Patent ID: 6117164
Filing Date: 2000-09-12
Classification: A61F

Abstract:
A therapy pad for imparting thermal therapy to a patient's joint, comprising:a. a first layer and a second layer of flexible material connected at predetermined locations and dimensioned in plan aspect to form:(i) a first member; and(ii) a second member in fluid communication with the first member;(iii) a conduit connecting the first member and the second member;b. an inlet port communicating with one of the first or second members;c. an exhaust port communicating with one of the first or second members;d. the pad adapted to be positioned such that, when worn by the patient:(i) the inlet and exhaust ports are oriented generally on a limb in which the joint is found;(ii) the first member conforms itself at least partially about the limb on a first side of the joint;(iii) the second member conforms itself to the limb on a second side of the joint, whereby the second side is opposite the joint from the first side;(iv) the conduit is not substantially centered on the joint when the pad is applied for imparting thermal therapy to the patient when applied for imparting thermal therapy;(v) the joint thereby being permitted to flex without substantially disturbing the conformity of the pad members to the limb, and with minimal occlusion in the pad;wherein the pad further comprises a cleft between the first and second members for imparting additional flexibility to the pad.