U.S. patent application number 16/778323 was filed with the patent office on 2020-05-28 for cryotherapy compression system.
The applicant listed for this patent is Jacob Randy Hall. Invention is credited to Jacob Randy Hall.
Application Number | 20200163821 16/778323 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51530599 |
Filed Date | 2020-05-28 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20200163821 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hall; Jacob Randy |
May 28, 2020 |
CRYOTHERAPY COMPRESSION SYSTEM
Abstract
In one example, a therapy system includes a sleeve that defines
an opening and has an outer surface and an inner surface. A
therapeutic device is positioned so that the inner surface of the
sleeve is disposed between the therapeutic device and an extremity
of a user when the extremity is positioned in the opening defined
by the sleeve. A manually operable tightening mechanism is provided
that includes a lace connected to first and second portions of the
outer surface of the sleeve and the lace is engaged with a
mechanical lace tensioner that is operable to change, by either
drawing the first and second portions toward each other or by
allowing the first and second portions to move away from each
other, a magnitude of a compressive force exerted by the sleeve on
the extremity when the extremity is positioned within the opening
defined by the sleeve.
Inventors: |
Hall; Jacob Randy; (Draper,
UT) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Hall; Jacob Randy |
Draper |
UT |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
51530599 |
Appl. No.: |
16/778323 |
Filed: |
January 31, 2020 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14207225 |
Mar 12, 2014 |
10555863 |
|
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16778323 |
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61786354 |
Mar 15, 2013 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61F 7/10 20130101; A61N
1/0484 20130101; A61N 1/0456 20130101; A61F 2007/0228 20130101;
A61F 7/02 20130101; A61F 2007/0094 20130101; A61F 2013/00187
20130101; A61F 2007/0219 20130101; A61F 7/00 20130101; A61F
2007/0056 20130101; A61H 11/00 20130101; A61H 1/008 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61H 1/00 20060101
A61H001/00; A61H 11/00 20060101 A61H011/00; A61N 1/04 20060101
A61N001/04; A61F 7/10 20060101 A61F007/10 |
Claims
1. A therapy system, comprising: a sleeve that defines an opening,
the sleeve having an outer surface and an inner surface; a
therapeutic device positioned so that the inner surface of the
sleeve is disposed between the therapeutic device and an extremity
of a user when the extremity is positioned in the opening defined
by the sleeve; and an adjustable tightening mechanism comprising a
lace connected to first and second portions of the outer surface of
the sleeve and the lace is engaged with a mechanical lace tensioner
that is operable to change, by either drawing the first and second
portions toward each other or by allowing the first and second
portions to move away from each other, a magnitude of a compressive
force exerted by the sleeve on the extremity when the extremity is
positioned within the opening defined by the sleeve.
Description
RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 14/207,225, filed Mar. 12, 2014 and will grant
as U.S. Pat. No. 10,555,863 on Feb. 11, 2020, which claims priority
to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/786,354, filed
Mar. 15, 2013. All of the aforementioned applications are
incorporated herein in their respective entireties by this
reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The embodiments discussed herein are related to
cryotherapy.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Cold compression therapy is used in sports medicine and
injury rehabilitation. More particularly, cold compression therapy
may be used for injuries related to soft tissue trauma such as
post-surgical rehabilitation, sports injuries, or arthritic
conditions, for instance.
[0004] Cold compression therapy is a combination of cryotherapy and
compression therapy. Cryotherapy generally includes treatment of an
injury through direct application of cold temperatures to the
injured area. By applying the cold temperatures, heat is
transferred away from the injured area, which causes
vasoconstriction and reflexive vasodilation, which decreases
metabolism and may alleviate minor pain. Cryotherapy systems
include a wide range of devices from a bag of ice to cryo-saunas in
which a user can enter and sit for some time to treat an entire
body of the user.
[0005] Compression therapy generally refers to exerting an external
pressure on an injured area. The external pressure acts on the
tissue to decrease or prevent swelling. Like cryotherapy systems,
compression systems include a wide range of devices from stretchy
socks to wraps with complex geometric design having hook and loop
systems for securing the wraps to the injured area.
[0006] Most existing cold compression therapy systems combine
application of cold temperatures with application of external
pressure. Some of the cold compression systems are static. Users of
static cold compression systems cannot adjust or quickly alleviate
the external pressure exerted on the injured area. These static
cold compression systems are not intended to be adjusted and often
require substantial re-positioning and modifications to various
straps to change the external pressure.
[0007] Alternatively, some cold compression systems are dynamic.
Dynamic cold compression systems allow adjustment of the external
pressure. However, dynamic adjustment systems often require
large-scale compressors with complex controls to allow a user to
control the external pressure applied to the injured area. These
systems are large, expensive, and cumbersome to operate. The
majority of dynamic cold compression systems are not practical for
individual use due to the expense and difficulty involved in proper
use. Thus, these cold compression systems are used by physical
therapists.
[0008] The subject matter claimed herein is not limited to
embodiments that solve any disadvantages or that operate only in
environments such as those described above. Rather, this background
is only provided to illustrate one example technology area where
some embodiments described herein may be practiced.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF SOME ASPECTS OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0009] It should be noted that the embodiments disclosed herein do
not constitute an exhaustive summary of all possible embodiments,
nor does this brief summary constitute an exhaustive list of all
aspects of any particular embodiment(s). Rather, this brief summary
simply presents selected aspects of some example embodiments. It
should be noted that nothing herein should be construed as
constituting an essential or indispensable element of any invention
or embodiment. Rather, various aspects of the disclosed embodiments
may be combined in a variety of ways so as to define yet further
embodiments. Such further embodiments are considered as being
within the scope of this disclosure. As well, none of the
embodiments embraced within the scope of this disclosure should be
construed as resolving, or being limited to the resolution of, any
particular problem(s). Nor should such embodiments be construed to
implement, or be limited to implementation of, any particular
technical effect(s) or solution(s).
[0010] Disclosed embodiments are generally concerned with a therapy
system that enables a user to apply a thermal pack, such as a cold
pack or a heat pack, or other therapeutic element, such as a TENS
device, to an affected area while, also enabling the user to apply
and maintain an external pressure to the affected area. The applied
external pressure may be adjusted by the user. Embodiments within
the scope of this disclosure may include any one or more of the
following elements, and features of elements, in any combination: a
layer having first and second ends and configured to be wrapped
around a portion of the anatomy of a user; a sleeve configured to
removable receive a portion of the anatomy of a user; a cold pack;
a therapeutic element, which may take the form of any of a heat
pack, cold pack, TENS device, or water circulation pad; a layer
having first and second ends and configured to be wrapped around a
portion of the anatomy of a user, and the layer includes an elastic
portion; a sleeve configured to removably receive a portion of the
anatomy of a user, and the sleeve may optionally include an elastic
portion; one or more cold packs; one or more heat packs; a cold
compress; a cold water circulation system including a water
circulation pad; an adjustable tightening mechanism operable by a
user to vary an external pressure exerted by a layer or sleeve on a
portion of the anatomy of the user; a securing mechanism; an
adjustable tightening mechanism that includes a lace and one or
more lace retainers, and the tension in the lace is adjustable by a
user; an adjustable tightening mechanism that includes a lace and
one or more lace retainers, and the tension in the lace is
adjustable by a user using a rotate-and-lock mechanism of the
adjustable tightening mechanism; an inner layer; an outer layer; a
compressible pad shaped to conform with a portion of the anatomy of
a user; a compressible pad having a first portion that is thicker
than a second portion of the compressible pad; a transcutaneous
electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) unit including one or more
pads, one or more of which may be removable from a sleeve or layer;
a cryotherapy system configured to fit one or more of, an
ankle-foot combination of a user, a shoulder of a user, a wrist of
a user, an elbow of a user, a calf of a user, a hip of a user; a
foot-to-hip of a user; and, an ankle-to-hip of a user; a
self-contained cryotherapy system that requires no external water
supply or power supply; and, a cryotherapy system that includes a
plurality of tightening mechanisms.
[0011] Following is a non-exclusive list of embodiments within the
scope of the invention. It should be understood that aspects of the
various embodiments disclosed herein may be combined in other ways
to define still further embodiments.
[0012] 1. A system comprising: an inner layer, the inner layer
being continuous between a first end and a second end of the
cryotherapy system and configured such that the inner layer can be
configured to define an opening through which an extremity of a
user may be introduced; an outer layer attached to the inner layer,
the outer layer including a first portion of the outer layer and a
second portion of the outer layer; a cold pack positioned between
the inner layer and the outer layer; and a tightening mechanism
configured to move the first portion of the outer layer towards the
second portion of the outer layer and to maintain the first portion
with respect to the second portion, thereby pressing the cold pack
against the inner layer and applying therapeutic compression to the
extremity.
