in thickness than the inner bag 106 (not shown). The cool shoulder support 100 is further sized such that an appropriate fit can be had and an individual can select the appropriate size, i.e. from Extra Small to Extra, Extra Large, to ensure a proper and secure fit.

[0066] Referring to FIG. 3, an exemplary embodiment of the cool wrap around device illustrated in a simplified view for purposes of showing its material layers. The exterior cover 114 is made of a flexible, expandable yet supportive type material of 4 to 6 mm. in thickness. The inner bag 106 comprises of waterproof bendable material that may be 3-5 mm. in thickness. In the preferred embodiment, the inner bag 106 may comprise of latex or other like waterproof and flexible materials that are well known and used in the art. Said configuration is used in the various forms and/or embodiments of the invention.

[0067] FIG. 4 illustrates the individual chamber configuration of the inner bag 106 for use in the cool shoulder support 100. In the preferred embodiment, the individual chambers 102, 102', 102'' further comprises of individual pockets 109, 109', 109'', which contain the cooling gel 108 (not shown). One of the advantages of housing the cooling gel 108(not shown) in individual pockets 109 is to maintain the integrity of the cool gel wrap around device as embodied in the cool shoulder support 100 by preventing and minimizing leaks. If one or a few of the individual pockets 109 are broken or compromised, the cool gel wrap around device will still be able to function in the manner in which it was intended, as the remaining uncompromised individual pockets 109, 109' still collectively contain sufficient cooling gel 108 to provide cooling treatment to the body part being treated. Any leakage from the individual pockets 109 will be further contained and limited to the individual chamber 102, 102', 102'' and is still available for use. Accordingly, the integrity and functionality of the cool gel wrap around device is maintained.

[0068] In an alternate embodiment, the individual chamber configuration of the cool gel wrap around device does not contain individual pockets 109 and the cooling gel 108 (not shown) is instead stored in the individual chambers 102, 102' of the inner bag 106. However, since the cooling gel 108 is being stored within the individual chambers 102, 102' the same principle of containment applies, such that if an individual chamber 102 is compromised, the remaining uncompromised individual chambers 102, 102' collectively contain sufficient cooling gel 108 to provide cooling treatment to the body part being treated. Moreover, any leakage from the individual chamber 102 will further be contained and limited to the inner bag 106 and is still available for use. Therefore, the integrity and functionality of the cool gel wrap around device is maintained.

[0069] FIG. 5 illustrates another embodiment of the cool gel wrap around device used for rehabilitation of the elbow in the form of a cool elbow support 500. The cool elbow support 500 includes an inner bag 106 which stores the cooling gel 108 (not shown). As shown in FIG. 5, this embodiment of the cool gel elbow support 500 does not contain an individual chamber configuration. However, in an alternate embodiment of the cool elbow support 500, the inner bag 106 does comprise of an individual chamber configuration with several individual chambers 102, 102' (not shown).

[0070] In the preferred embodiment, the cool elbow support 500 contains individual pockets 109 (not shown) for storing the cooling gel 108 (not shown). As previously mentioned, the individual pockets 109 (not shown) maintain the integrity and functionality of the cool elbow support 500 by preventing and containing leaks.

[0071] The cool elbow support 500 is configured to wrap around the entire elbow joint. However, accommodations must be made for the elbow tip and the sides of the elbow. Thus, the cool elbow support 500 further comprises of an aperture 506 for the elbow tip and curvatures 508, 508' to accommodate the elbow curves. The inner bag 106 of the cool elbow support 500 is similarly contoured, shaped and sized to accommodate the elbow tip and the elbow curves. By surrounding the entire elbow joint, the cool elbow support 500 can provide cooling treatment to the posterior, anterior, lateral medial, superior and inferior elbow joint.

