Patent Publication Number: US-9427366-B2

Title: Therapeutic cushion systems and methods

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is related to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/195,749 entitled “Therapeutic Cushion Systems and Methods,” filed Mar. 3, 2014, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/757,172, entitled “Therapeutic Cushion Systems and Methods,” filed Feb. 1, 2013 (now U.S. Pat. No. 8,661,586), U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/757,120, entitled “Therapeutic Cushion Systems and Methods,” filed Feb. 1, 2013, U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/594,840, entitled “Therapeutic Cushion System,” filed Feb. 3, 2012, U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/683,935, entitled “Therapeutic Cushion Systems and Methods,” filed Aug. 16, 2012, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/710,913, entitled “Therapeutic Cushion Systems and Methods,” filed Oct. 8, 2012, each of the disclosures of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Some embodiments described herein relate to therapeutic cushion systems and methods, and in particular, to therapeutic cushion systems and methods for use in the treatment of various medical conditions, such as, for example, gastro-esophageal reflux disease. 
     Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a medical term that describes a malady in which acid-laden, partially digested stomach contents reflux—i.e., flow in an abnormal backward fashion—from the stomach into the esophagus. Reflux of gastric contents into the esophagus is most common, and does the most damage, when the GERD sufferer is sleeping and unaware that the reflux is occurring. 
     Some known systems use pillows or other supportive apparatuses to effectively manage or control symptoms of conditions that otherwise would have required a medical prescription or surgery to alleviate. For example, some known pillow options include an elevated pillow with a protrusion within the pillow focused on the cervical region of the neck, which is intended to provide comfort or better resting conditions for individuals suffering from cardiac conditions, emphysema or other respiratory difficulties. Such a pillow does not allow for an extended support below the sacrum region of the spine; nor does the pillow provide for any comfortable position other than supine. 
     Some known devices include an orthopedic pillow that can be used to minimize snoring in an individual. While such a pillow can be used to address conditions such as snoring, such a pillow may not be configured to treat conditions such as GERD. In fact, such an orthopedic pillow typically only provides an elevation component and fails to address any other component that may be desired for the relief of symptoms of a GERD sufferer. 
     Another known system includes a support pillow including a body with a central section and two wings for use in controlling symptoms associated with head and neck hyperextension, which is often seen in infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia, or other related conditions. Another known system includes an apparatus that can be used to prevent positional plagiocephaly in an infant by distributing loads otherwise borne by the head of the infant across a horizontal surface. While these systems may provide a benefit to infants, their specific design and structural engineering is based on the user of the pillow being an infant. Such pillows are not disclosed as providing a benefit for an adult or adolescent user suffering from GERD. 
     Most of the above described known systems focus on conditions relating to infants and/or the head-only region, without regard to addressing support of, or interaction with, the entire body. Other known systems include a pillow meant to accommodate an adult person (as a general body pillow) or an infant (to assist in supporting the infant in a seated position). Such systems, however, do not contemplate use of the pillow to alleviate symptoms relating to gastric or esophageal disorders. Additionally, such a pillow may not accommodate the necessary features specific for controlling or managing such disorders. Another known system includes a large, contoured body pillow to facilitate relief from persistent back and neck pain, respiratory and digestive disorders; however, the bulk of such a pillow is typically in excess of what is practical for use by a normal individual in a bed. 
     Thus, a need exists for therapeutic cushion systems and methods that can address the shortcomings of the known pillow systems identified above, and that can be used to manage and/or control symptoms associated with GERD and/or other medical conditions, while maintaining a practical, accommodating fit for the user. 
     SUMMARY 
     Apparatus and methods for providing therapeutic treatment for symptoms associated with GERD and/or other digestive disorders and/or other medical conditions are described herein. In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a support base and a support pillow member. The support base includes a support element portion and an encasement portion. The support element portion has a first end portion and a second end portion and a top surface disposed at an angle relative to a bottom surface of the support element. The second end portion has a height greater than the first end portion. The support element portion and the encasement portion collectively define an interior region. The support pillow member is disposable within the interior region. The support pillow member, the support element portion and the encasement portion collectively define a receiving portion configured to receive at least a portion of a user&#39;s arm therein. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a schematic illustration of a therapeutic cushion system, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view of a therapeutic cushion system, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 3  is a side view of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 4  is top view of the riser element and support element of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 5  is a top view of the body element of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 6  is a side perspective view of the riser element and support element of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 7  is a side view of the support element of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 8  is a front perspective view of the support element of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 9  is a side perspective view of the cushion member of the support element of  FIG. 8 . 
         FIG. 10  is a front perspective view of the riser element of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 11  is a partially unassembled view of the riser element of  FIG. 10 . 
         FIG. 12  is a side view of the riser element of  FIG. 11 . 
         FIG. 13  is a top view of the body element of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIGS. 14A and 14B  illustrate a method of assembling the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIGS. 15A-15C  illustrate a method of adjusting a position of the riser element relative to the support element of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIGS. 16-19  illustrate a method of using the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIGS. 20 and 21  are each a perspective view of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 2  illustrating the body element in different configurations. 
         FIGS. 22 and 23  are each a perspective view of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 2  illustrating an alternative orientation for use of the therapeutic cushion system. 
         FIGS. 24(A) -(J) each illustrate the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 2  in use by a user with the body element in different configurations and the user in different positions. 
         FIG. 25  is a perspective view of a therapeutic cushion system, according to another embodiment. 
         FIGS. 26-29 and 30 (A)- 30 (I) each illustrate a different embodiment of a body element. 
         FIGS. 31(A)-31(E)  each illustrate a different embodiment of a body element including different filler zoning options. 
         FIG. 32(A)  is a top view of a therapeutic cushion system, according to another embodiment shown in a first configuration, and  FIG. 32(B)  is a top view of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 32(A)  shown in a second configuration. 
         FIG. 33  is a side view of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIGS. 32(A) and 32(B) . 
         FIG. 34  is a perspective view of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIGS. 32(A) and 32(B)  shown on a bed, and 
         FIG. 35  is a perspective view of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIGS. 32(A) and 32(B)  illustrating a user positioned on the therapeutic cushion system. 
         FIG. 36  is a perspective view of a therapeutic cushion system, according to another embodiment with an optional pillow. 
         FIG. 37  is a side view of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 36 , and 
         FIG. 38  is an end view taken along line A-A in  FIG. 37 . 
         FIG. 39  is a top view of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 37  with a side support member shown on two sides of the support element. 
         FIG. 40  is a cross-sectional view of the side support member of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 36 . 
         FIG. 41  is a top view of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 36  with an optional body element. 
         FIGS. 42(A) -(D) each illustrate a cross-sectional view of alternative embodiments of a side support member. 
         FIG. 43  is a perspective view of a therapeutic cushion system, according to another embodiment with an optional pillow. 
         FIG. 44  is a side view of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 43 , and 
         FIG. 45  is an end view taken along line B-B in  FIG. 44 . 
         FIG. 46  is a top view of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 43  with a side support member shown disposed on two sides of the support element. 
         FIG. 47  is a top view of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 43  with an optional body element. 
         FIG. 48  is a side view of a therapeutic cushion system, according to another embodiment, and 
         FIG. 49  is an end view of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 61  taken along line C-C in  FIG. 48 . 
         FIG. 50  is a top view of a sling member of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 48  and 
         FIG. 51  is a top view of a sling member of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 48  with an optional body element. 
         FIG. 52  is a top view of the frame and pad member of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 48 . 
         FIG. 53  is a side view of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 48  illustrating a bed length version, and 
         FIG. 54  is a side view of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 48  illustrating a torso length version. 
         FIG. 55  is a side view of a therapeutic cushion system, according to another embodiment. 
         FIG. 56  is a side view of a therapeutic cushion system, according to another embodiment. 
         FIG. 57  is a side view of a therapeutic cushion system, according to another embodiment, and 
         FIG. 58  is a side exploded view of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 57 . 
         FIG. 59  is a side view of a therapeutic cushion system, according to another embodiment, and 
         FIG. 60  is a side exploded view of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 59 . 
         FIG. 61  is a top view of a support element, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 62  is a side view of the support element of  FIG. 61 , shown adjacent a portion of a riser element. 
         FIG. 63  is a front end view of the support element of  FIG. 61  taken along line E-E in  FIG. 61 , and 
         FIG. 64  is a foot end view of the support element of  FIG. 61  taken along line D-D in  FIG. 61 . 
         FIG. 65  is a side view of a support element, according to another embodiment. 
         FIG. 66  is a side view of a support element, according to another embodiment. 
         FIG. 67  is a perspective view of a therapeutic cushion system, according to another embodiment. 
         FIG. 68  is a top view of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 67 . 
         FIG. 69  is an end view of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 67  taken along line F-F in  FIG. 68 . 
         FIG. 70  is a side view of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 67 . 
         FIG. 71  is a perspective view of a therapeutic cushion system, according to another embodiment. 
         FIG. 72  is a top view of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 71 . 
         FIG. 73  is an end view of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 71  taken along line G-G in  FIG. 72 . 
         FIG. 74  is a side view of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 71 . 
         FIG. 75  is a top view of a therapeutic cushion system according to another embodiment. 
         FIG. 76  is a top view of a support element including non-slip features, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 77  is a side perspective view of a support element including non-slip features according to another embodiment. 
         FIGS. 78(A)-78(F)  are each a top view of a different embodiment of a support element including non-slip features. 
         FIG. 79  is a side perspective view of a therapeutic cushion system, according to another embodiment. 
         FIG. 80  is a side perspective view of a side extension element of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 79 . 
         FIG. 81  is a perspective view of a therapeutic cushion system, according to another embodiment. 
         FIG. 82  is a side view of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 81 . 
         FIG. 83  is a top view of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 81 . 
         FIG. 84  is a bottom view of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 81 . 
         FIG. 85  is a front end view and 
         FIG. 86  is a rear end view of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 81 . 
         FIG. 87  is a side view of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 81  with the body element removed. 
         FIG. 88  is a front end view and 
         FIG. 89  is a rear end view of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 81  with the body element removed. 
         FIG. 90  is a top view and 
         FIG. 91  is a bottom view of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 81  with the body element removed. 
         FIG. 92  is a perspective view of a portion of a base support of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 81  shown transparent to illustrate an interior region of the base support. 
         FIG. 93  is a top view of a portion of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 81  with the body element removed. 
         FIG. 94  is an exploded view of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 81 . 
         FIG. 95  is a partial exploded view of the therapeutic cushion system of  FIG. 81 . 
         FIGS. 96 and 97  are each a bar graph illustrating results of a first example study evaluating the effects of using a therapeutic cushion system. 
         FIGS. 98-101  are each a bar graph illustrating results of a second example study evaluating the effects of using a therapeutic cushion system. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Apparatus and methods for providing therapeutic treatment for symptoms associated with GERD and/or other digestive disorders and/or other medical conditions or ailments are described herein. In some embodiments, a therapeutic cushion system as described herein can allow the user to sleep comfortably for an extended period of time in a substantially flat or an inclined right-side lateral decubitus (RLD) position, or a substantially flat or an inclined left-side lateral decubitus (LLD) position. In the inclined RLD position or the inclined LLD position, the therapeutic cushion system can serve to minimize, or eliminate, gastro-esophageal reflux. For example, the inclined RLD position can facilitate the emptying of the stomach into the duodenum, and the inclined LLD position can facilitate the reduction of reflux episodes. 
     In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a support base and a support pillow member. The support base includes a support element portion and an encasement portion. The support element portion has a first end portion and a second end portion and a top surface disposed at an angle relative to a bottom surface of the support element. The second end portion has a height greater than the first end portion. The support element portion and the riser element portion collectively define an interior region. The support pillow member is disposable within the interior region. The support pillow member, the support element portion and the encasement portion collectively define a receiving portion configured to receive at least a portion of a user&#39;s arm therein. 
     In some embodiments, a method of using a therapeutic cushion system can include coupling a riser element of a cushion system to a support element of the cushion system such that the riser element and the support element collectively define a receiving portion between the riser element and the support element. The support element includes a top surface disposed at an angle relative to a bottom surface. A body element can be provided for placement on at least one of a portion of the support element or a portion of the riser element. The body element has a first arm and a second arm connected by an arc portion. The support element, riser element and body element are collectively configured to support a user in an inclined side position with the user&#39;s arm disposable within the receiving portion. 
     In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a support element having a first end portion, a second end portion and a top surface disposed at an angle relative to a bottom surface. The second end portion has a height greater than a height of the first end portion. A riser element is coupled to a body element such that the body element can be moved between a first position in which a first portion of the body element extends from a side portion of the riser element and a second portion of the body element is disposed substantially perpendicular to the first portion, and a second position in which the first portion of the body element is disposed on top of the riser element. The second portion of the body element configured to be disposed at least partially on the support portion when the riser element is disposed adjacent the second end portion of the body element. 
     In some embodiments, a method of treating symptoms associated with gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) can include positioning a user&#39;s body on a therapeutic cushion system such that the user is disposed on the therapeutic cushion system in an inclined right-side lateral decubitus (RLD) position or inclined left-side lateral decubitus (LLD) position such that the user&#39;s pyloric sphincter is disposed at an elevation lower than an elevation of the user&#39;s esophageal sphincter. For example, the user can be disposed on a support element (or a base support as described herein) of a therapeutic cushion system having an inclined top surface of between 6 degrees and 30 degrees. In such an embodiment, the user can be positioned on the support element (or base support) at an angle between about 5 and 20 degrees depending on factors, such as, for example, the density and/or deflection properties of the support element, and/or the weight of the user. The user&#39;s right arm or left arm can be positioned within a receiving portion of the therapeutic cushion system defined between the support element and a riser element of the therapeutic cushion system. The user of the therapeutic cushion system can be maintained in the inclined RLD position or LLD position for a sufficient time period to treat symptoms associated with GERD. In some embodiments, the time period is at least one hour. In some embodiments, the time period is 6 hours. In some embodiments, the maintaining includes positioning a body element of the therapeutic cushion system proximate at least one of the riser element or the support element of the therapeutic cushion system. In some embodiments, the maintaining includes positioning a body element of the therapeutic cushion system proximate a base support of the therapeutic cushion system 
     In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a cushion system including a support element portion and a riser element portion. The support element portion has a first end portion and a second end portion and a top surface disposed at an angle relative to a bottom surface. The second end portion has a height greater than a height of the first end portion. The support element portion and the riser element portion collectively define a receiving portion configured to receive a user&#39;s arm therein and a side support member is configured to be disposed on a portion of the top surface of the support element portion. The side support member is configured to maintain the user in a side position on the cushion system. 