[0013] 2. The system of embodiment 1, wherein the tightening
mechanism is configured to move the first portion of the outer
layer towards the second portion of the outer layer and to maintain
the first portion with respect to the second portion.
[0014] 3. The system of embodiment 1, further comprising a foam
pad, the foam pad including at least two thickness such that a
first pressure is applied at a first area and a second pressure is
applied at a second area.
[0015] 4. The system of embodiment 1, further comprising a foam pad
positioned between the outer layer and the cold compress, the foam
pad including at least two thickness such that a first pressure is
applied at a first area and a second pressure is applied at a
second area when the outer layer is moved towards the second
portion of the outer layer.
[0016] 5. The systems of either of embodiments 3 or 4, wherein the
at least two thickness are further positioned such that the first
pressure is applied to a low point of a joint on the extremity and
the second pressure is applied to a high point of the joint on the
extremity.
[0017] 6. The systems of any of embodiments 1-5, wherein the
tightening mechanism includes: a lace; a first lace retainer
secured on the first portion, the lace routed through the first
lace retainer; a second lace retainer secured on the second
portion, the lace routed through the second lace retainer; and a
lace tensioner configured to apply tension to the lace and to
retract the lace, which moves the first lace retainer towards the
second lace retainer.
[0018] 7. The system of embodiment 6, further comprising: a lace
conduit positioned within the second portion of the outer layer and
coupled to the lace tensioner, the lace conduit configured such
that the lace exits the lace conduit and enters the first lace
retainer.
[0019] 8. The system of embodiment 7, wherein the lace exits the
lace conduit at a substantially right angle to an edge of the first
portion.
[0020] 9. The system of embodiment 1, wherein the tightening
mechanism includes: a lace; a first plurality of lace retainers
secured on the first portion, the lace routed through each of the
first plurality of lace retainer; a second plurality of lace
retainers secured on the second portion, the lace routed through
each of the second plurality of lace retainers; and a lace
tensioner configured to apply tension to the lace and to retract
the lace which moves the first lace retainer towards the second
lace retainer.
[0021] 10. The system of embodiment 9, wherein each of the first
plurality of lace retainers and each of the second plurality of
lace retainers are U shaped and include an inlet and an outlet
oriented substantially perpendicular to an edge of the first
portion and a length oriented substantially parallel to the edge of
the first portion.
[0022] 11. The system of embodiments 9 or 10, wherein the first
plurality of lace retainers are staggered with respect to the
second plurality of lace retainers, such that a first inlet of a
first lace retainer of the first plurality of lace retainers is
positioned across from an outlet of a lace conduit; and a first
outlet of the first lace retainer is positioned across from second
inlet of a second lace retainer of the second plurality of lace
retainers.
[0023] 12. The system of any of embodiments 9-11, wherein: the
first plurality of lace retainers and the second plurality of lace
retainers include a proximate lace retainer positioned nearest a
core of a user; the first plurality of lace retainers and the
second plurality of lace retainers include a distal lace retainer
positioned farthest from the core of the user; and when the
tightening mechanism moves the first portion of the outer layer
towards the second portion of the outer layer, the distal lace
retainers move together before the proximate lace retainer.
[0024] 13. The system of any of embodiments 9-12, wherein: each of
the first plurality of lace retainers is separated from adjacent
lace retainers of the first plurality of lace retainers by a
constant distance; and each of the second plurality of lace
retainers is separated from adjacent lace retainers of the second
plurality of lace retainers by the constant distance.
[0025] 14. The system of any of embodiments 9-12, wherein: one of
the first plurality of lace retainers is separated from an adjacent
lace retainers of the first plurality of lace retainers by a first
distance; and a second of the first plurality of lace retainers is
separated from a second adjacent lace retainer of the first
plurality of lace retainers by a second distance.
[0026] 15. The system of any of embodiments 9-12, wherein: one of
the second plurality of lace retainers is separated from an
adjacent lace retainers of the second plurality of lace retainers
by a first distance; and a second of the second plurality of lace
retainers is separated from a second adjacent lace retainer of the
second plurality of lace retainers by a second distance.
[0027] 16. A system comprising: a layer of material configured to
at least partially surround an extremity of a user, the layer
having a first state in which the layer of material is secured to
the extremity and applies a first external pressure to the
extremity, and a second state in which a second external pressure
is applied to the extremity; and a tightening mechanism configured
to transition the layer from the first state to the second
state.
[0028] 17. The system of embodiment 16, further comprising: a
second layer of material, the second layer of material configured
such that when the layer is secured to the user a separation exists
between a first portion of the second layer and a second portion of
the second layer.
[0029] 18. The system of embodiments 16 or 17, wherein the layer is
continuous without a separation.
[0030] 19. A system comprising: a plurality of layers configured to
be applied to in a first arrangement and a second arrangement to an
extremity of a user, the first arrangement including the extremity
being introduced into an opening defined when at least one of the
plurality of layers is secured to the user and a separation in
another of the plurality of layers has a first dimension, and the
second arrangement including the other layer in tension such that
the separation in the other layer has a reduced dimension, which
constricts at least one dimension of the opening.
[0031] 20. The system of any of embodiments 16-19, further
comprising a cold compress.
[0032] 21. The system of embodiments 1 or 20, wherein the cold pack
includes a cold therapy water circulation system.
[0033] 22. The system of any of embodiments 20-21, wherein the cold
pack is removable.
[0034] 23. The system of embodiment 1, wherein the cold pack is
sewn into the inner layer.
[0035] 24. The system of any of embodiments 1-22, wherein the
system is configured to fit a wrist, a knee, a shoulder, a hip, an
ankle-foot combination, a calf, an elbow, a foot-to-hip of a user;
or, an ankle-to-hip of a user of a user.
[0036] 25. The system of any of embodiments 1-24, wherein the
tightening mechanism includes: a pull-and-lock mechanism; a wind
and tuck mechanism; a jam cleat; or a rotate-and-lock
mechanism.
[0037] 26. The system of any of embodiments 1-25, further
comprising a securing mechanism configured to secure the
cryotherapy system to the user and to form the opening.
[0038] 27. The system of embodiment 26, wherein the securing
mechanism includes a set of buttons, a set of snaps, a belt
tightening system, metal hooks, or a hoop and loop system.
[0039] 28. The system of embodiment 16, wherein the layer of
material comprises a cold pack and the tightening mechanism being
attached directly to the cold compress.
[0040] 29. The system of embodiment 16, further comprising a
transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) unit.
[0041] 30. The system of embodiment 16, wherein the tightening
mechanism is operated through a manual act of a user.
[0042] 31. A method of cryotherapy comprising: introducing an
extremity into an opening defined by a layer of material; securing
the layer of material to the extremity such that a first pressure
is applied to an injured area; and operating a tightening mechanism
such that a second pressure is applied to the injured area.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0043] Example embodiments will be described and explained with
additional specificity and detail through the use of the
accompanying drawings in which:
[0044] FIGS. 1A-1D illustrate an example cryotherapy system;
[0045] FIG. 2 illustrates an example tightening mechanism that may
be implemented in the cryotherapy system of FIGS. 1A-1D.
[0046] FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate example lace tensioners that may be
implemented in the tightening mechanism of FIG. 2;
[0047] FIGS. 4A-4C illustrate an example sequential tightening
process that may be implemented by the tightening mechanism of FIG.
2;
[0048] FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate an example foam pad that may be
implemented in the cryotherapy system of FIGS. 1A-1D;
[0049] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate an example sleeve cryotherapy
system implementing an example foam pad;
[0050] FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate an example cold therapy water
circulation system implemented in the cryotherapy system of FIGS.
1A-1D;
[0051] FIGS. 8A-8C illustrate example securing mechanisms that may
be implemented in the cryotherapy system of FIGS. 1A-1D;
[0052] FIGS. 9A-9C illustrate an example continuous cryotherapy
system;
[0053] FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate an example single-layer
cryotherapy system;
[0054] FIGS. 11A and 11B illustrate another example sleeve
cryotherapy system;
[0055] FIG. 12 illustrates another example tightening mechanism
that may be implemented in the cryotherapy system of FIGS.
1A-1D;
[0056] FIGS. 13A and 13B illustrates an example transcutaneous
electrical nerve stimulation unit implemented in the cryotherapy
system of FIGS. 1A-1D;
[0057] FIG. 14 illustrates an example cryotherapy system of FIGS.