[0072] The inner bag 106 is secured to the outer rim 104 of the cool elbow support 500 by stitches 101 or other securing means e.g. glue or bonding or other securing means that are well known and used in the art. The outer rim 104 of the cool elbow support 500 is reinforced to resist damage caused by flexing, twisting and normal wear and tear. In this embodiment of the cool gel wrap around device, the cool elbow support 500 uses a combination of securing means to hold the device in place, i.e. strapping type strips 103, 103', 103'', 103''' and buckles 504, 504', 504'', 504'''.

[0073] FIG. 6 illustrates a rear view of the cool elbow support 500 of FIG. 5. In the preferred embodiment, the inner bag 106 (not shown) is reinforced on the rear of the cool elbow support 500 with an exterior cover 114 which is moldable, stretchable and has the ability to conform to the shape of the elbow. As previously mentioned the exterior cover 114 is a more durable material and is thicker than the inner bag 106 (not shown). The exterior cover 114 is configured to accommodate the elbow tip and curves and thus further comprises of an aperture 506 and curvatures 508 and 508'.

[0074] FIG. 7 illustrates the individual chamber configuration of the inner bag 106 for use in the cool elbow support 500. As previously mentioned, the individual chamber configuration of the invention comprises of several individual chambers 102, 102' in which the cooling gel 108 (not shown) is contained. As seen in FIG. 7, the inner bag 106 and the individual chamber configuration is configured to conform to the exterior cover 114 (not shown) of the invention and likewise comprise of an aperture 506 and curvatures 508, 508'.

[0075] FIG. 8 illustrates yet another embodiment of the cool gel wrap around device used for rehabilitation of the knee in the form of a cool knee support 800. The cool knee support 800 includes an inner bag 106 which employs the individual chamber configuration of the invention with several individual chambers 102, 102' for storing the cooling gel 108 (not shown). In the preferred embodiment, individual chambers 102, 102' of the cool knee support 800 also comprise of individual pockets 109 (not shown) for storing the cooling gel 108 (not shown) to maintain the integrity and functionality of the cool knee support 800 by preventing and containing leaks.

[0076] The cool knee support 800 is configured to surround the entire knee joint. However, accommodations must be made for the patella a/k/a the kneecap. Thus, the cool knee support 800 further comprises of an aperture 506 for the kneecap. The inner bag 106 of the cool knee support 800 is similarly contoured, shaped and sized to accommodate the kneecap, thereby including an aperture 506. By surrounding the entire knee, the cool knee support 800 can provide cooling treatment to the posterior, anterior, lateral medial, superior and inferior knee joint.

[0077] The inner bag 106 is secured to the outer rim 104 of the cool knee support 800 by stitches 101 or other securing means. The outer rim 104 of the cool knee support 800 is reinforced to resist damage caused by flexing, twisting and normal wear and tear. In this embodiment of the cool gel wrap around device, the cool knee support 800 uses a combination of securing means to hold the device in place, i.e. strapping type strips 103, 103' and buckles 504, 504'.

[0078] FIG. 9 illustrates a rear view of the cool knee support 800 of FIG. 8. In the preferred embodiment, the inner bag 106 (not shown) is reinforced on the rear of the cool knee support 800 with an exterior cover 114 which is moldable and has the ability to conform to the shape of the knee. In an alternate embodiment of the invention (not shown), the exterior cover 114 further comprises of an aperture 506 to accommodate the patella.

[0079] FIG. 10 illustrates the individual chamber configuration of the inner bag 106 for use with the cool knee support 800. The individual chamber configuration comprises of several individual chambers 102, 102', 102'' for storing the cooling gel 108 (not shown).

[0080] FIG. 11 illustrates another embodiment of the cool gel wrap around device used for rehabilitation of the foot and ankle, in the form of a cool footy support 1100 and a cool ankle support 1104, respectively. Both the cool footy support 1100 and the cool ankle support 1104 comprise of an inner bag 106 which employs the individual chamber configuration of the invention with several individual chambers 102, 102' for storing the cooling gel 108 (not shown). In the preferred embodiment, individual chambers 102, 102', 102'' of the cool footy support 1100 and the cool ankle support 1104 also comprise of individual pockets 109 (not shown) for storing the cooling gel 108 (not shown) which maintains the integrity and functionality of the cool footy support 1100 and the cool ankle support 1104.