     In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a frame member and a sling member coupled to the frame member. The sling member defines an opening between a first portion and a second portion of the sling member. The first portion of the sling member is configured to support a user&#39;s head and the second portion of the sling member is disposed at an angle between about 6 and about 30 degrees relative to the first portion. The opening is configured to receive at least a portion of the user&#39;s arm therethrough. A pad member is disposed below the opening and configured to support at least a portion of the user&#39;s arm when disposed through the opening. The apparatus is configured to be supported on a support surface and support a user in an inclined side position. 
     In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a body element that has a first end portion including an arc portion, and a first arm and a second arm each extending away from the arc portion. The body element is configured to maintain a user in a side position. The body element includes an outer sleeve member and a pillow insert. The outer sleeve member includes stitching along an outer edge portion and is free of stitching along an inner edge portion. 
     In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a support element that includes a first end portion and a second end portion that has a height greater than a height of the first end portion. The support element also includes a top surface disposed at an angle relative to a bottom surface, a cushion portion, and an inflatable chamber configured to adjustably modify a firmness and/or height of the support element. The apparatus further includes a riser element. The riser element and the support element collectively define a receiving portion configured to receive a user&#39;s arm. 
     In some embodiments, a kit includes a cushion system that includes multiple support elements and multiple riser elements. Each support element from the multiple support elements includes a first end portion and a second end portion and a top surface disposed at an angle relative to a bottom surface. Each support element from the multiple support elements is selectively stackable on top of another of the support elements to vary at least one of a thickness or a firmness of a support portion of the cushion system. Each riser element from the multiple riser elements is selectively stackable on top of another riser element to vary at least one of a thickness or a firmness of a riser portion of the cushion system. The riser portion and the support portion are collectively configured to support a user in an inclined side position with an arm of the user disposed within a receiving portion defined between the support portion and the riser portion. 
     In some embodiments, a kit includes a cushion system that includes multiple stackable elements. Each stackable element from the multiple stackable elements includes a support element and a riser element. Each support element includes a first end portion and a second end portion and a top surface disposed at an angle relative to a bottom surface. At least one stackable element from the multiple stackable elements includes an opening defined between the support element and the riser element. Each stackable element from the multiple stackable elements is selectively stackable on top of another stackable element to vary at least one of a thickness or a firmness of cushion system. 
     In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a support element and a riser element. The support element has a first end portion and a second end portion and a top surface disposed at an angle relative to a bottom surface. The second end portion has a height greater than a height of the first end portion. The top surface is disposed at an angle between about 6 degrees and about 30 degrees relative to the bottom surface. The riser element includes straps configured to adjustably couple the riser element proximate to the second end portion of the support element. 
       FIG. 1  is a schematic illustration of a therapeutic cushion system according to an embodiment. A therapeutic cushion system (also referred to herein as “cushion system”)  100  includes a support element  120  (also referred to herein as “wedge support” or “wedge element”), a riser element  122  and a body element  124  (also referred to herein as a “body pillow”). As described above, the cushion system  100  can be used, for example, for the treatment of symptoms associated with GERD and/or other digestive disorders and/or other medical conditions. For example, the cushion system  100  can allow the user to sleep for an extended period of time in an inclined right-side lateral decubitus (RLD) position (as described in more detail below), which can minimize, or eliminate, gastro-esophageal reflux while facilitating the emptying of the stomach into the duodenum, or an inclined left-side lateral decubitus (LLD) position, which can facilitate the reduction of reflux episodes. 
     Said another way, the support element  120  can have a height dimension that varies from a caudad end portion (also referred to herein as “first end portion”) of the support element  120  to a cephalad end portion (also referred to herein as “second end portion”) of the support element  120  (e.g., nearest the user&#39;s head), with the greatest height dimension being, for example, on the cephalad end portion of the support element  120 . The support element  120  can include a concave or indented portion (not shown in  FIG. 1 ) disposed on the top surface of the support element  120 , for example, at or near the cephalad end as described in more detail below with reference to specific embodiments. The concave portion can be used, for example, to relieve pressure in the user&#39;s downside axilla when the user is lying in a lateral decubitus position on the cushion system  100 . 
     The support element  120  can also have a shape that can promote an appropriate torso angle for a user to comfortably maintain a lateral decubitus position on the support element  120  during use. For example, the support element  120  can include a curved exterior portion that can help increase the comfort of a user lying in a lateral decubitus position for an extended period of time without uncomfortable pressure or pain in a downside shoulder or arm. In some embodiments, the support element  120  can include beveled corners on the cephalad end of the support element  120  that can accommodate additional ergonomic arm and elbow placement during use of the cushion system  100 . 
     The support element  120  can be a variety of different lengths, widths and/or thicknesses. For example, in some embodiments, the support element  120  can have a length that is shorter than a typical sized bed, such that the user&#39;s legs extend at least partially off the support element  120  during use. Such a support element  120  can be referred to as having a torso length. In some embodiments, the support element  120  can be the length of a typical bed and can be referred to herein as having a bed length. In some embodiments, the support element  120  can include multiple portions that can be stacked together. 
     The support element  120  can include an outer casing  121  and a cushion member  123  that can be disposed within the outer casing  121 . The outer casing  121  of the support element  120  can be formed with one or more materials. For example, in some embodiments, the outer casing  121  can include a top portion on which the user contacts during use of the cushion system  100  that is formed with a first material, and a bottom portion that contacts the support surface (e.g., top surface of a bed) on which the support element  120  is disposed during use that is formed with a second material. The top portion (e.g., the top surface) of the outer casing  121  can be formed with, for example, a four-way stretch material that is highly conformable, such as, for example, cotton/spandex, nylon/spandex, polyester/spandex or blends of any blend of cotton, nylon or polyester combined with spandex or elastane, and the bottom portion can be formed with a more robust material, such as, for example, poplin, canvas, gabardine or twill made using any combination of cotton, polyester or nylon, to provide durability. 
     The outer casing  121  of the support element  120  can include an opening through which the cushion member  123  can be inserted and can include a fastener such as, for example, a zipper, buttons, snaps, flaps, hook and loop fasteners or other suitable coupling method to close or partially close the opening. The cushion member  123  can be formed with one or more foam materials, such as, for example, polyurethane or rubber latex, or visco-elastic polyurethane (e.g., memory foam). In some embodiments, the cushion member  123  can include multiple different foam materials each having a different density and/or a different deflection property. In alternative embodiments, the cushion member  123  can include one or more inflatable chambers. In other alternative embodiments, the cushion member  123  can include a filler material, such as a polyester material, disposed within an inner casing. In some embodiments, the support element  120  can include multiple cushion members  123 . For example, multiple cushion members  123  can be stacked together within the outer casing  121 . 
     The riser element  122  can be removably coupled to the support element  120 . For example, the riser element  122  can be coupled to the support element  120  near or proximate the second end portion (i.e., cephalad end portion) of the support element  120  and can be used to support a neck and head of a user. The riser element  122  can be coupled to the support element  120  with a variety different coupling methods. For example, in some embodiments, the riser element  122  can include straps along lateral side edges of the riser element  122  that can be coupled to the support element  120  along lateral side edges of the support element  120 . The straps can include a coupling portion that can be coupled to a mating coupling portion disposed on the support element  120 . For example, the coupling portion on the support element  120  can be buttons, and the coupling portion on the riser element  122  can be holes or openings configured to be coupled to the buttons. In alternative embodiments, other types of coupling portions can be included. For example, the riser element  122  can be coupled to the support element  120  with hook and loop fasteners, snaps, strings or ties, zippers, or any other suitable coupling method. In another alternative embodiment, the straps can be on the support element  120  and can be coupled to the riser element  122 . In another alternative embodiment, the support element  120  and the riser element  122  can be formed as or incorporated within a single, uniform component. 
     In some embodiments, the straps can include multiple coupling portions such that the riser element  122  and the support element  120  can be adjustably coupled together. For example, straps on the riser element  122  (as described above) can include multiple openings disposed at different locations along a length of the straps that can be selectively coupled to buttons on the support element  120 . In alternative embodiments the support element can include multiple coupling portions to which the coupling portions on the straps can be selectively coupled. The adjustability of the position of the riser element  122  relative to the support element  120  allows the user to adjust an angle of the user&#39;s head and/or neck when supported on the riser element  122 . In addition, the adjustability of the riser element  122  relative to the support element  120  can compress the riser element  122  to change or affect, for example, a height of the user&#39;s head when supported on the riser element  122 . Thus, a user can position the riser element  122  to achieve a desired position and/or compression of the riser element  122  and/or to accommodate users having different sized arms. 
     In some embodiments, the riser element  122  can be coupled to the support element  120  such that a receiving portion is formed between the second end portion of the support element  120  and an end portion of the riser element  122 . The receiving portion can be, for example, an opening, void, cavity, pocket, space or gap, etc. between the support element  120  and the riser element  122 , in which a user can insert at least a portion of the user&#39;s arm. The receiving portion can be defined by flexible or conformable portions of the cushion system  100  such that the size of the receiving portion can vary as the user inserts an arm. For example, in some embodiments, a portion of the support element  120  can contact a portion of the riser element  122  such that as the user inserts an arm into the receiving portion, the user moves or flexes a portion of the support element  120  and/or a portion of the riser element  122 . 
     During use of the cushion system  100 , a user can place a downside shoulder and arm within the receiving portion when lying in a side position. Insertion of the user&#39;s arm within the receiving portion between the support element  120  and the riser element  122  can also mitigate the tendency of the user from sliding downward on the angled top surface of the support element  120  and can help stabilize the user in the lateral or side position during use of the cushion system  100 . A position of the user&#39;s arm and shoulder can be adjusted within the receiving portion between the support element  120  and the riser element  122 , such that user&#39;s downside axilla rests within the concave portion of the support element  120 . 
     The riser element  122  can include a pillow insert  125  that can be disposed within an outer casing  127 . The outer casing  127  can include an opening through which the pillow insert  125  can be inserted, and can include a fastener such as, for example, a zipper, buttons, snaps, flaps, hook and loop fasteners or other suitable coupling method to close or partially close the opening. The outer casing  127  can be formed with the same or similar materials as the outer casing  121  described above for the support element  120 . For example, the outer casing  127  can include a first portion formed with a four-way stretch material and a second portion formed with a more robust material such as described for support element  120 . The pillow insert  125  can include an inner casing (not shown in  FIG. 1 ) that can contain a filler material (not shown in  FIG. 1 ) therein. The filler material can be, for example, a clustered polyester fiber material, such as, for example, any combination of polyester fibers, clustered polyester fiber, down alternative made from synthetic fibers, polystyrene beads/pellets, shredded foam, or down feathers. The inner casing of the pillow insert  125  can also be formed with a four-way stretch material as described above for the outer casing  127 . The inner casing of the pillow insert  125  can also include an opening through which the filler material can be inserted, and can include a fastener such as, for example, a zipper, buttons, snaps, or other suitable coupling method to close or partially close the opening. In alternative embodiments, the inner casing may not include such an opening. For example, after the filler material has been inserted into the inner casing, the inner casing can be closed with, for example, stitching. 
     The four-way stretch material of the outer casing  127  of the riser element  122  described above, in conjunction with the pillow insert  125  having an inner casing formed with the four-way stretch material and having a clustered polyester fiber filler material can allow the riser element  122  to be malleable and shape-retaining. For example, in such an embodiment, the user can conform the riser element  122  to a desired thickness and/or shape for that user&#39;s needs and preference. For example, the user can conform or adjust the riser element  122  to form cavities or to otherwise fit or conform to the user&#39;s face, ear, arm, etc. The conformed shape can be maintained for an extended time period and/or until the user disperses the filler material of the pillow insert  125  by, for example, shaking or fluffing the riser element  122 . 
     The body element  124  can include a pillow insert  129  that can be disposed within a sleeve member  131 . The sleeve member  131  can include an opening or openings through which the pillow insert  129  can be inserted, and can include a fastener such as, for example, a zipper, buttons, snaps, or other suitable coupling method to close or partially close the opening(s). The pillow insert  129  can be formed the same as or similar to the pillow insert  125  described above for the riser element  122 . For example, the pillow insert  129  can include an inner casing (not shown in  FIG. 1 ) containing a filler material (not shown in  FIG. 1 ). The filler material can be, for example, a clustered polyester fiber material, such as, for example, the materials described above for the riser element  122 . The inner casing of the body element  124  can be formed with, for example, a four-way stretch material as described above for the inner casing of the riser element  122 . The sleeve member  131  can be formed with, for example, a four-way stretch material as described above for the riser element  122  and the support element  120 , or can be constructed of a two-way stretch material, such as, for example, jersey or interlock. Thus, as described above for the riser element  122 , the body element  124  can also be manipulated, conformed, adjusted, dispersed, etc., to conform to a desired shape and/or thickness. The inner casing of the pillow insert  129  can also include an opening through which the filler material can be inserted, and can include a fastener such as, for example, a zipper, buttons, snaps, or other suitable coupling method to close or partially close the opening. In alternative embodiments, the inner casing may not include such an opening. For example, after the filler material has been inserted into the inner casing, the inner casing can be closed with, for example, stitching. 
     The body element  124  can have a variety of different shapes and be a variety of different sizes. For example, in some embodiments, the body element  124  can include an arc portion at a cephalad end connecting a first arm and a second arm of the body element  124 . In some embodiments, the arc portion can have a curvature of, for example, substantially 180 degrees. In other embodiments, the arc portion can have a different curvature, for example, between about 30 degrees and 180 degrees. In some embodiments, the first arm and the second arm can extend parallel to each other away from the arc portion. In some embodiments, the first arm of the body element  124  can have a length that is about half a length of the second arm of the body element  124 . In some embodiments, the first arm can be substantially the same length as the second arm. 
     The body element  124  can be reconfigurable into a variety of different shapes and configurations for use on the support element  120  and/or riser element  122  as described in more detail below. Optionally, in some embodiments, the body element  124  can be used independently of the support element  120  and the riser element  122 . In some embodiments, the body element  124  and the riser element  122  can be integrally formed or incorporated within a single component. In such an embodiment, the body element  124  can be moved from a first position in which the body element  124  is unfolded and a second configuration in which the body element  124  is folded and such that a portion of the body element  124  is disposed on a portion of the riser element  122 . In some embodiments, the body element  124  and the riser element  122  can be coupled by a flexible hinge such that the body element  124  can be moved between the folded configuration and the unfolded configuration. In some embodiments, the flexible hinge can be formed with, for example, a fabric material. 
