U.S. patent application number 13/393379 was filed with the patent office on 2012-06-28 for fabrics, compression garments and compression garment systems.
Invention is credited to Stewart Roger Collie, Blythe Guy Rees-Jones, Rogier Rolf Simons, Marie Stella Snell.
Application Number | 20120159692 13/393379 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 43628218 |
Filed Date | 2012-06-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120159692 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Rees-Jones; Blythe Guy ; et
al. |
June 28, 2012 |
FABRICS, COMPRESSION GARMENTS AND COMPRESSION GARMENT SYSTEMS
Abstract
Various fabrics, compression garments and compression garment
systems are described. Fabrics formed from wicking and absorbent
materials provide effective compression and an improved environment
next to a wearer's skin, which provides greater comfort and
improved overall performance. Two and multi-layer compression
garments are described. An outer layer may be formed with an
opening having a closure and an elastic material joining the sides
of the opening. This provides a first level of compression with the
closure open and a second level of compression with the closure
closed and also helps a user in applying the garment.
Inventors: |
Rees-Jones; Blythe Guy;
(Papamoa, NZ) ; Simons; Rogier Rolf; (Mt.
Maunganui, NZ) ; Collie; Stewart Roger; (Chrischurch,
NZ) ; Snell; Marie Stella; (Paraparaumu, NZ) |
Family ID: |
43628218 |
Appl. No.: |
13/393379 |
Filed: |
August 31, 2010 |
PCT Filed: |
August 31, 2010 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/NZ2010/000173 |
371 Date: |
February 29, 2012 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
2/69 |
Current CPC
Class: |
D10B 2401/022 20130101;
A61F 13/085 20130101; D04B 1/265 20130101; D10B 2403/0114 20130101;
D10B 2401/021 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
2/69 |
International
Class: |
A41D 1/00 20060101
A41D001/00; A41D 13/00 20060101 A41D013/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Aug 31, 2009 |
NZ |
579366 |
Claims
1. A compression garment formed as a single fabric layer,
including: a moisture absorbent material forming at least
predominantly an inner surface of the single fabric layer; and a
wicking material forming at least predominantly an outer surface of
the single fabric layer; wherein the single fabric layer is knitted
or woven from threads of at least the first and second
materials.
2. A compression garment as claimed in claim 1 wherein the moisture
absorbent material is composed of fibres having a hydrophilic core
and a hydrophobic surface.
3. A compression garment as claimed in claim 1 or 2 wherein the
moisture absorbent material is also a temperature regulating
material.
4. A compression garment as claimed in any preceding claim wherein
the moisture absorbent material is also an odour-inhibiting
material.
5. A compression garment as claimed in any preceding claim wherein
the moisture absorbent material is also an anti-microbial
material.
6. A compression garment as claimed in any preceding claim wherein
the moisture absorbent material is a natural material.
7. A compression garment as claimed in claim 6 wherein the natural
material is wool.
8. A compression garment as claimed in claim 6 wherein the natural
material is merino wool.
9. A compression garment as claimed in any preceding claim wherein
the moisture absorbent material has an average fibre diameter in
the range 13 to 23 .mu.m.
10. A compression garment as claimed in any preceding claim wherein
the moisture absorbent material is configured to regulate the skin
environment of a wearer.
11. A compression garment as claimed in any preceding claim wherein
the wicking material is composed of fibres having a hydrophilic
surface and low moisture absorption.
12. A compression garment as claimed in any preceding claim wherein
the wicking material is an abrasion resistant material.
13. A compression garment as claimed in any preceding claim wherein
the wicking material is a synthetic material.
14. A compression garment as claimed in claim 13 wherein the
wicking material is polyester, nylon or polypropylene.
15. A compression garment as claimed in any preceding claim wherein
the ratio of absorbent material to wicking material by weight is in
the range 1:3 to 3:1.
16. A compression garment as claimed in any preceding claim wherein
the single fabric layer includes an elastic material providing or
contributing to a compression force provided by the compression
garment in use.
17. A compression garment as claimed in claim 16 wherein the
elastic material is in the form of elastic thread.
18. A compression garment as claimed in claim 16 or 17 wherein the
elastic material is elastane.
19. A compression garment as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 18
wherein the elastic material is contained within the single fabric
layer without being exposed on either the inner or outer
surface.
20. A compression garment as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 19
wherein the elastic material forms up to 50% of the weight of the
single fabric layer.
21. A compression garment as claimed in any preceding claim wherein
a compression force provided by the garment in use is graduated
along the length of the garment.
22. A compression garment as claimed in any preceding claim wherein
the single fabric layer is knitted from threads of at least the
first and second materials.
23. A compression garment as claimed in claim 22 wherein the single
fabric layer is knitted as a flat fabric layer.
24. A compression garment as claimed in claim 22 formed by an
integral knitting process.
25. A compression garment as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 24
wherein the inner surface is formed by a first set of knit stitches
formed at least predominantly from the moisture absorbent material
and the outer surface is formed by a second set of knit stitches
formed at least predominantly from the wicking material.
26. A compression garment as claimed in claim 25 further including
a set of tuck stitches linking the knit stitches.
27. A method of forming a compression garment, including: i.
providing: a. first threads formed of an absorbent material; and b.
second threads formed of a wicking material; and ii. processing the
first and second threads to form a single fabric layer, in which a
first surface is formed at least predominantly by the first threads
and a second surface opposing the first surface is formed at least
predominantly by the second threads.
28. A method as claimed in claim 27 including providing the first
and second threads in proportions such that the ratio of absorbent
material to wicking material by weight is in the range 1:3 to
3:1.
29. A method as claimed in claim 27 or 28 including providing third
threads of an elastic material and processing the first, second and
third threads to form the single fabric layer.
30. A method as claimed in claim 29 including processing the first,
second and third threads such that the elastic material is
contained within the single fabric layer without being exposed on
either the first or second surface.
31. A method as claimed in claim 29 or 30 including providing the
third threads in proportion such that the elastic material forms up
to 50% of the weight of the single fabric layer.
32. A method as claimed in any one of claims 27 to 31 including
shaping and/or varying construction of the single fabric layer such
that a compression force provided by the garment in use is
graduated along the length of the garment.
33. A method as claimed in any one of claims 27 to 32 wherein the
processing step is a knitting step.
34. A method as claimed in claim 33 including knitting the single
fabric layer as a flat fabric layer.
35. A method as claimed in claim 33 including knitting the single
fabric layer using an integral knitting process.
36. A method as claimed in any one of claims 33 to 35 including
forming a first set of knit stitches at least predominantly from
the moisture absorbent material, the first set of stitches
providing the first surface; and forming a second set of knit
stitches at least predominantly from the wicking material, the
second set of stitches providing the second surface.
37. A method as claimed in claim 36 further including forming a set
of tuck stitches linking the knit stitches.