[0081] The cool footy support may be used to treat bunionectomies as it is configured such that the entire foot may be inserted into a capsule 1108 (not shown) of the cool footy support 1100 for cooling treatment as seen in FIG. 11B. The cool footy support 1100 is secured to the foot by a strapping type strip 103 that encircles the foot, extending along the length of the foot, around the ankle and dorsal and locks the cool footy support 1100 in place.

[0082] The cool ankle support 1104 further comprises of an aperture 506 to accommodate the heel. As seen in FIG. 11B, the cool ankle support 1104 is contoured to wrap around the entire ankle providing cooling treatment to the medial, lateral, posterior, anterior, superior and inferior parts of the ankle. Referring to FIG. 11, the inner bag 106 of the cool ankle support 1104 is similarly contoured, shaped and sized to accommodate the ankle, thereby including an aperture 506. By surrounding the entire ankle, the cool ankle support 1104 can provide cooling treatment to the entire joint. The inner bag 106 of the cool ankle support 1104 is secured to the outer rim 104 of the cool ankle support 1104 by stitches 101 or other securing means. In this embodiment of the cool gel wrap around device, the cool ankle support 1104 uses strapping type strips 103, 103' made of Velcro.RTM. to hold the cool ankle support 1104 in place.

[0083] FIG. 12 illustrates the bottom view of the cool footy support 1100 and a cool ankle support 1104, respectively. In the preferred embodiment, the inner bag 106 (not shown) is reinforced on the bottom of the cool footy support 1100 with an exterior cover 114 which is moldable and has the ability to conform to the shape of the foot and the ankle, respectively.

[0084] FIG. 13 illustrates the individual chamber configuration of the inner bag 106 for use with the cool footy support 1100 and a cool ankle support 1104, respectively. The individual chamber configuration comprises of several individual chambers 102, 102', 102'' for storing the cooling gel 108 (not shown).

[0085] FIG. 14 illustrates another embodiment of the cool gel wrap around device used for rehabilitation of an individual toe or a combination of toes in the form of a cool foot toes support 1400. The cool foot toes support 1400 comprises of individual toe capsules 1404, 1404' which are shaped, sized and contoured to fit each corresponding toe digit separately. Each individual toe capsule 1404, 1404' includes an inner bag 106, 106', 106'' for each corresponding individual toe digit. The inner bags 106, 106', 106'' of the individual toe capsules 1404, 1404' further comprise of an individual chamber configuration with several individual chambers 102, 102' for storing the cooling gel 108 (not shown). In the preferred embodiment, the cooling gel 108 (not shown) is stored in the individual pockets 109 (not shown) of the individual chambers 102, 102' of the inner bags 106, 106', 106''. As such any individual toe, all, or a combination of toes may be individually placed into the capsules 1404, 1404' to cover one or more toes allowing isolated cooling treatment for the affected area only. The individual toe capsules 1404, 1404' are all connected to a strap 1402 along a single edge.

[0086] The inner bags 106, 106' of the individual toe capsules 1404, 1404' are secured to the outer rim 104 of the cool foot toes support 1400 by stitches 101 or other securing means. The outer rims 104 of the cool foot toes support 1400 are reinforced to resist damage caused by flexing, twisting and normal wear and tear. The cool foot toes support 1400 may be worn by placing the foot on the strap 1402 and sliding the affected toe or toes along the strap 1402 into the corresponding toe capsule 1404 of the invention. The cool foot toes support 1400 can then be secured to the foot by surrounding the foot with the strapping type strip 103 made of Velcro.RTM. and locking the invention in place.

[0087] FIG. 15 illustrates the bottom view of the cool foot toes support 1400. In the preferred embodiment, the inner bags 106, 106' (not shown) are reinforced on the bottom of the cool foot toes support 1400 with an exterior cover 114, 114' that are shaped, sized and contoured to fit each toe capsule 1404 and each corresponding toe separately.