     The sleeve member  131  of the body element  124  can be formed in a tubular shape such that the pillow insert  129  can be inserted therein through an opening defined on one end of the sleeve member  131 . The sleeve member  131  can include stitching along a single outer edge such that the body element  124  can be free of stitching along an inner edge portion of the sleeve member  131  where a user typically contacts the sleeve member  131  during use. Such an embodiment can provide increased comfort for the user as many known body pillows that have such inner stitching can tend to become taut when tension is applied, resulting in an awkward and potentially painful fit for the user. In addition, the stitching being along an outer edge portion the sleeve member  131  can eliminate or reduce distortion of the body element  124  during use, which can further provide improved feel and comfort to the user. In some embodiments, stitching can be included on the body element  124  at additional targeted areas of the body element  124  as described, for example, with reference to  FIGS. 26-28 . The inner casing of the pillow insert  129  of the body element  124  can also be constructed in a tubular shape in the same or similar manner as the sleeve member  131 . For example, the inner casing of pillow insert  129  can include stitching along an outer edge of the inner casing, and be free of stitching along an inner edge. 
     As described above, the user can manipulate, conform, disperse, etc., the clustered polyester fiber filler material within the body element  124  and/or the riser element  122  to create cavities or bulges to accommodate specific body parts and/or portions to accommodate the user&#39;s needs and/or preferences. The shape and/or cavity formed by the user can be maintained for an extended time period and/or until the user disperses the filler material of the riser element  122  and/or the body element  124  by, for example, shaking the riser element  122  and/or body element  124 . The combination of the four-way stretch material and clustered polyester filler material can allow for the redistribution of the filler material in an equalized manner throughout the body element  124  and/or riser element  122 . The reconfigurable filler material of the body element  124  and/or the riser element  122  can also minimize undesirable and irreversible migration of the filler material, which can occur in some known cushion systems due to their non-pliable stuffing and non-stretch material. In addition, the clustered polyester fiber filler material of the body element  124  and/or the riser element  122  can be machine washed and dried without causing clumping of the filler material. The combination of the filler material and the four-way stretch outer casing  127  and inner casing of pillow insert  125  of the riser element  122 , and sleeve member  131  and inner casing of the pillow insert  129  of the body element  124 , provides for post-laundering redistribution of the filler material to substantially its original state. 
     In some embodiments, the cushion system  100  can include a side support member or portion (not shown in  FIG. 1 ) that can be used as an alternative to the body element  124 . In some embodiments, the riser element  122  and the support element  120  are formed as single component and define a receiving portion (e.g., space or opening) in which the user&#39;s arm can be disposed during use. In some embodiments, the cushion system  100  can be implemented in an adjustable bed, such as, for example, a bed used in a medical facility. In some embodiments, the cushion system  100  can be implemented with a sling-type support element and riser element. For example, in such an embodiment, the sling-type support element and riser element can include a sling portion coupled to a frame member. In some such embodiment, support legs or feet and/or or wheels, such as castors, can be coupled to the frame member. In some embodiments, the cushion system  100  can include one or more inflatable chambers that can allow a user to adjust a height and/or firmness of the cushion system  100 . 
     In some embodiments, the cushion system  100  can include stackable elements. For example, in some embodiments, the support element  120  can include multiple separate stackable support portions each having a cushion member and an outer casing, and multiple stackable riser elements  122  each having a cushion member or pillow insert within an outer casing. In some embodiments, the cushion system  100  can include multiple stackable elements that each include a support element and riser element formed as a single component. Example embodiments of cushion systems including such stackable elements are described in more detail below. 
     To use the cushion system  100 , a user can removably couple the riser element  122  to the support element  120  as described above. The user can place the riser element  122  and the support element  120  on a support surface (e.g., a top surface of a bed) either before or after being coupled together. The body element  124  can be positioned on the support element  120  or with a portion of the body element  124  on the support element  120  and a portion on the riser element  120 . The user can then lie on the assembled cushion system  100  in a RLD or LLD position such that the user is aligned in approximately a center portion of the support element  120 . The user inserts the user&#39;s right or left arm beneath the body element  124  and within the receiving portion formed between the support element  120  and the riser element  122 . Optionally, the user can adjust the position of the user&#39;s right or left arm and shoulder within the receiving portion between the support element  120  and the riser element  122 , such that user&#39;s downside axilla rests within the centered concave portion of the support element  120 . 
     With the user&#39;s arm within the space between the support element  120  and the riser element  122 , the cushion system  100  can maintain the user in the inclined RLD or LLD position. Thus, the tendency of the user to slide down the angled portion of the support element  120  can be reduced or eliminated. Further illustrations and details of how a user can be positioned on the cushion system  100  are described below. In some embodiments, the support element  120  and the riser element  122  can be used without the use of the body element  124 . In some embodiments, use of only the body element  124  may be desirable. 
     As described above, the cushion system  100  can be used as a method of treatment for GERD and/or other digestive disorders. To use the cushion system  100  for this purpose, the user can follow the steps described above for being positioned on the cushion system  100  in an inclined RLD position or an inclined LLD position. For example, in the inclined RLD position, the therapeutic cushion system  100  can serve to minimize, or eliminate, gastro-esophageal reflux while it facilitates the emptying of the stomach into the duodenum. For example, in the inclined RLD position, the exit valve (i.e., the pyloric sphincter) of the user&#39;s stomach will be positioned substantially at a bottom right side of the user&#39;s abdomen below or at an elevation lower than an elevation of the user&#39;s esophageal sphincter. Thus, when the user remains in the inclined RLD position for a sufficient period of time, the stomach contents of the user can drain out of the stomach and into the duodenum. For example, a time period between about 1-4 hours may be needed to empty the contents of the stomach into the duodenum such that the user feels relief from symptoms associated with GERD and/or other digestive disorders. The time frame can vary depending on various factors such as for example, the user&#39;s overall health, other conditions the user may have such as diabetes, or gastroparesis, or the type and amount of food the user has consumed prior to resting on the cushion system, etc. In another example, in the inclined LLD position, a reduction in the frequency of reflux episodes of the user can result. 
       FIGS. 2-25  illustrate a therapeutic cushion system and methods of using the therapeutic cushion system, according to an embodiment. A therapeutic cushion system  200  (also referred to herein as a “cushion system”) includes a support element  220 , a riser element  222  and a body element  224 . As described above for cushion system  100 , the cushion system  200  can be used, for example, for the treatment of symptoms associated with GERD and/or other digestive disorders. 
     The support element  220  can have a variety of different shapes and/or sizes. In this embodiment, the support element  220  has a substantially wedged shape as shown in the side view of, for example,  FIG. 7 . Specifically, the support element  220  includes a top surface  237  that is disposed at an angle θ relative to a bottom surface  239  as shown in  FIG. 7 . In some embodiments, the angle θ can be, for example, between about 6 degrees and about 30 degrees. Said another way, the support element  220  has a height H 1  at a first end portion  215  of the support element  220  and a height H 2  at a second end portion  216  of the support element  220  and the height H 2  is greater than the height H 1  as shown, for example, in  FIG. 7 . The height H 1  can be for example, up to 2 inches, and the height H 2  can be between, for example, about 6 inches and 14 inches. The support element  220  also has a length L that can be, for example, between about 20 inches and 40 inches, such that the support element  220  has a torso length (as described above) and can promote an appropriate torso angle for user to comfortably maintain a lateral decubitus position on the support element  220  during use. 
     The support element  220  also includes a concave portion  230  (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 4, 5, 8 and 9 ) disposed on the top surface  237  of the support element  220 . As described above, the concave portion  230  can be used to relieve pressure in the user&#39;s downside axilla when the user is lying in a lateral decubitus position on the cushion system  200 . The support element  220  also includes curved exterior portions that can help increase the comfort of a user lying in the lateral decubitus position for an extended period of time without uncomfortable pressure or pain in a downside shoulder or arm. In this embodiment, the support element  220  also includes beveled corners  233  on the second end portion of the support element  220  (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 4 and 6 ) that can accommodate additional ergonomic arm and elbow placement during use of the cushion system  200 . 
     The support element  220  includes an outer casing  221 , as shown, for example, in  FIGS. 4 and 6-8 , and a cushion member  223 , as shown in  FIG. 9  that can be disposed within the outer casing  221 . The outer casing  221  of the support element  220  can be formed with one or more materials as described above for support element  120 . For example, the outer casing  221  can include a top portion  238  (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 7-8 ) on which the user contacts during use of the cushion system  200  that is formed with a first material, and a bottom portion  236  that contacts the support surface (e.g., top surface of a bed) on which the support element  220  is disposed during use that is formed with a second material that is different than the first material. The top portion of the outer casing  221  can be formed with, for example, a four-way stretch material and the bottom portion can be formed with a more robust material as described above for support element  120 . The top portion  238  and the bottom portion  236  can be coupled together with, for example, stitching. In this embodiment, the support element  220  includes buttons  228  on lateral side edges of the support element  220  (see., e.g.,  FIGS. 2, 3 and 6-8 ) that can be used to removably couple the riser element  222  to the support element  220  as described in more detail below. 
     The outer casing  221  of the support element  120  can also include an opening (not shown) through which the cushion member  223  can be inserted and can include a fastener (not shown) such as, for example, a zipper, buttons, snaps, flaps, or other suitable coupling method to close or partially close the opening. In this embodiment, the cushion member  223  is formed with, for example, one or more foam materials as previously described. The cushion member  223  includes a cavity  244  defined on top surface portion of the cushion member  223 , as shown in  FIG. 9 . The cavity  244  forms the concave portion  230  of the support element  220  when the cushion member  223  is disposed within the outer casing  221 . 
     The riser element  222  includes a pillow insert  225  that can be disposed within an outer casing  227 . The outer casing  227  can include an opening  242  through which the pillow insert  225  can be inserted as shown in  FIG. 11 . The outer casing  227  can include a fastener (not shown) such as, for example, a zipper, buttons, snaps, or other suitable coupling method to close or partially close the opening, as previously described for cushion assembly  100 . The outer casing  227  can be formed with the same or similar materials as the outer casing  221  described above for the support element  220 . For example, the outer casing  227  can include a first portion  232  formed with a four-way stretch material and a second portion  234  formed with a more robust material. The pillow insert  225  can include an inner casing  235  that can be formed with a four-way stretch material as described above and that can contain a filler material (not shown) therein. The filler material can be, for example, a clustered polyester fiber material, such as, for example, a material described above for pillow insert  125 . The inner casing  235  of the pillow insert  225  can also include an opening (not shown) through which the filler material can be inserted, and can include a fastener (not shown) such as, for example, a zipper, buttons, snaps, or other suitable coupling method to close or partially close the opening. In alternative embodiments, the inner casing  235  may not include such an opening. For example, after the filer material has been inserted into the inner casing  235 , the inner casing  235  can be closed with, for example, stitching. 
     As described above for cushion assembly  100 , the four-way stretch material of the outer casing  227  of the riser element  222 , in conjunction with the four-way stretch material of the inner casing  235  and the clustered polyester fiber filler material of the pillow insert  225  can allow the riser element  222  to be malleable and shape-retaining. For example, the user can conform the riser element  222  into a desired thickness and/or shape and/or form cavities or bulges to meet that user&#39;s needs and preference, as previously described. 
     The riser element  222  can be removably coupled to the support element  220  as shown, for example in  FIGS. 2-4 . For example, in this embodiment, the riser element  222  includes straps  226  along lateral side edge portions of the riser element  222  and the straps  226  each include multiple sets of button holes  240  that can be selectively coupled to the buttons  226  on the support element  220 . The riser element  222  can also include bands  219  (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 10-12 ) that can be used to hold the straps  226  against the lateral side edge of the riser element  222 . In this manner, the riser element  222  and the support element  220  can be adjustably coupled together to meet a user&#39;s particular needs, as described in more detail below. For example, as previously described, the riser element  222  can be coupled to the support element  220  such that a receiving portion  258  (e.g., space, opening, void, pocket, etc.) (see, e.g.,  FIG. 4 ) is defined between the second end portion  216  of the support element  220  and the riser element  222 . A user can place a downside shoulder and arm within the receiving portion  258  when lying in a RLD or LLD position. The straps  226  can be formed with, for example, the same material as the bottom portion  234  (e.g., poplin, canvas, gabardine or twill made using any combination of cotton, polyester or nylon) of the riser element  222  to provide strength to the straps  226 . Similarly, the buttons  228  of the support element  220  can be disposed on the bottom portion  236  of the support element  220 , which can be formed with the same material as the bottom portion  234  of the riser element  222 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 5 and 13 , in this embodiment, the body element  224  includes an arc portion  241  that has a substantially 180 degree curvature at a cephalad end portion, a first arm  247  and second arm  248  each extending from the arc portion  241  in a caudad direction. In this embodiment, the first arm  247  has a length that is shorter than a length of the second arm  248 . For example, the first arm  247  can have a length, for example, about half a length of the second arm  248 . The body element  224  is reconfigurable into a variety of different shapes for use on the support element  220  and/or riser element  222  as described in more detail below. Optionally, in some embodiments, the body element  224  can be used independently of the support element  220  and the riser element  222 . 
     The body element  224  includes a pillow insert  229  (see e.g.,  FIG. 12 ) that can be disposed within a sleeve member  231 . The sleeve member  231  can be formed in a tubular shape and includes a first opening  243  and a second opening  245  through which the pillow insert  229  can be inserted. The opening  243  can include a fastener (not shown) such as, for example, a zipper that can be used to close the opening  243 . The fastener can also extend along an outer edge of the sleeve member  231  such that a portion  251  of the sleeve member  231  along the outer edge portion  249  can be opened to aid in insertion and removal of the pillow insert  229 , as shown in  FIG. 12 . Optionally, a second fastener (not shown) can be included that can be used to open and close the opening  245  in a similar manner. 
     The tubular shape of the sleeve member  231  can be formed, for example, by sewing or stitching along an outer edge portion  249  of the sleeve member  231 . Thus, the sleeve member  231  can be free of stitching along an inner edge portion  250  of the sleeve member  231  where a user typically contacts the sleeve member  231  during use. As described above, having the inner edge portion  250  free of stitching can provide increased comfort for the user and can eliminate or reduce distortion of the body element  224  during use. In this embodiment, the sleeve member  231  also includes stitching features  252  that extend at an angle from the inner edge portion  250  to the outer edge portion  249 . The stitching  252  can extend, for example, at a 45 degree angle. 
     The pillow insert  229  can be formed the same as or similar to the pillow insert  225  described above for the riser element  222 . For example, the pillow insert  229  can include an inner casing  246  that can contain a filler material (not shown). The filler material can be, for example, a clustered polyester fiber material, as previously described for pillow insert  129 . The inner casing  246  can be formed with, for example, a four-way stretch material as described above. The sleeve member  231  can be formed with, for example, a four-way stretch material as described above for the riser element  222  and the support element  220 , or alternatively can be formed with, for example, a two-way stretch material as described for sleeve member  131 . Thus, as described above for the riser element  222 , the body element  224  can also be manipulated, conformed, adjusted, dispersed, etc., to conform to a desired shape and/or thickness. Although not shown, the inner casing  246  of the pillow insert  229  can also include an opening through which the filler material can be inserted, and can include a fastener (not shown) such as, for example, a zipper, buttons, snaps, or other suitable coupling method to close or partially close the opening. In alternative embodiments, the inner casing  246  may not include such an opening. For example, after the filler material has been inserted into the inner casing  246 , the inner casing  246  can be closed with, for example, stitching. 