38. A compression garment including: i. a shaped fabric body; ii.
an opening extending over at least a part of the fabric body; iii.
an elastic material connected at both sides of the opening such
that, in use, the elastic material tends to draw the sides of the
opening together; and iv. a closure configured to close the
opening.
39. A compression garment as claimed in claim 38 wherein the
opening extends to an edge of the fabric body.
40. A compression garment as claimed in claim 38 or 39 providing,
in use, a first predetermined level of compression when the opening
is closed and a second predetermined level of compression when the
opening is open.
41. A compression garment as claimed in claim 40 wherein the first
level is greater than the second level.
42. A compression garment as claimed in any one of claims 38 to 41
wherein, in use, a circumference of the garment in the region of
the opening is reduced by closing the opening with the closure.
43. A compression garment as claimed in any one of claims 38 to 42
wherein the elastic material is configured to contract so as to lie
flat underneath the shaped fabric body when, in use, the opening is
closed.
44. A compression garment as claimed in any one of claims 38 to 43
wherein the closure provides a fixed connection between the sides
of the opening when the opening is closed.
45. A compression garment as claimed in any one of claims 38 to 44
wherein the closure is a zip closure.
46. A compression garment as claimed in any one of claims 38 to 44
wherein the closure includes one or more of: hook and loop
fasteners, domes, snap fasteners, buckles and/or releasable
adhesive.
47. A compression garment as claimed in any one of claims 38 to 46
wherein the shaped fabric body is shaped to conform to the shape of
a wearer's lower leg.
48. A compression garment as claimed in claim 47 wherein the
opening is positioned to extend along the length of a wearer's
leg.
49. A compression garment as claimed in claim 47 or 48 including a
lower portion configured to fit around a wearer's foot and an upper
portion including the opening, elastic material and closure.
50. A compression garment as claimed in any one of claims 38 to 49
including one or more handles or loops to assist with application
of the garment and/or with closing and/or opening of the
closure.
51. A compression garment as claimed in any one of claims 38 to 50
including one or more touch markers positioned and arranged to
assist correct alignment of the garment.
52. A multilayer compression garment system including: i. an inner
fabric compression layer configured, in use, to apply a first
predetermined level of compression; and ii. an outer fabric
compression layer configured, in use, to apply a second
predetermined level of compression; wherein the inner layer
includes a moisture absorbent material and a wicking material and
the outer layer includes a wicking material.
53. A multilayer compression garment system as claimed in claim 52
wherein, in use: a. moisture vapour in a wearer's skin environment
is absorbed by the moisture absorbent material in the inner layer;
b. absorbed moisture in the moisture absorbent material in the
inner layer is released towards the exterior of the inner layer; c.
liquid moisture in the skin environment is wicked through the inner
layer by the wicking material in the inner layer to the interface
between the inner and outer layers; and d. liquid moisture at the
interface is wicked into the outer layer by the second material in
the outer layer.
54. A compression garment system as claimed in claim 52 or 53,
being a two-layer compression garment system.
55. A compression garment system as claimed in any one of claims 52
to 54 wherein the inner layer is a compression stocking.
56. A compression garment system as claimed in claim wherein the
inner layer is a compression garment as claimed in any one of
claims 1 to 26.
57. A compression garment system as claimed in any one of claims 52
to 56 wherein the first predetermined level of compression is in
the range 5 to 22 mmHg.
58. A compression garment system as claimed in claim 57 wherein the
first predetermined level of compression is in the range 10 to 15
mmHg.
59. A compression garment system as claimed in any one of claims 52
to 58 wherein the outer surface of the inner layer has a low
fabric-to-fabric coefficient of friction to ease application of the
outer layer over the inner layer.
60. A compression garment as claimed in any one of claims 52 to 59
wherein the outer layer also includes a moisture absorbent
material.
61. A compression garment system as claimed in any one of claims 52
to 60 wherein the outer layer is a compression garment as claimed
in any one of claims 1 to 26 or 38 to 51.
62. A fabric, including: i. a moisture absorbent material forming
at least predominantly a first surface of the fabric; and ii. a
wicking material forming at least predominantly a second surface of
the fabric; wherein the fabric is knitted or woven from threads of
at least the moisture absorbent and wicking materials.
63. A fabric as claimed in claim 62 wherein the moisture absorbent
material is composed of fibres having a hydrophilic core and a
hydrophobic surface.
64. A fabric as claimed in claim 62 or 63 wherein the moisture
absorbent material is also a temperature regulating material.
65. A fabric as claimed in any one of claims 62 to 64 wherein the
moisture absorbent material is also an odour-inhibiting
material.
66. A fabric as claimed in any one of claims 62 to 65 wherein the
moisture absorbent material is also an anti-microbial material.
67. A fabric as claimed in any one of claims 62 to 66 wherein the
moisture absorbent material is a natural material.
68. A fabric as claimed in claim 67 wherein the natural material is
wool.
69. A fabric as claimed in claim 67 wherein the natural material is
merino wool.
70. A fabric as claimed in any one of claims 62 to 69 wherein the
moisture absorbent material has an average fibre diameter in the
range 13 to 23 .mu.m.
71. A fabric as claimed in any one of claims 62 to 70 wherein the
wicking material is composed of fibres having a hydrophilic surface
and low moisture absorption.
72. A fabric as claimed in any one of claims 62 to 71 wherein the
wicking material is an abrasion resistant material.
73. A fabric as claimed in any one of claims 62 to 72 wherein the
wicking material is a synthetic material.
74. A fabric as claimed in claim 73 wherein the wicking material is
polyester, nylon or polypropylene.
75. A fabric as claimed in any one of claims 62 to 74 wherein the
ratio of absorbent material to wicking material by weight is in the
range 1:3 to 3:1.
76. A fabric as claimed in any one of claims 62 to 75 wherein the
single fabric layer further includes an elastic material.
77. A fabric as claimed in claim 76 wherein the elastic material is
in the form of elastic thread.
78. A fabric as claimed in claim 76 or 77 wherein the elastic
material is elastane.
79. A fabric as claimed in any one of claims 76 to 78 wherein the
elastic material is contained within the single fabric layer
without being exposed on either the first or second surface.
80. A fabric as claimed in any one of claims 76 to 79 wherein the
elastic material forms up to 50% of the weight of the single fabric
layer.
81. A fabric as claimed in any one of claims 62 to 80 wherein the
single fabric layer is knitted from threads of at least the first
and second materials.
82. A fabric as claimed in claim 81 wherein the single fabric layer
is knitted as a flat fabric layer.
83. A fabric as claimed in claim 81 formed in an integral knitting
process.
84. A fabric as claimed in any one of claims 81 to 83 wherein the
first surface is formed by a first set of knit stitches formed
predominantly from the moisture absorbent material and the second
surface is formed by a second set of knit stitches formed
predominantly from the wicking material.
85. A fabric as claimed in claim 84 further including a set of tuck
stitches linking the knit stitches.
