Abstract:
Methods and systems for dynamic compression of venous tissue enable improved blood movement in the extremities. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, a pressure pad provides a compressive force to the venous plexus region of the foot. The pressure pad is successively withdrawn and re-pressed against the foot. Improved blood circulation may reduce the occurrence of undesirable complications such as deep vein thrombosis, ulcers, and the like.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application is a divisional of U.S. Ser. No. 13/554,834 filed on Jul. 20, 2012, now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013/0041298 entitled “FOOT COMPRESSION SYSTEM.” U.S. Ser. No. 13/554,834 is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Ser. No. 13/004,754 filed on Jan. 11, 2011, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,246,556 entitled “FOOT COMPRESSION SYSTEM.” U.S. Ser. No. 13/004,754 is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Ser. No. 12/499,473 filed on Jul. 8, 2009, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,909,783 entitled “FOOT COMPRESSION SYSTEM.” U.S. Ser. No. 12/499,473 is a non-provisional of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/078,847 filed on Jul. 8, 2008 and entitled “FOOT COMPRESSION SYSTEM.” The entire contents of all the foregoing applications are hereby incorporated by reference. 
     
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
       [0002]    The present disclosure generally relates to systems and methods for ensuring that a person experiences proper blood flow within his or her feet and/or legs, and specifically to systems and methods for compressing the venous plexus region in the arch of the foot and the superficial veins of the top of the foot to stimulate blood flow. 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0003]    In order to enhance circulation in a person&#39;s body, particularly in the feet and legs, periodic or cyclic compression of tissue, such as plexus regions of the foot, at predetermined timed intervals is beneficial. Under normal circumstances, blood moves up the legs due to muscle contraction and general movement of the feet or legs, such as when walking. If a person is immobilized, unable to move regularly, or has poor circulation brought on by disease, the natural blood return mechanism is impaired, and circulatory problems such as ulcers and deep vein thrombosis can occur. 
         [0004]    To mitigate these problems, it is desirable to concentrate a compression force against veins throughout the legs and/or feet. Current systems are primarily based on pneumatic compression devices that squeeze the entire foot, calf, or thigh. These systems require significant power, and are inefficient because they provide high levels of force across the entire foot or leg rather than focusing in on those areas with the highest concentration of blood vessels. In addition, these systems may include air bags that can rupture at the seam, especially with high pressure within the bag. 
         [0005]    In various current devices, tethered air lines limit mobility, and can lead to injury should the person attempt to walk while the device is in use. Further, existing devices may not be suited for continuous usage. Users cannot walk with them, or move away from the compression unit. The device must be removed before a user can walk. Additionally, current devices lack the ability to track and report user usage and compliance. Also, most pneumatic devices are quite noisy and can cause irritation of the skin leading to ulcers. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0006]    A foot compression system is configured to apply pressure to a foot. In an exemplary embodiment, a foot compression system comprises an item of footwear, and an actuator portion comprising a retractable, non-bendable pressure pad, wherein the actuator portion is completely contained within the item of footwear. 
         [0007]    In another exemplary embodiment, a foot compression system configured to deliver a compressive force to the venous plexus region of the foot comprises a retractable, non-bendable pressure pad, and a motor coupled to the non-bendable pressure pad via a gear. The foot compression system further comprises a slip clutch coupling the non-bendable pressure pad and the motor. The slip clutch is configured to allow the non-bendable pressure pad to retract responsive to an applied force exceeding a predetermined value. The foot compression system is completely contained within an item of footwear. The non-bendable pressure pad remains in a fully retracted position when the foot is used to walk, and the non-bendable pressure pad is in either a retracted position or a non-retracted position when the patient is not walking. 
         [0008]    In another exemplary embodiment, a foot compression system comprises an item of footwear, and an actuator portion comprising a retractable pressure pad. The actuator portion is completely contained within the item of footwear. The foot compression system further comprises a sensor in operative communication with the actuator portion. The sensor senses when a wearer of the item of footwear is walking and operates the actuator portion in response to whether or not the wearer is walking. 
         [0009]    In another exemplary embodiment, a method of implementing athletic recovery in a person following exercise comprises moving, via an motor, a non-bendable pressure pad a first time to bring the non-bendable pressure pad into contact with a foot to compress a portion of the foot. The non-bendable pressure pad and the motor are completely contained within an item of footwear. The method further comprises moving, via the motor, the non-bendable pressure pad a second time to bring the non-bendable pressure pad out of contact with the foot to allow the portion of the foot to at least partially refill with blood, and moving, via the motor, the non-bendable pressure pad a third time to bring the non-bendable pressure pad into contact with the foot to force at least a portion of the blood out of the portion of the foot. 
