Patent Publication Number: US-2019166926-A1

Title: Compression vest system

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims priority to provisional application No. 62/593,345, filed Dec. 1, 2017, provisional application No. 62/773,511, filed Nov. 30, 2018, and provisional application No. 62/774,233, filed Dec. 1, 2018, the entireties of which are hereby incorporated by reference. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present disclosure relates to a system for enabling a person to guide, direct, and/or support a movement of another person that may be injured or recovering from an injury, or generally has limited mobility due to previous injuries, medical conditions, and/or age. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a compression vest system including a vest and a belt that may be worn by a patient and exert forces on the patient that stabilize the vest in a position relative to the patient as grips attached to the vest and belt are used by a caregiver to aid or ensure the safety of a movement of the patient. Further, the belt may include stays that support and stabilize the patient&#39;s spine as the belt compresses a torso of the patient. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Situations often arise that require a caregiver to aid a movement of a patient by lifting, guiding, catching, and/or supporting a weight of the patient. The caregiver may be a physical therapist, medical professional, first responder, family member, etc., and the patient may be a person that is injured, is rehabilitating, is elderly, or has limited or no mobility due to a previous injury or terminal illness such as ALS or cerebral palsy. The act of aiding the patient&#39;s movement, also know as transferring the patient, involves inherent risks to both the caregiver and the patient. 
     The caregiver may attempt to handle the patient via a body part of, or clothing worn by, the patient. However, either of these methods can readily lead to the caregiver losing grasp of the patient. In attempting to maintain an original grasp, the caregiver may strain his or her muscles to the point of injury. Additionally, with respect to grasping clothing worn by the patient, it is not uncommon, and in fact should be expected, for the clothing, specifically a location where the clothing is being grasped, to shift positions relative to the patient. The new location of grasping relative to the patient could place either of the caregiver and the patient in an awkward position, or pressure being applied to a sensitive area of a respective person. Generally, this could cause either or both of the caregiver and the patient to experience discomfort, and/or shift a supported load in such a way that muscles or bones of the caregiver or the patient that support the load are loaded or strained to the point of failure and cause injury. 
     Often times patients are obese or generally of greater size than caregivers such as nurses or physical therapists. Further, some patients may have limited mobility in their arms, hips, and/or legs. Either of these conditions (weight/size disparity or patient mobility) alone, but especially in combination, may cause the patient and/or the caregiver attempting to handle the patient to be in an awkward position and/or support a load that the patient or caregiver is not strong enough to support. Further, trying to re-grasp or catch a patient that is falling is difficult where only a part of the patient&#39;s body or a loose piece of clothing is available. These and the other risks discussed herein generally place the caregiver at risk for losing a grasp of and dropping the patient. Just as if the patient fell while doing an activity independent of any aid, dropping the patient may cause the patient to sustain significant injuries. Likewise, in trying to avoid dropping the patient, the caregiver may strain his or her muscles or load his or her bones to the point of injury. 
     Further, it is often the case that the patient has difficulty maintaining an upright position due to their condition which includes a spine that is functionally inhibited, has a structural irregularity, or is poorly or otherwise insufficiently supported by weak muscles. The patient&#39;s spine may persistently exhibit an unnatural curvature, which may only be exacerbated during independent or guided movement by the patient. This can result in further injury to the patient during transfers, as it is difficult for the caregiver to maintain the patient in a safe position. It is not uncommon for caregivers recognizing these conditions to attempt to correct the patient&#39;s posture before a transfer, or make impromptu attempts to support and correct the patient&#39;s posture during transfers. Such attempts during transfers may involve quickly grasping other parts of the patient&#39;s body or other pieces of clothing than originally planned. This can lead to the patient and/or caregiver moving into awkward positions and undue stress being place on the body of the caregiver and/or patient. Accordingly, a lack of spinal stability in the patient can result in further injuries to the caregiver and the patient when moving or guiding the movement of the patient. 
     These and other issues are addressed by a vest compression system and method of transferring a patient using the vest compression system of the present disclosure. 
     SUMMARY 
     According to certain aspects of the present disclosure, a vest includes a first panel including a first flap, a second panel including a second flap, a back panel extending perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the vest from the first panel to the second panel, and a plurality of grips attached to the first panel, the second panel, and the back panel. According to other aspects of the present disclosure the back panel defines a first arm access with the first panel and a second arm access with the second panel, and portions of the first panel, second panel, and back panel disposed along a longitudinal axis of the vest below the first arm access and the second arm access define a body of the vest. According to other aspects of the present disclosure, the first flap is configured to overlap the second flap such that the first flap and the second flap define a closure of the vest and the first panel and the second panel define a collar of the vest, the first flap includes a first front attachment segment and the second flap includes a second front attachment segment configured to attach to the first front attachment segment in a closed state of the vest, and an area of an attachment configuration between the first front attachment segment and the second front attachment segment in the closed state of the vest is equal to at least ⅔ of an area having a length equal to a length of the body and a width equal to ¼ of a maximum width of the body 
     According to other certain aspects of the present disclosure, a compression vest system includes a vest having a back panel including a back attachment segment provided on an exterior surface of the back panel, a first panel extending from the back panel, a second panel extending from the back panel, and a plurality of grips attached to at least the first panel and the second panel. According to other aspects of the present disclosure, the compression vest system further includes a belt having a pair of flanks, a first belt attachment segment positioned on an interior surface of an end of one of the pair of flanks, a second belt attachment segment positioned on interior surface of the belt between the pair of flanks and configured to attach to the back attachment segment, and a pair of elastic tension bands attached to an exterior surface of the belt between the pair of flanks. According to other aspects of the present disclosure, the first panel and the second panel define a closure of the vest that extends along a longitudinal axis of the vest and has a width equal to at least ¼ of a maximum width of the vest, and the closure is configured to exert first compressive forces on an individual wearing the vest. According to other aspects of the present disclosure, the pair of flanks are configured to wrap around the vest such that one flank overlaps an other flank and the pair of flanks exert second compressive forces on the individual, and each of the pair of elastic tension bands is configured to be attached to a third belt attachment segment positioned on an exterior surface of a respective one of the pair of flank in a state of tension and increase the second compressive forces. 
     According to other certain aspects of the present disclosure, a method of transferring a patient includes providing a vest including a first panel, a second panel, and a back panel extending from the first panel and the second panel, positioning the vest on the patient such that the vest exerts first compressive forces on the patient, wrapping a pair of flanks of the belt around the vest such that the belt exerts second compressive forces on the patient, attaching an end of each of a pair of elastic tension bands to an attachment segments positioned on respective one of the pair of the flanks such that each elastic tension band is attached in a state of tension and increases a magnitude of the second compressive forces, and grasping one or more of a plurality of grips attached to the vest and performing at least one of guiding and supporting a movement of the patient. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1A  illustrates a caregiver aiding a movement of a patient. 
         FIG. 1B  illustrates an implementation of a compression vest system, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIGS. 2A and 2B  illustrate front and rear perspective views of a vest of a compression vest system, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 3  illustrates a front elevation view of a vest in a closed state, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 4  illustrates a front elevation view of a vest in a first open state, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 5  is an enlarged view of a portion of  FIG. 4 , identified as Detail  5 . 