86. A two-layer compression garment system including: i. an inner
fabric compression layer configured, in use, to apply a first
predetermined level of compression; and ii. two or more outer
fabric compression layers, each configured, in use, to be applied
over the inner fabric compression layer, each providing a different
predetermined level of compression; such that the inner fabric
compression layer and a selected one of the two or more outer
fabric compression layers can be applied in order to achieve a
desired cumulative level of compression.
87. A two-layer compression garment system including: i. an inner
fabric compression layer configured, in use, to apply a first
predetermined level of compression; and ii. an outer fabric
compression layers selected from two or more outer fabric
compression layers, each configured, in use, to be applied over the
inner fabric compression layer, each providing a different
predetermined level of compression; such that the inner fabric
compression layer and the selected outer fabric compression layer
can be applied in order to achieve a desired cumulative level of
compression.
88. A compression garment formed as a single fabric layer,
including: a moisture absorbent material forming at least part of
an inner surface of the single fabric layer; and a wicking material
forming at least part of an outer surface of the single fabric
layer; wherein the single fabric layer is knitted or woven from
threads of at least the first and second materials.
89. A compression garment as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 26
including one or more handles or loops to assist with application
of the garment and/or with closing and/or opening of the
closure.
90. A compression garment as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 26
including one or more touch markers positioned and arranged to
assist correct alignment of the garment.
91. A compression garment including a fabric body and one or more
touch markers positioned and arranged to assist correct alignment
of the garment.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The invention relates generally to fabrics, fabrics for
compression therapy and compression garments formed from
fabric.
BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION
[0002] Compression therapy is used for treatment or preventative
therapy associated with circulatory problems, in particular with
vascular disorders in the limbs, especially in the legs.
Compression can assist with treatment or prevention of venous
ulcers, embolism, oedema, thrombosis, deep vein thrombosis,
varicose veins and other venous insufficiencies. Compression
therapy is often used by older patients, by those with other health
problems such as diabetes or with poor venous blood flow for
whatever reason.
[0003] Compression is usually measured by pressure applied (in
mmHg) or by a class system related to pressure. One class system
defines: Class A compression as 10 to 15 mmHg; Class 1 compression
as 16 to 21 mmHg; Class 2 compression as 22 to 30 mmHg; Class 3
compression as 34 to 46 mmHg and Class 4 compression as more than
46 mmHg. Where pressure classes are referred to in this
specification it is this system that is referenced.
[0004] Compression may be applied by one or more elastic bandages
wrapped tightly around the patient's limb. Applying these bandages
is difficult and they are usually applied by a healthcare worker,
not by the patient. In addition to the difficulty for older
patients in simply applying a bandage, some strength is required to
achieve the necessary compression particularly where a higher level
of compression is required. This problem is exacerbated by the
facts that bandages need to be changed often and when applied to
the limb have a tendency to slip or gradually loosen (resulting in
lower pressure); and bandages can be applied incorrectly (e.g. too
tightly) which can lead to significant health issues.
[0005] It is also difficult to apply bandages to achieve a desired
variation of the level of compression along the patient's limb.
Typically the level of compression should be greatest at the
extremities of the limb and fall gradually along the length of the
limb. However, it is difficult to provide the correct variation by
manual application of a bandage. Some compression bandages are
marked with a scale which provides a rough indication of how far
the bandage has been stretched and therefore some idea of the level
of compression applied. However, this is a clumsy and unreliable
system which relies on user skill in applying the bandage and
correct interpretation of the scale.
[0006] Compression stockings are also known. These are usually
simply tubular elastic bandages which can be pulled on like a sock.
Most provide an undesirable variation in compression, since their
diameter is simply uniform along the length of the stocking and
this shape does not match the variation in the shape of the limb.
Some shaped garments are known, but these are still difficult for
patients to apply.
[0007] Compression stockings are typically formed predominantly
from a synthetic material and may include an elastic material to
provide the necessary compression.
[0008] Existing compression stockings do not provide an optimal
environment near the user's skin. In addition to requiring
compression to treat underlying vascular disorders, patients often
have wounds in their skin (typically ulcers) which must heal. The
Applicant has found that existing compression stockings slow or
prevent healing, or even contribute to development of further
wounds or undesirable skin conditions, by adversely affecting the
microenvironment around the wearer's skin. Such adverse effects
include promoting excessive moisture or heat as well as physical
irritation of the skin.
[0009] Compression bandages or garments must be worn routinely over
a long period of time to have any benefit. Compression bandages or
garments which are uncomfortable because of poor design, incorrect
application or undesirable effects on the user's skin environment
are therefore particularly problematic.
[0010] It is an object of the invention to provide an improved
fabric and/or improved compression garment and/or improved
compression garment system, or at least to provide the public with
a useful choice.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] In a first aspect the invention provides a compression
garment formed as a single fabric layer, including: a moisture
absorbent material forming at least predominantly an inner surface
of the single fabric layer; and a wicking material forming at least
predominantly an outer surface of the single fabric layer; wherein
the single fabric layer is knitted or woven from threads of at
least the first and second materials.
[0012] Preferably the moisture absorbent material is composed of
fibres having a hydrophilic core and a hydrophobic surface.
[0013] Preferably the moisture absorbent material is also a
temperature regulating material.
[0014] Preferably the moisture absorbent material is also an
odour-inhibiting material.
[0015] Preferably the moisture absorbent material is also an
anti-microbial material.
[0016] Preferably the moisture absorbent material is a natural
material. Preferably the natural material is wool. Preferably the
natural material is merino wool.
[0017] Preferably the moisture absorbent material has an average
fibre diameter in the range 13 to 23 .mu.m.
[0018] Preferably the moisture absorbent material is configured to
regulate the skin environment of a wearer.
[0019] Preferably the wicking material is composed of fibres having
a hydrophilic surface and low moisture absorption.
[0020] Preferably the wicking material is an abrasion resistant
material.
[0021] Preferably the wicking material is a synthetic material.
Preferably the wicking material is polyester, nylon or
polypropylene.
[0022] Preferably the ratio of absorbent material to wicking
material by weight is in the range 1:3 to 3:1.
[0023] Preferably the single fabric layer includes an elastic
material providing or contributing to a compression force provided
by the compression garment in use.
[0024] Preferably the elastic material is in the form of elastic
thread. Preferably the elastic material is elastane.
[0025] Preferably the elastic material is contained within the
single fabric layer without being exposed on either the inner or
outer surface.
[0026] Preferably the elastic material forms up to 50% of the
weight of the single fabric layer.
[0027] Preferably a compression force provided by the garment in
use is graduated along the length of the garment.
[0028] Preferably the single fabric layer is knitted from threads
of at least the first and second materials. Preferably the single
fabric layer is knitted as a flat fabric layer. Alternatively the
single fabric layer may be formed by an integral knitting
process.
[0029] Preferably the inner surface is formed by a first set of
knit stitches formed at least predominantly from the moisture
absorbent material and the outer surface is formed by a second set
of knit stitches formed at least predominantly from the wicking
material.
[0030] Preferably a set of tuck stitches links the knit
stitches.