[0088] FIG. 16 illustrates the individual chamber configuration of the inner bags 106, 106' of each individual toe capsule 1404, 1404' of the cool foot toes support 1400. The individual chamber configuration comprises of several individual chambers 102, 102', 102'' that contain the cooling gel 108 (not shown) for use with the cool foot toes support 1400.

[0089] FIG. 17 illustrates other embodiments of the cool gel wrap around device used for rehabilitation of the thigh as well as the calf, respectively in the form of a cool thigh support 1700 and a cool calf support 1704. Both the cool thigh support 1700 and the cool calf support 1704 are similarly configured, except the cool thigh support 1700 is larger than the calf support 1704 to accommodate the larger muscle group, i.e. the thigh. Both the cool thigh support 1700 and the cool calf support 1704 each comprise of an inner bag 106 which utilizes an individual chamber configuration of the invention with several individual chambers 102, 102' for storing the cooling gel 108 (not shown). In the preferred embodiment, the individual chambers 102, 102' of the cool thigh support 1700 and a cool calf support 1704 also comprise of individual pockets 109 (not shown). The individual pockets 109, 109' (not shown) stores the cooling gel 108 (not shown) to maintain the integrity and functionality of the cool thigh support 1700 and a cool calf support 1704, respectively by preventing and containing leaks.

[0090] The inner bag 106 is secured to the outer rim 104 of the cool thigh support 1700 and the cool calf support 1704 by stitches 101 or other securing means. The outer rim 104 of both the cool thigh support 1700 and the cool calf support 1704 is reinforced to resist damage caused by normal wear and tear and consistent tugging of the strapping type strips 103, 103'. The cool thigh support 1700 and a cool calf support 1704 employ strapping type strips 103 to secure the inventions in place.

[0091] FIG. 18 illustrates a bottom view of the cool thigh support 1700 and the cool calf support 1704. In the preferred embodiment, the inner bag 106 (not shown) is reinforced on the bottom of the cool thigh support 1700 and the cool calf support 1704 with an exterior cover 114 which is moldable and has the ability to conform to the shape of the thigh and calf, respectively.

[0092] FIG. 19 illustrates the individual chamber configuration of the inner bag 106 for use with the cool thigh support 1700 and the cool calf support 1704, respectively. The individual chamber configuration comprises of several individual chambers 102, 102', 102'' for storing the cooling gel 108 (not shown).

[0093] FIG. 20 illustrates other embodiments of the cool gel wrap around device used for rehabilitation of the head and face in the form of a cool head and face support 2000. In an alternate embodiment, the cool head and face support 2000 is contoured sized and shaped with apertures 506, 506'', 506''', 506''''(not shown) to accommodate the eyes, nose and mouth, respectively. The cool head and face support 2000 comprises of an inner bag 106 which employs the individual chamber configuration of the invention with several individual chambers 102, 102' for storing the cooling gel 108 (not shown). In the preferred embodiment, the cooling gel 108 (not shown) is stored in the individual chambers 102, 102' of the inner bag 106. As previously mentioned, this arrangement assists in maintaining the integrity and functionality of the cool head and face support 2000 by preventing and containing leaks.

[0094] The inner bag 106 is secured to the outer rim 104 of the cool head and face support 2000 by stitches 101 or other securing means. The outer rim 104 of the cool head and face support 2000 are reinforced to resist damage caused by normal wear and tear. The cool head and face support 2000 employ strapping type strips 103 to secure the invention in place.

[0095] FIG. 21 illustrates a rear view of the cool head and face support 2000. In the preferred embodiment, the inner bag 106 (not shown) is reinforced on the bottom of the cool head and face support 2000 with an exterior cover 114 which is moldable and has the ability to conform to the shape of the head and face.

[0096] FIG. 22 illustrates the individual chamber configuration of the inner bags 106, 102', 102'' of the cool head and face support 2000. The individual chamber configuration further comprises of several individual chambers 102, 102' that contain the cooling gel 108 (not shown).