         FIG. 6  is an enlarged view of a portion of  FIG. 4 , identified as Detail  6 . 
         FIG. 7  illustrates an elevation view of a front of a vest in a second open state, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 8  is an enlarged view of a portion of  FIG. 3 , identified as Detail  8 . 
         FIG. 9  is an enlarged view of a portion of  FIG. 4 , identified as Detail  9 . 
         FIG. 10  is an enlarged view of a portion of  FIG. 4 , identified as Detail  10 . 
         FIG. 11  illustrates an elevation view of a back region of a vest, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 12A  illustrates an elevation view of an interior surface of a belt of a compression vest system in a passive state, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 12B  illustrates an elevation view of an exterior surface of a belt of a compression system in a passive state, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 12C  illustrates an elevation view of an exterior surface of a belt of a compression system in an active state, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIGS. 13A and 13B  illustrate front and rear perspective views of a compression vest system, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 13C  illustrates a front perspective view of a compression vest system and sagittal, coronal, and transverse body planes. 
         FIG. 14  illustrates a side elevation view of a vest, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 15A  illustrates an elevation view of a side of a vest in a closed state, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 15B  illustrates an elevation view of a side of a vest in an open state, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 16  illustrates a side elevation view of a vest in a closed state, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 17  illustrates a compression vest according to an aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 18  illustrates a compression belt according to an aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIGS. 19A and 19B  overhead views of a cloak, according to aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 20  illustrates an implementation of an integrated compression vest system, according to aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIGS. 21A and 21B  illustrate front and rear perspective views of a partial implementation of a compression vest system, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIGS. 22A and 22B  illustrate front and rear perspective views of a full implementation of a compression vest system, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIGS. 23A and 23B  illustrate elevation views of an exterior and an interior of a belt in a compact state. 
         FIGS. 23C and 23D  illustrate elevation views of an exterior and an interior of a belt in an expanded state. 
         FIG. 24  illustrates an elevation view of a belt including removable stays, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 25  illustrates a front isometric view of a stay. 
         FIG. 26  illustrates an enlarged view of a portion of  FIG. 4  including a zipper. 
         FIG. 27  illustrates an enlarged view of a portion of  FIG. 4  including a hoop and loop access. 
         FIG. 28  illustrates an elevation view of a belt including narrow sized stays, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 29  illustrates an elevation view of a belt including intermediate sized stays, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 30  illustrates an elevation view of a belt including short stays, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 31  illustrates an elevation view of a belt including wide stays and an anterior segmented pouch, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 32  illustrates an elevation view of a belt, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIGS. 33A and 33B  illustrate a front and rear elevation views of a modular segmented pouch, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 34  illustrates an elevation view of a belt with a modular pouch attached, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 35  illustrates an elevation view of a belt with a modular pouch attached, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 36  illustrates an elevation view of a belt including anterior pocket, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 37  illustrate a modular pouch, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIGS. 38A and 38B  illustrate front and rear perspective views of a full implementation of a compression vest system including an extra-wide stay and a modular segmented pouch. 
         FIG. 39  illustrates an elevation view of a belt including an extended central attachment segment, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 40  illustrates a modular segmented pouch, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIGS. 41A and 41B  illustrate front and rear perspective views of a full implementation of a compression vest system including a belt with multiple modular segmented pouches, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Aspects of the disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the figures, wherein like reference numbers refer to like elements throughout, unless specified otherwise. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure described herein are directed toward a compression vest system that includes a vest and a belt. The vest may include a back panel, a first panel that may extend from the back panel and define a first arm access, and a second panel that may extend from the back panel and define a second arm access opposite to the first arm access. A body of the vest may be defined by those portions of the back, first, and second panels that extend from a lower end of the vest to an axis passing through a lower end of each of the first and second arm access. The first panel may include a first flap that overlaps a second flap of the second panel in a closed state of the vest. 
     An interior surface of the first flap may include a first front attachment segment that is configured to attach to a second front attachment segment provided on an exterior surface of the second flap, such that the first and second flaps define a closure of the vest. A configuration of portions of the first front attachment segment configured to mirror and attach to portions of the second front attachment segment (or vice versa) in a closed state of the vest may define an attachment configuration of the closure. An area of a fully implemented attachment configuration may be sized relative to an area defined by a length and width of the body such that when the vest is fittingly worn by an individual, the vest: (1) may exert first compressive forces on the body of the individual; and (2) remain stationary relative to a respective position on the individual in response to an external force being applied to the vest. 
     The belt may include a pair of flanks, a pair of elastic tension bands, and a belt attachment segment configured to attach to a back attachment segment provided on the back panel of the vest. The belt may be attached to the vest and form-fittingly wrapped around the vest being worn by the patient and exert second compressive force on a torso of the patient. The elastic tension bands may be extended in opposite directions beyond normal state lengths and attached to belt attachment segments provided on respective flanks to increase the second compressive forces exerted on the patient. 
     A plurality of inelastic grips may be attached to exterior surfaces of the back, first, and second panels of the vest, as well as an exterior surface of the belt. The grips may allow a caregiver, regardless of size relative to a patient, to select a combination of grips to maximize a degree of leverage the caregiver is capable of comfortably and safely implementing relative to the patient, to aid a movement of the patient. Further, the grips may be relied on to provide a constant grip and minimize a risk of the caregiver having to re-grip, or dropping the patient. During the use of the grips as discussed, the first and second compressive forces exerted on the patient via implementations of the closure and the belt, ensures the vest remains in a position (stationary position) relative to the patient that, inter alia: (A) allows the caregiver to continue to safely move or guide the patient; and (B) minimize any discomfort to the patient that may result from the vest bunching up or moving to touch various body parts like a neck of the patient. 
     In addition, aspects of the present disclosure described herein are directed toward a compression vest system that includes a vest, a belt, and at least one stay. The vest may include a back panel, a first panel that may extend from the back panel and define a first arm access, and a second panel that may extend from the back panel and define a second arm access opposite to the first arm access. A body of the vest may be defined by those portions of the back, first, and second panels that extend from a lower end of the vest to an axis passing through a lower end of each of the first and second arm access. The first panel may include a first flap that overlaps a second flap of the second panel in a closed state of the vest. 
       FIG. 1A  illustrates a caregiver  10  aiding a movement of a patient  20 . As illustrated in  FIG. 1A , the caregiver  10  is smaller than the patient  20 , and is required to directly support a substantial weight of the patient  20  in order to move the patient  20  from a bed  30 . In addition, the caregiver  10  must directly handle (e.g. grab) the patient  20 . One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that as a consequence of the caregiver  10  supporting the load generated by the weight of the patient  20 , the caregiver  10  will experience various magnitudes of stress in a variety of muscles and bones, for example in the areas of the back, knees, elbows, and/or wrists. Accordingly, the caregiver  10  may be at risk of sustaining an injury to one or more of these areas. 
     In addition, handling the patient  20  directly may involve holding on to a body part of the patient  20  or a piece of clothing the patient  20  is wearing. It follows that the caregiver  10  may be at risk of losing their respective grasp of the patient  20  and be forced to re-grip and/or adjust a hand placement. The attendant risk in such a maneuver, which could occur in the situation illustrated in  FIG. 1A , is that the new hand placement may cause the caregiver  10  to support the patient  20  in an uncomfortable and unorthodox manner exposing both to injury, or be ineffective and lead to patient  20  being dropped. 