     To use the cushion system  200 , the user can removably couple the riser element  222  to the support element  220  as shown in  FIGS. 13, 14 and 15A-15C . Specifically, the user can select one of the set of openings  240  on the straps  226  to couple to the buttons  228  on the support element  220  such that the riser element  222  is disposed at a desired position relative to the support element  222 . For example, the riser element  222  can be positioned relative to the support element  220  such that the riser element  222  is at a desired height to place the user&#39;s head and neck and at a desired longitudinal distance from the support element  220 . As shown in  FIG. 15A , if the user couples the first set of button holes  240  (the set furthest from an end of the straps  226 ) to the buttons  228 , the riser element  222  will be at a maximum height. If the user uses the second set of button holes  240 , as shown in  FIG. 15B , the riser element  222  will be at a medium height, and if the user uses the third set of button holes  240  (the set closest to the end of the straps  226 ) the riser element  222  will be at a lowest height. The user can place the riser element  222  and the support element  220  on, for example, a bed or other surface on which the user intends to use the cushion system  200  either before or after coupling the riser element  222  to the support element  220 . 
     With the riser element  222  coupled to the support element  220 , the user can place the body element  224  on top of the riser element  222  and the support element  220 , as shown for example, in  FIG. 14 . Specifically, the arc portion  241  is placed on the riser element  222  and the second arm  248  of the body element  224  is positioned on a left side of the riser element  222  and support element  220  (as viewed in a top view of the cushion system) such that a portion of the second arm  248  (depending on its length) extends off the support element  220 , as shown, for example,  2 ,  3 ,  14  and  15 A- 15 C. Although the cushion system  200  is described below for a user positioned in a RLD position, it should be understood that the cushion system  200  can alternatively be assembled for a user to be positioned in a LLD position on the cushion system  200  in a similar manner. 
     The user can then lie on the assembled cushion system  200  in the RLD position such that the user is aligned in approximately a center portion of the support element  220 . For example, the user can insert the user&#39;s right arm below the arc portion  241  of the body element  224  and within the receiving portion  258  between the riser element  222  and the support element  220 , as shown in  FIG. 16 , and then out through the space on an outer side of the second arm  248  of the body element  224 , as shown in  FIG. 17 . In other words, the user&#39;s arm can be positioned within the receiving portion  258  and the user&#39;s hand can extend out of the space. The user can check to ensure the user&#39;s body is in approximately the middle of the support element  220 . Optionally, the user can adjust the position of the user&#39;s right arm and shoulder within the space between the support element  220  and the riser element  222 , such that user&#39;s downside axilla rests within the centered concave portion  230  of the support element  220 . The user can then place the second arm  248  (i.e., the long arm) between the user&#39;s legs and place or tuck the first arm (the short arm) behind or under the user&#39;s back, hips and/or buttocks with the user&#39;s knees in a bent position, as shown in  FIG. 18 . The user can situate the user&#39;s head, neck and arms until the user is in a comfortable position, as shown in  FIG. 19 . In some embodiments, the user&#39;s hip can be anchored or supported on the bed or support surface on which the cushion system  200  is disposed to help limit or prevent the user from sliding down the support element  220 , and maintain the user in a desired position on the cushion system  200 . For example, in some embodiments, the support element  220  can have a length such that the user&#39;s hip is positioned at least partially on the bed or support surface when the user is positioned on the cushion system  200 . 
     With the user&#39;s arm within the space between the support element  220  and the riser element  222 , the cushion system  200  can maintain the user in an inclined RLD position. Thus, the tendency of the user to slide down the angled top surface portion  237  of the support element  220  can be reduced or eliminated. As described above, the user can also manipulate, conform, disperse, etc., the clustered polyester fiber filler material within the body element  224  and/or the riser element  222  to create cavities or bulges to accommodate specific body parts and/or portions related to its use for GERD or other medical conditions to accommodate the user&#39;s needs and/or preferences, for example, a user may accommodate a breathing apparatus or other similar device. 
       FIGS. 20-23  illustrate different alternative configurations for using the cushion system  200 .  FIG. 20  illustrates the body element  224  disposed with the second arm  228  folded over the arc portion  241 .  FIG. 21  illustrates the body element  224  with the second arm  248  folded toward the first arm  247  such that the second arm  248  does not extend substantially off the support element  220 .  FIGS. 22 and 23  illustrate use of the cushion system  200  with the riser element  222  and the support element  220  disposed in an alternative position. Specifically,  FIG. 22  illustrates the support element  220  disposed in an upright position with the second end portion  216  supported on a support surface (e.g., a bed or a floor) and the riser element  222  disposed in an upright position proximate to the support element  220 . As shown in  FIG. 23 , the body element  224  can be positioned against the riser element  222  and the support element  220  such that a user can use the cushion system  200  as a back rest in a seated or semi-seated position.  FIG. 24  illustrates use of the cushion system  200  without the riser element  222 . As shown in  FIG. 24 , the body element  224  can be placed on the support element  220 . 
       FIGS. 24(A)-24(J)  each illustrate a user using the cushion system  200  in various configurations and positions.  FIG. 24(A)  illustrates the user positioned in an inclined LLD position. In other words, the body element  224  is positioned on the support element  220  and the riser element  222  with the second arm  248  (i.e., the long arm) on a right side of the cushion system  200  (as viewed from a top view of the cushion system  200 ).  FIGS. 24(B) and 24(C)  illustrate the user in an inclined RLD position, as described above, for example, with reference to  FIGS. 16-19 .  FIGS. 24(D) and 24(E)  illustrate the body element  224  in a folded position similar to the configuration shown with reference to  FIG. 20 , and the user positioned in an inclined supine position on the cushion system  200 .  FIGS. 24(F) and 24(G)  illustrate the body element  224  folded position similar to the configuration shown with reference to  FIG. 21  and the user positioned in a prone position on the cushion system  200 .  FIG. 24(I)  illustrates the cushion system  200  in an upright reclined configuration similar to the configuration shown with reference to  FIGS. 22 and 23 , and  FIG. 24(H)  illustrates the cushion system  200  in a similar configuration as with  FIG. 24(I)  but with the body element  224  wrapped around to the front of the user. This position can be used, for example, to support the user&#39;s hand(s), a book, or in the case of a nursing mother, a nursing infant. 
       FIG. 24(J)  illustrates the cushion system  200  with a user in a right side inclined position similar to the position shown in  FIG. 24(C) , except in  FIG. 24(J)  the second arm  248  (the long arm) of the body element  224  running along the user&#39;s back and tucked or placed forward between the user&#39;s knees. This position can allow the user to change from a RLD position to a LLD position (and vice versa) without having to flip over the body element  224 . 
       FIG. 25  illustrates use of a cushion system  200 ′ that is similar to the cushion system  200 . The cushion system  200 ′ includes a support element  220 ′ that can be configured the same as or similar to the support element  220 . In this embodiment, the support element  220 ′ has a longer length than the support element  220  and can be used without a riser element. As shown in  FIG. 25 , the support element  220 ′ can be used with a body element  224  described above, or with another body element as described herein. 
       FIGS. 26-28  each illustrate different embodiments of a body element showing various stitching features. The body elements of  FIGS. 26-28  can each be configured the same as or similar to and function the same as or similar to the embodiments of a body element described above.  FIG. 26  illustrates a body element  324  that is similar to the body element  224  described above and includes a sleeve member  331  that has stitching  353  along an outer edge portion  349  of the body element  324  and a pair of stitching features  352  disposed at angles and extend from an inner edge portion  350  of the body element  324  to the outer edge portion  349 .  FIG. 27  illustrates a body element  424  that includes a sleeve member  431  that has stitching  453  along an outer edge portion  449  and a pair of stitching features  452  each disposed at an angle and extending from an inner edge portion  450  to the outer edge portion  449 . The body element  424  also includes a stitching feature  454  that extends from the inner edge portion  450  to the outer edge portion  449  and is disposed between the stitching features  452 .  FIG. 28  illustrates a body element  524  that includes a sleeve member  531  that has stitching  553  along an outer edge portion  549  of the body element  524  and four stitching features  552  that extend at an angle from an inner edge portion  550  of the body element  524  to the outer edge portion  549  of the body element  524 . 
     The stitching features  352 ,  452 ,  454 ,  552  described above can be disposed on the respective body elements  324 ,  424 ,  524  at a substantially equal distance from each other or at different distances from each other. Further, in alternative embodiments, more or less stitching features can be included on a body element of a cushion system described herein. 
       FIGS. 29 and 30 (A)- 30 (I) illustrate different embodiments of a body element that can be used alone or within a cushion system as described herein. Each of the body elements described with respect to  FIGS. 29 and 30 (A)- 30 (I) can be configured the same as or similar to and function the same as or similar to the embodiments of a body element described above.  FIG. 29  illustrates a body element  624 . The body element  624  includes a first arm  647  and a second arm  648  and a sleeve member  631  that has an inner edge portion  650  and an outer edge portion  649  in which a pillow insert (not shown) can be disposed. The sleeve member  631  includes stitching features  652  similar that extend at an angle from the inner edge portion  650  to the outer edge portion  649  and can include stitching (not shown along the outer edge portion  649  as described above for previous embodiments. In this embodiment, the second arm  648  includes an end portion  655  that is disposed at an angle relative to a remainder of the second arm  648 . The end portion  655  can be disposed, for example, at an angle of up to about 25 degrees. A stitching feature  656  can be disposed at the start of the bend portion  655 . The first arm  647  includes a rounded or curved end portion  657 , and the end of the end portion  655  can optionally be similarly rounded.  FIGS. 30(A)-30(I)  each illustrate different embodiments of a body element having different shapes and sizes. 
       FIGS. 31(A)-31(E)  each illustrate further different embodiments of a body element that can be used alone or within a cushion system as described herein and that include various different filler zoning options. Filler zoning can allow various filler materials and/or filler materials with different densities to be placed at targeted locations within the body element. Filler zones can be formed, for example, by way of internal fabric baffles, sewn-in segmentation, or by self-contained individual insert members. Each zone within a body element can be accessed and/or inserted within a body element during manufacturing, for example, via a semi-permanently stitched closure. Alternatively, each zone can be accessed by a user (e.g., during in-home use) via a closure member, including, for example, zipper(s), snap(s), button(s), hook and loop fasteners, etc. Each embodiment of a body element described with reference to  FIGS. 31(A)-31(E)  can include the same or similar features, and can function the same or similar to, other embodiments of a body element described herein, and therefore certain details are not described with reference to  FIGS. 31(A)-31(E) . 
       FIG. 31(A)  illustrates a body element  2124  that includes a first filler zone A and a second filler zone B.  FIG. 31(B)  illustrates a body element  2224  that includes a first filler zone A and a second filler zone B.  FIG. 31(C)  illustrates a body element  2324  that includes a first filler zone A, a second filler zone B, and a third filler zone C.  FIG. 31(D)  illustrates a body element  2424  that includes a first filler zone A, a second filler zone B, and a third filler zone C.  FIG. 31(E)  illustrates a body element  2524  that includes a first filler zone A, a second filler zone B, a third filler zone C, a fourth filler zone D and a fifth filler zone E. 
     The fillers zones shown and described with respect to  FIGS. 31(A)-31(E)  are example embodiments of body elements having various quantity and types of filler zones. It should be understood that alternative embodiments can include a different quantity, size and/or shape of filler zone. Further, although not shown with respect to other embodiments of a body element described herein, it should be understood that other embodiments of a body element can include filler zones. 
       FIGS. 32(A), 32(B)  and  33 - 35  illustrate another embodiment of a therapeutic cushion system. A therapeutic cushion system  700  (also referred to herein as a “cushion system”) includes a support element  720 , a riser element  722  and a body element  724 . The support element  720 , riser element  722  and body element  724  can each be constructed the same as or similar to, and can function the same as or similar to, the support elements, riser elements, and body elements described above for previous embodiments. Therefore, some details are not described below with respect to support element  720 , riser element  722  and/or the body element  724 . 
     The support element  720  can be formed the same as or similar to the support elements described above. For example, the support element  720  can include a first end portion  715  and a second end portion  716  and a top surface  737  that is angled relative to a bottom surface  739 , as shown, for example, in  FIG. 33 . 
     In this embodiment, the body element  724  and the riser element  722  are formed as a single component and the body element  724  can be moved between a first unfolded configuration, as shown in  FIG. 32(B) , and a second folded configuration, as shown in  FIG. 32(A) . A fabric hinge portion  763  is formed between a portion of the body element  724  and a portion of the riser element  722  that allows a user to fold a portion of the body element  724  for use. Specifically, the body element  724  includes a first arm  747  connected to the riser element  722  by the fabric hinge portion  763 , and a second arm  748 . When in the second folded configuration, the first arm  747  is substantially disposed on the riser element  722  as shown in  FIGS. 32(A), 32(B)  and  33 - 35 . 
     A user can use the cushion system  700  in the same or similar manner as described above for previous embodiment. For example, as shown in  FIG. 34  the user can place the cushion system  700  on bed, and position the combination riser element  722  and body element  724  proximate to the second end portion  716  of the support element  720 . For example, the riser element  722  can be positioned at a desired distance from the support element  720  such that a receiving portion (e.g., a gap, opening, pocket, etc.)  758  is defined between the riser element  722  and the support element  720 . The body element  724  can be folded over the riser element  722  as described above and as shown for example, in  FIGS. 34 and 35 . As shown in  FIG. 35 , the user can be positioned on the cushion system  700  in an inclined side position with the user&#39;s arm disposed within the receiving portion  758 . 
       FIGS. 36-41  illustrate an embodiment of a therapeutic cushion system that includes a bed length support element. A therapeutic cushion system  800  (also referred to herein as a “cushion system”) includes a support element  820 , a riser element  822  and a side support member  864 . The support element  820  and the riser element  822  can each be constructed the same as or similar to, and can function the same as or similar to, the support elements and riser elements, respectively, described above for previous embodiments. Therefore, some details with respect to the support element  820  and riser element  822  are not described below. The cushion system  800  can also include an optional pillow  859  or the pillow  859  can be a pillow provided by a user. 
     In this embodiment, the support element  820  and the riser element  822  are formed as a single component and define a receiving portion  858  between the support element  820  and the riser element  822 . The receiving portion  858  can be used as a shoulder relief area for the user to place a portion of a user&#39;s arm when using the cushion system  800 . In this embodiment, the support element  820  and the riser element  822  can collectively have a wedge shape. Specifically, the support element  820  includes a top surface  837  that is angled relative to a bottom surface  839  between a first end portion  815  and a second end portion  816 . The riser element  822  includes a top surface  817  that is angled relative to a bottom surface  818  that is continuous with the bottom surface  839  of the support element  820 . 