         [0010]    In another exemplary embodiment, a foot compression system configured to deliver a compressive force to the venous plexus region of the foot comprises a retractable, semi-rigid pressure pad, and a motor coupled to the semi-rigid pressure pad via a gear. The motor moves the semi-rigid pressure pad in and out of contract with the foot at set time intervals that are programmed within the motor. The foot compression system further comprises a slip clutch coupling the semi-rigid pressure pad and the motor. The slip clutch is configured to allow the semi-rigid pressure pad to retract responsive to an applied force exceeding a predetermined value. The foot compression system is completely contained within an item of footwear. The semi-rigid pressure pad remains in a fully retracted position when the foot is used to walk, and the semi-rigid pressure pad is in either a retracted position or a non-retracted position when the patient is not walking. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0011]    The subject matter of the present disclosure is particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the concluding portion of the specification. The present disclosure, however, both as to organization and method of operation, may best be understood by reference to the following description taken in conjunction with the claims and the accompanying drawing figures, in which like parts may be referred to by like numerals: 
           [0012]      FIG. 1  illustrates a foot compression system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0013]      FIG. 2A  illustrates an actuator portion of a foot compression system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0014]      FIG. 2B  illustrates an actuator portion of a foot compression system with a battery detached in accordance with an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0015]      FIG. 3  illustrates various components of an actuator portion of a foot compression system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0016]      FIGS. 4A through 4C  illustrate various components of an actuator portion of a foot compression system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0017]      FIG. 5  illustrates a reader portion of a foot compression system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0018]      FIGS. 6A and 6B  illustrate methods of using a foot compression system in accordance with various exemplary embodiments; 
           [0019]      FIGS. 7A-7D  illustrate a foot compression system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0020]      FIG. 8A  illustrates performance improvements associated with use of a foot compression system in accordance with various exemplary embodiments; and 
           [0021]      FIG. 8B  illustrates lactate clearance improvements associated with use of a foot compression system in accordance with various exemplary embodiments. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0022]    Details of the present disclosure may be described herein in terms of various components and processing steps. It should be appreciated that such components and steps may be realized by any number of hardware and/or software components configured to perform the specified functions. For example, a foot compression system may employ various medical treatment devices, input and/or output elements and the like, which may carry out a variety of functions under the control of one or more control systems or other control devices. In addition, details of the present disclosure may be practiced in any number of medical or treatment contexts, and exemplary embodiments relating to a deep vein thrombosis treatment system or a system for athletic recovery as described herein are merely a few of the exemplary applications. For example, the principles, features and methods discussed may be applied to any medical or other tissue or treatment application. 
         [0023]    A foot compression system may be any system configured to deliver a compressive force to a portion of a living organism, for example a human foot. With reference now to  FIG. 1 , and in accordance with an exemplary embodiment, a foot compression system  100  comprises actuator portion  100 A and reader portion  100 B. Actuator portion  100 A is configured to deliver a compressive force to a foot responsive to communication with reader portion  100 B. Moreover, a foot compression system may be configured with any appropriate components and/or elements configured to deliver a compressive force to a portion of a living organism. 
         [0024]    With further reference now to  FIGS. 2A-2B, 3, and 4A-4C , and in accordance with an exemplary embodiment, actuator portion  100 A comprises main housing  102 , pressure pad  104 , pad top  105 , motor  106 , gearbox  108 , output gears  110 , main gears  112 , slip clutch  116 , electrical components  118 , and weight sensor  120 . Reader portion  100 B comprises control box  130 , batteries  132  (not shown in figures), display  134 , and inputs  136 . 
         [0025]    Actuator portion  100 A may be any device, system, or structure configured to apply a compressive force to a foot. In an exemplary embodiment, actuator portion  100 A is configured to be removably located in the sole area of an item of footwear such as a shoe, sandal, boot, or any other type of footwear product. In other exemplary embodiments, actuator portion  100 A may be integrated into an item of footwear. Actuator portion  100 A may also be a stand-alone unit, for example a footrest. 
         [0026]    As used herein, a “shoe” may be understood to be a fitted protective covering for a human foot which is typically worn when walking and is intended to be worn while walking to enable ease in walking and to protect the wearer&#39;s foot. Exemplary types of shoes include but are not limited to athletic shoes (e.g. sneakers, running shoes, gym shoes, etc.), dress shoes (e.g., oxfords, monks, derbys, loafers, etc.), and sandals. Typically, a shoe does not extend above the ankle; a shoe-like item of footwear with an upper that extends above the ankle may be referred to herein as a “boot.” In certain exemplary embodiments, a shoe may be a specialized shoe worn for medical treatment that enables a wearer to easily walk while wearing the shoe in between treatments. In yet other exemplary embodiments, a shoe will be a specially outfitted athletic shoe that is visibly indistinguishable from a traditional athletic shoe. 
         [0027]    In various exemplary embodiments, actuator portion  100 A has an outer shape at least partially defined by a main housing  102 . Main housing  102  may be formed of metal, plastic, composite, or other suitable durable material. Main housing  102  is configured to enclose various portions of foot compression system  100 . 
         [0028]    Turning now to  FIGS. 2A through 3 , and in accordance with an exemplary embodiment, pressure pad  104  comprises a rigid or semi-rigid structure configured to press against a person&#39;s foot. In various exemplary embodiments, pressure pad  104  is extendable and retractable. Moreover, pressure pad  104  may be rigid, semi-rigid and/or non-bendable. Pressure pad  104  is coupled to main gears  112 . Moreover, pressure pad  104  may be configured to be moved by and/or coupled to any suitable power transfer components. 