1A-1D configured to fit a knee;
[0058] FIGS. 15A and 15B illustrate an example cryotherapy system
of FIGS. 1A-1D configured to fit a shoulder;
[0059] FIGS. 16A and 16B illustrate an example cryotherapy system
of FIGS. 1A-1D configured to fit a wrist;
[0060] FIGS. 17A and 17B illustrate an example cryotherapy system
of FIGS. 1A-1D configured to fit an elbow;
[0061] FIGS. 18A and 18B illustrate an example cryotherapy system
of FIGS. 1A-1D configured to fit an ankle-foot combination;
[0062] FIGS. 19A and 19B illustrate an example cryotherapy system
of FIGS. 1A-1D configured to fit a hip;
[0063] FIG. 20 illustrates an example of a thigh-to-ankle
cryotherapy system; and
[0064] FIG. 21 illustrates an example of a cryotherapy garment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS
[0065] Some example embodiments of the present invention will be
explained with reference to the accompanying drawings. In general,
such embodiments can be used in a variety of applications, though
it should be noted that the following examples are not intended to
limit the scope of the invention in any way. For example,
embodiments of the invention can be used to treat an injury that a
user has sustained. This treatment may occur near in time to the
injury and/or over a period of time after the injury has been
sustained. Embodiments of the invention are not limited to use in
treating injuries however. For example, embodiments of the
invention can be used to aid in the recovery of a user after
endurance events that may extend over a relatively long period of
time, such as from several hours to several days.
[0066] It should be noted that while various embodiments disclosed
herein are referred to as constituting a cryotherapy system, at
least some of such embodiments can be configured and used to
provide only compression, without any thermal therapy component or
device. By way of illustration, an embodiment that includes a
removable therapeutic device, such as a cold pack for example, can
be used without the cold pack to provide only compression
therapy.
[0067] As well, embodiments of the invention can be used in other
than therapeutic applications. For example, embodiments can be used
as, or together with, a splint to stabilize a body part, such as a
limb, suspected to be broken, or that has undergone some other
traumatic type of injury. The splint, or splints, can be rigid or
semi-rigid elements of metal, wood, plastic and/or any other
suitable material(s) that are separate from one of the disclosed
devices, or can be incorporated into one or more layers of those
devices. The splints may or may not be removable from such
layer(s).
[0068] As another example, embodiments of the invention can be
sized and configured so as to take the form of a tourniquet. The
variable compression afforded by the aforementioned embodiments is
well suited to these applications, among others, and such
embodiments can be included as an element of trauma kits and other
collections of medical equipment for emergency, and other, use.
[0069] Moreover, while some of the disclosed embodiments are suited
for use with humans, other embodiments can be used for treatment of
animals. Thus, the scope of the invention is not limited to devices
that are configured to fit the human anatomy only, but extends as
well to devices configured to fit the anatomy of various types and
sizes of animals.
[0070] With regard to the various layers and sleeves disclosed
herein, it should be noted that the layers and sleeves can have any
shape or size. Moreover, any of the layers and sleeves disclosed
herein may include an elastic portion, or may substantially
comprise an elastic material. As well, any of the layers and
sleeves may include a portion made of absorbent material, or may
substantially comprise an absorbent material, that can absorb any
moisture that may condense on or near a cold pack. Further, any of
the layers and sleeves disclosed herein may include any one or more
of an elastic material, a waterproof or water-resistant material,
and an absorbent material. Further, various materials can be used
in the construction of embodiments of the invention, and such
materials include, but are not limited to, nylon, plastic,
polyester, PTFE, rubber, cotton, metal, fiberglass, carbon fiber,
composites, and any group of one or more of the foregoing. Finally,
one or more layers or sleeves of any embodiment within the scope of
this disclosure may include thermal insulation.
[0071] FIGS. 1A-1D illustrate an example cryotherapy system 100
according to some embodiments described herein. Specifically, FIG.
1A is an external view of the cryotherapy system 100 apart from a
user and unwrapped. FIG. 1B is a sectional view of the cryotherapy
system 100 in a wrapped, but unsecured configuration. FIG. 1C is
the cryotherapy system 100 worn by a user 104 (FIG. 1C only). FIG.
1D is the cryotherapy system 100 exploded into some individual
components. It should be appreciated that a detailed description of
the cryotherapy system 100 is provided herein, however this
description and principles thereof may be applicable to other
embodiments, which may include some dissimilar and/or some
additional features.
[0072] Generally, the cryotherapy system 100 enables a user to
apply a cold pack while further applying and maintaining an
adjustable external pressure to an injured area. The adjustable
external pressure may be controlled manually by the user 104. In
some embodiments, the cryotherapy system 100 may be self-contained.
Thus, in these and other embodiments, one or more external systems
such as external electrical systems, water-cooling systems, and/or
water circulation systems may be unnecessary. The manual control
may simplify the cryotherapy system 100 and reduce the expense and
training required to operate the cryotherapy system 100.
[0073] With reference to FIGS. 1A-1D, the cryotherapy system 100
may include an inner layer 102. The inner layer 102 is a continuous
layer extending from a first end 150 to a second end 152 (FIG. 1A
only). Additionally the inner layer 102 may be configured to be
placed adjacent to the user 104. For example, the inner layer 102
may be placed directly on skin of the user 104 or the user 104 may
place a towel between the skin of the user 104 and the inner layer
102. The inner layer 102 depicted in FIGS. 1A-1D is substantially
rectangular. However, this is not meant to be limiting. The general
shape of the inner layer 102 may take an anatomical shape. For
instances, some embodiments of the cryotherapy system 100 may be
configured to be worn during some activity. Accordingly, these
embodiments may be configured with one or more sections removed to
allow for such activity.
[0074] With continued reference now to the particular example of
FIGS. 1A-1D, the inner layer 102 is configured such that when
secured to the user 104, the inner layer 102 defines an opening 106
(FIGS. 1B and 1C only). The opening 106 is configured such that an
extremity of the user 104 may be introduced into the opening 106.
In some embodiments, introduction of the extremity into the opening
106 may occur while the inner layer 102 is being secured to the
user 104. With the extremity of the user 104 introduced into the
opening 106, the cryotherapy system 100 is positioned around an
injured area of the user 104. In this configuration, the user 104
can generally position the cryotherapy system 100 on the injured
area or adjust the position of the cryotherapy system 100 to
increase comfort. For example, in FIG. 1C, a leg of the user 104 is
introduced into the opening 106. In this configuration, the user
104 may position the cryotherapy system 100 such that the
cryotherapy system 100 is fit around the knee of the user 104.
[0075] The opening 106 may be substantially cylindrical, as
depicted in FIGS. 1A-1D, or may take a more complex shape. Some
additional examples of the opening 106 with more complex shapes are
provided with reference to FIGS. 14-19B.
[0076] The cryotherapy system 100 may include a securing mechanism
108. The securing mechanism may be used to define the opening 106
and to secure the cryotherapy system 100 to the user 104. The
securing mechanism 108 depicted in FIGS. 1A-1D is a hook and loop
system. However, this is not meant to be limiting.
[0077] Referring to FIGS. 8A-8C, some example securing mechanisms
that may be implemented in the cryotherapy system 100 of FIGS.
1A-1D are illustrated. In each of FIGS. 8A-8C, two ends (i.e., 150
and 152 of FIG. 1A) of the cryotherapy system are depicted without
a center section. The securing mechanism 108 discussed with
reference to FIGS. 1A-1D may alternatively include one or more
metal hooks 802 (108A) as depicted in FIG. 8A, a set of snaps
806/808 (108B) as depicted in FIG. 8B, or a belt tightening system
810/812 (108C) as depicted in FIG. 8C (These securing mechanisms
108A, 108B, and 108C along with the securing mechanism 108 of FIGS.
1A-1D are generally referred to as securing mechanisms 108).
[0078] In some alternative embodiments, securing mechanism 108 may
include a set of buttons, a binding or tethering system, or another
suitable mechanism that may perform the functions described
herein.
[0079] In each of FIGS. 8A-8C and as best illustrated in FIG. 1D,
the securing mechanisms 108 include components that allow some
adjustability when securing the cryotherapy system 100 to the user
104. For example, in FIG. 8A, the metal hooks 802 may be secured
within multiple hook receivers 804. The hook receivers 804 are
positioned in three separate rows, which allow three separate
dimensions for the opening 106. Consequently, the cryotherapy
system 100 may be positioned on the user 104 on an injured area and
may be adjusted for the comfort of the user 104.
[0080] Similar to the metal hooks 108A, the set of snaps 108B in
FIG. 8B includes snaps 806 and multiple snap receivers 808. The
multiple snap receivers 808 are positioned in multiple rows, which
allows adjustability in securing the cryotherapy system 100 to the
user 104. Likewise, the belt tightening system 108C depicted in
FIG. 8C includes belts 810 that are run through multiple buckles
812, which allows the belts 810 to be tightened. Additionally, the
securing mechanism 108 of FIGS. 1A-1D includes multiple strips of
hooks and multiple strips of loops that allow adjustment in the
dimensions of the opening 106 and thus an adjustable fit of the
cryotherapy system 100 on the user 104. By including some
adjustability, an external pressure may be applied with little
constriction of the cryotherapy system 100.
[0081] Alternatively, in some embodiments, the cryotherapy system
100 does not include a securing mechanism 108. For example, FIGS.