     The support element  820  and the riser element  822  can be placed on a support surface S (as shown in  FIGS. 37, 38 and 41 ), such as, for example, a bed, box spring, bed foundation or floor, for use by a user. The support element  820  and the riser element  822  collectively have a length that is substantially the same as a length of the support surface (e.g., bed) on which it is to be used as shown in  FIGS. 37, 38 and 41 . In alternative embodiments, the cushion system  800  can have a torso size as described above, for example, for cushion systems  200  and  700 . 
     The support element  820  can include a cushion member (not shown) and a concave portion  830  as described above for previous embodiments. The cushion member can be formed with, for example, one or more foam materials as described above for previous embodiments. The riser element  822  can include a pillow insert (not shown) and a riser foam portion (not shown). The riser foam portion can be integral with the cushion member of the support element  820  or can alternatively be a separate foam portion or portions constructed the same as or similar to the cushion member. An outer casing  861  can encase both cushion member of the support element and the pillow insert and foam portion of the riser element. The outer casing  861  can be formed with one or more materials as described above, for example, for outer casing  121  and outer casing  127 . 
     The pillow insert can be disposed, for example, within a pocket formed in the riser foam portion or can be disposed on top of the riser foam portion. The pillow insert can include an inner casing (not shown) and filler material (not shown) as described above for previous embodiments such that the riser element  822  can include a compliant region to allow a user to form cavities or bulges to accommodate specific body parts and/or portions to accommodate the user&#39;s needs and/or preferences. 
     The side support member  864  can be placed on the support element  820  during use and used to help maintain a user in a lateral position. In alternative embodiments, the side support member  864  can be fixedly attached to the support element  820  or integrally formed with the support element  820 . In this embodiment, the side support member  864  has a wedge shape with a substantially triangular cross-section as shown in  FIG. 40 . In alternative embodiments, the side support member  864  can have different shapes, sizes, and cross-sections, such as, for example, the cross-sectional views of alternative embodiments of a side support member  864 - 1 ,  864 - 2 ,  864 - 3  and  864 - 4  illustrated in  FIGS. 42(A) -(D). The side support member  864  can include an outer casing  865  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 39 ) and an insert member  866  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 40 ). The outer casing  865  can be constructed, for example, the same as or similar to the outer casings  125  and  127  or the sleeve member  131  described above. The insert member  866  of the side support member  864  can be formed with, for example, one or more foam materials, or can include a filler material such as the filler material described above, for example, for pillow insert  125 . 
     The user can be positioned on the cushion system  800  as described above for previous embodiments, in an inclined RLD or LLD position, depending on the particular needs of the user, with the user&#39;s right or left arm disposed within the receiving portion  858 . As described above, the side support member  864  can be placed on the support element  820  and used to help maintain the user in the RLD or LLD position. For example, as shown in  FIG. 39 , the side support  864  can be disposed on the support element  820  on either a right or left side of the support element  820 . 
       FIG. 41  illustrates the cushion system  800  with an optional body element  824  instead of the side support member  864  and pillow  859 . The body element  824  can be formed the same as or similar to and function the same as or similar to the body elements described above for previous embodiment. When using the body element  824 , the user may not use the pillow  859 . 
       FIGS. 43-47  illustrate an embodiment of a therapeutic cushion system that is similar to the cushion system  800 . A therapeutic cushion system  900  (also referred to herein as a “cushion system”) includes a support element  920 , a riser element  922  and a side support member  964 . The support element  920 , riser element  922  can each be constructed the same as or similar to, and can function the same as or similar to, the support elements and riser elements described above for previous embodiments. The cushion system  900  can also include an optional pillow  959  or the pillow  959  can be a pillow provided by a user. 
     In this embodiment, the support element  920  and the riser element  922  are integrally formed as a single component and collectively have a wedge shape. In this embodiment, the support element  920  and the riser element  922  collectively have a top surface  937  that is angled relative to a bottom surface  939  between a first end portion  915  and a second end portion  916 , as shown, for example, in  FIG. 43 . The support element  920  and the riser element  933  can be formed the same as or similar to, and include the same or similar features as described above for the support element  820  and the riser element  822 , except in this embodiment, the support element  920  and the riser element  922  do not define a space or receiving portion in which a user&#39;s arm can be disposed. The support element  920  and the riser element  922  can be placed on a support surface S (as shown in  FIGS. 44, 45 and 47 ), such as, for example, a bed, for use by a user. The support element  920  and the riser element  922  collectively have a length that is substantially the same as a length of the support surface (e.g., bed) on which it is to be used as shown in  FIGS. 44, 45 and 47 . In alternative embodiments, the cushion system  900  can have a torso size as described above, for example, for cushion systems  200  and  700 . 
     The side support member  964  can also be constructed the same as or similar to and include the same features as described above for side support member  864 . The side support member  964  can be placed on the support element  920  during use and used to help maintain a user in a side position. In alternative embodiments, the side support member  964  can be fixedly attached to the support element  920  or integrally formed with the support element  920 . 
     The user can be positioned on the cushion system  900  as described above for previous embodiments, in an inclined RLD or LLD position, depending on the particular needs of the user. As described above, the side support member  964  can be placed on the support element  920  and used to help maintain the user in the inclined RLD or LLD position. For example, as shown in  FIG. 46 , the side support  964  can be disposed on the support element  920  on either a right or left side of the support element  920 .  FIG. 47  illustrates the cushion system  900  with an optional body element  924  instead of the side support member  964  and optional pillow  959 . The body element  924  can be formed the same as or similar to and function the same as or similar to the body elements described above for previous embodiment. 
       FIGS. 48-52  illustrate a sling-type therapeutic cushion system, according to an embodiment. A therapeutic cushion system  1000  (also referred to herein as a “cushion system”) includes a support element  1020 , a riser element  1022  and an optional body element  1024  (shown in  FIG. 51 ). In this embodiment, the support element  1020  and the riser element  1022  are integrally formed and include a sling member  1067  coupled to a frame member  1068 . The support element  1020  has a wedge shape as shown, for example, in the side view of  FIG. 48 . 
     The sling member  1067  can be formed with, for example, a fabric material such as, for example, any suitable stretch or non-stretch fabric material, such as for example, canvas or nylon. The frame member  1068  can be formed with, for example, one or more metal, wood or plastic materials. The sling member  1067  can be coupled to the frame member  1068  with a variety of different coupling methods. For example, the sling member  1067  can be coupled to the frame member  1068  with ties, straps, rivets, buttons, snaps, hook and loop fasteners, or any other suitable coupling method, such that the sling member  1067  is sufficiently taut to support a user. The sling member  1067  defines a receiving portion  1058  (e.g., opening, space, gap, etc.) through which a user can place the user&#39;s right or left arm during use of the cushion system  1000 . The cushion system also includes a lower pad member  1069  such that when the user&#39;s arm is extended through the opening  1058 , the arm can rest on the pad member  1069 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 51 , the cushion system  1000  can also include a body element  1024 . The body element  1024  can be formed the same as or similar to, and can be used in the same or similar manner as, other body elements described herein, such as, for example, the body element  624  shown in  FIG. 29 . For example, the body element  1024  can be help maintain the user in a side position and help the user from sliding down the angled portion of the support element  1022  when using the cushion system  1000 . During use the cushion system  1000  can be placed on a support surface S, such as a bed, as shown in  FIG. 53 . 
       FIG. 53  illustrates the cushion system  1000  having a bed size length and  FIG. 54  illustrates an alternative embodiment of the cushion system  1000  having a torso size length. The cushion system  1000 ′ can be formed the same as or similar to the cushion system  1000  and can function the same as or similar to the cushion system  1000  and can be supported on a support surface S as shown in  FIG. 54 . For example, the cushion system  1000 ′ includes a support element  1020 ′ and a riser element  1022 ′ that are integrally formed and define an opening (not shown) that can be used as a shoulder relief area to place the user&#39;s arm. The support element  1020 ′ and riser element  1022 ′ include a sling member  1067 ′ coupled to a frame member  1068 ′ and a pad member  1069 ′ disposed below the opening. 
       FIG. 55  illustrates an embodiment of a cushion system that includes inflatable air chambers. A therapeutic cushion system  1100  (also referred to herein as a “cushion system”) includes a support element  1120  and a riser element  1122 . Although not shown, the cushion system  1100  can also include a body element as described above for previous embodiments. In this embodiment, the support element  1120  includes a cushion member  1123  and an inflatable chamber  1170  each encased within an outer casing  1121 . Similarly, the riser element  1122  includes a cushion member  1171  and an inflatable chamber  1172  each encased within an outer casing  1127 . The cushion member  1123  and the cushion member  1171  can be formed with, for example, one or more foam materials as described above, for example, for cushion member  123 . The outer casing  1121  and the outer casing  1127  can each be formed with, for example, one or more materials, as described above, for example, with respect to outer casing  121  and outer casing  127 . 
     As described above for previous embodiments, the support element  1120  can include a first end portion  1115  and a second end portion  1116  and a top surface  1137  that is angled relative to a bottom surface  1139  between the first end portion  1115  and the second end portion  1116 . The support element  1120  can also include a concave portion (not shown) and beveled or angled corners (not shown) disposed on the second end portion  1116  of the support element  1120 , as described above for previous embodiments. In some embodiments, the riser element  1122  can also include a pillow insert portion (not shown) that can be disposed, for example, within a pocket formed in the cushion member  1171  of the riser element  1122  or can be disposed on top of the cushion member  1171 . The pillow insert portion can include an inner casing (not shown) and filler material (not shown) as described above for previous embodiments such that the riser element  1122  can include a compliant region to allow a user to form cavities or bulges to accommodate specific body parts and/or portions to accommodate the user&#39;s needs and/or preferences. 
     The inflatable air chamber  1170  can be coupled to an air pump device  1173  and the inflatable chamber  1172  can be coupled to an air pump device  1174 . The air pump device  1173  and/or the air pump device  1174  can be, for example, a manual pump in which the user can manually pump air into and out of the inflatable air chambers  1170  and  1172 , and adjust the air pressure within the inflatable air chambers  1170  and  1172 . In alternative embodiments, the air pump device  1173  and/or the air pump device  1174  can be an automated pump and include controls (not shown) for the user to adjust the air pressure within the inflatable air chambers  1170  and  1172 . In alternative embodiments, a single air pump device (e.g., manual or automated) can be used to pump air into and out of both the inflatable air chambers  1170  and  1172 . 
     The cushion system  1100  can be used the same as or similar to the cushion systems described above for previous embodiments. In this embodiment, the user can place the support element  1120  and the riser element  1122  on a support surface S (e.g., a bed) such that the second end portion  1116  (e.g., the highest end) of the support element  1120  is disposed at a desired distance from the riser element  1122 . Thus, a receiving portion  1158  between the support element  1122  and the riser element  1120  can be defined such that the user can place an arm within the receiving portion  1158  during use of the cushion system  1100 . The user can also adjust the air pressure within the air chambers  1170  and  1172  such that the support element  1120  and the riser element  1122  each have a desired firmness. As described above for previous embodiments, the support element  1120  and the riser element  1122  can collectively have a bed size length that is substantially the same as a length of the support surface (e.g., bed) on which it is to be used, or can alternatively have a torso size length as described above, for example, for cushion systems  200  and  700 . 
       FIG. 56  illustrates another embodiment of a cushion system that includes an air chamber. A therapeutic cushion system  1200  (also referred to herein as a “cushion system”) includes a support element  1220  and a riser element  1222  and can also include a body element (not shown) as described above for previous embodiments. In this embodiment, the support element  1220  and the riser element  1222  are integrally formed and include a cushion member  1223 , a cushion member  1271  and an inflatable chamber  1170  each encased within an outer casing  1261 . The cushion member  1223  and the cushion member  1271  can be integrally formed as a single component or be separate components. The cushion member  1223  and the cushion member  1271  can each be formed with, for example, one or more foam materials as described above, for example, for cushion member  123 . The outer casing  1621  can be formed with, for example one or more materials, as described above, for example, for outer casing  121  and outer casing  127 . The support element  1220  and the riser element  1222  define a receiving portion (e.g., an opening, space, gap, pocket, etc.)  1258  in which a user can place an arm during use of the cushion system  1200 . 
     As described above for previous embodiments, the support element  1220  can include a first end portion  1215  and a second end portion  1216  and a top surface  1237  that is angled relative to a bottom surface  1239  between the first end portion  1215  and the second end portion  1216 . The support element  1220  can also include a concave portion (not shown) and beveled or angled corners (not shown) disposed on the second end portion  1216 , as described above for previous embodiments. In some embodiments, the riser element  1222  can also include a pillow insert portion (not shown) that can be disposed, for example, within a pocket formed in the cushion member  1271  of the riser element  1222  or can be disposed on top of the cushion member  1271 . The pillow insert portion can include an inner casing (not shown) and filler material (not shown) as described above for previous embodiments such that the riser element  1222  can include a compliant region to allow a user to form cavities or bulges to accommodate specific body parts and/or portions to accommodate the user&#39;s needs and/or preferences. 
     The inflatable air chamber  1270  can be coupled to an air pump device  1273 . The air pump device  1273  can be, for example, a manual pump in which the user can manually pump air in and out of the inflatable air chamber  1273  and adjust the air pressure within the inflatable air chambers  1270 . In alternative embodiments, the air pump device  1273  can be an automated pump and include controls (not shown) for the user to adjust the air pressure within the inflatable air chamber  1270 . In alternative embodiments, the riser element  1222  and the support element  1220  can each include an inflatable air chamber and two separate air pump devices (e.g., manual or automated) can be used to pump air into and out of both the inflatable air chambers, in a similar manner as described above for cushion system  1100 . 
     The cushion system  1200  can be used the same as or similar to the cushion systems described above for previous embodiments. In this embodiment, the user can place the cushion system  1200  on a support surface S (e.g., a bed) and can adjust the air pressure within the air chamber  1270  such that the support element  1220  and the riser element  1222  each have a desired firmness. As described above for previous embodiments, the support element  1220  and the riser element  1222  can collectively have a bed size length that is substantially the same as a length of the support surface (e.g., bed) on which it is to be used, or can alternatively have a torso size length as described above, for example, for cushion systems  200  and  700 . 
       FIGS. 57 and 58  illustrate an embodiment of a cushion system that includes stackable portions to allow a user to assemble the cushion system to have a desired thickness and/or firmness. A therapeutic cushion system  1300  (also referred to herein as a “cushion system”) includes a support element  1320  and a riser element  1322 . Although not shown, the cushion system  1300  can also include a body element as described above for previous embodiments. In this embodiment, the support element  1320  includes multiple stackable support elements  1375 ,  1376  and  1377  and the riser element  1322  includes multiple stackable riser elements  1378 ,  1379  and  1380  (collectively also referred to herein as stackable elements). Although the support element  1320  is shown with three stackable support elements and the riser element  1322  is shown with three stackable riser elements, it should be understood that more or less stackable support elements and stackable riser elements can alternatively be included. In addition, the support element  1320  can include a different number of stackable support elements than the stackable riser elements of the riser element  1322 . 