       FIG. 1B  illustrates the caregiver  10  aiding a movement of the patient  20  utilizing a compression vest system  100 , according to an aspect of the present disclosure. The compression vest system  100  includes a vest  200 , which is described in more detail with reference to  FIGS. 2A-11 , and a belt  1200 , which is described in more detail with reference to  FIGS. 12A-C . In a normal implementation of the compression vest system  100 , the compression vest system  100  may be worn by the patient  20  so as to apply radially compressive forces to the body (torso) of the patient  20  as explained in further detail herein. These compressive forces prevent the vest  200  from shifting relative to the patient  20  when external forces are applied to grips such as a first grip  218 , a body grip  280 , and/or a belt grip  1220  illustrated in  FIG. 1B , attached to the vest  200  and/or the belt  1200 . 
     One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that at least relative to the clothing or body of the patient  20 , the compression vest system  100  provides the caregiver  10  with a more rigid and usable device for pulling, lifting, guiding, or generally moving the patient  20 . In particular, the vest compression system  100  incorporates grips that are substantially inelastic and rigidly attached to a garment (vest  200 ) that remains stationary relative to the patient  20 . As a result, the caregiver  10 , irrespective of a size relative to the patient  20 , can select a combination of grips to use that: (A) will maximize a degree of leverage the caregiver  10  is capable of comfortably and safely implementing relative to the patient  20  to aid a movement thereof; and (B) can be relied on to provide a constant grip and minimize a risk of having to re-grip, or dropping the patient  20 . 
     As defined herein a patient may be any individual requiring assistance to move in any manner, and a caregiver may be any individual attempting to aid the patient and need not be a medical professional such as a doctor, nurse, or physical therapist. 
       FIGS. 2A and 2B  illustrate front and rear perspective views of the vest  200  of the compression vest system  100 , according to an aspect of the present disclosure. The vest  200  includes a front region  202  and a back region  204 . The front region  202  is defined by a first panel  210  and a second panel  220 ; both extending from a back panel  230  that defines the back region  204 . The vest  200  extends along a first longitudinal axis  206  from a lower end  208  thereof, and defines a head  250  and a body  252 . Further, the back panel  230  extends perpendicular to the first longitudinal axis  206  from the first panel  210  to the second panel  220 . According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the first panel  210  may be attached to the back panel via a first side seam  254   a  as illustrated in  FIG. 2B . The first side seam  254   a  may be provided between an outer edge  212  of the first panel  210  (“first outer edge  212 ”), and a corresponding portion of a back outer edge  232  of the back panel  230 . Likewise, the second panel  220  may be attached to the back panel  230  via a second side seam  254   b  as illustrated in  FIG. 2A . The second side seam  254   b  may be provided between an outer edge  222  of the second panel  220  (“second outer edge  222 ”) and a corresponding portion of the back outer edge  232 . The side seams  254   a ,  254   b  may extend parallel to the longitudinal axis  206  as illustrated, or angled relative to the longitudinal axis  206 . The side seams  254   a ,  254   b  may be constructed with stitching or reinforcement stitching. 
     The first panel  210 , the second panel  220 , and the back panel  230  may be formed from the same material or different materials. According to an aspect of the present disclosure the first, second, and back panels  230  may be formed from a fabric material such as canvas. According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the first panel  210 , the second panel  220 , and the back panel  230  may be formed from fire retardant or water proof material. In addition, portions of interior and exterior surfaces of the vest  200  may be lined with cotton or fleece material to provide added comfort to a patient wearing or a caregiver touching the vest  200 . Further, portions of the first panel  210 , the second panel  220 , and the back panel  230  may be formed from elastic material. 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 2A and 2B , the first panel  210  further includes a first upper edge  216  that is attached via a first upper seam  256   a  to a corresponding peripheral portion  234   b  of a back upper edge  234  of the back panel  230 . The second panel  220  includes a second upper edge  226  that is attached via a second upper seam  256   b  to a corresponding peripheral portion  234   b  of the back upper edge  234 . 
     One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the first panel  210  and/or the second panel  220  may be formed as one piece with the back panel  230  in one or more of the areas corresponding to the side seams  254   a ,  254   b  and the upper seam  256   a ,  256   b . Thus, according to an aspect of the present disclosure, any combination or all of the seams  254   a ,  254   b ,  260   a ,  256   b  discussed above may be obviated. However, in any of the configurations discussed herein, a portion of the first outer edge  212  will extend from the first upper edge  216  (or an area corresponding to the first upper edge  216 ) to a location corresponding to a transition  258  between the head  250  and the body  252  of the vest  200  as identified in  FIGS. 2A and 2B . This portion of the first outer edge  212  covered by a first outer lip  260 , along with a corresponding portion of the back outer edge  232  also covered by the first outer lip  260 , defines a first arm access  262 . Further, a portion of the second outer edge  222  will extend from the second upper edge  226  (or an area corresponding to the first upper edge  216 ) to the transition  258 . This portion of the second outer edge  222  covered by a second outer lip  264 , along with a corresponding portion of the back outer edge  232  also covered by the second outer lip  264 , defines a second arm access  266 . It will be understood that the transition  258  coincides with an axis that passes through a lower end  262   a  of the first arm access  262  and a lower end  266   a  of the second arm access  266 . 
     With respect to the first panel  210 , an exterior surface  210   a  of the first panel  210  (“first exterior surface  210   a ”) is opposite an interior surface of the first panel  210  (“first interior surface  210   b ”—see  FIG. 4 ), and extends from the first outer edge  212  to a first inner edge  214 . The first inner edge  214  extends from the first upper edge  216  to the lower end  208  of the body  252 . In a closed state of the vest  200  illustrated in  FIG. 2A , the first panel  210  overlaps the second panel  220  and the first inner edge  214  extends across and down the second panel  220 . Accordingly, the first inner edge  214  defines a free edge of the front region  202 . Further with respect of the first panel  210 , a first front grip  218  is attached to the first panel  210  just below the first upper edge  216  and extends over a substantial portion of the head  250  of the vest  200 . One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the first front grip  218  may be provided in different lengths and cover different proportions of the head  250 . 
     The first and second front grips  218 ,  228  may be positioned as illustrated in  FIGS. 2A and 2B  so that a caregiver can easily access a grip as it will be positioned near or on the shoulders of a patient. Further, by positioning the first and second front grips  218 ,  228  so as to be near to a head of the patient when the vest  200  is being worn, the patient&#39;s head will likely be in the caregiver&#39;s line of sight if the front grips  218 ,  228  are used. Accordingly, the caregiver will be able to easily see how his or her manipulation of the front grips  218 ,  228  to move/transfer the patient affects a movement of the patient&#39;s head. As result, the caregiver may quickly adjust the manner in which the front grips  218 ,  228  are being manipulated to minimize discomfort or the chance that the patient&#39;s neck will be subject to abrupt movements of the patient&#39;s head. 