         [0029]    Pressure pad  104  may be made of any suitable materials, for example metal, plastic, composite, and/or the like. Moreover, pressure pad  104  may be comprised of any material suitable for transferring force to a person&#39;s foot. Pressure pad  104  may be monolithic. Alternatively, pressure pad  104  may comprise two or more individual components. In certain exemplary embodiments, pressure pad  104  comprises a rigid main structure configured with a flexible pad top  105 , for example a pad top  105  comprised of rubber, silicone, or other suitable material. Pad top  105  may be smooth, ridged, dimpled, patterned, and/or otherwise shaped and/or textured. In this manner, pressure pad  104  may be configured to press against a person&#39;s foot while providing a desired level of cushioning, comfort, friction, and/or the like, for example due to pad top  105 . 
         [0030]    Pressure pad  104  can be any size to transfer force to a person&#39;s foot. According to an exemplary embodiment, pressure pad  104  applies force directly to the arch region of the foot. In various exemplary embodiments, pressure pad  104  comprises a contact surface area in the range of about 6 square centimeters to about 30 square centimeters. In various exemplary embodiments, pressure pad  104  comprises a contact surface area in the range of about 10 square centimeters to about 24 square centimeters. In other exemplary embodiments, pressure pad  104  comprises a contact surface area in the range of about 18 square centimeters to about 23 square centimeters. However, pressure pad  104  may be configured with any appropriate dimensions, surfaces, angles, and/or components, as desired, in order to transfer force to a foot. For example, in certain exemplary embodiments wherein foot compression system  100  is utilized in connection with athletic recovery, pressure pad  104  may be configured with a contact surface area substantially equal to the surface area of the bottom of a foot, for example a contact surface area in the range of between about 100 square centimeters to about 150 square centimeters. 
         [0031]    In various exemplary embodiments, pressure pad  104  further comprises a pressure sensor  103  configured to measure the pressure generated by pressure pad  104 . The pressure sensor may communicate with control electronics  118  and/or other components of foot compression system  100  in order to achieve a desired level of pressure generated by pressure pad  104 . 
         [0032]    In an exemplary embodiment, when extended away from main housing  102 , pressure pad  104  presses against the venous plexus region of the foot. Pressure pad  104  compresses the veins both in the arch of the foot and across the top of the foot from approximately the metatarsal-phalangeal joints to the talus. In various exemplary embodiments, pressure pad  104  is pressed against the venous plexus region of the foot for a time between approximately 1 and 5 seconds. In another exemplary embodiment, pressure pad  104  is pressed against the venous plexus region of the foot for approximately 2 seconds. Moreover, pressure pad  104  may be pressed against the venous plexus region for the foot for any suitable time to stimulate blood flow. 
         [0033]    In an exemplary embodiment, pressure pad  104  is configured to extend and/or retract over a desired time period. In various exemplary embodiments, pressure pad  104  is configured to extend from a fully retracted position to a fully extended position in a time between about 100 milliseconds and about 300 milliseconds. Moreover, pressure pad  104  may be configured to extend and/or retract over any suitable time period. 
         [0034]    In an exemplary embodiment, pressure pad  104  retracts so that it is flush or nearly flush with an outer surface of main housing  102 . Compression and relaxation is then followed by a period of non-compression to allow the veins within the venous plexus to re-fill with blood. In various exemplary embodiments, pressure pad  104  is pressed against the venous plexus region of the foot and then retracted in regular intervals of between about 20 seconds to about 45 seconds. In another exemplary embodiment, pressure pad  104  is pressed against the venous plexus region of the foot and then retracted in regular intervals of about 30 seconds. Further, pressure pad  104  may be pressed against the venous plexus region of the foot and then retracted in any suitable interval to stimulate blood flow. For example, compression may be rapid in order to move blood through the veins of the lower leg at an elevated velocity and to release chemical compounds that reduce pain. 
         [0035]    In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, switches and/or other appropriate mechanisms may be located at the maximum and/or minimum extensions of pressure pad  104  in order to prevent motor  106  from attempting to force pressure pad  104  beyond the end of travel. Such switches or other travel-limiting devices may be implemented mechanically, in hardware, in software, or any combination of the foregoing. 
         [0036]    Motor  106  may be any component configured to generate mechanical force to move pressure pad  104 . With reference now to  FIGS. 4A through 4C , and in accordance with an exemplary embodiment, motor  106  comprises a rotary output shaft driving a pinion. Motor  106  may comprise any suitable motor, such as a brushless direct current (DC) motor, a brushed DC motor, a coreless DC motor, a linear DC motor, and/or the like. Moreover, any motor, actuator, micro-engine, or similar device presently known or adopted in the future to drive moving parts within foot compression system  100  falls within the scope of the present disclosure. In various other exemplary embodiments, motor  106  may be replaced with another suitable power generation mechanism capable of moving pressure pad  104 , such as an artificial muscle, a piezoelectric material, a shape memory alloy, and/or the like. Motor  106  is coupled to gearbox  108 . 