6A and 6B illustrate an embodiment of the cryotherapy system 100
that does not include a securing mechanism 108, which is referred
to herein as a sleeve cryotherapy system 600. In these and other
embodiments, the sleeve cryotherapy system 600 may be sized to fit
a particular subset of users, e.g., small, medium, and large. Some
additional details of a sleeve cryotherapy system 600 of FIGS. 6A
and 6B are included below.
[0082] Referring back to FIGS. 1A-1D, the cryotherapy system 100
also includes an outer layer 110. The outer layer 110 further
includes a first portion 112 and a second portion 114 which are
interrupted by a separation 116. The outer layer 110 is attached to
the inner layer 102 at the first portion 112 and the second portion
114 but not at the separation 116. For example, the first portion
112 and the second portion 114 of the outer layer 110 may be sewn
to, adhered to, or otherwise attached to the inner layer 102. Thus,
the separation 116 may be spanned by a piece of fabric and/or other
material (the "spanning material") and the spanning material, in
some embodiments at least, comprises an element of the compression
layer. In yet other embodiments, the spanning material is not part
of the compression layer and, instead is part of a layer situated
inside of the compression layer.
[0083] Additionally, as best illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1C the
securing mechanism 108 may be at least partially attached to the
outer layer 110. For example, referring to FIG. 1B, when the
cryotherapy system 100 is secured to the user 104 the first portion
112 may include one of the hooks or the loops and the second
portion 114 may include the other of the hooks and the loops. The
user 104 can thus wrap the cryotherapy system 100 around an
extremity such that the first portion 112 overlaps the second
portion 114 where the securing mechanism 108 is located.
[0084] The cryotherapy system 100 also includes a cold pack 118
(FIGS. 1B and 1D only). The cold pack 118 may be positioned between
the inner layer 102 and the outer layer 110. The cold pack 118 may
include, but is not limited to, a reusable self-contained chemical
cold compress, a thermodynamic gel, a bag that may be filled with
water, a bag that can be filled with ice, or a cold therapy water
circulation system.
[0085] As illustrated in FIG. 1D, the cold pack 118 may be
removable. In these embodiments, the inner layer 102 may include a
zipper or hook and loop system to secure the cold pack 118 within
the inner layer 102. Additionally, in these and other embodiments,
the cold pack 118 may be removed and frozen then placed in the
inner layer 102 before the cryotherapy system 100 is secured to the
user 104. Alternatively, the cold pack 118 may be sewn into the
inner layer 102. In these and other embodiments, the entire
cryotherapy system 100 may be frozen prior to securing the
cryotherapy system 100 to the user 104. Moreover, and as noted
elsewhere herein, the cold pack 118 need not be employed in every
case, and the cryotherapy system 100 can be used to provide
compression only.
[0086] The cryotherapy system 100 also includes a tightening
mechanism 200. In general, and as disclosed in more detail
elsewhere herein, embodiments of a tightening mechanism, including
the example tightening mechanism 200, are configured and operable
to effect translational motion of one part of a device, such as
cryotherapy system 100 for example, relative to another part of the
device. The static portion of such an arrangement may comprise a
first layer or sleeve, and the moving portion of such an
arrangement may comprise a second layer, which can be a compression
layer for example. The moving portion of the layer may also
translate relative to a therapeutic device and/or one or more other
layers of the device. In another example, only a single layer is
used, and a tightening mechanism is configured and operable to
effect translational movement of one portion of that layer relative
to another portion of that layer. It should be noted that, as used
herein, the compression layer refers to the layer whose portion, or
portions, are moved by a tightening mechanism.
[0087] As well, this disclosure contemplates that any device, such
as the cryotherapy system 100 for example, within the scope of this
disclosure may include multiple tightening mechanisms, such as the
example tightening mechanism 200. Such an arrangement may be useful
where, for example, there is a need to exert different levels of
compression on different portions of the anatomy of a user. By
employing multiple, independently controllable, tightening
mechanisms, even where a single tightening mechanism might
otherwise suffice, such devices enable the implementation of highly
customizable, and adjustable, compression schemes. As well,
desirable useful therapeutic effects may be achieved in some
instances by tightening the multiple tightening mechanisms in a
particular order. For example, if multiple tightening mechanisms
are to be used to compress a portion of the leg of a user, it may
be desirable to tighten a tightening mechanism near the ankle of
the user prior to tightening a tightening mechanism near the upper
calf of the user. The multiple tightening mechanisms used in
devices that include them may be the same as each other, or may be
different from each other.
[0088] With the foregoing points in mind, details are now provided
concerning some example tightening mechanisms, one of which is the
tightening mechanism 200. In this particular example, the
tightening mechanism 200 is configured and operable to move the
first portion 112 of the outer layer 110 towards the second portion
114 of the outer layer 110, such that the first portion 112 slides
along the outside of the cold pack 118. By moving the first portion
112 towards the second portion 114 the cold pack 118 is pressed
against inner layer 102, and an external pressure is applied to the
user 104. The external pressure may be a therapeutic compression
and the external pressure may press the cold pack 118 against the
extremity of the user 104 to increase thermodynamic transfer from
the extremity of the user 104.
[0089] Additionally, the tightening mechanism 200 is configured to
maintain the position of the first portion 112 with respect to the
second portion 114. Thus, when the user 104 applies the external
pressure, the tightening mechanism 200 holds a constant or
semi-constant external pressure on the injured area. By maintaining
the first portion 112 with respect to the second portion 114, the
therapeutic benefits of the external pressure and the thermodynamic
transfer is applied for a controllable duration without additional
efforts by the user 104.
[0090] Referring to FIG. 1C, an overview of an example function of
the cryotherapy system 100 is illustrated. The cryotherapy system
100 may be applied to the user 104 in a first arrangement. In the
first arrangement, the tightening mechanism 200 is loose (i.e., the
separation 116 is at its greatest dimension), allowing the user 104
to introduce an extremity in to the opening 106. In the first
arrangement, the user 104 may generally position the cryotherapy
system 100 over an injured area.
[0091] The user 104 then tightens the tightening mechanism 200,
which moves the first portion 112 of the outer layer 110 towards
the second portion 114 of the outer layer 110. The tightening
mechanism 200 places the outer layer 110 in tension, reduces the
dimension of the separation 116, and reduces the dimension of the
opening 106. Due to the reduction in the dimension of the opening
106, an external pressure is imposed on the extremity introduced
into the opening 106.
[0092] FIG. 2 illustrates an example tightening mechanism 200 that
may be implemented in the cryotherapy system 100 of FIGS. 1A-1D.
The tightening mechanism 200 may be implemented, for example, on
the outer layer 110 of the cryotherapy system 100 of FIGS. 1A-1D.
Some examples of such a tightening mechanism include tightening
mechanisms by Boa Technology, Inc. (http://www.boatechnology.com/),
although other tightening mechanisms can alternatively be
employed.
[0093] It will be appreciated from the present disclosure that the
example tightening mechanisms disclosed herein are example
structural embodiments of a means for applying and controlling
pressure, and any other structural element(s) capable of performing
one or more aspects of the functionality of the disclosed
tightening mechanisms may alternatively be employed and are
considered to be within the scope of this disclosure.
[0094] Generally, the tightening mechanism 200 includes a lace 206
that is routed through one or more lace retainers 208. Some of the
lace retainers 208 are positioned on a first portion 210 and the
other lace retainers are positioned on a second portion 212. The
lace 206 is retracted by a lace tensioner 204. As the lace 206 is
retracted, tension is applied to the lace retainers 208, moving the
first portion 210 towards the second portion 212.
[0095] In FIG. 2, the lace tensioner 204 includes a rotate-and-lock
mechanism 228. The rotate-and-lock mechanism 228 may enable a user
to rotate an external piece that winds the lace 206. As the lace
206 is wound, the rotate-and-lock mechanism 228 maintains the lace
206 until released by the user. In some embodiments, the
rotate-and-lock mechanism 228 may be geared such that one rotation
of the external piece results in multiple rotations of a spool on
which the lace 206 is wound.
[0096] Embodiments of the tightening mechanism 200 are not limited
to a rotate-and-lock mechanism 228. FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate example
lace tensioners 300A, 300B, and 300C (generally lace tensioner 300
or lace tensioners 300) that may be implemented in the tightening
mechanism of FIG. 2. Each of the lace tensioners 300 may be
included in a tightening mechanism, which is similar to the general
configuration described above with respect to FIG. 2. To apply
tension to the lace 206, each of the lace tensioners 300 retract
the lace 206 and maintain the position of the lace 206 as retracted
until released by a user.
[0097] Specifically, FIG. 3A depicts a pull-and-lock mechanism 300A
that may be implemented as a lace tensioner. To apply tension to
the lace 206, the user pulls as indicated by arrow 302. As the lace
206 moves through a locking mechanism, pressure is applied to the
lace 206 to maintain the position of the lace 206 until a user
releases the locking mechanism 304.