     With respect to the second panel  220 , an exterior surface  220   a  of the second panel  220  (“second exterior surface  220   a ”) is opposite an interior surface  220   b  of the second panel  220  (“second interior surface  220   b ”—see  FIG. 7 ), and extends from the second outer edge  222  to a second inner edge  224 . The second inner edge  224  extends from the second upper edge  226  to the lower end  208  of the body  252 . In a closed state of the vest  200  illustrated in  FIG. 2A , the first panel  210  overlaps the second panel  220 , and the first panel  210  covers a substantial portion of the second inner edge  224  extending over the body  252 . A second front grip  228  is attached to the second panel  220  just below the second upper edge  226  and extends over a substantial portion of the head  250  of the vest  200 . One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the second front grip  228  may be provided in different lengths and cover different proportions of the head  250 . 
     As discussed above with respect to the back panel  230 , portions of the back outer edge  232  define the first arm access  262  and the second arm access  266 . In addition, a middle portion  234   a  of the back upper edge  234  is covered by an upper lip  268  and defines a collar  270  along with portions of the first inner edge  214  and the second inner edge  224  also covered by the upper lip  268 . 
     The back panel  230  is defined by a back-exterior surface  232   a  illustrated in  FIGS. 2A and 2B , and a back interior surface  232   b , a portion of which being visible in  FIG. 2A . Further, as shown in  FIG. 2B , a set of first back grips  236  and a set of second back grips  238  are attached to the back-exterior surface  232   a . The first back grips  236  extend laterally and the second back grips  238  extend vertically, and each set includes two grips. One first back grip  236  is positioned proximate to the back upper edge  234  and the other first back grip  236  is disposed at or below the transition  258  between the head  250  and the body  252 . Thus, the second back grips  238  and at least one of the first back grips  236  are attached to the back panel  230  within the head  250 . However, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the first back grips  236  and the second back grips  238  may be positioned closer together or farther apart, in other orientations (for example the second back grips  238  may be angled in a V-shape or A-shape), and provided in different numbers per set (e.g. 3 or 4 per set). The back panel  230  also includes a first back attachment segment  240  and second back attachment segment  242  positioned below the transition  258 . 
     As defined herein, an attachment segment includes a layer of interlocking material, such as hook and loop fastener material, that is capable of being fastened (e.g. stitched, glued, molded) to a surface of the vest  200  (i.e. a surface of the first, second, or back panel  210 ,  220 ,  230 ) or the belt  1200 . A layer of interlocking material enabling a given panel on which it is fastened, to remain attached to another panel that includes a layer of interlocking material that positionally opposes the layer on the given panel. Alternatively, an attachment segment may be defined as a surface of the vest  200  or of the belt  1200  that is formed from (i.e. is itself a layer of) an interlocking material. 
     It will be understood that an interlocking material may include any type of material provided on or as a given surface that, with respect to another surface provided with the same material or different material, is capable of: (A) remaining attached to the other surface without the aid of external force; and (B) being repeatedly detached from and reattached to the other surface. As discussed herein, a same material includes materials having corresponding components, as in the case of hook and loop fastener material wherein a layer component for a given surface includes hooks, and an opposing layer component for another surface includes loops. 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 2A and 2B , the head  250  extends from the upper edge  234  to the transition  258  between the head  250  and the body  252 . The body  252  extends from the transition  258  to the lower end  208  of the vest  100 . Each of the head  250  and the body  252  encompass respective portions of the front region  202  and the back region  204  of the vest  200 . The transition  258  corresponds to lower ends  262   a ,  266   a  of the first and second arm access  262 ,  266 . At least two body grips  280  are attached to the exterior surfaces  210   a ,  220   a ,  230   a  of the vest  100  over the body  252 . Further, one body grip  280  is attached to the first panel  210  and the back panel  230  along the first side seam  254   a , and the other body grip  280  is attached to the second panel  210  and the back panel  230  along the second side seam  254   a . Thus, with the configuration illustrated in  FIGS. 2A and 2B , the respective attachments of the body grips  280  cross over the first side seam  254   a  and second side seam  254   b  and may reinforce respective attachments between the back panel  230  and the first panel  210  and the second panel  220 . 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 2A and 2B , the vest  200  is provided with two body grips  280  extending coaxially with respective side seams  254   a ,  254   b . It will be understood the vest  200  may include two or more body grips  280 , and the body grips  280  may be orientated at different angles. For example, one body grip  280  may be angled to have an end thereof attached to the second panel  220  of the vest  200  illustrated in  FIGS. 2A and 2B , and an opposite end thereof attached to the back panel  230 . Further, a given body grip  280  may be entirely attached to an area illustrated in  FIGS. 2A and 2B  that corresponds to a respective one of the first panel  210 , the second panel  220 , or the back panel  230 . This configuration is especially possible in the case where first panel  210  or the second panel  220  is formed as one piece with the back panel  230  at least in the area of, and therefore does not include, the first side seam  254   a  or the second side seam  254   b.    
     It will be understood that the number, placement, and orientation of one or more of the grips  218 ,  228 ,  236 ,  238 ,  280  may be customized to a given patient or caregiver in order to: optimize the comfort of the patient; allow the caregiver to achieve an optimal mechanical advantage given the caregiver&#39;s respective size and strength; and reduce the risk of injury to the patient and caregiver when, for example, the caregiver is transferring the patient from a bed, such as the bed  30  in  FIGS. 1A and 1B , to another location, bed, chair, wheelchair, piece of physical therapy equipment, etc. The flexibility in placements, sizes, and/or orientations of the grips  218 ,  228 ,  236 ,  238 ,  280  is enabled by the aspects of the vest compression system  100  that cause the vest  200  to remain substantially in place relative to a body of a patient when external forces are applied to the grips. 
       FIG. 3  illustrates a front elevation view of the vest  100  in a closed state, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. In particular, the vest  100  is shown in a flattened state to illustrate an entirety of the front region  202 . As illustrated in  FIG. 3 , the body  252  has a maximum width w B-max  (“max body width w B-max ”) that is measured: at the lower end  208  of the vest  200 ; from the first side seam  254   a  (or area of the vest  100  corresponding thereto) to the second side seam  254   b  (or area of the vest  100  corresponding thereto); and with the vest  200  in the flattened state. The max body width w B-max  also corresponding to a maximum width of the vest  200 . Further, the head  250  has a maximum width w H-max  (“max head width w H-max ”) measured at the transition  258  from the first side seam  254   a  (or area of the vest  100  corresponding thereto) to the second side seam  254   b  (or area of the vest  100  corresponding thereto). Further a length l B  of the body  252  (“body length l B ”) is measured from the transition  258  to the lower end  208  of the vest  200 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 3 , the vest  200  includes a vest closure  300  that is disposed within the front region  202 , and extends at least over a closure region  302 . A second longitudinal axis  304  of the closure  300  and closure region  302  may be offset from, and extend parallel to, the first longitudinal axis  206  as shown in  FIG. 3 . As further illustrated in  FIG. 3 , the closure  300  has a width w C  (“closure width w C ”) defined as a distance between a leading edge  306  and a trailing edge  308  thereof. The leading edge  306  and the trailing edge  308  correspond to the outer-most boundaries within a plane of a page of  FIG. 3 , where first and second front attachment segments  402 ,  412 , or portions thereof, may be positioned on the first panel  210  and the second panel  220  respectively, as discussed in more detail with reference to  FIG. 4 . 