[0031] Preferably one or more handles or loops are provided to
assist with application of the garment and/or with closing and/or
opening of the closure.
[0032] Preferably one or more touch markers are positioned and
arranged to assist correct alignment of the garment.
[0033] In a second aspect the invention provides a method of
forming a compression garment, including: providing: first threads
formed of an absorbent material; and second threads formed of a
wicking material; and processing the first and second threads to
form a single fabric layer, in which a first surface is formed at
least predominantly by the first threads and a second surface
opposing the first surface is formed at least predominantly by the
second threads.
[0034] Preferably the first and second threads are provided in
proportions such that the ratio of absorbent material to wicking
material by weight is in the range 1:3 to 3:1.
[0035] Preferably third threads of an elastic material are also
provided and the first, second and third threads are processed to
form the single fabric layer.
[0036] Preferably the method includes processing the first, second
and third threads such that the elastic material is contained
within the single fabric layer without being exposed on either the
first or second surface.
[0037] Preferably the method includes providing the third threads
in proportion such that the elastic material forms up to 50% of the
weight of the single fabric layer.
[0038] Preferably the method includes shaping and/or varying
construction of the single fabric layer such that a compression
force provided by the garment in use is graduated along the length
of the garment.
[0039] Preferably the processing step is a knitting step.
Preferably the method includes knitting the single fabric layer as
a flat fabric layer. Alternatively the method may include knitting
the single fabric layer using an integral knitting process.
[0040] Preferably the method includes forming a first set of knit
stitches at least predominantly from the moisture absorbent
material, the first set of stitches providing the first surface;
and forming a second set of knit stitches at least predominantly
from the wicking material, the second set of stitches providing the
second surface.
[0041] Preferably the method includes forming a set of tuck
stitches linking the knit stitches.
[0042] In a third aspect the invention provides a compression
garment including: a shaped fabric body; an opening extending over
at least a part of the fabric body; an elastic material connected
at both sides of the opening such that, in use, the elastic
material tends to draw the sides of the opening together; and a
closure configured to close the opening.
[0043] Preferably the opening extends to an edge of the fabric
body.
[0044] Preferably the compression garment provides, in use, a first
predetermined level of compression when the opening is closed and a
second predetermined level of compression when the opening is open.
Preferably the first level is greater than the second level.
[0045] Preferably, in use, a circumference of the garment in the
region of the opening is reduced by closing the opening with the
closure.
[0046] Preferably the elastic material is configured to contract so
as to lie flat underneath the shaped fabric body when, in use, the
opening is closed.
[0047] Preferably the closure provides a fixed connection between
the sides of the opening when the opening is closed.
[0048] Preferably the closure is a zip closure. Alternatively, the
closure may include one or more of: hook and loop fasteners, domes,
snap fasteners, buckles and/or releasable adhesive.
[0049] Preferably the shaped fabric body is shaped to conform to
the shape of a wearer's lower leg.
[0050] Preferably the opening is positioned to extend along the
length of a wearer's leg.
[0051] Preferably a lower portion of the garment is configured to
fit around a wearer's foot and an upper portion provides the
opening, elastic material and closure.
[0052] Preferably one or more handles or loops are provided to
assist with application of the garment and/or with closing and/or
opening of the closure.
[0053] Preferably one or more touch markers are positioned and
arranged to assist correct alignment of the garment.
[0054] In a further aspect the invention provides a multilayer
compression garment system including: an inner fabric compression
layer configured, in use, to apply a first predetermined level of
compression; and an outer fabric compression layer configured, in
use, to apply a second predetermined level of compression; wherein
the inner layer includes a moisture absorbent material and a
wicking material and the outer layer includes a wicking
material.
[0055] Preferably, in use: moisture vapour in a wearer's skin
environment is absorbed by the moisture absorbent material in the
inner layer; absorbed moisture in the moisture absorbent material
in the inner layer is released towards the exterior of the inner
layer; liquid moisture in the skin environment is wicked through
the inner layer by the wicking material in the inner layer to the
interface between the inner and outer layers; and liquid moisture
at the interface is wicked into the outer layer by the second
material in the outer layer.
[0056] Preferably the compression garment system is a two-layer
compression garment system.
[0057] Preferably the inner layer is a compression stocking.
Preferably the inner layer is a compression garment according to
the first aspect above.
[0058] Preferably the first predetermined level of compression is
in the range 5 to 22 mmHg. More preferably the first predetermined
level of compression is in the range 10 to 15 mmHg.
[0059] Preferably the outer surface of the inner layer has a low
fabric-to-fabric coefficient of friction to ease application of the
outer layer over the inner layer.
[0060] Preferably the outer layer also includes a moisture
absorbent material.
[0061] Preferably the outer layer is a compression garment
according to the first aspect above.
[0062] In another aspect the invention provides a fabric,
including: a moisture absorbent material forming at least
predominantly a first surface of the single fabric layer; and a
wicking material forming at least predominantly a second surface of
the single fabric layer; wherein the fabric is knitted or woven
from threads of at least the moisture absorbent and wicking
materials.
[0063] Preferably the moisture absorbent material is composed of
fibres having a hydrophilic core and a hydrophobic surface.
[0064] Preferably the moisture absorbent material is also a
temperature regulating material.
[0065] Preferably the moisture absorbent material is also an
odour-inhibiting material.
[0066] Preferably the moisture absorbent material is also an
anti-microbial material.
[0067] Preferably the moisture absorbent material is a natural
material. Preferably the natural material is wool. Preferably the
natural material is merino wool.
[0068] Preferably the moisture absorbent material has an average
fibre diameter in the range 13 to 23 .mu.m.
[0069] Preferably the wicking material is composed of fibres having
a hydrophilic surface and low moisture absorption.
[0070] Preferably the wicking material is an abrasion resistant
material.
[0071] Preferably the wicking material is a synthetic material.
Preferably the wicking material is polyester, nylon or
polypropylene.
[0072] Preferably the ratio of absorbent material to wicking
material by weight is in the range 1:3 to 3:1.
[0073] Preferably the single fabric layer further includes an
elastic material.
[0074] Preferably the elastic material is in the form of elastic
thread.
[0075] Preferably the elastic material is elastane.
[0076] Preferably the elastic material is contained within the
single fabric layer without being exposed on either the first or
second surface.
[0077] Preferably the elastic material forms up to 50% of the
weight of the single fabric layer.
[0078] Preferably the single fabric layer is knitted from threads
of at least the first and second materials. Preferably the single
fabric layer is knitted as a flat fabric layer. Alternatively the
single fabric layer may be formed in an integral knitting
process.
[0079] Preferably the first surface is formed by a first set of
knit stitches formed predominantly from the moisture absorbent
material and the second surface, is formed by a second set of knit
stitches formed predominantly from the wicking material.
[0080] Preferably a set of tuck stitches links the knit
stitches.