[0098] FIG. 3B depicts a wind-and-tuck mechanism 300B that may be
implemented as a lace tensioner. To apply tension to the lace 206,
the user winds a handle 306, which retracts the lace 206. The user
then tucks the handle 306 into a receiver 308 that prevents the
handle 306 from un-winding. The tension is maintained until a user
removes the handle 306 from the receiver 308.
[0099] FIG. 3C depicts a jam cleat 300C that may be implemented as
a lace tensioner. To apply tension to the lace 206, the user pulls
on a handle 310 connected to the lace 206. A cleat 312 allows the
lace 206 to move through the cleat 312 in one direction but
prevents movement in the opposite direction. Thus, the tension is
maintained until a user releases the cleat 312.
[0100] Referring back to FIG. 2, the lace 206 may be composed of
various materials and/or may include a coating composed of various
materials. Selection of material for the lace 206 and/or the
material for the coating may be based on the lace tensioner 204.
Some lace tensioners 204 may be geared to increase the tension in
the lace 206. In these and other embodiments, the material for the
lace 206 and/or the coating may be selected to withstand the
tension.
[0101] Additionally or alternatively, the material of the lace 206
and/or the coating may be selected to affect friction between the
lace 206 and the lace retainers 208. As the lace 206 is drawn
through the lace retainers 208, there may be some advantages of
having friction between the lace retainer 208 and the lace 206. For
instance, friction between the lace 206 and the lace retainer 208
may result in sequential tightening which is described with
reference to FIGS. 4A and 4B, while reducing friction between the
lace 206 and the lace retainer 208 may result in a more even
tension between the lace retainers 208.
[0102] In the depicted embodiment, the lace retainers 208 are U
shaped. Specifically, each of the lace retainers 208 includes an
inlet 214, an outlet 216, and a length 218. The inlet 214 and the
outlet 216 are oriented substantially perpendicular to edges 220 of
the first portion 210. The length 218 is oriented substantially
parallel to the edges 220 of the first portion 210. In FIG. 2, the
inlet 214, the outlet 216 and the length 218 are labeled on one
lace retainer 208, however each of the lace retainers 208 include
an inlet, an outlet 216 and a length 218.
[0103] In some embodiments, the lace retainers 208 positioned on
the first portion 210 are staggered with respect to the lace
retainers 208 positioned on the second portion 212. In these and
other embodiments, inlets 216 of the lace retainers 208 on the
first portion 210 may be positioned across the separation 202 from
outlet 212 of the lace retainers 208 on the second portion 212.
Alternatively, the lace retainers 208 positioned on the first
portion 210 may be positioned directly opposite a corresponding
lace retainer 208 positioned on the second portion 212.
[0104] A first distance 224 may be defined between any one of the
lace retainers 208 on the first portion 210 and any one of the lace
retainers 208 on the second portion 212. Additionally, a second
distance 226 may be defined between any one of the lace retainers
208 on the first portion 210 and any other, adjacent lace retainers
208 on the first portion or between any one of the lace retainers
208 on the second portion 212 and any other, adjacent lace
retainers 208 on the second portion 212. The first distance 224 and
the second distance 226 may vary between embodiments and may vary
on a single embodiment. For example, a first distance 226 and a
second distance 224 may include one inch near the edge 220 and two
inches farther from the edge 220. This may create differing
pressures in different areas when the tightening mechanism 200 is
operated. When the lace retainers 208 are closer together (i.e.,
the first and/or second distances 226 and 224 are smaller) more
pressure may result and when the lace retainers 208 are farther
from one another, less pressure may result. Additionally, the
number of lace retainers 208 may vary between embodiments. The
number of lace retainers 208, the first distance 224 and the second
distance 226 may be selected to create areas of high tension and
areas of low tension, to create different areas of mobility,
etc.
[0105] The tightening mechanism 200 may also include a lace conduit
222. The lace conduit 222 is coupled to the lace tensioner 204 at
one end and routes the lace 206 to the edge 220 of the first
portion 210. The lace conduit 222 may be configured to such that
the lace tensioner 204 may be positioned in a convenient location
on the first portion 210. Additionally, the lace conduit 222 can be
configured such that the lace 206 exits the lace conduit 222,
extends across the separation 202, and enters one of the lace
retainers 208.
[0106] In some embodiments, the lace conduit 222 may be configured
such that the lace 206 extends across the separation 202 at a
substantially right angle to the edge 220 of the first portion
210.
[0107] FIGS. 4A-4C illustrate an example sequential tightening
process that may be implemented by the tightening mechanism 200 of
FIG. 2. Accordingly, some of the components described with respect
to FIG. 2 are included in FIGS. 4A-4C. Description of these
components is not repeated with reference to FIGS. 4A-4C.
[0108] FIGS. 4A-4C illustrate a sequence of views 400A-400C of the
tightening mechanism 200 of FIG. 2 as tension is applied to a lace
206. FIG. 4A illustrates a first view 400A in which the tightening
mechanism 200 has little or no tension applied to the lace 206.
FIG. 4B illustrates a second view 400B in which the tightening
mechanism 200 has some tension applied to the lace 206. FIG. 4C
illustrates a third view 400C in which the tightening mechanism 200
has a tension applied and maintained.
[0109] FIGS. 4A-4C include a user 402 and a cryotherapy system is
fit to a leg of the user 402. The leg of the user 402 is oriented
in FIGS. 4A-4C such that a core of the user 402 is above (i.e., at
the top of each of FIGS. 4A-4C) the cryotherapy system. The lace
retainers 208 include one or more proximate lace retainers 404
positioned nearest the core of the user 402 and one or more distal
lace retainers 406 positioned farthest from the core of the user
402.
[0110] As shown in FIG. 4B, when the tightening mechanism applies
tension to the lace 206, the distal laces 406 retainers move
together before the proximate lace retainers 404. Accordingly, an
exterior pressure is applied first to the user 402 away from the
core of the user 402. The tension is sequentially applied,
distal-most lace retainers 406 to proximate-most lace retainers
404. As depicted in FIG. 4C, once the tension is applied and
maintained, the external pressure becomes uniform.
[0111] By applying tension in a distal-to-proximal fashion, namely,
from a portion of the anatomy of the user most remote from the core
of the user to a portion of the anatomy of the user relatively
nearer to the core of the user, embodiments of the tightening
mechanism can facilitate healing and/or recovery processes.
[0112] FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate implementation of an example foam
pad 502 in the cryotherapy system 100 of FIGS. 1A-1D. FIG. 5A
include components (e.g., 102, 200, 112, 116, 114, 106, 118, 110,
and 108) described with reference to FIGS. 1A-1D. Descriptions of
these components are not repeated with reference to FIG. 5A.
[0113] It should be noted that embodiments of a foam pad, such as
foam pad 502 and 602 for example, can be supplemented with, or
replaced by, a plurality of smaller pads of the same, or different,
material as the foam pad 502 and foam pad 506. In some instances,
an embodiment of the invention can be provided with a packet of
smaller pads of various shapes and sizes that a user can use to
customize the device to his or her particular anatomy. For example,
a knee joint includes a variety of different shapes and surfaces,
and one or more different pads, such as a pad having a butterfly
shape for example, can be placed at the appropriate locations of
the device to ensure that all of the shapes and surfaces of the
knee joint are compressed at substantially the same time, and with
substantially the same magnitude of compressive force, as other
parts of the anatomy with which the device is in contact.
[0114] These pads can be of a material that is relatively easy to
cut, such as with scissors. Additionally, the pads can be
configured to be removably attached to a portion of the device,
such as by a hook-and-loop type of material, so that they can
easily be relocated to suit another user. In one alternative
embodiment, the pads are permanently affixed to a layer of the
device, such as by sewing. In this alternative, the pads can be
located within the layer or on the outside of the layer. The layer
that carries the pads can be the compression layer, or can be
another layer located between the compression layer and the anatomy
of the user.
[0115] Generally, the foam pad 502 acts to concentrate the external
pressure to areas, which due to the natural shape of extremities,
may otherwise not receive sufficient compression or thermodynamic
transfer. With combined reference to FIGS. 5A and 5B, the foam pad
502 may include multiple thicknesses 504A-504C (generally
thicknesses 504) and/or a hole 506. The thicknesses 504 and/or the
hole 506 are positioned on the foam pad 502 to conform to or to
correspond to a shape an extremity introduced into the opening 106.
Thus, the positions of the thicknesses 504 and/or the hole 506 may
be different depending on the particular embodiment.
[0116] In the cryotherapy system 100 of FIG. 5A, the inner layer
102 is formed on an inner surface of the outer layer 110. The foam
pad 502 is positioned between the inner layer 102 and the cold pack
118. In alternative embodiments, the inner layer 102 may be
configured to receive the cold pack 118 and the foam pad 502. In
either configuration, the foam pad 502 is positioned between the
outer layer 110 and the cold pack 118 such that external pressure
is transferred from the outer layer 110 to the foam pad 502, to the
cold pack 118, and against a user.