     The stackable elements  1375 - 1380  can each include a cushion member encased within an outer casing as described above for previous embodiments of a support element (e.g., support element  123 ). The cushion members can be formed with, for example, one or more foam materials, as described above, for example, for cushion member  123 . Each stackable element  1375 - 1380  can have a cushion member formed with a foam material having the same or different density. The stackable support elements  1375 - 1377  can be selectively stacked to form the support element  1320  such that the support element  1320  has a desired height or thickness and/or a desired firmness. Similarly, the stackable riser members  1378 - 1380  can be selectively stacked to form the riser element  1322  such that the riser element  1322  has a desired height or thickness and/or a desired firmness. 
     Each of the stackable support elements  1375 - 1377  of the support element  1320  can include an angled top surface such that the support element  1320  has a wedge shape with a top surface  1337  that is angled relative to a bottom surface  1339  from a first end portion  1315  to a second end portion  1316 , as shown in  FIG. 57 . In alternative embodiments, each of the stackable elements  1375 - 1377  can have a top surface that is substantially horizontal or flat, or can have a top surface that is tiered or stepped. Each of the stackable support elements  1375 - 1377  of the support element  1320  can also include a concave portion (not shown) at, for example, a substantially center location on the highest or second end portion  1316  of the support element  1320 , and beveled or angled corners (not shown) as described above for previous embodiments. 
     Each of the stackable elements  1378 - 1380  include a top surface that is at least partially substantially horizontal or flat. In alternative embodiments, each of the stackable elements  1378 - 1380  can have a top surface that is angled or can be tiered or stepped. In some embodiments, the riser element  1322  can also include a pillow insert portion (not shown) that can be disposed, for example, within a pocket formed in at least one of the stackable riser elements, such as, the stackable riser element  1378  intended to be used as a top of the riser element  1322 . The pillow insert portion can include an inner casing (not shown) and filler material (not shown) as described above for previous embodiments such that the stackable riser element  1378  of the riser element  1322  can include a compliant region to allow a user to form cavities or bulges to accommodate specific body parts and/or portions to accommodate the user&#39;s needs and/or preferences. In some embodiments, the stackable riser element  1378  may not include a pillow insert, but instead include filler material disposed on a top portion of the cushion member of the stackable riser element  1378 . 
     The cushion system  1300  can be used the same as or similar to the cushion systems described above for previous embodiments. In this embodiment, the user can place the support element  1320  and the riser element  1322  on a support surface S (e.g., a bed) such that the second end portion  1316  (e.g., the highest end) of the support element  1320  is disposed at a desired distance from the riser element  1322 . Thus, a receiving portion  1358  between the support element  1322  and the riser element  1320  can be defined such that the user can place an arm within the receiving portion  1358  during use of the cushion system  1300 . For example, the user can stack one or more of the stackable support elements  1375 - 1377  of the support element  1320  such that the support element  1320  is at a desired height (or has a desired thickness), and has a desired firmness. The user can also stack one or more of the stackable riser elements  1378 - 1380  of the riser element  1322  such that the riser element  1322  is at a desired height (or has a desired thickness), and has a desired firmness. The user can stack the stackable elements  1375 - 1380  on the support surface S, or can stack the stackable elements  1375 - 1380  first then place the assembled support element  1320  and assembled riser element  1322  on the support surface S. As described above for previous embodiments, the support element  1320  and the riser element  1322  can collectively have a bed size length that is substantially the same as a length of the support surface (e.g., bed) on which it is to be used, or can alternatively have a torso size length as described above, for example, for cushion systems  200  and  700 . 
       FIGS. 59 and 60  illustrate another embodiment of a cushion system that includes stackable portions to allow a user to assemble the cushion system to have a desired thickness and/or firmness. A therapeutic cushion system  1400  (also referred to herein as a “cushion system”) includes a support element  1420  and a riser element  1422  and can also include a body element (not shown) as described above for previous embodiments. In this embodiment, the support element  1420  and the riser element  1422  are formed as a single cushion element and include multiple stackable cushion elements  1475 ,  1476  and  1477  that can be stacked on top of each other to form the support element  1420  and riser element  1422 . At least one of the stackable cushion elements  1475 - 1477  can define a receiving portion  1458  between the riser element  1422  and the support element  1420  in which a user can place an arm during use of the cushion system  1400 . For example, as shown in FIGS.  59 - 60 , the stackable cushion element  1475  defines the receiving portion  1458 . Although the combined support element  1420  and the riser element  1422  is shown with three stackable cushion elements, it should be understood that more or less stackable cushion elements can alternatively be included. 
     The stackable cushion elements  1475 - 1477  can each be formed, for example, similar to the stackable support elements and stackable riser elements described above for cushion system  1300 . For example, the stackable cushion elements  1475 - 1480  can each include a cushion member formed with one or more foam materials, as described above, for example, for cushion member  123 . Each of the cushion members  1475 - 1477  can be formed with a foam material having the same or different density. 
     Each cushion member  1475 - 1477  can also include an outer casing formed with, for example one or more materials, as described above, for example, for outer casing  121  and outer casing  127 . Each of the cushion members  1475 - 1477  can include a top surface angled relative to a bottom surface such that the support element  1420  has a wedge shape with a top surface  1437  that is angled relative to a bottom surface  1439  from a first end portion  1415  to a second end portion  1416 , as shown in  FIG. 59 . In alternative embodiments, each of the stackable elements  1475 - 1477  can have a top surface that is substantially horizontal or flat, or can have a top surface that is tiered or stepped. Each of the stackable cushion elements  1475 - 1477  can also include a concave portion (not shown) at, for example, a substantially center location on the highest portion of the stackable cushion element and beveled or angled corners (not shown), as described above for previous embodiments. 
     Each of the stackable elements  1478 - 1380  includes a top surface that is at least partially substantially horizontal or flat. In alternative embodiments, each of the stackable elements  1478 - 1480  can have a top surface that is angled or can be tiered or stepped. As described above for riser element  1322 , the riser element  1422  can also include a pillow insert portion (not shown) that can be disposed, for example, within a pocket formed in the stackable cushion element  1475 . The pillow insert portion can include an inner casing (not shown) and filler material (not shown) as described above for previous embodiments such that the riser element  1422  can include a compliant region to allow a user to form cavities or bulges to accommodate specific body parts and/or portions to accommodate the user&#39;s needs and/or preferences. In some embodiments, the stackable cushion element  1475  may not include a pillow insert, but instead include filler material disposed on a top portion of the cushion element  1475 . 
     The cushion system  1400  can be used the same as or similar to the cushion system  1300  described above. In this embodiment, the user can place the cushion system  1400  (i.e., collectively the support element  1420  and the riser element  1422 ) on a support surface S (e.g., a bed). For example, the user can stack one or more of the stackable cushion elements  1475 - 1477  such that the support element  1420  and the riser element  1422  are at a desired height (or have a desired thickness), and have a desired firmness. As described above for previous embodiments, the support element  1420  and the riser element  1422  collectively can have a bed size length that is substantially the same as a length of the support surface (e.g., bed) on which it is to be used, or can alternatively have a torso size length as described above, for example, for cushion systems  200  and  700 . 
       FIGS. 61-64  illustrate an embodiment of a cushion system that includes a support element with side bolster portions that can be used to help maintain a user in a lateral position on the cushion system. A therapeutic cushion system  1500  (also referred to herein as a “cushion system”) includes a support element  1520  that can be used with a riser element  1522  (see  FIG. 62 ), such as, for example, the riser element  1122  or  1322 . The cushion system  1500  also includes a first side bolster portion  1582  and a second side bolster portion  1583  disposed on an opposite side of the support element  1520 . The side bolster portions  1582  and  1583  can be used to help maintain a user in a lateral position during use of the cushion system  1500 . In this embodiment, the side bolster portions  1582  and  1583  each include a first top surface portion  1585  and a second top surface portion  1586  disposed at a different angle than the first top surface portion  1586  relative to a bottom surface  1539  of the support element  1520 . The side bolster portions  1582  and  1583  also each include an angled or beveled portion  1581  as shown for example in  FIGS. 61 and 62 . 
     The support element  1520  also includes an angled top surface  1537 , a concave portion  1530  and beveled or angled portions  1533  at a second end of the support element  1520 . As with previous embodiments, the support element  1520  can include a cushion member (not shown) that can be formed with, for example, one or more foam materials, and an outer casing  1521  that can encase the cushion member and the side bolster portions  1582  and  1583 . In some embodiments, the side bolster portions  1582  and  1583  can be formed with a foam material that has a different density than the foam material forming the support element  1520 . In alternative embodiments, the side bolster portions  1582  and  1583  can each be formed as separate components (i.e., separate from the support element  1520  similar to the side support members  864  and  964  described above). 
     The cushion system  1500  can be used the same as or similar to the cushion systems described above for previous embodiments. For example, in this embodiment, the user can place the support element  1520  on a support surface such that the second end (e.g., the highest end) of the support element  1520  is disposed at a desired distance from the riser element  1522  (shown in  FIG. 62 ). Thus, a receiving portion  1558  between the support element  1520  and the riser element  1522  can be defined such that the user can place an arm within the receiving portion  1558  during use of the cushion system  1500 . For example, the user can position the user&#39;s body in a lateral position (i.e., either a right-side lateral position or a left-side lateral position) and place the user&#39;s arm within the open space  1558 . An optional body element (not shown) can also be used in the same or similar manner as described above for previous embodiments. As described above for previous embodiments, the support element  1520  can be sized such that the support element  1520  and the riser element  1522  collectively have a bed size length, or can alternatively have a torso size length. 
       FIGS. 65 and 66  each illustrate an embodiment of a cushion system that includes side bolster portions.  FIG. 65  illustrates a therapeutic cushion system  1600  (also referred to herein as a “cushion system”) that includes a support element  1620  and a riser element  1622  formed as a single component. The support element  1620  and the riser element  1622  collectively define a receiving portion  1658  in which a user can place an arm during use of the cushion system  1600 . As with the previous embodiment, the cushion system  1600  also includes a first side bolster portion  1682  and a second side bolster portion (not shown in  FIG. 65 ) on an opposite side of the support element  1620  that can each be used to help maintain a user in a lateral position during use of the cushion system  1600 . As with the previous embodiment, the first side bolster portion  1682  and the second side bolster portion (not shown) each include a first top surface portion  1685  and a second top surface portion  1686  disposed at a different angle than the first top surface portion  1685  relative to a bottom surface  1639  of the support element  1620 . The first side bolster portion  1682  (and the second side bolster portion) also each include an angled or beveled portion  1681 . 
     The support element  1620  includes an angled top surface  1637 , and can include a concave portion (not shown) at a second end of the support element  1620 , as described above for previous embodiments. As with previous embodiments, the support element  1620  can include a cushion member (not shown) that can be formed with, for example, one or more foam materials, and an outer casing  1661  can encase the cushion member, the first side bolster portion  1682  and the second side bolster portion (not shown). The outer casing  1661  can also encase a cushion member (not shown) and pillow insert portion (not shown) of the riser element  1622 . 
       FIG. 66  illustrates a therapeutic cushion system  1700  (also referred to herein as a “cushion system”) that includes a support element  1720  and a riser element  1722  formed as single component. The support element  1720  and the riser element  1722  collectively define a receiving portion  1758  in which a user can place an arm during use of the cushion system  1700 . As with the previous embodiment, the cushion system  1700  also includes a first side bolster portion  1782  and a second side bolster portion (not shown in  FIG. 66 ) on an opposite side of the support element  1720  that can each be used to help maintain a user in a side position during use of the cushion system  1700 . As with the previous embodiment, the first side bolster portion  1782  and the second side bolster portion (not shown) each include a first top surface portion  1785  and a second top surface portion  1786  disposed at a different angle than the first top surface portion  1785  relative to a bottom surface  1739  of the support element  1720 . The first side bolster portion  1782  (and the second side bolster portion) also each include an angled or beveled portion  1781 . 
     The support element  1720  includes an angled top surface  1737 , and can include a concave portion (not shown) at a second end of the support element  1720  as described above for previous embodiments. As with previous embodiments, the support element  1720  can include a cushion member (not shown) that can be formed with, for example, one or more foam materials, and an outer casing  1761  can encase the cushion member, the first side bolster portion  1782  and the second side bolster portion (not shown). The outer casing  1761  can also encase a cushion member (not shown) and pillow insert portion (not shown) of the riser element  1722 . 
     The cushion systems  1600  and  1700  can each be used in the same or similar manner as described above for previous embodiments of a cushion system. For example, the user can place the cushion system  1600  or  1700  (i.e., the support element  1620 ,  1720  and the riser element  1622 ,  1722 ) on a support surface and the user can position the user&#39;s body in a side position (i.e., either a right-side lateral position or a left-side lateral position) and place the user&#39;s arm within the receiving portion  1658  or  1758 . As described above for previous embodiments, the cushion system  1600  (i.e., the support element  1620  and the riser element  1622  collectively) and the cushion system  1700  (i.e., the support element  1720  and the riser element  1722  collectively) can have a bed size length, or can alternatively have a torso size length. An optional body element (not shown) can also be used in the same or similar manner as described above for previous embodiments. 
       FIGS. 67-70  illustrate another embodiment of a cushion system with a side bolster portion. In this embodiment, a therapeutic cushion system  1800  (also referred to herein as a “cushion system”) includes a support element  1820  and a riser element  1822  formed as a single component. The support element  1820  and the riser element  1822  collectively define a receiving portion  1858  in which a user can place an arm during use of the cushion system  1800 . The cushion system  1800  also includes a side bolster portion  1882  disposed on one side of the support element  1820 . The side bolster portion  1882  can be used to help maintain a user in a right-side position during use of the cushion system  1800 . In this embodiment, the side bolster  1882  includes a first top surface portion  1885  and a second top surface portion  1886  disposed at a different angle than the first top surface portion  1885  relative to a bottom surface  1839  of the support element  1820 . 
     The support element  1820  includes an angled top surface  1837  and a concave portion  1830  at a second end of the support element  1820  as described above for previous embodiments. As with previous embodiments, the support element  1820  can include a cushion member (not shown) that can be formed with, for example, one or more foam materials, and an outer casing  1861  (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 67 and 70 ) can encase the cushion member and the side bolster portion  1882 . The outer casing  1861  can also encase a cushion member (not shown) and pillow insert portion (not shown) of the riser element  1822 . In this embodiment, the side bolster  1882  includes a first top surface portion and a second top surface portion angled at a different angle than the first top surface portion relative to a bottom surface  1839  of the support element  1820 . 