     For any of the configurations of the closure  300  described herein, the closure width w C  is at least equal to the closure region width w CR ; and the closure region width w CR  is equal to at least one fourth (¼) of the max body width w B-max . The closure width w C  illustrated in  FIG. 3  is slightly greater than the closure region width w CR , and may be even greater according to aspects of the present disclosure. 
     The closure  300  may be configured to have a maximum length l C-max  (“max closure length l C-max ”) and a minimum length l C-min  (“minimum closure length l C-min ”). The closure  300  illustrated in  FIGS. 3 and 4  has a respective maximum length l C-max  measured from the lower end  208  to an initial attachment point  310  of the upper lip  268  to the first panel  210 ; and a respective minimum closure length l C-min  measured from the lower end  208  to a corner  312  of the first inner edge  214 . As illustrated in  FIG. 3 , both the max closure length l C-max  and the minimum closure length l C-min  is greater than a length l CR  of the closure region (“closure region length l CR ”). The closure region length l CR  is defined as a length of the closure region  302  extending along the second longitudinal axis  304 . Alternatively, the closure may have a flat upper edge and therefore only have a single closure length l C  (not shown) measured from the lower end  208  to the flat upper edge. For any of the configurations of the closure  300  described herein, the minimum closure length l C-min  or the single closure length l C  is at least equal to the closure region length l CR , which is at least equal to the body length l B . 
     A sub-area of the closure  300  between the initial attachment point  310 , the corner  312 , and the transition  258  defines a collar closure  320 . The collar closure  320  corresponds to an upper-most end of the closure  300  and is part of one exemplary configuration of the closure  300  that provides for first and second front attachment segments  402 ,  412  along every portion of the first inner edge  214  not including the upper lip  268 . The collar closure  320  ensures that when a vest  200  is worn by a patient, a portion of the first panel  210  closest to the patient&#39;s face remains firmly attached to the second panel  220  for the patient&#39;s comfort. In configurations of the vest  200  having a single closure length l C  equal to the body length l B  (and thus equal to the closure region length l CR ), the collar closure  320  is accordingly always incorporated. According to an aspect of the present disclosure, in configurations of the vest  200  having a minimum closure length l C-min  equal to or greater than the body length l B , or a single closure length l C  that is greater than the body length l B , the collar closure  320  may be provided as part of a configuration desired by a patient or a caregiver. 
     According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the first and second front attachment segments  402 ,  412  referred to above and discussed in more detail with reference to  FIG. 4 , may be attached to respective panels by segment stitching  350  illustrated in  FIG. 3 . The segment stitching  350  may be provided so as to pass through: (A) a given panel; and (B) an attachment segment in the form of a layer secured to the given panel. 
       FIG. 4  illustrates a front elevation view of the vest  100  in a first open state, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. In particular, the first panel  210  is shown as being flipped over so as to expose at least a portion of the first interior surface  210   b  that includes a first front attachment segment  402  of a first flap  400  of the first panel  210 . In  FIG. 4 , at least that portion of the second exterior surface  220   a  of the second panel  220  that is overlapped in  FIG. 3  by the first panel  210  is shown. Said portion including a second front attachment segment  412  of a second flap  410  of the second panel  220 . 
       FIG. 4  further illustrates segment stitching  350  that attaches the second back attachment segment  242  to the back panel  230 , and a third back attachment segment  420  that may be provided on or as part of the back interior surface  230   b  as shown in  FIG. 4 . According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the third back attachment segment  420  may be a layer type of attachment segment as discussed above, and attached to the back panel  230  by double segment stitching  450 . The double segment stitching  450  may be constituted by stitching or reinforcement stitching that extends through the third back attachment segment  420 , the back panel  230 , and the first back attachment segment  240  to securely bind the three layers together. 
     With further reference to  FIGS. 3 and 4 , the first flap  400  and the second flap  410  define the closure  300  of the vest  200 . More specifically, the first flap  400  and the second flap  410  include at least those portions of the first panel  210  and the second panel  220  disposed between the leading edge  306  and the trailing edge  308  illustrated in  FIG. 3 . A configuration of portions of the first front attachment segment(s)  402  configured to mirror and attach to portions of the second front attachment segment(s)  412  (or vice versa) in a closed state of the vest  200  defines an attachment configuration of the closure  300 . 
     According to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the first and second attachment segments  402 ,  412  may be provided such that a position(s) and configuration(s) of the first front attachment segment(s)  402  on, or as part of, the first interior surface  210   b  for the first flap  402 , may correspond (e.g. mirror, be matched) exactly to a position(s) and configuration(s) of the second front attachment segment(s)  412  on, or as part of, the second exterior  220   a  for the second flap  412  in the closed state of the vest  200 . For such a configuration, a value of an area of the attachment configuration is equal to an aggregate of all of the respective areas (single continuous or separate segments) of the first front attachment segment  402 , which is the same as an aggregate of all of the respective areas of the second front attachment segment(s)  412 . 
     According to another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the first and second attachment segments  402 ,  412  may be provided such that: a number of separate first front attachment segments  402  is fewer than a number of separate second front attachment segments  412  (or vice versa); or a single first front attachment segment  402  is smaller than a single second front attachment segment  412  (or vice versa). In such a configuration, the vest  200  may have multiple closed states for which: all of the separate first front attachment segments  402  are attached to some of the separate second front attachment segments  412 ; or an entirety of the single first front attachment segment  402  is attached to a portion of the single second front attachment segment  412 . As a result, a size of a person that the vest  200  can accommodate may be different for each of the multiple closed states. For these configurations, an area of the attachment configuration is defined as: an aggregate of respective areas of the separate attachment segments on the one of the first and second attachment segments  402 ,  412  having the lesser number of separate attachment segments; or an area of the smaller of the single first front attachment segment  402  and the single second front attachment segments  412 . 
     In  FIG. 4 , the closure region  302  and second longitudinal axis  304  are represented relative to each of the first flap  400  and the second flap  410 , for the purposes of explaining a relative total size of the area of the attachment configuration of the closure  300 . According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the first front attachment segment  402  may extend over an entirety of the first flap  400 , and the second front attachment segment  412  may span over an entirety of the second flap  410  as shown in  FIG. 4 . Thus, at least an entirety of the first interior surface  210   b  corresponding to the closure region  302  includes the first front attachment segment  402 . Likewise, at least an entirety of the second exterior surface  220   a  corresponding to the closure region  302  includes the second front attachment segment  412 . As a result, an area of the attachment configuration of the closure  300  illustrated in  FIG. 4  is greater than an area of the closure region  302 , and thus greater than a value of the body length l B  multiplied by one fourth (¼) of the max body width w B-max  (i.e., the area of the attachment configuration exceeds the value of (l B ×(¼)w B-max )). 
     As discussed above with respect to the vest  200  illustrated in  FIGS. 3 and 4 , the area of the attachment configuration provided by the first and second front attachment segments  402 ,  412  is greater than the area of the closure region  302  which is equal to: 
       ( l   B ×(¼) w   B-max ).