         [0037]    With continued reference to  FIGS. 4A through 4C , and in accordance with an exemplary embodiment, gearbox  108  comprises a mechanism configured to increase the mechanical advantage obtained by motor  106 , for example a reduction gearbox. Gearbox  108  is coupled to motor  106  and to output gears  110 . Output force from motor  106  is transferred through gearbox  108  in order to achieve an appropriate gear ratio for effectuating movement of pressure pad  104 . Thus, gearbox  108  may have a fixed gear ratio. Alternatively, gearbox  108  may have a variable or adjustable gear ratio. Gearbox  108  may comprise any suitable ratio configured in any suitable matter to effectuate movement of pressure pad  104 . Moreover, gearbox  108  may comprise any suitable components, configurations, ratios, mechanisms, and/or the like, as desired, in order to transfer output force from motor  106  to other components of foot compression system  100 , for example output gears  110 . 
         [0038]    Output gears  110  may comprise any mechanism configured to transfer force from gearbox  108  to main gears  112 . Continuing to reference  FIGS. 4A through 4C , in accordance with an exemplary embodiment, output gears  110  comprise metal, plastic, or other durable material. Output gears  110  are coupled to gearbox  108  and to main gears  112 . Output force from motor  106  is transferred through gearbox  108  to output gears  110 . Output gears  110  are further configured to interface with main gears  112 . Moreover, output gears  110  may comprise any composition or configuration suitable to transfer force to main gear  112 . 
         [0039]    Main gears  112  may comprise any suitable component or structure configured to effectuate movement of pressure pad  104 . As illustrated in  FIGS. 4A through 4C , in an exemplary embodiment, one or more main gears  112  are coupled to pressure pad  104 . Main gears  112  interface with output gear  110 . As main gears  112  move in response to force transferred by output gears  110 , pressure pad  104  is extended and/or retracted through its range of motion. In various exemplary embodiments, main gears  112  are configured to effectuate movement of pressure pad  104  a distance of between about 1 mm to about 24 mm from a fully retracted to a fully extended position. In various other exemplary embodiments, main gears  112  are configured to effectuate movement of pressure pad  104  a distance of between about 12 mm to about 24 mm from a fully retracted to a fully extended position. Moreover, movement of pressure pad  104  may vary based on an individual user. For example, pressure pad  104  may be extended a larger distance for a user having a higher foot arch, and a smaller distance for a user having a lower foot arch. Additionally, pressure pad  104  may be moved between a fully retracted and a partially extended position, for example if a desired pressure value is reached via partial extension of pressure pad  104 . Pressure pad  104  may also move responsive to operation of slip clutch  116 . 
         [0040]    With reference to  FIGS. 4A through 4C , slip clutch  116  may comprise any mechanism configured to prevent damage to motor  106  and/or injury to a person. For example, if a person applies excessive force or weight to their foot when pressure pad  104  is extended, slip clutch  116  allows pressure pad  104  to safely retract back towards main housing  102 . In an exemplary embodiment, slip clutch  116  is a friction clutch. Slip clutch  116  is configured to slip when excessive force is placed on pressure pad  104 . In various exemplary embodiments, slip clutch  116  is configured to slip when the force on pressure pad  104  exceeds between about 130 Newtons to about 200 Newtons. In another exemplary embodiment, slip clutch  116  is configured to slip when the force on pressure pad  104  exceeds 155 Newtons. Moreover, slip clutch  116  may be configured to slip responsive to any suitable force in order to prevent damage to motor  106  or other components of foot compression system  100  and/or injury to a person. 
         [0041]    In various exemplary embodiments, foot compression system  100  may be at least partially operated, controlled, and/or activated by one or more electronic circuits, for example control electronics  118 . In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, control electronics  118  and/or an associated software subsystem comprise components configured to at least partially control operation of foot compression system  100 . For example, control electronics  118  may comprise integrated circuits, discrete electrical components, printed circuit boards, and/or the like, and/or combinations of the same. Control electronics  118  may further comprise clocks or other timing circuitry. Control electronics  118  may also comprise data logging circuitry, for example volatile or non-volatile memories and the like, to store data, such as data regarding operation and functioning of foot compression system  100 . Moreover, a software subsystem may be pre-programmed and communicate with control electronics  118  in order to adjust various variables, for example the time that pressure pad  104  remains in an extended position, the pressure applied to the foot, intervals of travel between the extended and retracted positions of pressure pad  104 , the time it takes for pressure pad  104  to extend to the extended position and retract to a recessed position, and/or the like. 
         [0042]    Control electronics  118  may be configured to store data related to foot compression system  100 . For example, in various exemplary embodiments, control electronics  118  may record if foot compression system  100  is mounted to the foot of a person and active, if foot compression system  100  is mounted to the foot of a person and inactive, if foot compression system  100  is not mounted to the foot of a person and system  100  is inactive, and/or the like and/or combinations of the same. Further, control electronics  118  may record the duration foot compression system  100  is active, the number of compression cycles performed, one or more pressures generated by foot compression system  100 , and so forth. Moreover, control electronics  118  may further comprise circuitry configured to enable data stored in control electronics  118  to be retrieved for analysis, deleted, compacted, encrypted, and/or the like. 
         [0043]    In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, when pressure pad  104  is being extended or is in a fully extended state, control electronics  118  may monitor the pressure applied by pressure pad  104 . For example, control electronics  118  may monitor the current drawn by motor  106  and calculate the applied pressure. Alternatively, a pressure sensor may detect the applied pressure and report this value to control electronics  118  and/or an associated software subsystem. 