[0097] FIG. 23 illustrates other embodiments of the cool gel wrap around device used for rehabilitation of the back in the form of a cool back support 2300. The cool back support 2300 comprise of an inner bag 106 with an individual chamber configuration of the invention with several individual chambers 102, 102' for storing the cooling gel 108 (not shown). In the preferred embodiment, the individual chambers 102, 102' of the cool back support 2300 also comprise of individual pockets 109 (not shown) for storing the cooling gel 108 (not shown) to maintain the integrity and functionality of the cool back support 2300 by preventing and containing leaks.

[0098] The inner bag 106 is secured to the outer rim 104 of the cool back support 2300 by stitches 101 or other securing means. The outer rim 104 of the cool back support 2300 is reinforced to resist damage caused by normal wear and tear. The cool back support 2300 employs strapping type strips 103, 103' to secure the invention in place. The strapping type strips 103, 103' are of sufficient length to wraparound the waist of the individual wearer and lock the invention in place.

[0099] FIG. 24 illustrates a rear view of the cool back support 2300. In the preferred embodiment, the inner bag 106 (not shown) is reinforced on the rear of the cool back support 2300 with an exterior cover 114 which is moldable and has the ability to conform to the shape of the back.

[0100] FIG. 25 illustrates the individual chamber configuration of the inner bag 106 for use with the cool back support 2300. The individual chamber configuration comprises of several individual chambers 102, 102', 102'' for storing the cooling gel 108 (not shown).

[0101] FIG. 26 illustrates another embodiment of the cool gel wrap around device used for rehabilitation of the wrist in the form of a cool wrist support 2600. The cool wrist support 2600 utilizes the individual chamber configuration of the invention with several individual chambers 102, 102' for storing the cooling gel 108 (not shown). In the preferred embodiment, individual chambers 102, 102', 102'' of the cool wrist support 2600 also comprise of individual pockets 109 (not shown) for storing the cooling gel 108 (not shown) to maintain the integrity and functionality of the cool wrist support 2600 by preventing and containing leaks.

[0102] The cool wrist support 2600 further comprises of an aperture 506 to accommodate the thumb as the cool wrist support 2600 is configured to wrap around the entire wrist. The inner bag 106 of the cool wrist support 2600 is similarly contoured, shaped and sized to accommodate the thumb and also includes an aperture 506. By surrounding the entire wrist, the cool wrist support 2600 provides cooling treatment to the posterior, anterior, lateral medial, superior and inferior parts of the wrist.

[0103] The inner bag 106 is secured to the outer rim 104 of the cool wrist support 2600 by stitches 101 or other securing means. The outer rim 104 of the cool wrist support 2600 is reinforced to resist damage caused by flexing, twisting and normal wear and tear. In this embodiment of the cool wrist support 2600, the invention uses strapping type strips 103, 103' to hold the invention in place.

[0104] FIG. 27 illustrates a rear view of the cool wrist support 2600. In the preferred embodiment, the inner bag 106 (not shown) is reinforced on the rear of the cool wrist support 2600 with an exterior cover 114 which is elastic and flexible.

[0105] FIG. 28 illustrates the individual chamber configuration of the inner bag 106 for use with the cool wrist support 2600. The individual chamber configuration further comprises of individual chambers 102, 102', 102'' that contain the cooling gel 108 (not shown) for use with the cool wrist support 2600.

[0106] FIG. 29 illustrates another embodiment of the cool gel wrap around device used for rehabilitation of an individual finger or fingers in the form of a cool finger support 2900. The cool finger support 2900 comprises of individual finger capsules 2904, 2904' which are shaped, sized and contoured to fit each corresponding finger separately. Each individual finger capsule 2904, 2904' includes an inner bag 106, 106' for each corresponding individual finger. The inner bags 106, 106' of the individual finger capsules 2904, 2904' further comprise of an individual chamber configuration with several individual chambers 102, 102' for storing the cooling gel 108 (not shown). In the preferred embodiment, the cooling gel 108 (not shown) is stored in the individual pockets 109 (not shown) of the individual chambers 102, 102' of the inner bags 106, 106''. As such any individual finger, all or a combination of fingers may be individually placed into the capsules 2904, 2904' to cover one or more fingers allowing them to be isolated for cooling treatment.