 
     According to an aspect of the present disclosure, for other configurations of the vest  200 , a value of the area of the attachment configuration of the closure  300  may be less than 100%, but is at least 66%, of a value of the area of the closure region  302 . Accordingly, the area of the attachment configuration is at least equal to: 
       (⅔)×( l   B ×(¼) w   B-max ).
 
     This minimum size of the area of the attachment configuration ensures that an implementation of the closure  300  results in the vest  200  remaining closed and stationary relative to a patient when any of the grips are utilized to lift, support, guide, catch, and/or move the patient. 
     According to an aspect of the present disclosure, to place the vest  200  on a patient, for example, the vest  200  is opened by detaching the first flap  400  from the second flap  410  (thereby opening the closure  300 ). More specifically, the first front attachment segment  402  is detached from the second front attachment segment  412 . Once positioned on the patient, the first panel  210  is positioned over (wrapped on to) the second panel  220  such that the first front attachment segment  402  is attached to the second front attachment segment  412 . In particular, the first panel  210  is preferably positioned so that the first front attachment segment  402  mirrors the second front attachment segment  412  and the attachment configuration of the closure  300  is fully implemented. Full implementation of the attachment arrangement ensures any potential movement of the vest  200  relative to a patient is substantially limited if not entirely prevented. 
     A continuous attachment configuration, for example as shown in  FIG. 4 , prevents the vest  200  from bunching up when grips  218 ,  228 ,  236 ,  238 ,  280  are being used as discussed herein. This may also be achieved with specific sizing and positioning of respective spaced apart segments of the first and second front attachment segments  402 ,  412 , so as to meet the minimum area requirement for the attachment configuration discussed herein. For example, with reference to the vest  200  illustrated in  FIGS. 3 and 4 , each of first and second front attachment segments  402 ,  412  of another exemplary attachment configuration according to the present disclosure may include separate attachment segments that are spaced apart along the second longitudinal axis  304 . More specifically, the separate attachment segments may be positioned at least in locations corresponding to top, middle, and bottom portions of the closure region  302 . Further, each of the separate attachment segments may extend perpendicular to the second longitudinal axis  304  continuously over an entire width of the closure region  302 . Thus, portions of the first and second front attachment segments  402 ,  412  may be provided at least at the lower end  208 , the transition  258 , and an in location there between. According to an aspect of the present disclosure, locations for portions of the first and second front attachment segments  402 ,  412  may be limited to being positioned within an area having a width equal to one fourth (¼) of the max body width w B-max . 
     With reference to  FIG. 3 , the second longitudinal axis  304  of the closure  300  and closure region  302  is offset from the first longitudinal axis  206  of the vest  200 . Thus, unlike a garment that opens and closes via a zipper or hook and loop fastening centered on the garment, the first flap  400  is wrapped or positioned past a center of the vest  200  to close the vest  200 . This is a result of a size (width) of the first panel  210  and provides a large area to grab a hold of when the vest  200  is being put on a patient. This larger area allows the patient or person putting vest  200  on the patient to obtain a firm grip of the first panel  210  and wrap the vest  200  tightly, and maximize a compressive effect of the vest  200 , on the patient. This in turn maximizes an ability of the vest  200  to remain stationary relative to the patient when the grips are used to lift, support, guide, catch, or move the patient. 
     It will be understood that a location where a garment is closed, especially a form-fitting garment, corresponds to a locus of force or pressure that is continuously applied on an individual wearing the garment. With the offset configuration of the closure  300  of the vest  200  according to the present disclosure, a primary area where the vest  200  is closed does not coincide with a center of the patient&#39;s chest and stomach, and is not disposed in a centered manner directly below the patient&#39;s neck. For many patients these areas may be more sensitive than other parts of the body, and the offset configuration of the closure  300  may be more comfortable than centered configurations because the locus of force or pressure that is continuously applied to a patient by the closure  300  is distanced from these areas. In addition, in the rare case where the vest  200  may not remain stationary relative to the patient, the positioning of the closure  300  ensures that the patient will not be at risk of an inflexible object, such as a zipper or a middle portion of a hook and loop fastening that may include a total of four material layers, being pushed against the patient&#39;s neck. 
     A resistance to opening due to a balance of forces is a further advantage of the exemplary offset configuration of the closure  300 . A location where a garment is closed, especially a form-fitting garment, also corresponds to a locus of force or pressure that is continuously applied on the garment by an individual wearing the garment. In a situation where a caregiver is supporting a patient&#39;s weight by holding on to, for example, opposite sides of the patient&#39;s garment, a direction (vector) of a force of patient&#39;s weight is likely to be aligned with and exerted in a direction corresponding to the center of the patient. Accordingly, the force of the patient&#39;s weight would be exerted directly on a centered closure, in addition to the continuous force already being exerted on the closure by the patient. According to the present disclosure, the closure  300  of the vest  200  is more proximate to where a force(s) may be applied to the second front grip  228  or closed body grip  280 , than a center of the vest  200 . Said force counteracts a force of a person&#39;s weight on the vest  200  that the closure  300  must be able to withstand for the vest  200  to remain closed. This, plus the condition of a force of the patient&#39;s weight being directly exerted on a location of the vest  200  that is offset from a substantial area of the closure  300  and offset from where the patient exerts a continuous force on the closure, reduces the force the closure  300  must withstand for the vest  200  to remain closed in comparison to a centered configuration. Thus, the offset configuration enhances an ability of the closure  300  to remain closed. 
     According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the closure  300  and accompanying closure region may be orientated such that the second longitudinal axis  304  intersects the first longitudinal axis  206 . In particular, a point of intersection may be at location corresponding to a bottom point of the collar  270  or a point along the lower end  208  of the vest. In such a configuration, the first inner edge  214  may be angled so that a portion thereof below the transition extends parallel to the second longitudinal axis  304  intersects. In such a configuration, the length of the closure region  302  for the purposes of providing an attachment configuration of the first and second front attachment segments  402 ,  412  according to the minimum area defined herein extends along the second longitudinal axis  304 . According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the vest  200  may include a front region that may be defined a continuous panel similar to the back panel  230  of the vest  200  illustrated in  FIGS. 2-4 , and a back region may be defined by a first panel and a second back that define a closure similar to the closure  300 . 
       FIG. 5  illustrates an enlarged portion of  FIG. 4 , identified as Detail  5 . According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the first and second front attachment segments  402 ,  412  are provided as layers fastened to the first and second panels  210 ,  220  as previously described. With further reference to  FIGS. 3-5 , the segment stitching  350  for the first panel  210  may be visible on the first exterior surface  210   a  as shown in  FIG. 3 , and substantially visible on the first front attachment segment  402  as shown in  FIG. 5 . A pattern of the segment stitching  350  used to secure the first front attachment segment  402  to the first interior surface  210   b , may follow the outer edges of the first front attachment segment  402 , as well as fully traverse a width of the first front attachment segment  402  at several locations along the second longitudinal axis  304 . 
       FIG. 6  illustrates an enlarged portion of  FIG. 4 , identified as Detail  6 . Similar to the first front attachment segment  402 , the second front attachment segment  412  is secured to the second exterior surface  220   a  by respective segment stitching  350  that follows along the outer edges, and in some locations fully traverses an entire width, of the second front attachment segment  410 . According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the segment stitching  350  may be substantially visible on the second front attachment segment  412  as it passes through both the second panel  220  and the second front attachment segment  412 . 