[0081] In a further aspect the invention provides a two-layer
compression garment system including: an inner fabric compression
layer configured, in use, to apply a first predetermined level of
compression; and two or more outer fabric compression layers, each
configured, in use, to be applied directly over the inner fabric
compression layer, each providing a different predetermined level
of compression; such that the inner fabric compression layer and a
selected one of the two or more outer fabric compression layers can
be applied in order to achieve a desired cumulative level of
compression.
[0082] In another aspect the invention provides a compression
garment formed as a single fabric layer, including: a moisture
absorbent material forming at least part of an inner surface of the
single fabric layer; and a wicking material forming at least part
of an outer surface of the single fabric layer; wherein the single
fabric layer is knitted or woven from threads of at least the first
and second materials.
[0083] In a further aspect the invention provides a compression
garment including a fabric body and one or more touch markers
positioned and arranged to assist correct alignment of the
garment.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0084] The invention will now be described by way of example only,
with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0085] FIG. 1 is a side view of a compression garment according to
one embodiment;
[0086] FIG. 2A is a side view of a further compression garment;
[0087] FIG. 2B is a side view of a further compression garment;
[0088] FIG. 2C is a side view of a further compression garment;
[0089] FIG. 3 is a side view of a compression garment system in a
first configuration;
[0090] FIG. 4 is a rear view of the compression garment system of
FIG. 3;
[0091] FIG. 5 is a side view of the compression garment system of
FIG. 3, in a second configuration;
[0092] FIG. 6 is a rear view of the compression garment system of
FIG. 5;
[0093] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a compression garment system
according to a further embodiment;
[0094] FIG. 8 is a sectional view through part of the compression
garment system of FIG. 7;
[0095] FIG. 9 shows one surface of a fabric;
[0096] FIG. 9A shows the other surface of the fabric of FIG. 9;
[0097] FIG. 10 shows one surface of another fabric;
[0098] FIG. 10A shows the other surface of the fabric of FIG.
10;
[0099] FIG. 11 shows one surface of a further fabric;
[0100] FIG. 11A shows the other surface of the fabric of FIG.
11;
[0101] FIG. 12 shows one surface of yet another fabric;
[0102] FIG. 12A shows the other surface of the fabric of FIG. 12;
and
[0103] FIG. 13 is a Scanning Electron Microscope image of one
embodiment of the Applicant's fabric, showing wool and synthetic
fibres.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0104] FIG. 1 shows a compression garment 1 in the form of the
stocking. This garment can be used on its own to provide a level of
compression, or may form an inner layer of a multilayer compression
garment system, as discussed below.
[0105] The compression garment 1 is dimensioned and shaped to
provide a desired level of compression when applied to a wearer's
lower leg. The garment 1 also preferably provides a desired
variation of compression over the garment, with maximum compression
around the ankle and the level of pressure gradually reducing over
the upper, part of the garment 1. Generally the level of pressure
provided by a graduated pressure garment may be greater towards the
extremity.
[0106] The compression garment 1 is selected for or by a wearer
based on sizing information or a measurement of a body part. For
example, the appropriate size of garment 1 may be selected based on
a measurement of the wearer's ankle.
[0107] The compression garment is formed from a fabric body 2. The
fabric body is preferably formed as a single fabric layer as
described below.
[0108] The garment 1 may include a number of handles or loops 3
which help a user to apply the garment 1. In the example shown a
loop 3 is positioned at the top of the garment 1 and can be pulled
by the wearer to assist in putting on the garment 1.
[0109] The garment may also include a number of touch markers 5, 6.
These are markers arranged to be detected by touch. This is
particularly advantageous because many wearers requiring
compression therapy have failing vision due to age or underlying
health problems. The touch markers 5, 6 help those wearers to
properly align the garment 1. The touch markers 5, 6 may be
separate components, such as plastic components applied to the
fabric body 2, or a fabric solution such as raised stitching may be
formed as part of the fabric body. The touch markers 5, 6 may
provide information in addition to their position. For example,
different touch marker patterns could be used for compression
garments, of different compression classes or sizes, providing a
non-visual indication of class or size. The touch markers may also
be visible markers (for example raised coloured stitching).
[0110] FIGS. 2A, 2B and 2C show three different compression
garments 10, 11, 12. Each compression garment could be applied as a
standalone garment, but preferably the garments of FIGS. 2A to 2C
are used as part of a multilayer compression garment system. In one
embodiment the garment of any one of FIGS. 2A to 2C is used as an
outer compression layer over an inner compression layer formed by
the garment of FIG. 1. When used in this way, the inner garment 1
may have a low fabric-to-fabric coefficient of friction to ease
application of the outer layer over the inner layer.
[0111] In one embodiment each of the garments may be constructed,
dimensioned and/or shaped so as to provide a different level of
compression. For example, a compression garment system may provide
the following compression options. Applying the garment of FIG. 1
alone provides Class A compression (i.e. 10 to 15 mmHg). Applying
the garment of FIG. 1 as an inner layer, with the garment of FIG.
2A as an outer layer provides Class 1 compression (i.e. 16 to 21
mmHg). Applying the garment of FIG. 1 as an inner layer, with the
garment of FIG. 2B as an outer layer provides Class 2 compression
(i.e. 22 to 30 mmHg). Applying the garment of FIG. 1 as an inner
layer, with the garment of FIG. 2C as an outer layer provides Class
3 compression (i.e. 34 to 46 mmHg). Thus the Applicant's
compression garment system provides a range of options using the
same inner layer with an outer layer chosen for the degree of
compression required by the wearer.
[0112] The garments of FIGS. 2A, 2B and 2C are generally of similar
configuration, so only FIG. 2A will be discussed further. The
garment 10 includes a lower portion 14 which receives a user's foot
and ankle. This portion may have a toe opening 15 and a heel
opening 16, which reduces the amount of material around the foot
and, for some users, may make it easier to apply the garment. The
garment 10 also includes an upper portion 17 shaped to fit around a
wearer's lower leg or, calf region. Again, handles or loops 18 may
be provided to help a wearer to pull the garment on. Touch markers
19 help the wearer to correctly align the garment 10.
[0113] The compression garment system including the inner garment 1
and choice of outer garments 10, 11, 12 may be provided in a range
of sizes.
[0114] FIGS. 3 and 4 show the garment 10 with a zip closure 21 in
an open position. The garment 10 includes an opening 22 which can
be closed by the closure 21. The opening may extend all the way to
the top edge of the garment 10. The opening is shown at the rear of
the garment, which may provide easy access to the closure. However,
the opening could be positioned at any suitable position around the
garment 10.
[0115] Although the drawings show a zip closure, other suitable
closures could be used, including hook and loop fasteners, domes,
snap fasteners, buckles and/or releasable adhesive. Where a zip
closure is used a loop or handle 23 may be positioned below the
zip. Pulling on this loop or handle helps to straighten the line of
the zip, which makes it easier to do up the zip.