     The cushion system  1800  can be used in the same or similar manner as described above for previous embodiments of a cushion system. For example, the user can place the cushion system  1800  (i.e., the support element  1820  and the riser element  1822 ) on a support surface. In this embodiment, the user can position the user&#39;s body in a right-side position and place the user&#39;s right arm within the open space  1858 . An optional body element (not shown) can also be used in the same or similar manner as described above for previous embodiments. 
     The cushion system  1800  (i.e., the support element  1820  and the riser element  1822  collectively) has a bed size length.  FIGS. 71-74  illustrate a cushion system  1900  (also referred to herein as a “cushion system”) that can be configured the same as or similar to the cushion system  1800  but has a torso size length. The cushion system  1900  includes a support element  1920 , a riser element  1922 , and a side bolster  1982 . The support element  1920  and the riser element  1922  are formed as a single component and collectively define a receiving portion  1958  in which a user can place an arm during use of the cushion system  1900 . The side bolster portion  1982  is disposed on one side of the support element  1920  and can be used to help maintain a user in a right-side position during use of the cushion system  1900 . In this embodiment, the side bolster  1982  includes an angled top surface  1985  that is angled relative to a bottom surface  1939  of the support element  1920 . As shown for example, in  FIGS. 71 and 72 , the side bolster  1982  extends beyond a tail or foot end of the support element  1920 . 
     The support element  1920  includes an angled top surface  1937  and a concave portion  1930  at a second end of the support element  1920  as described above for previous embodiments. As with previous embodiments, the support element  1920  can include a cushion member (not shown) that can be formed with, for example, one or more foam materials, and an outer casing  1961  (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 71 and 74 ) can encase the cushion member and the side bolster portion  1982 . The outer casing  1961  can also encase a cushion member (not shown) and pillow insert portion (not shown) of the riser element  1922 . 
     The cushion system  1900  can be used in the same or similar manner as described above for previous embodiments of a cushion system. For example, the user can place the cushion system  1900  (i.e., the support element  1920  and the riser element  1922 ) on a support surface. In this embodiment, the user can position the user&#39;s body in a right-side position on the cushion system  1900  and place the user&#39;s right arm within the open space  1958 . An optional body element (not shown) can also be used in the same or similar manner as described above for previous embodiments. 
     Although cushion system  1800  and cushion system  1900  are described above as having a side bolster portion on one side of the cushion system  1800 ,  1900  such that the user can be positioned on the cushion system  1800 ,  1900  in a right-side position with the user&#39;s right arm within the open space  1858 ,  1958 , in alternative embodiments, the cushion systems  1800  and  1900  can be configured such that the user can be positioned in a left-side position on the cushion system  1800 ,  1900 . For example, the cushion system  1800  and the cushion system  1900  can each alternatively include a side bolster portion on the left side of the cushion system and an open space disposed such that a user can be positioned on the cushion system in a left-side position with the user&#39;s left arm within the open space. An example of such an embodiment is illustrated in  FIG. 75 . As shown in  FIG. 75 , a therapeutic cushion system  2000  (also referred to herein as a “cushion system”) can include a support element  2020  and a riser element  2020  that collectively define a receiving portion  2058  and a side bolster portion  2082 . The cushion system  2000  can include features the same as or similar to, and function the same as or similar to, the cushion systems  1800  and  1900 . 
       FIGS. 76, 77 and 78 (A)- 78 (E) each illustrate a different embodiment of a support element that includes a non-slip feature and that can be included in a cushion system as described herein. The non-slip surface feature(s) can be disposed on a top surface of support element and/or on a bottom surface of a side support member (e.g.,  864 ,  964 ) or a bolster member (e.g.,  1582 ,  1583 ). For example, a non-slip surface feature can be disposed on a bottom surface of a side support member (or separate bolster member) and/or on a top surface of the support element on which the side support element is to be disposed. Thus, a non-slip surface feature(s) can also be used, for example, to maintain a side support member (e.g.,  864 ,  964 ) or a separate bolster member (e.g.,  1582 ,  1583 ) in a desired position on a support element. A non-slip surface feature(s) can also be used, for example, to maintain a body element in a desired position on a support element and/or to help maintain a user in a desired position on the support element. 
     A non-slip feature can include, for example, a patterned tactile treatment used to create a non-slip surface. The patterned treatment can include, for example, ink, rubber, silicone, or other suitable material(s), which can be, for example, digitally printed, screen-printed, sprayed, brushed, ironed on, sewn on, or otherwise applied to at least a portion of the material on the top surface of a support element. The non-slip surface treatment can include, for example, straight lines, curved lines, diagonal lines, various shapes, such as, for example, squares, circles, rectangles, blocks, polygons, ellipses, etc. and/or other ambiguous shapes. In some embodiments, the non-slip surface treatment can include a grooved or grid-like pattern. In some embodiments, the non-slip surface treatment can be applied as a flat or smooth surface, or can be applied such that the non-slip surface is raised with respect to the surface to which it is applied.  FIGS. 76, 77 and 78 (A)- 78 (E) illustrate some example patterns and configurations for a non-slip surface, and it should be understood that other patterns and configurations can alternatively be included. 
     Each embodiment of a support element described with reference to  FIGS. 76, 77 and 78 (A)- 78 (E) can include the same or similar features, and can function the same or similar to, other embodiments of a support element described herein, and therefore certain details are not described with reference to  FIGS. 76, 77 and 78 (A)- 78 (E). Further, although not shown with respect to other embodiments of a support element described herein, it should be understood that other embodiments of a support element can include non-slip features as described with respect to  FIGS. 76, 77 and 78 (A)- 78 (E). 
       FIG. 76  illustrates a support element  2620  that includes two non-slip surface features A disposed on lateral sides of the top surface of the support element  2620 , and a non-slip surface feature B disposed on a center portion of the top surface. In this embodiment, the non-slip surface feature A can be used, for example, to help maintain a body element (not shown) in a desired position on the support element  2624 . The non-slip surface treatment B can be used, for example, to retain a user of the support element  2524  in a desired position substantially centered on the support element  2624  and also can help prevent or reduce the tendency of the user to slide down an angled top surface of the support element.  FIG. 77  illustrates a support element  2720  that includes only two non-slip surface features A disposed on lateral sides of the top surface of the support element  2720 . In this embodiment the non-slip surface features A can function in the same manner as described above for the non-slip surface features A of support element  2620 . This embodiment also illustrates an example of an applied non-slip pattern.  FIGS. 78(A)-78(F)  each illustrate a top view of a different embodiment of a support element having various different non-slip surface features. 
       FIGS. 79 and 80  illustrate a therapeutic cushion system that includes a side extension element. A side extension element can be coupled to a support element to provide a larger width to support the user&#39;s body and/or to support a body element if the user&#39;s body is occupying a large portion of the support element. As shown in  FIG. 79 , a therapeutic cushion system  2800  includes a support element  2820 , a riser element  2822  and a side extension element  2887 . The support element  2820  and the riser element  2822  can be formed the same as or similar to, and function the same as or similar to, previous embodiments (e.g., support element  220  and riser element  222 ) described herein and are, therefore, not described in detail with reference to  FIGS. 79 and 80 . 
     The side extension element  2887  includes a first extension member  2888 , a second extension member  2889 , and a connecting strap  2890  extending between the first extension member  2888  and the second extension member  2889 , as shown in  FIG. 80 . The side extension element  2887  can be fixedly or removably coupled to the support element  2820 , as shown in  FIG. 79 , such that the first extension member  2888  is disposed on a first lateral side of the support element  2820  and the second extension member  2889  is disposed on an opposite second lateral side of the support element  2820 . 
     The first extension member  2888  and the second extension member  2889  can each be constructed the same as or similar to a support element (e.g., support element  120 ) as described herein. For example, the first extension member  2888  and the second extension member  2889  can each have an angled top surface (e.g., wedge shape), for example, that substantially matches the angle of the support element  2820 . For example, in some embodiments, the first extension member  2888  and the second extension member  2889  can each have a top surface that has an angle between 6 degrees and 30 degrees relative to a bottom surface. 
     The first extension member  2888  and the second extension member  2889  can each be a variety of different lengths, widths and/or thicknesses. For example, the first extension member  2888  and the second extension member  2889  can each have a torso length or can each have a bed length as described above for support element  120 . The first extension member  2888  and the second extension member  2889  can also each include a cushion member (not shown) disposed within an outer casing  2891 . 
     The outer casing  2891  can be formed with the same or similar materials as the outer casing  121  described above, and can include a top portion on which the user contacts during use that is formed with a first material, and a bottom portion that contacts the support surface (e.g., top surface of a bed) that is formed with a second material. The top portion (e.g., the top surface) of the outer casing  2891  can be formed with, for example, a four-way stretch material that is highly conformable, such as, for example, cotton/spandex, nylon/spandex, polyester/spandex or blends of any blend of cotton, nylon or polyester combined with spandex, and the bottom portion can be formed with a more robust material, such as, for example, poplin, canvas, gabardine or twill made using any combination of cotton, polyester or nylon, to provide durability. 
     The outer casing  2891  can also include an opening (not shown) through which the cushion member can be inserted and can include a fastener such as, for example, a zipper, buttons, snaps, flaps, hook and loop fasteners or other suitable coupling method to close or partially close the opening. The cushion member of the side extension element  2887  can be formed with the same or similar materials as described above for cushion member  123 . For example, the cushion member of the side extension element  2887  can be formed with one or more foam materials, such as, for example, polyurethane or rubber latex, and in some embodiments, can include multiple different foam materials each having a different density. 
     The side extension element  2887  also includes straps  2892  on each of the first and second extension members  2888  and  2889 . The straps  2892  can be formed with, for example, the same or similar material as the straps  226  of riser element  222  described above. Each strap  2892  can include button holes  2893  (only shown on extension member  2888  in  FIG. 80 ) that can be used to removably couple the side extension element  2887  to buttons (not shown in  FIGS. 79 and 80 ) on the support element  2820  (e.g., similar to the buttons  228  on support element  220  described above). For example, in some embodiments, the side extension element  2887  can be coupled to the support element  2820  using the same buttons as used to couple the riser element  2822  to the support element  2820 . In some embodiments, a different set of buttons can be used. In alternative embodiments, other coupling methods can be used to couple the straps  2892  to the support element  2820 , such as, for example, hook and loop fasteners, snaps, strings or ties, zippers, or any other suitable coupling method. 
     The connecting strap  2890  can be formed with, for example, an elastic material, such that the connecting straps  2890  can hold each of the first and second extension members  2888  and  2889  substantially tight against the support element  2820 . Each of the first and second extension members  2888  and  2889  can also include a non-slip surface treatment  2894  (only shown on extension member  2889  in  FIG. 80 ) as described above for previous embodiments of a support element. 
       FIGS. 81-95  illustrate another embodiment of a therapeutic cushion system. A therapeutic cushion system  2900  (also referred to herein as a “cushion system”) includes a base support  2910 , a support pillow member  2984  and an optional body element  2924 . The base support  2910  can be constructed the same as or similar to and can function the same as or similar to, the support elements (e.g.,  120 ,  220 , etc.) described above for previous embodiments. The support pillow member  2984  can be constructed the same as or similar to, and can function the same as or similar to, the riser elements (e.g.,  122 ,  222 , etc.) described above for previous embodiments. For example, the same or similar materials can be used to construct the base support  2910  and the support pillow member  2984  as described above for previous embodiments of a support element and riser element, respectively. Therefore, some details with respect to the materials and construction of the base support  2910  and/or the support pillow member  2984  may not be described below. The body element  2924  can be formed the same as or similar to, and function the same as or similar to the body elements (e.g.,  124 , etc.) described above for previous embodiments. For example, the body element  2910  can be formed the same as or similar to the body element  624  described with respect to  FIG. 29 . Thus, some details with respect to the body element  2924  are not described below. 
     The base support  2910  includes a support element portion  2920  and an encasement portion  2996 , and can be formed with one or more components. For example, in some embodiments, the base support  2910  is formed as a single component, and in other embodiments, the base support  2910  can be formed with multiple components coupled together to form a single component. For example, multiple components can be adhesively bonded together to form a single component for the base support  2910 . 
     The base support  2910  can include an interior cushion member (not shown) and an outer casing  2961  that can encase the cushion member of the base support  2910 . The outer casing  2961  can be formed with one or more materials as described above, for example, for outer casing  121  of support element  120 . The interior cushion member can be formed with, for example, one or more foam materials as described above for previous embodiments. The support element portion  2920  and the encasement portion  2996  of the base support  2910  can be formed integrally as a single component or can be separate components coupled together with, for example, an adhesive. Further, each of the support element portion  2920  and the encasement portion  2996  can be formed as a single component or with multiple components (e.g. foam components) that are coupled (e.g., bonded) together. In some embodiments, the cushion member of the support element portion  2920  can be formed with the same foam material(s) as the foam material(s) used to form the encasement portion  2996 . In some embodiments, different foam material(s) are used for the cushion member of the support element portion  2920  and the cushion member of the encasement portion  2996 . 
     The base support  2910  defines an interior region  2995  between the encasement portion  2996  and the support element portion  2920  (as shown, for example, in  FIGS. 90-95 ), in which the support pillow member  2984  can be disposed. When the support pillow member  2984  is disposed within the interior region  2995 , a receiving portion  2958  is defined by the base support  2910  and the support pillow member  2984  on each side of the support pillow member  2984 . As with previous embodiments, the receiving portions  2958  can be used as a relief area for the user to place a portion of a user&#39;s arm and/or shoulder when using the cushion system  2900 . 
     The base support  2910  also defines a lower arm/elbow relief cavity  2997  (also referred to herein as “cavity” or “relief cavity”) on each side of the base support  2910  that can receive a portion of a user&#39;s arm and/or hand therethrough. For example, the relief cavity(ies)  2997  is in communication with the interior region  2995  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 92 ), such that when a user places an arm within the interior region  2995 , the user can extend a hand and/or a portion of the user&#39;s arm out through one of the relief cavities  2997 . Thus, the relief cavity(ies)  2997  can be used to allow increased movement of the user&#39;s hand and/or arm while disposed within the receiving portion  2958 , and can also act as a ventilation passageway. The base support  2910  can also include an optional pocket  2998  and/or optional transport handles  2999  that can be coupled to the outer casing  2961 . For example, in some embodiments, the pocket  2998  and/or transport handles  2999  can be sewn to the outer casing  2961 . The pocket  2998  can be formed with the same or different material(s) as the outer casing  2961  and can be used, for example, to place an object such as a cell phone. The handles  2999  can also be formed with the same or different material(s) as the outer casing  2961  and can be used to help transport the base support  2910  to a desired location. 