       FIG. 7  illustrates an elevation view of a front of the vest  200  in a second open state, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. In particular, the second panel  220  is shown as being flipped over so as to expose at least a portion of the second interior surface  220   b  that corresponds to the second flap  410 , and therefore corresponds to at least a portion of the second exterior surface  220   a  that includes the second front attachment segment  402 . As illustrated in  FIG. 7 , the segment stitching  350  for the second front attachment segment  412  may pass through and be visible on the second interior surface  220   b.    
     Patterns of the segment stitching  350  used to secure the first and second front attachment segments  402 ,  412  respectively to the first interior surface  210   b  and the second exterior surface  220   a  are illustrated in  FIGS. 3-7 . As discussed above, these patterns may follow the outer edges of a respective attachment segment as well as fully traverse a respective width thereof at several locations along the second longitudinal axis  304  as represented in  FIG. 4 . A pattern of the segment stitching  350  for the first front attachment segment  402  may substantially mirror the pattern for the segment stitching  350  for the second front attachment segment  412 . 
     However, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that other stitching patterns (e.g. outer edges plus crossing patterns, more lines extending along a length direction, crossing patterns along the length direction, etc.) may be utilized to ensure an integrity of the attachments between the first and second panels  210 ,  220  and the first and second front attachment segments  402 ,  412  is maintained through each of a multitude of uses of the vest  200 . Further, it will be understood that a pattern for the first front attachment segment  402  may be different than a pattern utilized to secure the second front attachment segment. According to an aspect of the present disclosure, other types of stitching or fastening arrangements that do not require a stitching or other fastening material to entirely pass through portions of the first or second panels  210 ,  220  and/or the first and second front attachment segments  410 ,  412 , may be utilized. 
       FIG. 8  illustrates an enlarged portion of  FIG. 3 , identified as Detail  8 . In particular, the first front grip  218  and respective grip attachments  800  are shown in  FIG. 8 . Each of the grips discussed herein includes at least two grip attachments  800  of the type illustrated in  FIGS. 8 and 9 , and a grip body  802  extending between the grip attachments. Each grip attachment  800  includes an end  800   a  of a respective grip (“grip end  800   a ”), in this case first front grip  218 , and grip stitching  800   b . As illustrated in  FIG. 8 , an upper grip end  800   a  of the first front grip  218  is attached to the first exterior surface  210   a  in a position below the first upper edge  216  and between the first outer edge  212  inside of the first outer lip  260  and the first inner edge  214  inside of the upper lip  268 . A lower grip end  800   a  may be attached to the first exterior surface  210   a  at, above, or below the transition  258 . 
     The grip stitching  800   b  may be different from the segment stitching  350  in that the grip stitching  800   b  encompasses one or more types of reinforcement stitching (e.g., backstitching, bartacking, triple stitching), such that there may be more stitches per inch than that of the segment stitching  350 . The increased stitches per inch provides a more secure attachment between, in this case, the first front grip  218  and the vest  200 , because the greatest magnitude of force will be applied to the grips during a usage of the compression vest system  100  in, for example, the implementation illustrated in  FIG. 1B . Accordingly, locations where the grips are attached to the vest  200  or the belt  1200  will be subject to more strain and could become potential points of failure, and therefore must be secured to a heightened degree. 
     It will be understood that the segment stitching  350  may also constitute reinforcement stitching. However, whereas a level of securement (strength of attachment) provided by this type of stitching may correspond to a maximum attachment strength for an attachment segment, it is a minimum threshold for attachment strength associated with a grip according the present disclosure. More generally, each grip of the compression vest system  100  will be attached to a respective component of the system (vest  200 , belt  1200 ) by a stitching that provides at least the same level of securement as provided by reinforcement stitching. 
     In addition to the grip attachments  800 , each of the grips discussed herein may have a grip body  802  that is separated from a surface of the vest over which it traverses and defines a component of the grip that may be grasped by a patient or caregiver. 
       FIG. 9  illustrates an enlarged portion of  FIG. 4 , identified as Detail  9 . More specifically,  FIG. 9  illustrates the grip stitching  800   b  for one of the first back grips  236 . The grip stitching  800   b  as provided on the back interior surface  230   b  is the result of providing reinforcement stitching that passes through a respective grip end  800   a  and a respective one of the first, second, or back panel  210 ,  220 ,  230 . As illustrated in  FIG. 9 , the grip stitching  800   b  passes through the back panel  230  and is patterned on to the back interior surface  230   b.    
       FIG. 10  illustrates an enlarged portion of  FIG. 4 , identified as Detail  10 . In particular, the second front grip  228  and respective grip attachments  800  are shown in  FIG. 10 . The second front grip  228  has substantially the same construction as the first front  218 . Like the first front grip  218 , the grip ends  800   a  of the second front grip  228  are attached to the second exterior surface  220   b  by grip stitching  800   b . More specifically, an upper grip end  800   a  of the second front grip  228  is attached by grip stitching  800   b  to the second exterior surface  220   a  in a position below the second upper edge  226  and between the second outer edge  222  inside of the second outer lip  264  and the second inner edge  224  inside of the upper lip  268 . 
     A difference between the first front grip  218  and the second front grip  228  is that for a given configuration of the closure  300 , the second front attachment segment  412  may extend above the transition  258 , and a lower grip end  800   a  of the second front grip  228  may be attached to the first exterior surface  210   a  at or below the transition  258 . Thus, the lower grip end  800  of the second front grip  228  may be covered by the second front attachment segment  412 . A portion of the second front attachment segment  228  covering the lower grip attachment  800  is cut away in  FIG. 10  so that the lower grip attachment  800  is visible. As a result, a portion of an upper edge of the second front attachment segment  228  (where the second front attachment segment  412  is provided as a layer) may be attached to the second front grip  228  via segment stitching  350 , or to the second panel  220  and the second front grip  228  via double segment stitching  450 . Alternatively, the second front attachment segment  412  may have a cutout section to accommodate the lower grip end  800   a  of the second front grip  228 , and the lower grip end  800   a  may include a respective attachment segment secured thereto or formed as a part thereof. 
       FIG. 11  illustrates an elevation view of the back region  204  of the vest  200 , according to an aspect of the present disclosure. In particular,  FIG. 11  illustrates the back region  204  with the vest  200  in a flattened state and thereby illustrates the relative sizes of the first and second back attachment segments  240 ,  242 . According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the first back attachment segment  240  may extend for over half of the max body width w B-max  and the second back attachment segment  242  may traverse a substantial entirety of a width the vest  200  between the body grips  280  where it is provided. Each of the first and second back attachment segments  240 ,  242  may be provided as rectangular in shape. However, it will be understood that the first and second back attachment segments  240 ,  242  may be provided in other shapes and sizes.  FIG. 11  further illustrates the double segment stitching  450  that attaches the first back attachment segment  240  and the third back attachment segment  420  ( FIG. 4 ) to the back panel  230 . 