[0116] FIGS. 5 and 6 show the garment 10 with the zip closure 21 in
a closed position. In this position the closure provides a fixed
connection between the two sides 25, 26 of the opening 22. In the
closed position the shaped fabric body 28 of the garment 10
provides a first predetermined level of compression.
[0117] FIG. 7 shows a further embodiment in which a compression
garment 30 includes an opening 31 which can be closed by a zip
fastener or other closure (not shown in FIG. 7). A panel or band of
elastic material 32 extends across the opening, being attached at
or near the two sides 33, 34 of the opening 31. The elastic
material may extend over the entire length of the opening, as shown
in FIG. 7, or a band (of e.g. 5 to 10 cm in width) could be used
near the top of the opening. Alternatively a number of bands of
elastic material could be distributed along the length of the
opening.
[0118] This structure is clearly shown in FIG. 8, which is a
sectional view through the garment 30. This structure may be used
in the garment of any one of FIGS. 2A to 6. The garment may be a
standalone compression garment or part of a multilayer compression
system, as shown in FIG. 7.
[0119] The elastic material 32 tends to draw the two sides 33, 34
of the opening together when the closure is in an open position.
This elastic material helps to bring the sides of the closure
together, which makes it easier to close the closure. When the
closure is closed, the elastic material contracts so as to lie flat
under the fabric body of the garment 30. This is important for
comfort and safety, since fabric bunching under the fabric body
could irritate the skin, cause a pressure point, or even interfere
with the circulatory system.
[0120] In addition, the elastic material can be used to provide a
second predetermined level of compression. So, the compression
garment 30 has two alternative, functional configurations. In one
configuration the closure is closed and the fabric body of the
garment provides a first predetermined level of compression. In a
second configuration the closure is open and the elastic material
32 together with the fabric body of the garment 30 provides a
second predetermined level of compression. This is particularly
advantageous because a wearer can partially release the compression
pressure by opening the closure. Wearers are often required to wear
compression bandages or garments for a long period of time, and
this feature provides for some relief through temporary and partial
release of the pressure without removing the garment. In one
example, the second level of pressure is around 4 to 12 mmHg less
than the first level of pressure, preferably around 6 mmHg less
than the first level of pressure.
[0121] The Applicant has developed new fabrics. These fabrics may
provide improved performance in compression garments and in
multi-layer compression garment systems.
[0122] The new fabrics provide excellent compression properties
while also regulating the skin environment of the user. This
regulation provides an excellent environment for healing of any
wounds or lesions on the skin underneath the compression garment.
The garment may regulate moisture levels and/or temperature of the
skin environment. This regulated skin environment provides a
healthy, natural environment in which the skin can function as well
as possible. This provides two important advantages. First, good
conditions are provided for healing of existing wounds or lesions.
Second, the skin is given the best chance of resisting development
of further skin conditions. This is particularly important for
patients with poor blood flow because small skin problems can
rapidly worsen (especially where skin conditions are poor, as they
are beneath many prior compression systems).
[0123] Regulation is provided partly through the use of absorbent
materials and partly through the use of wicking materials.
[0124] In this specification the term "absorbent" refers to a
material capable of absorbing moisture vapour and subsequently
releasing or desorbing that moisture vapour to the surrounding
environment. The term "wicking" refers to a material with low
absorption of moisture, but which will transport liquid moisture by
capillary action or some other suitable mechanism.
[0125] The absorbent and wicking materials may be processed by
knitting or weaving or other suitable process into a single fabric
layer including both materials. Preferably the single fabric layer
is formed such that one surface (which will be the inner surface of
the compression garment) is formed predominantly by the absorbent
material, while the other surface (which will be the outer surface
of the compression garment) is formed predominantly from the
wicking material. This allows the absorbent material to be in
contact with the skin while the wicking material is separated from
the skin.
[0126] In such a fabric, liquid moisture in the skin environment is
wicked away from the skin by the wicking material. Moisture vapour
(e.g. water vapour) is absorbed by the absorbent material and then
released from the absorbent material away from the skin. Thus both
moisture vapour and liquid moisture are effectively removed from
the skin environment.
[0127] Where merino wool or a similar material is used as the
absorbent material, moisture vapour is absorbed (into the wool's
hydrophilic interior) from the high-humidity skin environment and
is released (desorbed, or diffused) to the external environment. A
porous synthetic outer garment does not prevent this diffusion
because it does not interact with moisture vapour and is a porous
knit structure.
[0128] Liquid moisture does not readily adhere to the surface of
merino wool or similar materials due to the hydrophobic exterior of
the wool fibres. The wicking material therefore pulls liquid
moisture through the fabric to the outside of the garment where it
can evaporate.
[0129] Thus, the fabric is generally a bi-component fabric
constructed from two fibre types having distinct physical and
chemical properties. The differing moisture absorbency and wicking
behaviours of the two fibres means that moisture will be drawn
through the structure to the outside where it can evaporate,
keeping the skin dry.
[0130] The two fibre types are placed separately in the fabric
structure, for example by placing one fibre type exclusively or
predominantly on one side of the fabric, and placing the other
fibre type exclusively or predominantly on the other side.
Alternatively the two fibre types can be combined in an alternating
stripe configuration.
[0131] In one embodiment the absorbent material is merino wool.
Merino wool and its natural thermoregulatory properties provide
excellent next-to-skin comfort.
[0132] However, other suitable materials may be used for the
absorbent material, including natural materials, wool, or even
synthetics providing the properties required. Increasingly
synthetic fibres are being developed to mimic the properties of
natural fibres (including wool and merino wool) and such fibres are
intended to fall within the scope of the invention.
[0133] The absorbent material may be a hygroscopic material. The
absorbent material may be composed of fibres having a hydrophilic
core and a hydrophobic surface. The moisture absorbent material may
be a temperature regulating material. The moisture absorbent
material may also be an odour-inhibiting material. These properties
are all provided by wool, and particularly by merino wool.
[0134] The moisture absorbent material may have anti-microbial
properties. It is believed that wool, and particularly merino wool,
may have anti-microbial properties. Other fabrics may be modified
to have anti-microbial properties, for example by the addition of
antimicrobial agents.
[0135] Merino wool has been shown to have naturally effective
resistance to odour build-up. Merino wool absorbs and traps odours;
and has surface properties inhospitable to microbial growth. Other
fibres need to be modified (such as by the addition of
antimicrobial agents) to be odour retardant.
[0136] Such properties are advantageous for next to skin surfaces
where wound healing is a factor.
[0137] The moisture absorbent material may have an average fibre
diameter in the range 13 to 23 .mu.m (provided by most merino wool)
but preferably has a diameter less than 19 .mu.m for excellent
next-to-skin comfort.
[0138] The moisture absorbent material may have a standard regain
of around 10 to 20%, with merino wool providing a standard regain
around 17%. Regain is the moisture content as a percentage of the
fibre's dry weight. Standard regain is measured at 20.degree. C.
and 65% relative humidity and is an indication of the moisture
buffering capability of the fibre, higher standard regain means
greater buffering capability.