[0107] The inner bags 106, 106' of the finger capsules 2904, 2904' are secured to the outer rim 104 of the cool finger support 2900 by stitches 101 or other securing means. The individual capsules 2904, 2904' are all connected to a strap 2908 along a single edge. The outer rims 104 of the cool finger support 2900 are reinforced to resist damage caused by flexing, twisting and normal wear and tear. The cool finger support 2900 may be worn by sliding the affected finger or fingers into the corresponding finger capsule 2904 of the invention. The cool finger support 2900 can then be secured to the hand by wrapping the strapping type strip 103 made of Velcro.RTM. around the individual's palm and locking the invention in place.

[0108] FIG. 30 illustrates the bottom view of the cool finger support 2900. In the preferred embodiment, the inner bags 106, 106' (not shown) are reinforced on the bottom of the cool finger support 2900 with an exterior cover 114, 114' that are shaped, sized and contoured to fit each corresponding finger separately.

[0109] FIG. 31 illustrates the individual chamber configuration of the inner bags 106, 102', 102'' of each individual finger capsule 2904, 2904' of the cool finger support 2900. The individual chamber configuration comprises of several individual chambers 102, 102', 102'' that contain the cooling gel 108 (not shown).

[0110] FIG. 32 illustrates another embodiment of the cool gel wrap around device used for rehabilitation of the thumb in the form of a cool thumb support 3200. The cool thumb support 3200 comprise of an inner bag 106 which employs the individual chamber configuration of the invention with several individual chambers 102, 102' for storing the cooling gel 108 (not shown). In the preferred embodiment, individual chambers 102, 102', 102'' of the cool thumb support 3200 also comprise of individual pockets 109 (not shown) for storing the cooling gel 108 (not shown) which maintains the integrity and functionality of the cool thumb support 3200.

[0111] The cool thumb support 3200 further comprises of a capsule 3208 (not shown) in which the thumb may be inserted. The cool thumb support 3200 may be used to treat a broken thumb as it is configured such that the entire big thumb may be inserted into the cool thumb support 3200 for cooling treatment. The inner bag 106 of the cool thumb support 3200 not only encircles the thumb but also extends beyond the digit and embraces part of the wrist. By surrounding the entire thumb and a part of the wearer's wrist, the cool thumb support 3200 can provide cooling treatment to the thumb and the neighboring joint. The cool thumb support 3200 is secured to the wrist by strapping type strap 103 that encircles the wrist and locks unto itself to hold the cool thumb support 3200 in place. The inner bag 106 of the cool thumb support 3200 is secured to the outer rim 104 of the cool thumb support 3200 by stitches 101 or other securing means.

[0112] FIG. 33 illustrates the bottom view of the cool thumb support 3200. In the preferred embodiment, the inner bag 106 (not shown) is reinforced on the bottom of the cool thumb support 3200 with an exterior cover 114 which is moldable and has the ability to conform and embrace the thumb.

[0113] FIG. 34 illustrates the individual chamber configuration of the inner bag 106 for use with the cool thumb support 3200. The individual chamber configuration comprises of several individual chambers 102, 102', 102'' for storing the cooling gel 108 (not shown).

[0114] FIG. 35 illustrates other embodiments of the cool gel wrap around device used for rehabilitation of the neck in the form of a cool neck support 3500. The cool neck support 3500 comprise of an inner bag 106 with an individual chamber configuration of the invention with several individual chambers 102, 102' for storing the cooling gel 108 (not shown). In the preferred embodiment, the individual chambers 102, 102' of the cool neck support 3500 also comprise of individual pockets 109 (not shown) for storing the cooling gel 108 (not shown) to maintain the integrity and functionality of the cool neck support 3500 by preventing and containing leaks.