[0117] When the outer layer 110 applies external pressure (i.e.,
the first portion 112 of the outer layer 110 is moved towards the
second portion 114 of the outer layer 110) through operation of the
tightening mechanism 200, a first pressure is applied at a first
area under a first thickness 504A, a second pressure is applied at
a second area under the second thickness 504B, etc. The first
thickness 504A, the second thickness 504B, the third thickness
504C, the hole 506, or some combination thereof may be applied to a
low point of a joint on the extremity introduced to the opening
106.
[0118] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate an example sleeve cryotherapy
system 600 implementing an example foam pad 602. The sleeve
cryotherapy system 600 depicted in FIGS. 6A and 6B is substantially
similar to the cryotherapy system 100 depicted in FIG. 5A. However,
the sleeve cryotherapy system 600 omits the securing mechanism 108.
Instead, the sleeve cryotherapy system 600 is slid onto the user
104 as depicted in FIG. 6B. Once slid onto the user 104, external
pressure may be applied through operation of the tightening
mechanism 200.
[0119] As in the embodiment described with respect to FIGS. 5A and
5B, the sleeve cryotherapy system 600 may include a foam pad 602
positioned between the outer layer 110 and the cold pack 118. When
the external pressure is applied, the foam pad 602, which includes
at least two thicknesses 604A and 604B, may concentrate the
external pressure to one or more areas which may correspond to a
low point or a high point of on the extremity introduced into the
opening 106.
[0120] FIGS. 7A-7B illustrate implementation of an example cold
therapy water circulation system 700 in the cryotherapy system 100
of FIGS. 1A-1D. FIGS. 7A and 7B include components (e.g., 102, 200,
110, and 106) described with reference to FIGS. 1A-1D. Descriptions
of these components are not repeated with reference to FIGS. 7A and
7B.
[0121] In this and other embodiments, the cold therapy water
circulation system 700 is substituted for the cold pack 118 of
FIGS. 1A-1D. The cold therapy water circulation system 700 may be
coupled to a circulation pump that supplies cooling water or a
cooling gel to the cold therapy water circulation system 700. The
cold therapy water circulation system 700 may be commercially
available by a third party, in some embodiments.
[0122] The cold therapy water circulation system 700 may be
positioned between the inner layer 102 and the opening 106 as shown
in FIG. 7A. Alternatively, the cold therapy water circulation
system 700 may be sewn into or may be removably secured within the
inner layer 102.
[0123] FIGS. 9A-9C illustrate an example continuous cryotherapy
system 900. The continuous cryotherapy system 900 is similar to the
cryotherapy system 100 described with reference to FIGS. 1A-1D.
Accordingly, some components described with reference to FIGS.
1A-1D are included in FIGS. 9A-9C. FIG. 9A is a sectional view of
the continuous cryotherapy system 900 with little or no tension in
the tightening mechanism 200. FIG. 9B is a sectional view of the
continuous cryotherapy system 900 with tension in the tightening
mechanism 200. FIG. 9C is a view of the continuous cryotherapy
system 900 un-wrapped.
[0124] The continuous cryotherapy system 900 includes a continuous
layer 902 with no separation. The tightening mechanism 200 is
attached to the continuous layer 902 across a narrowing portion 904
which is configured to gather when the tightening mechanism 200
imposes an external force on the continuous cryotherapy system 900.
The narrowing portion 904 is shown gathered in FIG. 9B. When the
tightening mechanism 200 imposes an external force by gathering the
narrowing portion 904, the opening 116 is reduced and the cold pack
118 is pressed against an extremity introduced into the opening
116.
[0125] FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate an example single-layer
cryotherapy system 1000. The single-layer cryotherapy system 1000
is similar to the cryotherapy system 100 described with reference
to FIGS. 1A-1D. Accordingly, some components described with
reference to FIGS. 1A-1D are included in FIGS. 10A and 10B. FIG.
10A is a sectional view of the single-layer cryotherapy system
1000. FIG. 10B is a view of the single-layer cryotherapy system
1000 applied to the user 104.
[0126] The single-layer cryotherapy system 1000 includes a single
layer 1002 rather than the outer layer 110 and inner layer 102
described with reference to FIGS. 1A-1D. The single layer 1002 may
include the first portion 112 and the second portion 114 with the
separation 116 therebetween. The cold pack 118 may be positioned
between the single layer 1102 and the user 104 such that when the
tightening mechanism 200 applies and external force, the cold pack
118 is pressed against the user 104. In some embodiments, rather
than having the single layer 1102 applying the external force to
the cold pack 118, the cold pack 118 may be the single layer 1102.
In these and other embodiments, the tightening mechanism 200 may be
attached to the cold pack 118. For example, the tightening
mechanism 200 may be adhered directly to an outer surface of the
cold pack 118.
[0127] Alternatively, with combined reference to FIGS. 9A-10B, the
single layer 1102 may be configured without the separation 116
(i.e., include a continuous layer similar to 902). Like in FIGS. 9A
and 9B, the tightening mechanism 200 is attached to the singly
layer 1002 across a narrowing portion 904 which gathers when the
tightening mechanism 200 imposes an external force.
[0128] FIGS. 11A and 11B illustrate another example sleeve
cryotherapy system 1100. The sleeve cryotherapy system 1100 is
similar to the sleeve cryotherapy system 600 described with
reference to FIGS. 6A and 6B. Accordingly, some components describe
with reference to FIGS. 6A and 6B are included in FIGS. 11A and
11B. FIG. 11A is a sectional view of the sleeve cryotherapy system
1100. FIG. 11B is a view of the sleeve cryotherapy system 1100
applied to the user 104.
[0129] The sleeve cryotherapy system 1100 includes a single outer
sleeve 1102 which surrounds the cold pack 118. The sleeve
cryotherapy system 1100 does not include a foam pad such as the
foam pad 602 in the sleeve cryotherapy system 600 described with
reference to FIGS. 6A and 6B. The single outer sleeve 1102 may
include the separation 116, the first and second portions 112 and
114 or may be a continuous layer (not shown) similar to the
continuous cryotherapy system 900 of FIGS. 9A and 9B.
[0130] FIG. 12 illustrates another example tightening mechanism
1200 that may be implemented in the cryotherapy system 100 of FIGS.
1A-1D or the systems 600, 900, 1000, 1100 described with reference
to FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 9A-11B. The tightening mechanism 1200 is
similar to the tightening mechanism 200 described with reference to
FIG. 2. Accordingly, FIG. 12 includes components described with
reference to FIG. 2. The tightening mechanism 1200 is shown in FIG.
12 implemented in the cryotherapy system 100 of FIG. 1A-1D.
[0131] The tightening mechanism 1200 includes a doubled-back lace
configuration 1202. In the doubled-back lace configuration 1202,
the lace 206 exits a first conduit 1222A and is routed through
multiple lace retainers 208 (only the lace retainers 208 on the
first portion of the outer layer 110 are labeled). The lace 206 is
then routed back through the lace retainers, through a second
conduit 1222B and to the rotate-and-lock mechanism 228. Like the
embodiments described below, in the tightening mechanism 1200, the
lace retainers 208 may be evenly spaced or one or more distances
between the lace retainers 208 may vary. In embodiments, with
variable distances, the positions of one or more lace retainers 208
may be determined to create areas with high or low pressures.
[0132] FIGS. 13A and 13B illustrate an example transcutaneous
electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) unit 1300 implemented in the
cryotherapy system 100 of FIGS. 1A-1D. Accordingly, some components
described with reference to FIGS. 1A-1D are included in FIGS. 13A
and 13B. FIG. 13A is a front view of the cryotherapy system 100
un-wrapped and FIG. 13B is a rear view of the cryotherapy system
100.
[0133] The TENS unit 1300 may include a controller 1302 and one or
more contact pads 1304. The controller 1302 supplies electrical
stimulation to muscle fibers in contact with the contact pads 1304.
The TENS unit 1300 may be sewn into the inner layer 102, the outer
layer 110 or some combination thereof such that contact pads 1304
contact skin of a user. Alternatively, the contact pads 1304 may be
removable. For instance, the contact pads 1304 may include a hook
and loop system that enables the contact pads 1304 to be positioned
to supply the electrical stimulation to an injured area.
[0134] Alternatively, the TENS unit 1300 may be implemented in the
sleeve cryotherapy system 1100, the continuous cryotherapy system
900, the single-layer cryotherapy system 1000, or any of the
embodiments depicted in FIGS. 14-19B. Additionally, the TENS unit
1300 may be implemented in any of the above system (e.g., 100, 900,
1000, 1100, etc.) with or without the cold compress 118.