         [0044]    In various exemplary embodiments, pressure pad  104  may be extended until a pressure threshold, such as between about 1 mmHg and 500 mmHg, is reached. In other exemplary embodiments, pressure pad  104  may be extended until a pressure threshold of between about 300 mmHg and 465 mmHg is reached. Alternatively, pressure pad  104  may be extended until pressure pad  104  is at the point of maximum extension from main housing  102 . In various exemplary embodiments, pressure pad  104  is extended with a force of between approximately 50 Newtons and approximately 115 Newtons. In other exemplary embodiments, pressure pad  104  is extended with a force of between approximately 75 Newtons and approximately 100 Newtons. While various pressures and/or forces have been described herein, other pressures and/or forces can be applied and fall within the scope of the present disclosure. Moreover, switches and/or other devices may be placed at the locations of maximum and/or minimum extension of pressure pad  104  in order to ensure that motor  106  is appropriately shut off at the end of travel. 
         [0045]    With reference to  FIG. 4B , in accordance with an exemplary embodiment, weight sensor  120  is provided within main housing  102 . Weight sensor  120  comprises any suitable sensor configured to detect weight applied to main housing  102 . When weight sensor  120  detects a suitable amount of weight, such as 25 pounds or more, electronic controls  118  may infer that the person is walking or otherwise putting pressure on actuator portion  100 A. Moreover, any appropriate weight may be utilized, and thus falls within the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, electronic controls  118  may implement a delay in activating foot compression system  100  to ensure the person does not walk on the raised pressure pad  104 . 
         [0046]    In various exemplary embodiments, actuator portion  100 A may comprise various sensors, for example pressure sensors, weight sensors, strain gauges, accelerometers, and/or the like. Actuator portion  100 A and/or reader portion  100 B may utilize one or more sensors for monitoring and/or control of foot compression system  100 . For example, in certain exemplary embodiments it may be desirable to prevent extension of pressure pad  104  when a person is walking or applying body weight to actuator portion  100 A. Thus, electronic control  118  may prevent extension of pressure pad  104  and/or retract pressure pad  104 , for example responsive to sensor input indicating a person is walking (e.g., accelerometer readings, weight sensor readings, and/or the like). In various exemplary embodiments, foot compression system  100  may be configured to be turned “on” when a user is seated and/or recumbent, and configured to be turned to a “standby” mode (e.g., a mode wherein pressure pad  104  remains retracted) when a user is standing and/or walking. 
         [0047]    With reference now to  FIGS. 2A and 2B , in an exemplary embodiment, actuator portion  100 A may further comprise one or more indicators  119 . Indicators  119  may comprise any components configured to receive input from a user and/or to deliver feedback to a user. For example, indicators  119  may comprise on/off buttons, lights, switches, and/or the like. In an exemplary embodiment, indicators  119  comprise a power button, a “high” foot compression setting light, a “low” foot compression setting light, a battery level warning light, and an error message light. Moreover, indicators  119  may comprise any suitable input and/or output components, as desired. 
         [0048]    With continued reference to  FIGS. 2A and 2B , in accordance with an exemplary embodiment, actuator portion  100 A further comprises a removable battery  131 . Battery  131  may comprise electrochemical cells suitable to provide power for actuator portion  100 A. Battery  131  may be rechargeable, but may also be single-use. Batteries  131  may comprise alkaline, nickel-metal hydride, lithium-ion, lithium-polymer, and/or other battery configurations suitable for powering actuator portion  100 A. Moreover, battery  131  may comprise any suitable chemistry, form factor, voltage, and/or capacity suitable to provide power to actuator portion  100 A. As illustrated, battery  131  may be decoupled from main body  102 , for example to facilitate recharging of battery  131 , as desired. 
         [0049]    In various exemplary embodiments, foot compression system  100  may further comprise a motion sensor, accelerometer, or other components configured to detect movement of foot compression system  100 . Control electronics  118  may prevent operation of actuator portion  100 A unless the motion sensor reports actuator portion  100 A (and thus, typically, the limb to which actuator portion  100 A is mounted) has been substantially motionless for a period of time, such as between about 2 minutes and 10 minutes. Further, any appropriate time range is considered to fall within the scope of the present disclosure, as the ranges set forth herein are exemplary only. 
         [0050]    With reference now to  FIGS. 1 and 5 , and in accordance with an exemplary embodiment, foot compression system  100  comprises a reader portion  100 B configured to facilitate communication with and/or control of actuator portion  100 A and/or other components of foot compression system  100 . Reader portion  100 B may comprise any suitable components, circuitry, displays, indicators, and/or the like, as desired. 
         [0051]    For example, in an exemplary embodiment, reader portion  100 B is used to control and program foot compression system  100 . Reader portion  100 B may be configured with a control box  130  comprising metal, plastic, composite, or other durable material suitable to contain various components of reader portion  100 B. In an exemplary embodiment, reader portion  100 B is coupled to actuator portion  100 A via a cable, for example an electrical cable suitable to carry current to drive motor  106 , carry digital signals, carry analog signals, and/or the like. In other exemplary embodiments, reader portion  100 B and actuator portion  100 A communicate wirelessly, for example via a suitable communication protocol (e.g., IEEE 802.15.4; Bluetooth™; IEEE 802.11, IEEE 1451, ISA 100.11a; and/or the like). In these embodiments, reader portion  100 B and actuator portion  100 A may further comprise transceivers, receivers, transmitters and/or similar wireless technology. 