[0139] The moisture absorbent material may have a saturation regain
of around 30 to 40%, with merino wool providing a saturation regain
of around 35%. Saturation regain is measured at 100% relative
humidity. This is another indication of the moisture buffering
capability of the fibre; specifically it indicates how much
moisture it can hold before feeling damp.
[0140] The moisture absorbent material may have a thermal
conductivity greater than 160 mW/m/K, preferably around 160 to 240
mW/m/K, with merino wool providing a thermal conductivity of around
1.93 mW/m/K. Thermal conductivity is a measure of how easily heat
flows through a material. Lower conductivity means better
insulation but fibre thermal conductivity is only one factor in
overall fabric insulation (trapping air is of greater
significance). Wool has lower thermal conductivity than its main
hosiery competitors: cotton and nylon (the latter being the usual
fibre type used in compression hosiery). The natural crimp of
merino wool helps it to trap air.
[0141] The moisture absorbent material may have a limiting oxygen
index (LOI) greater than 21, preferably around 24 to 26, with
merino wool providing an LOI of around 25. LOI is a measure of
flammability and is defined as the volume percentage of oxygen in a
nitrogen/oxygen mixture that will just permit burning. The volume
percentage of oxygen in air is 21%, so materials having an LOI
greater than this will not sustain burning in air. Merino wool's
LOI is >21, so it will not sustain burning.
[0142] Static electricity build up in apparel situations is usually
a minor inconvenience to the wearer. Merino wool has inherently low
static build up, thought to be due to its relatively high moisture
content. Synthetic fibres (having low moisture content) are more
prone to static build-up, and may need special chemical treatments
to reduce this.
[0143] Merino wool has a fibre density within the range of the
other commonly-used fibre types.
[0144] The wicking material may be composed of fibres having a
hydrophilic surface and low moisture absorption. The wicking
material may be an abrasion resistant material.
[0145] Synthetic materials may be suitable for the wicking
material, including polyester, nylon or polypropylene.
[0146] The absorbent material and the synthetic material may be
combined in any suitable proportion, but generally a ratio of
absorbent material to wicking material by weight between 1:3 and
3:1 is expected to provide satisfactory performance.
[0147] In one embodiment the fabric is a knitted fabric, such as a
two face, single jersey knitted fabric. However, it may be possible
to form the fabric by weaving or some other process.
[0148] The fabric may be weft-knitted on a circular knitting
machine of gauge greater than 20 needles per inch (double jersey)
and 26 needles per inch (single jersey).
[0149] During knitting an elastic material such as elastomeric
fibre (e.g. elastane or spandex) may be knitted with some or all of
the other yarns or otherwise introduced into the fabric layer.
Elastane is a fibre of greater than 85% polyurethane, with
extremely high extension at breaking point (more than 200%) and
good elastic recovery.
[0150] The elastane yarn may be positioned such that it lies inside
the plane of the fabric, and is not exposed on either face. The
elastane is knitted in such a way to provide maximum stretch and
recovery to the fabric, allowing it to be used in medical or sports
applications to provide beneficial levels of mechanical compression
to the body of the wearer. While the fabric without elastane
provides some compression, the level of this compression would
creep over time and the fabric would most likely not recover well
after use. The elastane also helps to "pull in" the fabric during
manufacture so that the finished fabric is capable of a large
amount of extension.
[0151] The elastic material may form up to 50%, preferably 20 to
35%, of the weight of the single fabric layer. The finished fabric
may have a maximum extension between 35 and 55% by length.
[0152] The Applicant's material shows improved recovery properties
over prior compression garment materials. In particular, the
Applicant's fabric has a strong tendency to dimensionally recover
during laundering, which helps to return the compression garments
back to their original size, or close to that size. All compression
garments tend to stretch and extend in circumference during use,
and if there is insufficient recovery after removal of the garment
the unextended size of the garment will gradually increase and the
level of compression provided will gradually decrease. In other
words, there can be a residual extension when the load is
removed.
[0153] In contrast to prior garments, when the Applicant's garment
is washed, it returns strongly to its original size so the wearer
receives the designed level of compression. In other words, the
Applicant's garment will function as designed for a greater number
of wash cycles, and therefore over a longer useful life, than prior
garments. The Applicant believes this is at least partly due to the
use of wool, particularly merino wool, in the fabrics discussed
herein. In particular it is believed that any temporary deformation
of fibres (bending or stretching) caused by stretching the fabric
is relaxed by wet laundering. This improved recovery means that the
garment can provide the intended physiological benefit to the user
over a longer period of time.
[0154] The Applicant has tested its product against existing
compression products. Results of that testing are shown in the
following table. Product A is a commercially available sock
intended for use on long flights etc and formed from 93% polyamide
material with designed compression around 14 to 17 mmHg. Product B
is a commercially available medical support stocking formed from
69% polyamide material with designed compression around 30 mmHg.
Product C is a commercially available sports sock formed from 91%
polyamide material with designed compression around 18-25 mmHg. The
basic composition in all cases is nylon with an elastomeric fibre
(referred to in this document by the generic term `elastane`)
included to provide the compressive force and stretch/recovery
behaviour. The amount of elastane present is relatively high, as
expected for a product offering therapeutic levels of
compression.
[0155] This testing involved taking a section from the lower
section of each garment. That section was put under load (to a
designated size) every day for eight hours. The garment was
laundered once a week. The percentages given in the table are
calculated as 100(s1-s2)/s1, where s1 is the size of garment before
washing and s2 is the size of garment after washing. These figures
show that the Applicant's garment recovers strongly on washing over
a prolonged period.
TABLE-US-00001 Applicant's Product A Product B Product C garment
Week 1 -- -- -- -- Week 2 7.3% 4.1% 8.8% 13.9% Week 3 9.7% 6.3%
10.8% 15.3% Week 4 12.3% 6.7% 13.1% 19.7% Week 5 11.3% 7.9% 13.8%
19.5% Week 6 12.2% 6.0% 13.0% 17.9% Week 7 10.5% 7.3% 11.1% 17.4%
Week 8 12.2% 7.9% 12.7% 20.8% Week 10 12.1% 7.8% 12.7% 21.6% Week
11 11.8% 9.6% 11.5% 19.3% Week 12 11.0% 7.4% 12.4% 19.2% Week 13
13.7% 7.2% 11.9% 21.0% Week 14 12.2% 7.3% 12.7% 18.9% Week 15 10.4%
9.3% 12.7% 20.2% Week 16 12.9% 7.9% 12.6% 19.7% Week 17 12.2% 7.9%
11.8% 21.8% Week 18 11.9% 8.1% 12.4% 20.8% Week 20 11.3% 7.3% 12.7%
16.5% Mean 11.5% 7.4% 12.2% 19.0%
[0156] Testing has been conducted as to the effects of the
Applicant's graduated compression stockings on lower limb venous
haemo-dynamics in seated adults with normal peripheral circulation.