[0135] FIG. 14 illustrates an example cryotherapy system 100 of
FIGS. 1A-1D configured to fit a knee of the user 104. Specifically,
FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the cryotherapy system 100
configured to fit a knee. As illustrated in FIG. 14, when
configured to fit a knee, the securing mechanism 108 may be
positioned along a rear portion of the cryotherapy system 100 and
the tightening mechanism 200 may be positioned along a front
portion of the cryotherapy system 100. The cryotherapy system 100
wraps around the knee of the user 104. The tightening mechanism 200
may then apply external pressure to the knee of the user 104.
[0136] When the cryotherapy system 100 is configured to fit a knee,
the cold pack (not shown), the inner layer 102, the outer layer
110, etc. may take shapes to conform to the shape of the knee. The
cryotherapy system 100 configured to fit a knee may include foam
pads as described in FIGS. 5A-6B, may omit the securing mechanism
108, may implement alternative securing mechanisms 108 described
with reference to FIGS. 8A-8C, may include a cold therapy water
circulation system as described with reference to FIGS. 7A and 7B,
or any combination thereof. Additionally or alternatively, the
tightening mechanism 200 may include jam cleat, wind-and-tuck
mechanism, or pull-and-lock mechanism as described with reference
to FIGS. 3A-3C.
[0137] FIGS. 15A and 15B illustrate an example cryotherapy system
100 of FIGS. 1A-1D configured to fit a shoulder of the user 104.
Specifically, FIG. 15A is a front view of the cryotherapy system
100 and FIG. 15B is a rear view of the cryotherapy system 100. As
illustrated in FIGS. 15A and 15B, when configured to fit a
shoulder, the securing mechanism 108 may be split to secure the
cryotherapy system 100 around an arm of the user 104 and under an
opposite shoulder of the user 104. The tightening mechanism 200 may
then apply external pressure to the shoulder of the user 104.
[0138] When the cryotherapy system 100 is configured to fit a
shoulder, the cold pack (not shown), the inner layer 102, the outer
layer 110, etc. may take shapes to conform to the shape of the
shoulder. The cryotherapy system 100 configured to fit a shoulder
may include foam pads as described in FIGS. 5A-6B, may omit the
securing mechanism 108, may implement alternative securing
mechanisms 108 described with reference to FIGS. 8A-8C, may include
a cold therapy water circulation system as described with reference
to FIGS. 7A and 7B, or any combination thereof. Additionally or
alternatively, the tightening mechanism 200 may include jam cleat,
wind-and-tuck mechanism, or pull-and-lock mechanism as described
with reference to FIGS. 3A-3C.
[0139] FIGS. 16A and 16B illustrate an example cryotherapy system
100 of FIGS. 1A-1D configured to fit a wrist of the user 104.
Specifically, FIG. 16A is a top view of the cryotherapy system 100
and FIG. 16B is a bottom view of the cryotherapy system 100. As
illustrated in FIGS. 16A and 16B, when configured to fit a wrist,
the securing mechanism 108 may be split to secure the cryotherapy
system 100 around a wrist of the user 104. The tightening mechanism
200 may then apply external pressure to the wrist of the user
104.
[0140] When the cryotherapy system 100 is configured to fit a
wrist, the cold pack (not shown), the inner layer 102, the outer
layer 110, etc. may take shapes to conform to the shape of the
wrist. The cryotherapy system 100 configured to fit a wrist may
include foam pads as described in FIGS. 5A-6B, may omit the
securing mechanism 108, may implement alternative securing
mechanisms 108 described with reference to FIGS. 8A-8C, may include
a cold therapy water circulation system as described with reference
to FIGS. 7A and 7B, or any combination thereof. Additionally or
alternatively, the tightening mechanism 200 may include jam cleat,
wind-and-tuck mechanism, or pull-and-lock mechanism as described
with reference to FIGS. 3A-3C
[0141] FIGS. 17A and 17B illustrate an example cryotherapy system
100 of FIGS. 1A-1D configured to fit an elbow of the user 104.
Specifically, FIG. 17A is a first side view of the cryotherapy
system 100 and FIG. 17B is a second side view of the cryotherapy
system 100. As illustrated in FIGS. 17A and 17B, when configured to
fit an elbow, the securing mechanism 108 may be split to secure the
cryotherapy system 100 around an arm of the user 104. The
tightening mechanism 200 may then apply external pressure to the
elbow of the user 104.
[0142] When the cryotherapy system 100 is configured to fit an
elbow, the cold pack (not shown), the inner layer 102, the outer
layer 110, etc. may take shapes to conform to the shape of the
elbow. The cryotherapy system 100 configured to fit an elbow may
include foam pads as described in FIGS. 5A-6B, may omit the
securing mechanism 108, may implement alternative securing
mechanisms 108 described with reference to FIGS. 8A-8C, may include
a cold therapy water circulation system as described with reference
to FIGS. 7A and 7B, or any combination thereof. Additionally or
alternatively, the tightening mechanism 200 may include jam cleat,
wind-and-tuck mechanism, or pull-and-lock mechanism as described
with reference to FIGS. 3A-3C.
[0143] FIGS. 18A and 18B illustrate an example cryotherapy system
100 of FIGS. 1A-1D configured to fit an ankle-foot combination.
Specifically, FIG. 18A is a first side view of the cryotherapy
system 100 and FIG. 18B is a second side view of the cryotherapy
system 100. As illustrated in FIGS. 18A and 18B, when configured to
fit an ankle-foot combination, the securing mechanism 108 may be
positioned along a first side to secure the cryotherapy system 100
around the ankle and foot of the user. The tightening mechanism 200
may then apply external pressure to the ankle-foot combination of
the user.
[0144] When the cryotherapy system 100 is configured to fit an
ankle-foot combination, the cold pack (not shown), the inner layer
102, the outer layer 110, etc. may take shapes to conform to the
shape of the ankle-foot combination. The cryotherapy system 100
configured to fit an ankle-foot combination may include foam pads
as described in FIGS. 5A-6B, may omit the securing mechanism 108,
may implement alternative securing mechanisms 108 described with
reference to FIGS. 8A-8C, may include a cold therapy water
circulation system as described with reference to FIGS. 7A and 7B,
or any combination thereof. Additionally or alternatively, the
tightening mechanism 200 may include jam cleat, wind-and-tuck
mechanism, or pull-and-lock mechanism as described with reference
to FIGS. 3A-3C
[0145] FIGS. 19A and 19B illustrate an example cryotherapy system
100 of FIGS. 1A-1D configured to fit a hip of the user 104.
Specifically, FIG. 19A is a front view of the cryotherapy system
100 and FIG. 19B is a rear view of the cryotherapy system 100. As
illustrated in FIGS. 19A and 19B, when configured to fit a hip, the
securing mechanism 108 may be split to secure the cryotherapy
system 100 around a leg of the user 104 and around a waist of the
user 104. The tightening mechanism 200 may then apply external
pressure to the hip of the user 104.
[0146] When the cryotherapy system 100 is configured to fit a hip,
the cold pack (not shown), the inner layer 102, the outer layer
110, etc. may take shapes to conform to the shape of the hip. The
cryotherapy system 100 configured to fit a hip may include foam
pads as described in FIGS. 5A-6B, may omit the securing mechanism
108, may implement alternative securing mechanisms 108 described
with reference to FIGS. 8A-8C, may include a cold therapy water
circulation system as described with reference to FIGS. 7A and 7B,
or any combination thereof. Additionally or alternatively, the
tightening mechanism 200 may include jam cleat, wind-and-tuck
mechanism, or pull-and-lock mechanism as described with reference
to FIGS. 3A-3C.
[0147] As noted elsewhere herein, embodiments of the invention can
be configured for specificity to any portion, or portions, of the
anatomy of a user. Thus, it will be appreciated that multiple
devices, one example of which is the cryotherapy system 100, can be
removably attached together to provide a customized configuration.
The devices can be attached together using mechanisms such as
zippers, hook-and-loop type closures, and/or any other securing
device that permits removable attachment of the devices to each
other, including the example securing devices disclosed herein.
[0148] With attention now to FIG. 20, details are provided
concerning a thigh-to-ankle cryotherapy system, one embodiment of
which is denoted at 1400. Except as noted below, the thigh-to-ankle
cryotherapy system 1400 may be similar, or even identical, in
construction and operation to any of the other embodiments
disclosed herein.
[0149] As noted above, embodiments of the invention can be
configured to fit any portion, or portions, of the anatomy of a
user. Similar to other embodiments disclosed herein, the
thigh-to-ankle cryotherapy system 1400 optionally includes one or
more thermal packs (not shown in FIG. 20), examples of which are
disclosed herein.