         [0052]    In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, reader portion  100 B may comprise one or more batteries  132  (not shown in figures). Batteries  132  may comprise electrochemical cells suitable to provide power for reader portion  100 B. Batteries  132  may be rechargeable, but may also be single-use. Batteries  132  may comprise alkaline, nickel-metal hydride, lithium-ion, lithium-polymer, or other battery configurations suitable for powering reader portion  100 B. Moreover, batteries  132  may comprise any suitable chemistry, form factor, voltage, and/or capacity suitable to provide power to reader portion  100 B. 
         [0053]    Batteries  132  may be recharged via an external charger. Batteries  132  may also be recharged by use of electronic components within reader portion  100 B. Alternatively, batteries  132  may be removed from reader portion  100 B and replaced with fresh batteries. 
         [0054]    With reference now to  FIG. 5 , and in accordance with an exemplary embodiment, reader portion  100   b  further comprises a display  134  configured for presenting information to a user. In an exemplary embodiment, display  134  comprises a liquid crystal display (LCD). In other exemplary embodiments, display  134  comprises light emitting diodes (LEDs). In still other exemplary embodiments, display  134  comprises visual and audio communication devices such as speakers, alarms, and/or other similar monitoring and/or feedback components. Moreover, display  134  may also comprise audible or tactile feedback components. Display  134  is configured to provide feedback to a system user. Moreover, display  134  may comprise any suitable components configured to provide information to a system user. 
         [0055]    With continued reference to  FIG. 5 , inputs  136  may comprise any components configured to allow a user to control operation of foot compression system  100 . In an exemplary embodiment, inputs  136  allow a user to turn foot compression system  100  on and off. Inputs  136  may also allow a user to adjust operating parameters of foot compression system  100 , for example the interval of extension of pressure pad  104 , the force with which pressure pad  104  is extended, the maximum pressure applied by pressure pad  104 , various time intervals to have pressure pad  104  in an extended or retracted position, and/or the like. Further, inputs  136  may allow retrieval of data, such as system usage records. Data may be stored in actuator portion  100 A, for example in control electronics  118 , as well as in reader portion  100 B, as desired. 
         [0056]    In an exemplary embodiment, inputs  136  comprise electronic buttons, switches, or similar devices. In other exemplary embodiments, inputs  136  comprise a communications port, for example a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port. Further, inputs  136  may comprise variable pressure control switches with corresponding indicator lights. Inputs  136  may also comprise variable speed control switches with corresponding indicator lights, on/off switches, pressure switches, click wheels, trackballs, d-pads, and/or the like. Moreover, inputs  136  may comprise any suitable components configured to allow a user to control operation of foot compression system  100 . 
         [0057]    In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, foot compression system  100  is configured to be inserted into normal, off-the-shelf shoes, sandals, and other footwear. In various exemplary embodiments, pressure pad  104  is moved from the fully retracted position to the fully extended position in a time between about one-tenth (0.1) second and 1 second. In other exemplary embodiments, pressure pad  104  moves from the fully retracted position to the fully extended position in a time between about one-tenth (0.1) seconds and about three-tenths (0.3) seconds. Moreover, variances in individual feet (e.g., height of arch, curvature of arch, width, length, and/or the like) may effect the time period over which pressure pad is deployed. 
         [0058]    In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, when moved to the fully extended position, pressure pad  104  may generate a pressure between about 1 mmHg and 500 mmHg against the person&#39;s foot. Further, pressure pad  104  may be extended with a force between about 50 Newtons and 115 Newtons in certain exemplary embodiments. Pressure pad  104  may be kept in an extended position for a time between about 1 and 3 seconds. Pressure pad  104  is then retracted. Pressure pad  104  may then be re-extended, such as after a delay of between about 20 and 45 seconds. However, other time frames can be used, and all time frames are thought to fall within the scope of the present disclosure. 
         [0059]    While specific time ranges, sizes, pressures, movement distances, and the like have been described herein, these values are given purely for example. Various other time ranges, sizes, pressures, distances, and the like can be used and fall within the scope of the present disclosure. Any device configured to apply pressure to a person&#39;s foot as set forth herein is considered to fall within the scope of the present disclosure. 