[0115] The inner bag 106 is secured to the outer rim 104 of the cool neck support 3500 by stitches 101 or other securing means. The outer rim 104 of the cool neck support 3500 is reinforced to resist damage caused by normal wear and tear. The cool neck support 3500 employs strapping type strips 103, 103' to secure the invention in place.

[0116] FIG. 36 illustrates a rear view of the cool neck support 3500. In the preferred embodiment, the inner bag 106 (not shown) is reinforced on the rear of the cool neck support 3500 with an exterior cover 114 which is moldable and has the ability to conform to the shape of the back.

[0117] FIG. 37 illustrates the individual chamber configuration of the inner bag 106 for use with the cool neck support 3500. The individual chamber configuration comprises of several individual chambers 102, 102' for storing the cooling gel 108 (not shown).

Claims

1. A product to help reduce/decrease, prevent and avoid swelling/edema to all joints and soft tissue areas of the body by providing cooling functionality to all joints and soft tissue areas, comprising: a neoprene wrap configured to surround an entire joint wherein the neoprene wrap further comprises of an inner bag which incorporates an individual chamber configuration, wherein the chambers contain a liquid that provides the cooling function for treating the entire joint and further wherein the inner bag operates by storing the liquid that cools in a 32.degree. F. environment until the liquid gels for use.

2. A product according to claim 1, wherein each inner bag comprises of two single layers coupled together to define a single cavity wherein the liquid is stored and the area of the inner bag is less than the area of the neoprene wrap.

3. A product according to claim 1, wherein the liquid may gel but will not freeze at 32.degree. F.

4. A product according to claim 1, wherein the inner bag conforms to the particular joints and soft tissue area being treated.

5. A product according to claim 1, wherein the neoprene wrap is secured to the body by securing means.

6. A product according to claim 5, wherein the securing means includes Velcro straps, fasteners, snaps and/or buckles.

7. A product according to claim 1, wherein each chamber further comprises of individual pockets wherein the pockets contain the liquid that provides the cooling function.

8. A product to help reduce/decrease, prevent and avoid swelling/edema to all joints and soft tissue areas of the body by providing cooling functionality to all joints and soft tissue areas, comprising: a neoprene wrap configured to surround an entire joint that is further adapted with an aperture accommodating the joint wherein the neoprene wrap further comprises of an inner bag that is similarly adapted with an aperture and which incorporates an individual chamber configuration, wherein the chambers contain a liquid that provides the cooling function for treating the entire joint and further wherein the inner bag operates by storing the liquid that cools in a 32.degree. F. environment until the liquid gels for use.

9. A product according to claim 8, wherein each inner bag comprises of two single layers coupled together to define a single cavity wherein the liquid is stored and the area of the inner bag is less than the area of the neoprene wrap.

10. A product according to claim 8, wherein the liquid may gel but will not freeze at 32.degree. F.

11. A product according to claim 8, wherein the inner bag conforms to the particular joints and soft tissue area being treated.

12. A product according to claim 8, wherein the neoprene wrap is secured to the body by securing means.

13. A product according to claim 12, wherein the securing means includes Velcro straps, fasteners, snaps and/or buckles.

13. A product according to claim 8, wherein each chamber further comprises of individual pockets wherein the individual pockets contain the liquid that provides the cooling function.

14. A product according to claim 8, wherein the aperture is adapted to accommodate joints selected from a group consisting of: elbows, knees, ankles and wrists.

15. A product to help reduce/decrease, prevent and avoid swelling/edema to all joints and soft tissue areas of the body by providing cooling functionality to all joints and soft tissue areas, comprising: a neoprene wrap forming a strap and a capsule, wherein the capsule is connected to a strap along a single edge so that a thumb may be placed into the capsule and the strap wrapped around the user's palm, and a liquid contained in inner bag, wherein the liquid provides the cooling function and the inner bag is stitched into the capsule of the neoprene wrap to cover the thumb and further wherein the inner bag wherein the inner bag operates by storing the liquid that cools in a 32.degree. F. environment until the liquid gels for use.