[0150] As well, the thigh-to-ankle cryotherapy system 1400 may
include an outer layer 1402 having portions 1402A and 1402B, one or
both of which are movable relative to each other and to an inner
layer 1404. As disclosed elsewhere herein, the inner layer 1404 may
be omitted in some embodiments. Moreover, the inner layer 1404,
when present, and outer layer 1406 may be constructed in the same
manner and with the same materials as disclosed in any of the other
embodiments of layers disclosed herein.
[0151] With continued reference to FIG. 20, the thigh-to-ankle
cryotherapy system 1400 includes one or more tightening systems,
such as tightening systems 1406 and 1408 for example. The
tightening systems 1406 and 1408 may be similar, or identical, to
each other, but that is not required. The tightening systems 1406
and 1408 can be any of the example tightening systems disclosed
herein. In the particular example of FIG. 20, the tightening system
1406 is configured and arranged to tighten a lower portion of the
outer layer 1402, while the tightening system 1408 is configured
and arranged to tighten an upper portion of the outer layer 1402.
From a therapeutic perspective, at least, it may be advantageous to
first tighten the lower portion of the outer layer 1402, and
subsequently tighten the upper portion of the outer layer 1402.
Moreover, the use of a plurality of tightening systems in this
embodiment lends a high degree of customization to the
user/therapist in terms of the amount of compression applied to
different parts of the anatomy of the user. In fact, some
embodiments may include more than two tightening systems, while
other embodiments employ only a single tightening system. Finally,
while the example of FIG. 20 indicates that the tightening systems
1404 and 1406 are operable from a location near an upper thigh of
the user, it should be understood that the tightening systems 1404
and 1406 can be configured to be operated from other locations as
well, and the scope of the invention is not limited to the
particular arrangement depicted in FIG. 20.
[0152] Turning finally to FIG. 21, details are provided concerning
a cryotherapy garment, an example of which is denoted at 1500.
Except as noted below, the cryotherapy garment 1500 may be similar,
or even identical, in construction and operation to any of the
other embodiments disclosed herein.
[0153] In the example of FIG. 21, the cryotherapy garment 1500 is
generally in the form of a pair of pants that a user can wear over
bare skin, or over clothing, although the cryotherapy garment 1500
could take other forms as well, such as a shirt or portion thereof,
or a garment that fits around the trunk of a user, possibly in the
form of a vest for example. The cryotherapy garment 1500 has a wide
range of applications and may, for example, be particularly useful
to endurance athletes such as runners, skiers or cyclists for
example, after having competed in an event lasting several hours or
more. However, the cryotherapy garment 1500 can be used by other
types of users, as well in a variety of therapeutic applications.
The example cryotherapy garment 1500, like the other embodiments
disclosed herein, may be easier to use and more effective than
inflatable devices, and may also enable a much higher degree of
mobility to the user.
[0154] As well, the cryotherapy garment 1500 may include an outer
layer 1502 having portions 1502A and 1502B, one or both of which
are movable relative to each other and to an inner layer 1504. The
movable portion(s) of the layers on one leg may optionally be
attached to the movable portion(s) of the layers on the other leg.
For example, the outer layer 1502 may have a total of only two
pieces of material, one on the front of the legs of the user and
one on the back of the legs of the user. In an alternative
embodiment, the outer layer 1502 may have a total of four different
pieces of material, one each on the front of each leg and one each
on the back of each leg. The front pieces in this example are not
attached to each other, nor are the back pieces attached to each
other. More generally, the cryotherapy garment 1500, like the other
embodiments disclosed herein, can be constructed with any number of
different pieces of material. A relatively greater number of layer
pieces and/or tightening mechanisms may enable, for example, a
relatively high level of customization of the amount of compression
that is applied to various parts of the anatomy of the user. It
should be noted that an inner layer 1504, if present, can be
constructed in any of the aforementioned configurations discussed
in connection with the outer layer 1506.
[0155] As disclosed elsewhere herein, the inner layer 1504 may be
omitted in some embodiments. Moreover, the inner layer 1504, if
present, and outer layer 1502 may be constructed in the same manner
and with the same materials as disclosed in any of the other
embodiments of layers disclosed herein.
[0156] With continued reference to FIG. 21, the cryotherapy garment
1500 may include first and second tightening systems 1506 and 1508,
respectively disposed on a leg portion of the cryotherapy garment
1500. With this configuration, a user is able to impose a level of
compression on one leg that is different from a level of
compression imposed on the other leg, or a user can apply about the
same level of compression to both legs. It should be noted that
while the example cryotherapy garment 1500 includes a single
tightening system on each leg, each of the legs could alternatively
be configured with two or more tightening systems, in a
configuration which could be similar to that disclosed in FIG. 20,
for example. The tightening systems 1506 and 1508 may be configured
and arranged to be operated from respective locations on the upper
thighs of the user, or any other desired location. Finally, the
example of FIG. 21 indicates an arrangement where the tightening
systems 1506 and 1508 tighten the outer layer 1502 first from a
distal location, namely, near the feet or ankles of a user, and
subsequently toward a proximal location, namely, near an upper
thigh of waist of a user. Applying compression in this order may
provide desirable therapeutic effects, though it should be
understood that one or more of the tightening systems 1506 and 1508
can be configured and arranged to provide sequential compression in
other directions and orders as well.
[0157] As in the case of the other embodiments disclosed herein,
the cryotherapy garment 1500 may include one or more thermal packs
and/or other therapeutic devices. These devices, as is the case
with other embodiments disclosed herein, can be configured and
arranged to suit the general, and specific, anatomy of a user. As
an example of the former, it may not be necessary or desired to
include such a device on all portions of the inside front portions
of the lower legs since much of that area is bone rather than
muscle. However, therapeutic devices could be included in these
areas if desired.
[0158] All examples and conditional language recited herein are
intended for pedagogical objects to aid the reader in understanding
the invention and the concepts contributed by the inventor to
furthering the art, and are to be construed as being without
limitation to such specifically recited examples and conditions.
Although embodiments of the present inventions have been described
in detail, it should be understood that the various changes,
substitutions, and alterations could be made hereto without
departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
[0159] It should be appreciated with the benefit of this disclosure
and the numerous example embodiments described herein, the
cryotherapy systems (e.g., 100, 600, 900, 1000, and 1100) may
include one or more components, features, systems, etc. as
described above in any combination. Thus, a particular
configuration may include one or more components not explicitly
shown together without limitation.
[0160] As will be apparent from the disclosure, one or more
embodiments of the invention, such as the cryotherapy system 100
for example, can provide one or more advantageous and unexpected
effects, in any combination, some examples of which are set forth
below. It should be noted that such effects enumerated herein are
neither intended, nor should be construed, to limit the scope of
the claimed invention in any way.
[0161] By way of illustration, one or more embodiments of the
invention may be advantageous inasmuch as they enable a user to
combine cold therapy and compression in a single easily portable
device.
[0162] As well, one or more embodiments may be advantageous in that
they combine cold therapy and compression capabilities in a single
device that is lightweight and portable and requires no external
support systems or components.
[0163] Further, one or more embodiments of the device may be
advantageous in that they can enable a user to quickly and easily
adjust a compressive force exerted by the device on an injured, or
otherwise affected, portion of the anatomy of the user, and such
adjustments can be made without having to reposition the device on
the anatomy of the user.
[0164] Additionally, one or more embodiments of the invention may
be advantageous relative to inflatable devices that are sometimes
used to apply compression to an affected portion of the anatomy of
a user, in that such embodiments effect compression, and release of
compression, by employing relative translational motion between
elements of the device, while inflatable devices typically rely on
concentric elements that do not change position relative to each
other in use, or preparatory to use. Correspondingly, one or more
embodiments of the invention become relatively smaller in
circumference as increased compression is applied, while inflatable
devices, by their nature, necessarily increase in circumference as
increased compression, effected by greater inflation, is applied.
The relatively smaller profile of such embodiments of the invention
may enable, among other things, enhanced mobility of the user.
[0165] As well, and disclosed herein, a single embodiment of the
invention can exert compressive forces of varying magnitude on
different portions of the anatomy of a user. In contrast,
inflatable devices typically lack this capability since the air
pressure is the same everywhere in the inflatable device.
[0166] Further, the compressive force imposed by an embodiment of
the invention is easily adjusted to increase, or decrease, in
magnitude. In contrast, an inflatable device can be adjusted to
reduce an imposed compressive force by releasing air or another gas
from the inflatable device. However, once such an adjustment is
made, it may be inconvenient, difficult, or impossible to
re-inflate the device in order to increase the magnitude of an
exerted compressive force.
[0167] Embodiments disclosed herein may also be advantageous in
that they do not require an inflation device or inflatable bladder.
Inflation devices may be unreliable and may require a significant
amount of time to effect inflation of a bladder. As well, any
inflatable item is susceptible to punctures that can render it
non-functional.
[0168] The present invention may be embodied in other specific
forms without departing from its spirit or essential
characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in
all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of
the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims
rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come
within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be
embraced within their scope.
* * * * *
References