         [0060]    In certain exemplary embodiments, foot compression system  100  is configured for use in, complementary to, and/or as a substitute for low-intensity physical exertion after a workout. Stated another way, foot compression system  100  is configured to facilitate “athletic recovery,” or the augmentation of blood flow in the body&#39;s venous system to deliver nutrients to the muscles while simultaneously removing lactic acid and metabolic waste. After a workout, it has been found that a person may recover more quickly from the aftereffects of exercise (for example, accumulation of lactates in the muscle and/or blood) via low-intensity physical exertion rather than via complete rest. The increased blood circulation attendant to low-intensity physical exertion facilitates the removal of lactic acid from muscle and the reduction of lactate levels in the bloodstream. Additionally, physical exertion can facilitate facilitating opening the capillary bed to enable remedial hydration and/or efficient nutrient transfer. In contrast, post-workout periods of immobility, for example either sitting or recumbent, do little physiologically to promote athletic recovery. Lowered venous peak velocity closes the capillaries and locks lactic acid in place, which influences swelling and muscle soreness. Moreover, sitting with hips and knees in flexion, with bends of 60 to 90 degrees in the knees and hips, can kink the arterial blood supply and venous return, elevating the risk of edema stasis, toxin storage, and nutrient deficiency. 
         [0061]    Therefore, by promoting blood circulation, foot compression system  100  may be utilized to achieve similar benefits as those obtained via low-intensity physical exertion. For example, foot compression system  100  may be utilized to achieve augmentation of peak venous velocity, augmentation of venous volume return, and/or augmentation of fibrinolysis. Additionally, the increased venous outflow evacuates cellular waste byproducts and reduces excess fluid trapped in the soft tissues of the lower leg, thereby promoting arterial inflow to the vacated capillary bed. Lower leg edema and other significant risk factors are reduced and/or eliminated. Stated another way, via use of foot compression system  100 , a person may achieve similar results as those achieved via low aerobic activity (for example, a normal walking pace) but without walking. The user achieves augmented venous outflow despite being in a seated and/or recumbent position. 
         [0062]    In an exemplary embodiment, foot compression system  100  may be used by a person as part of a “cool down” process during the “golden hour” —the first 60 minutes immediately after a workout. In other exemplary embodiments, foot compression system  100  may be used during a predetermined period after a workout, for example between immediately after a workout to about 12 hours after a workout. Foot compression system  100  may be utilized after a workout for a suitable duration, for example a duration of between about 10 minutes to about 2 hours, in order to assist in athletic recovery. While residual cellular metabolic waste can take several days to flush from the soft tissues, this process can be greatly accelerated via use of foot compression system  100  after a workout. To facilitate use of foot compression system  100  as part of an athletic recovery program, foot compression system  100  or components thereof may be integrated into athletic footwear intended for use during a workout. Moreover, foot compression system  100  or components thereof may also be integrated into specialized post-exercise footwear. 
         [0063]    Moreover, foot compression system  100  may be utilized on a regular schedule by a person, for example as part of a pre-workout warmup, a post-workout cooldown, and/or on days when no workout is scheduled. By increasing blood flow, foot compression system  100  can facilitate improved muscle readiness prior to exercise, quicker post-exercise recovery, and/or improved circulation on days absent strenuous exercise. In particular, foot compression system  100  may be desirably utilized by athletes subsequent to athletic events in order to facilitate faster recovery. 
         [0064]    In various exemplary embodiments, actuator portion  100 A is contained within an item of footwear, for example a shoe. In one exemplary embodiment, actuator portion  100 A is configured to repeatedly compress the venous plexus region of the foot as discussed herein. In this embodiment, actuator portion  100 A may be utilized for extended post-workout athletic recovery. 
         [0065]    In another exemplary embodiment, actuator portion  100 A is configured to compress the venous plexus region of the foot only when the wearer of the footwear is not walking or applying weight to the footwear. In this embodiment, actuator portion  100 A may be utilized for pre-workout warmup, post-workout cooldown, and/or the like, without the need for a change of footwear. 
         [0066]    With momentary reference to  FIG. 6A , in accordance with an exemplary embodiment a method  610  for implementing athletic recovery in a person following exercise comprises moving a pressure pad into contact with a foot (step  611 ), moving a pressure pad out of contact with the foot (step  612 ), and moving the pressure pad into contact with the foot (step  613 ). The pressure pad may be repeatedly moved as described above in order to facilitate blood flow. Turning now to  FIG. 6B , in accordance with an exemplary embodiment a method  620  for implementing athletic recovery in an athlete comprises: optionally, utilizing foot compression system  100  prior to an athletic event (step  621 ), participating in the athletic event (step  622 ), and utilizing foot compression system  100  subsequent to the athletic event (step  623 ). Each of steps  621  and  623  may comprise any suitable use of foot compression system  100 , for example method  610 . Moreover, steps  621  and/or  623  may be performed at any suitable time prior to and/or subsequent to the athletic event, and foot compression system  100  may be utilized for any desired length of time (for example, 15 minutes, 30 minutes, one hour, and/or the like). Moreover, foot compression system  100  may be utilized for a length of time specified by a physician. 
         [0067]    In various exemplary embodiments, foot compression system  100  is configured for use by individuals who are in fixed, standing, and/or sitting positions for extended periods of time, for example office workers, pregnant women, passengers on long-haul airline flights in excess of four hours, individuals in wheelchairs, service workers whose positions require standing, hospital patients, and/or the like. By improving blood flow in the lower extremities and legs, foot compression system  100  can reduce the negative health impacts associated with extended standing, extended sitting, and/or reduced mobility or immobility of a portion of the body. Moreover, foot compression system  100  may be configured for use in connection with treatment of plantar fasciitis or other disorders of the foot. 