     The support element portion  2920  of the base support  2910  can have a variety of different shapes and/or sizes. For example, as shown in  FIGS. 81, 82, 87, 94 and 95 , the support element portion  2920  can have a wedge shape. Specifically, the support element portion  2920  includes a top surface  2937  that is angled relative to a bottom surface  2939  (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 83, 84 and 87 ) between a first end portion  2915  and a second end portion  2916  (see., e.g.,  FIGS. 87, 90 and 91 ). Said another way, the second end portion  2916  has a height greater than the first end portion  2915 . In some embodiments, the angled top surface  2937  can be disposed, for example, at an angle between 6 degrees and 30 degrees relative to the bottom surface  2939  of the support element portion  2920 . The support element portion  2920  also includes a concave portion  2930 , and beveled or angled corners  2933  (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 90 and 91 ) on the second end portion  2916  of the support element portion  2920  that can accommodate additional ergonomic arm and elbow placement during use of the cushion system  2900 . 
     The encasement portion  2996  extends from the support element portion  2920  and can be a variety of shapes and/or sizes. For example, in this embodiment, the encasement portion  2996  has a curved shape, as viewed for example, in a top view, as shown, in  FIGS. 90 and 91 . In other embodiments it can have a different shape, such as, for example, square, rectangular, oval, trapezoidal, or a curved shape with a different radius than the encasement portion  2996  shown in  FIGS. 90 and 91 . The encasement portion  2996  has a top surface  2917  and a bottom surface  2918 . In some embodiments, the top surface  2917  is substantially parallel to the bottom surface  2918 . In some embodiments, the top surface  2917  and the bottom surface  2918  are disposed at an angle relative to each other. In some embodiments, the top surface  2917  and/or the bottom surface  2918  may be angled relative to a support surface on which the cushion system  2900  is disposed. 
     The support pillow member  2984  can include a pillow insert (not shown) that can be disposed within an outer casing  2927  (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 90 and 91 ). For example, the outer casing  2927  can include an opening through which the pillow insert can be inserted, and can include a fastener such as, for example, a zipper, buttons, snaps, flaps, hook and loop fasteners or other suitable coupling method to close or partially close the opening. The outer casing  2927  can be formed with the same or similar materials as described above, for example, for the outer casing  127 . For example, in some embodiments, the outer casing  2927  can include a first portion formed with a four-way stretch material and a second portion formed with a more robust material. For example, in some embodiments, a top surface of the outer casing  2927  of the support pillow member  2984  can be formed with the four-way stretch material, and a bottom surface of the outer casing  2927  of the support pillow member  2984  can be formed with a more robust material. 
     The pillow insert (that is disposed within the outer casing  2927 ) can include an inner casing (not shown) that can contain a filler material (not shown) therein, as described above, for example, for pillow inserts  125  and  225 . The filler material can be, for example, a clustered polyester fiber material, such as, for example, any combination of polyester fibers, clustered polyester fiber, down alternative made from synthetic fibers, polystyrene beads/pellets, shredded foam, or down feathers. The inner casing of the pillow insert can also be formed with a four-way stretch material as described above for pillow insert  125 . In some embodiments, the inner casing of the pillow insert can also include an opening through which the filler material can be inserted, and can include a fastener such as, for example, a zipper, buttons, snaps, or other suitable coupling method to close or partially close the opening. In alternative embodiments, the inner casing may not include such an opening. For example, after the filler material has been inserted into the inner casing, the inner casing can be closed with, for example, stitching. 
     The four-way stretch material of the outer casing  2927  of the support pillow member  2984  described above, in conjunction with the pillow insert having an inner casing formed with the four-way stretch material and having a clustered polyester fiber filler material can allow the support pillow member  2984  to be malleable and shape-retaining. For example, in such an embodiment, the user can conform the support pillow member  2984  to a desired thickness and/or shape for that user&#39;s needs and preference. For example, the user can conform or adjust the support pillow member  2984  to form cavities or to otherwise fit or conform to the user&#39;s head, face, ear, shoulder, arm, etc. The conformed shape can be maintained for an extended time period and/or until the user disperses the filler material of the pillow insert by, for example, shaking or fluffing the support pillow member  2984 . 
     As described above, the support pillow member  2984  can be placed within the interior region  2995  defined by the base support  2910 , as shown for example, in  FIGS. 93-95 . The encasement portion  2996  can allow for easier setup of the cushion system  2900 , and increased user comfort, adjustability and fitment to the cushion system  2900 . With the support pillow member  2984  disposed within the interior region  2995 , a user&#39;s arm can easily enter and exit the receiving portion  2958  and relief cavity  2997 . Further, when disposed within the interior region  2995 , the support pillow member  2984  is not restricted by specific attachment points, but rather is free to move on its own within the interior region  2995 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 93 , the support pillow member  2984  can move side to side in the direction of Arrows A, and/or up and down in the direction of Arrows B. 
     The curved encasement portion  2996  extending from the support element portion  2920  can help provide overall stability to the cushion system  2900 . In some embodiments, the encasement portion  2995  can be, for example, about 3 inches wide in a top view. The base support  2910  can have a variety of different lengths and widths. For example, in some embodiments, the overall width of the base support  2910  can be, for example, in the range of 24-39 inches. In one example, the overall width of the base support  2910  is about 30 inches. In some embodiments, the base support  2910  can have a length that is a torso size as described above, for example, for cushion systems  200  and  700 . 
     In use, the base support  2910  can be placed on a support surface, such as, for example, a bed, box spring, bed foundation or floor, for use by a user in the same or similar manner as described above for previous embodiments. The support pillow member  2984  can be placed within the interior region  2995  as shown, for example, in  FIGS. 94 and 95 . The body element  2924  can then be positioned on the top surface of the base support  2910  and/or support pillow member  2984  as shown, for example, in  FIGS. 81-83 and 95 . A user can be positioned on the cushion system  2900  as described above for previous embodiments, in an inclined right-side lateral decubitus (RLD) or an inclined left-side lateral decubitus position (LLD), depending on the particular needs of the user, with the user&#39;s right or left arm disposed within the receiving portion  2958  and optionally through the relief cavity  2997 . For example, the user can be disposed on the base support  2910  of the therapeutic cushion system  2900  having an angled top surface of between 6 degrees and 30 degrees. In such an embodiment, the user can be positioned on the base support  2910  at an angle between about 5 and 20 degrees depending on factors, such as, for example, the density and/or deflection properties of the base support  2910 , and/or the weight of the user. In some cases, the user of the therapeutic cushion system  2900  can be maintained in the inclined RLD position or LLD position for a sufficient time period to treat symptoms associated with GERD. In some embodiments, the time period is at least one hour. In some embodiments, the time period is 6 hours. In some embodiments, the maintaining includes positioning a body element (e.g., body element  2924 ) of the therapeutic cushion system  2900  proximate the base support  2910  and optionally proximate the support pillow member  2996  of the therapeutic cushion system  2900 . 
     In some embodiments, the therapeutic cushion systems described herein can be provided as a kit that can include any combination or sub-combination of the various components of a cushion system described herein. For example, in some embodiments, a kit can include one or more support elements, one or more riser elements and/or one or more body elements. In some embodiments, a kit can include one or more base supports, one or more support pillow member and/or one or more body elements. In some embodiments, a kit can include multiple cushion members that can be selectively assembled into a support element and/or multiple riser cushion members that can be selectively assembled into a riser element as described above for example, with respect to cushion systems  1300  and  1400 . In some embodiments, a kit can also include separate side support members (e.g.,  864 ,  964 ) and/or side bolster members (e.g.,  1582 ,  1682 ,  1782 ,  1982 ,  2082 ). 
     As described above, the therapeutic cushion systems described herein can be used in the treatment of symptoms associated with GERD and/or other digestive disorders and/or other medical conditions or ailments as described herein. Trial studies have been conducted to evaluate the effects of using a therapeutic cushion system as described herein to treat a patient with symptoms of GERD. The results of two such trial studies described below confirm the benefits of using such a therapeutic cushion system to treat symptoms of GERD. 
     Example Trial Study 1: 
     A randomized controlled trial evaluating a sleep device (SD) was performed. See Erik Person, MD, MS, et al., “A Novel Sleep Assist Device Prevents Gastroesophageal Reflux: A Randomized Controlled Trial,” The American Journal of Gastroenterology, 108:S1-S36, October 2013. The SD used in the study consisted of a two-piece inclined base and a body pillow distributed under the Medcline™ mark by Amenity Health, Inc., of San Diego, Calif., the assignee of the present application. The SD used in the study maintains a patient in a lateral position while elevating the head and torso and is substantially the same as or similar to, for example, the therapeutic cushion system  200  described herein. It was hypothesized that sleeping in a semi-fixed position on the left side with the head and torso elevated would significantly reduce recumbent gastroesophageal reflux (GER). 
     The study involved a single institution, randomized controlled trial involving 20 healthy volunteers, each subject having 4 impedance-pH tests 6 hours in length. After placement of a reflux probe, the subjects returned home and ate a standardized meal (1350 kcal, 58 g fat). Each subject then lay down in one of 4 randomly assigned positions: SD right side down (SD-R), SD left side down (SD-L), standard wedge any position (W), and flat any position (F). Note that the SD-R and SD-L included use of the SD (described above) with volunteers positioned with their right side down and left side down respectively. A wireless position monitor documented position of the volunteers during each study. Number of reflux episodes (RE) and esophageal acid exposure (EAE) was blindly calculated for 6 hour periods. Position monitor data was used to compare assigned position to actual position. 
       FIGS. 96 and 97  illustrate the results of the above study.  FIG. 96  is a graph illustrating a 6 hour mean esophageal acid exposure (EAE) by position, where the SD-L exhibited significantly less EAE than any other position.  FIG. 97  is a graph illustrating a 6 hour mean number of reflux episodes (RE) by position, where SD-L exhibited significantly less reflux episodes than SD-R. In the graphs, SD-L is sleeper device left side down, SD-R is sleeper device right side down, *=p&lt;0.05, **=&lt;0.01, and ***=p&lt;0.001. 
     The results of the study indicated that significantly less EAE over 6 hours occurred sleeping SD-L compared to sleeping W (mean 0.46% v. 3.59%, p&lt;0.01), SD-R (mean 0.46% v. 4.59%, p&lt;0.001), and F (mean 0.46% v. 3.46%, p&lt;0.05). RE over 6 hours were significantly less SD-L than SD-R (mean 5.55 vs. 13.23, p&lt;0.05). Patients assigned to SD-L on average spent 83% of the first 2 hours and 61% of the 6 hours in the assigned position. Those assigned to SD-R spent 72% of the first 2 hours and 53% of the 6 hours in the assigned position. Over 6 hours, patients sleeping on W and F averaged significantly more time supine than R or L (p&lt;0.05). 
     The results of the study indicate that the sleep device SD maintains recumbent horizontal position effectively. Lying left side down dramatically reduces recumbent esophageal acid exposure. As in previous studies, right side down position gives the worst results, even with aid of the sleep device. 
     Example Trial Study 2: 
     A second study evaluating a sleep positioning device (SPD) has also been performed. See Sanath Allampati MD, et al., “Use of a Sleep Positioning Device Significantly Improves Nocturnal Gastroesophageal Reflux Symptoms,” 2014. The SPD consisted of a two-component incline base (9 inches in height) and a lateral positioner body pillow as compared to a traditional bed wedge. This study showed a decrease in nocturnal GERD (acid exposure and reflux episodes) in healthy volunteers who slept using the SPD. This SPD, also distributed by the assignee of the present application under the Medcline™ mark, places and maintains users in an inclined left-lateral decubitus (I-LLD) sleeping position. The SPD used in the study was substantially the same as or similar to, for example, the therapeutic cushion system  200  described herein. The purpose of this study was to determine if the use of this SPD decreases nocturnal symptoms in patients diagnosed with GERD, as well as to assess its effectiveness in decreasing the morning impact of nocturnal GERD and to address patient concerns about nocturnal GERD. 
     The study included a single institution prospective trial involving patients on proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) with continued frequent moderate to severe nocturnal heartburn and regurgitation. Patients completed the Nocturnal GERD Symptom Severity and Impact Questionnaire (N-GSSIQ) at enrollment. The N-GSSIQ is a validated questionnaire comprised of three parts (Nocturnal GERD Symptoms, Morning Impact of GERD, and Concern about Nocturnal GERD) with a total possible score of 95. Patients were then instructed to sleep on the Medcline™ SPD for two weeks for at least 6 hours per night. Patients were also instructed to initiate sleep in the I-LLD position, though their positioning throughout the night was not tracked. At the end of the two week trial, patients repeated the N-GSSIQ. All analyses were performed using SAS (version 9.2, The SAS Institute, Cary, N.C.) and R (version 3.0.3, The R Foundation for Statistical Computing, Vienna, Austria) which were used to construct plots on  FIGS. 98-101 . 
     The results are illustrated in  FIGS. 98-101 , which illustrate N-GSSIQ before and after use of the Medcline™ SPD. A total of 9 patients (4 female and 5 male, age 59.9±5.4 years, BMI 29.4±4.3) were recruited from an outpatient gastroenterology clinic. One patient was not able to be contacted to complete the N-GSSIQ after the two week period using the SPD. Significant improvements were seen in all N-GSSIQ pre-vs post scores: Total Score (mean 54.3 vs. 15.4, p&lt;0.001), Nocturnal GERD (mean 35.1 vs. 8.1, p&lt;0.001), Morning Impact of Nocturnal GERD (mean 4.9 vs. 1.6, p=0.015), and Concern about Nocturnal GERD (mean 14.3 vs. 5.6, p=0.002) were noted. No adverse events were reported. 
     The study indicated that in patients with nocturnal heartburn and regurgitation despite PPI use, the Medcline™ SPD significantly reduced nocturnal symptoms, morning impact of nocturnal GERD, and concern about nocturnal GERD after two weeks of use. 
     While various embodiments have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not limitation. Where methods described above indicate certain events occurring in certain order, the ordering of certain events may be modified. Additionally, certain of the events may be performed concurrently in a parallel process when possible, as well as performed sequentially as described above 
     Where schematics and/or embodiments described above indicate certain components arranged in certain orientations or positions, the arrangement of components may be modified. While the embodiments have been particularly shown and described, it will be understood that various changes in form and details may be made. Any portion of the apparatus and/or methods described herein may be combined in any combination, except mutually exclusive combinations. The embodiments described herein can include various combinations and/or sub-combinations of the functions, components and/or features of the different embodiments described. 
     For example, any of the embodiments of a cushion system can include a support element with a top surface that is angled at an angle between, for example, 6-30 degrees relative to a bottom surface of the support element. Any of the body elements described herein can include an arc portion and the arc portion can be curved, for example, between about 30 and about 180 degrees. In another example, any embodiment of cushion system can include one or more side bolsters and or one or more side support members. The body elements can include a first arm and a second arm having a variety of different lengths not necessarily shown.