The study is a randomised controlled Doppler Ultrasound trial
comparing one limb with the stocking applied, to the other limb
with no stocking applied (control).
[0157] The primary outcome is an improvement in peak venous
velocity in the popliteal vein, in participants seated over a 120
minute timeframe, while wearing an Encircle below-knee merino
graduated compression stocking, compared with not wearing a
stocking.
[0158] In addition, there is improvement in mean venous velocity,
vein diameter, total volume flow in the popliteal vein, and size
(circumference) and shape of the limb, in participants seated over
a 120 minute timeframe, while wearing an Encircle below-knee merino
graduated compression stocking, compared with not wearing a
stocking.
[0159] The fabric may be processed, e.g. through a scour treatment
(textile washing process), in order to remove any residues, such as
grease or processing lubricants that are present during the
knitting or yarn spinning process and then Santex dried.
[0160] FIGS. 9 and 9A show first and second faces of a fabric
formed from merino wool and a synthetic wicking material. FIG. 9
shows one face, formed by stitches of the synthetic wicking
material. FIG. 9B shows the other face, formed by stitches of the
merino wool.
[0161] FIGS. 10 and 10A show first and second faces of a further
fabric. In this example, a double jersey fabric has been
constructed where merino wool yarns (14 tex, 19 .mu.m mean fibre
diameter) are knitted just to one side of the structure (all knit
on the dial needles) and a branded polyester multifilament (ADVANSA
Thermo.degree.Cool.TM., 83 decitex, 72 filaments) is knitted to the
other side of the structure (all knit on the cylinder needles). The
two layers are then linked together to form a single fabric by
tucking alternating dial and cylinder needles with additional
Thermo.degree.Cool.TM. yarn. A 78 decitex branded elastane (Invista
Elaspan.RTM.) is knitted on the dial and cylinder stitches (but not
the alternating dial and cylinder tuck stitches used to hold
together the merino and the Therm.degree.Cool.TM. layers).
[0162] Thus the inner surface is formed by a first set of knit
stitches formed at least predominantly from the moisture absorbent
material and the outer surface is formed by a second set of knit
stitches formed at least predominantly from the wicking material,
with a set of tuck stitches linking the knit stitches.
[0163] Thermo.degree.Cool.TM. polyester is a multifilament
synthetic yarn, which contains both flat channelled fibres and
round hollow-core fibres. The flat channelled fibres have high
relative surface area and wick sweat and moisture away from the
skin to the fabric's surface where it can evaporate, while the
hollow fibres trap air in the centre of the fibre for improved
insulation.
[0164] Keeping the polyester and the merino components on separate
sides of the fabric structure gives benefits in terms of comfort
and performance.
[0165] Performance of the resultant fabric would be described as
heavy-weight with maximum stretch and powerful recovery due to it
being processed at temperatures below that which would set the
elastane (which occurs at 190.degree. and above). However, other
forms of fabric may be suitable, including light-weight materials
and materials with lower stretch.
[0166] FIGS. 11 and 11A show the two faces of a further example
fabric.
[0167] FIGS. 12 and 12A show the two faces of yet another example
fabric.
[0168] FIG. 13 is a Scanning Electron Microscope image showing the
structure of one embodiment of the Applicant's fabric. Here the
separate groupings of merino fibres 85 and synthetic fibres 86 can
clearly be seen.
[0169] Any of these fabrics may be used to form any of the
compression garments described in this specification.
[0170] The single fabric layer may either be knitted as a flat
fabric layer and then processed to form the finished compression
garment, or may be formed by an integral knitting process which
essentially results in the finished garment. Any of the compression
garments described in this specification could be formed in either
of these ways.
[0171] In a multilayer compression garment system the inner layer
is preferably formed from a fabric as described above. Outer layers
may also be formed from these fabrics, but could be of different
fabrics. Preferably if another fabric is used it should at least
include a wicking material so that liquid moisture can be
effectively wicked to the outside of the garment system.
[0172] In a two-layer system liquid moisture wicked through the
inner layer as discussed above will be wicked from the interface
between the inner and outer layers through the outer layer where it
can evaporate. Moisture vapour released from the absorbent material
in the inner layer may either pass through a porous outer layer or,
if absorbent material is also provided in the outer layer, be
absorbed and released by that material to the outside of the
garment system, in a similar manner to that discussed above.
[0173] Note that extreme conditions (in particular where the
external environment has extremely high humidity) the
absorption/desorption of moisture vapour and the evaporation of
moisture from the outside of the garment or garment system may be
diminished or may not work effectively. However, in normal
conditions the garments and garment systems are designed to
function as described above.
[0174] Although the Applicant's garments have been described with
reference to compression garments for the lower leg, compression
garments for other parts of the body also fall within the scope of
the invention.
[0175] The Applicant's fabrics provide good compression
characteristics, with the ability to create compression garments
providing specific compression levels. The structure of the fabrics
and the materials used provide an excellent skin environment, in
which moisture and temperature levels are kept at satisfactory
levels. This helps with the healing of wounds or lesions and also
provides a more comfortable compression garment. Comfort is
especially important since these types of garment must be worn for
long periods of time.
[0176] Particularly where merino wool or similar materials are used
in conjunction with wicking materials, both water vapour and liquid
moisture can be effectively removed from the skin environment while
the wool also assists in regulating the temperature of that
environment.
[0177] The Applicant's garments and garment systems are also
relatively easy to apply. The garments are designed for application
by older or weaker patients without professional assistance, at
least up to class 2 compression. This is achieved by a layered
system in which compression is provided by two or more garments
which can be separately applied. Older or weaker patients will find
it easier to apply two layers each providing part of the required
compression, which builds up the total level of pressure applied,
than a single, much firmer, layer providing the entire
compression.
[0178] The garments may also be provided with handles or loops to
assist with application and with touch markers to assist with
alignment.
[0179] At higher compression levels professional assistance may be
required for application of an outer garment. However, application
is still expected to be easier and faster than for many prior
compression systems. In any case, compression therapy at higher
compression levels is required to be supervised by healthcare
professionals.
[0180] The design of the outer garment, with an opening and closure
also assists application, since only the lower part of the garment
need be pulled forcefully over the patient's foot. The upper
portion, with the closure in an open position, has a large diameter
and is relatively easily pulled over the foot and positioned around
the calf. The elastic material attached across the opening both
assists with closing the closure and importantly provides a second
designed level of compression. A wearer can temporarily reduce the
compression pressure by releasing the closure. A lesser level of
compression is applied until the closure is closed again. So there
is no need to remove the entire garment in order to obtain some
temporary relief.
[0181] While the present invention has been illustrated by the
description of the embodiments thereof, and while the embodiments
have been described in detail, it is not the intention of the
Applicant to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the appended
claims to such detail. Additional advantages and modifications will
readily appear to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the
invention in its broader aspects is not limited to the specific
details, representative apparatus and methods, and illustrative
examples shown and described. Accordingly, departures may be made
from such details without departure from the spirit or scope of the
Applicant's general inventive concept.
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