         [0068]    Turning now to  FIGS. 7A-7D , in various exemplary embodiments a foot compression system  100 , for example foot compression system  700 , may be configured with various power transmission components, gearings, controls, and/or the like. In an exemplary embodiment, foot compression system  700  comprises main housing  702 , pressure pad  704 , pad top  705 , motor  706 , gears  709 , slip clutch  716 , and electrical components  718 . Main housing  702  may be similar to main housing  102 . Pressure pad  704  may be similar to pressure pad  104 , and pad top  705  may be similar to pad top  105 . Motor  706  may be similar to motor  106 . Gears  709  may comprise any suitable number of and/or configuration of power transmission components configured to transfer power from motor  706  to pressure pad  104 , for example spur gears, bevel gears, worm gears, and/or the like. Slip clutch  716  may be similar to slip clutch  116 , and electrical components  718  may be similar to electrical components  118 . Moreover, in various exemplary embodiments foot compression system  700  may be entirely self-contained; stated another way, foot compression system  700  may be configured as a stand-alone unit wherein all components necessary for operation of foot compression system  700  are contained within and/or physically coupled to main housing  702 , and a separate reader portion is not utilized. 
         [0069]    Turning now to  FIGS. 8A and 8B , in accordance with various exemplary embodiments, foot compression system  100  may be utilized to enable improved athletic performance associated with active recovery. In an exemplary three-day clinical demonstration, 16 elite cyclists (Pro/1/2 level) were randomized into a control group and a test group. On day one, the subjects performed an incremental step exercise test until exhaustion on an electrically braked cyclergometer. After the test was complete, both the control group and the test group recovered by sitting on a chair for one hour. During that hour, the test group used foot compression system  100 . Blood lactate levels for all test subjects were measured every ten minutes. Subsequent to the hour of sitting recovery, the test group utilized foot compression system  100  for three additional hours after returning to their homes. 
         [0070]    On day two of the study, the day after day one, each test subject performed a one hour exercise test to exhaustion on an electrically braked cyclergometer at 85% of the Maximal Power Output (MPO) for each test subject, which was obtained on the first day of the study. The control group and the test group each recovered in an identical manner as they had done on day one, and again, the test group utilized foot compression system  100  for an additional three hours after returning home. 
         [0071]    On day three of the study, the day after day two, each test subject again performed a one hour exercise test to exhaustion on an electrically braked cyclergometer at 85% of the Maximal Power Output (MPO) for each test subject. The control group and the test group each recovered in an identical manner as they had done on day one, and again, the test group utilized foot compression system  100  for an additional three hours after returning home. 
         [0072]    As illustrated in  FIG. 8A , the test group exhibited significantly higher time to exhaustion  809  on day two and day three of the demonstration as compared to the time to exhaustion  808  of the control group. This reflected the improved athletic recovery of the subjects in the test group, which was attributable to use of foot compression system  100 . Additionally, as illustrated in  FIG. 8B , the test group exhibited improved lactate clearance capacity after exercise on each day of the clinical demonstration. Test group lactate levels  899  were consistently lower than control group lactate levels  898 . Stated another way, use of foot compression system  100  resulted in improved lactate clearance as opposed to complete rest. 
         [0073]    The present disclosure has been described above with reference to various exemplary embodiments. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that changes and modifications may be made to the exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the various operational steps, as well as the components for carrying out the operational steps, may be implemented in alternate ways depending upon the particular application or in consideration of any number of cost functions associated with the operation of the system, e.g., one or more of the steps may be deleted, modified, or combined with other steps. Further, it should be noted that while the methods and systems for compression described above are suitable for use on the foot, similar approaches may be used on the hand, calf, or other areas of the body. These and other changes or modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure. 
         [0074]    Moreover, as will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, principles of the present disclosure may be reflected in a computer program product on a tangible computer-readable storage medium having computer-readable program code means embodied in the storage medium. Any suitable computer-readable storage medium may be utilized, including magnetic storage devices (hard disks, floppy disks, and the like), optical storage devices (CD-ROMs, DVDs, Blu-Ray discs, and the like), flash memory, and/or the like. These computer program instructions may be loaded onto a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions that execute on the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus create means for implementing the functions. These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable memory that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable memory produce an article of manufacture including instruction means which implement the function specified. The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus to produce a computer-implemented process such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide steps for implementing the functions specified. 
         [0075]    In the foregoing specification, the disclosure has been described with reference to various embodiments. However, one of ordinary skill in the art appreciates that various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as set forth in the claims below. Accordingly, the specification is to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure. Likewise, benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described above with regard to various embodiments. However, benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any element(s) that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as a critical, required, or essential feature or element of any or all the claims. As used herein, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. Also, as used herein, the terms “coupled,” “coupling,” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a physical connection, an electrical connection, a magnetic connection, an optical connection, a communicative connection, a functional connection, and/or any other connection. Further, when language similar to “at least one of A, B, or C” is used in the claims, the phrase is intended to mean any of the following: (1) at least one of A; (2) at least one of B; (3) at least one of C; (4) at least one of A and at least one of B; (5) at least one of B and at least one of C; (6) at least one of A and at least one of C; or (7) at least one of A, at least one of B, and at least one of C.