       FIG. 12A  illustrates an elevation view of an interior surface  1200   b  of the belt  1200  of the compression vest system  100  in a passive state, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. The belt  1200  includes two belt flanks  1202  that extend from opposite sides of a middle portion  1204  of the belt. A first belt attachment segment  1206  may be provided on a far end of one belt flank  1202 , and may be fastened to the belt  1200  via double segment stitching  450 . A second belt attachment segment  1208  may be provided over the middle portion  1204  of the belt  1200 , and thus between the belt flanks  1202 . The second belt attachment segment  1208  may be fastened to the belt  1200  by both segment stitching  350  and double segment stitching  450 . The second belt attachment segment  1208  is configured to detachably attach to at least the first back attachment segment  240 . Accordingly, a shape and size of the second belt attachment segment  1208  may substantially correspond to a shape and size of the first back attachment segment  240 . According to another aspect of the present disclosure the first back attachment segment  240  may be larger than the second belt attachment segment  1208  so as to promote the belt  1200  remaining on, and stationary relative to, the vest  200 . 
       FIG. 12B  illustrates an elevation view of an exterior surface  1200   a  of the belt  1200  of the compression system  100  in a passive state, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. Third back attachment segments  1210  may be fastened to the belt flanks  1202  of the belt  1200  by segment stitching  350 , with the exception of a portion of one of the third back attachment segments  1210  that corresponds to the first belt attachment segment  1202  where double segment stitching  450  may be incorporated. The belt  1200  further includes a reinforcement segment  1212  provided in a central area of the middle portion  1204  of the belt  1200 . At least one belt grip  1220  may be attached to the belt exterior surface  1200   a  on each side of the middle portion  1204  via respective grip attachments  800 . Similar to grips provided on the vest  200 , the grip attachments  800  include grip ends  800   a  attached to the belt exterior surface  1200   a  by grip stitching  800   b  that may be visible on the belt interior surface ( FIG. 12B ). 
     The reinforcement segment  1212  covers, and may provide attachment points for, one or more elastic tension bands  1230 . Each elastic tension bands  1230  includes a band body  1230   a  and a band end  1230   b  extending from the band body  1230   a . An attachment segment  1230   c  (hereafter referred to as “band attachment segment  1230   c ”) may be attached to the band end  1230   b  by reinforcement-type stitching  1230   d  (hereafter referred to as “band stitching  1230   d ”) similar to reinforcement stitching of the grip stitching  800   b.    
       FIGS. 12A and 12B  illustrate the belt  1200  in the passive state that results from the attachment segments  1230   c  being detached from the third belt attachment segments  1210 . In use, the band ends  1230   b  may be passed through spaces between respective belt grips  1220  and the exterior surface  1200   a , and the band attachment segments  1230   c  may be attached to respective third belt attachment segments  1210 . If both elastic tension bands  1230  are not extended beyond respective normal state lengths prior to attachment to the third belt attachment segments  1210 , the belt  1200  will remain in the passive state. 
       FIG. 12C  illustrates an elevation view of the exterior belt surface  1200   a  of the belt  1200  of the compression system  100  in an active state, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. In particular, both elastic tension bands  1230  are extended beyond respective normal state lengths and attached to respective third belt attachment segments  1210 . In  FIG. 12C , the belt  1200  is not attached to the vest  200  and the elastic tension bands  1230  cause portions of the belt  1200  between the reinforcement band  1210  and the third belt attachment segments  1210  to recoil. However, if the belt  1200  is attached to the vest  200  via the second belt attachment segment  1208 , and one of the first or second back attachment segments  240 ,  242 , the portions of the belt  1200  including the second belt attachment segments  1208  will remain stationary due to the attachment with the first or second back attachment segment  240 ,  242 . Thus, a portion of the belt  1200  capable of recoiling is limited to intermediate portion  1250  between outer edges of the second belt attachment segments  1208  and locations where the band ends  1230   b  are attached to respective third belt attachment segments  1210 . 
     In either situation where the elastic tension bands  1230  are in a tensile state, and the belt  1200  is thus in an active state, ends of the elastic tension bands  1230  attached to the belt  1200  are in a state of tension. In a situation where the compression vest system  100  is used by a patient that has extended the elastic tension bands  1230  to a maximum length, substantial tensile forces will be exerted on attachment points between the elastic tension bands  1230  and the belt  1200 . As such, double segment stitching  450  may be incorporated to attach a center of the reinforcement strip  1210 , ends of the elastic tension bands  1230 , and a center of the second belt attachment segment  1204  to the belt interior and exterior surfaces  1200   a ,  1200   b . In addition, edges of the reinforcement band  1210  and corresponding portions of the elastic tension bands  1230  and the second belt attachment segment  1204  may be secured to the belt  1200  with double segment stitching  450  as illustrated in  FIGS. 12A-C . Reinforcement type stitching may also be used in order to maintain the integrity of the construction of the belt  1200 , especially in locations where the elastic tension bands  1230  are attached thereto. 
       FIGS. 13A and 13B  illustrate front and rear perspective views of the compression vest system  100 , according to an aspect of the present disclosure. In the use and configuration illustrated in  FIGS. 13A and 13B : (1) the first panel  210  is attached to the second panel  220  via the closure  300 ; (2) the belt  1200  is attached to the vest  200  via the second belt attachment segment  1208  and the second back attachment segments  242 ; and (3) the belt flanks  1202  are wrapped around a torso of the patient  20  such that the first belt attachment segment  1206  (not shown) is attached to the third belt attachment segment  1210  of an opposite the belt flank  1202 . In addition, the elastic tension bands  1230  have been attached to the belt flanks  1202  so as to be in a state of tension. 
     One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the first panel  210  may be attached to the second panel  220  so that the first, second, and back panels  210 ,  220 ,  230  tightly wrapped around the torso of the patient  20 . As a result, the body  252  of the vest  200  will exert primary compressive forces  1300  on the torso of the patient  20 . Adding the belt  1200  so as to be tightly or form-fittingly (with respect to a form of the patient  20 ) wrapped around the vest  200  worn by the patient  20  will result in second compressive forces  1302  exerted on the torso of the patient  20 , particularly in an area of a waist of the patient  20 . Extending the elastic tension bands  1230  beyond normal state lengths and attaching them to the third belt attachment segments  1210  increases the second compressive forces  1302  exerted on the patient  20 . 
     The first and second compressive forces  1300 ,  1302  counter act forces applied to the compression system  100  resulting from any of the first and second front, first and second back, body, and belt grips  218 ,  228 ,  236 ,  238 ,  280 ,  1220  being pulled or pushed in any direction. As a result, the first and second compressive forces  1300 ,  1302  act to resist and eliminate, or at least substantially minimize a vertical displacement  1310 , a rotational displacement  1320 , and a front to back displacement  1330  of the vest  200  and the belt  1200  of the compression vest system  100  relative to the patient  20 . More generally, the compression vest system  100  is fitted and applied to the patient  20  so as not to have components or portions thereof shift on the patient  20  when, for example, a caregiver such as the caregiver  20  illustrated in  FIG. 1B , grasps and pulls the first front grip  218  and one of the body grips  280  to aid, guide, and support a movement of the patient  20 . 
     The belt  1200  shown in  FIGS. 13A and 13B  may be utilized as discussed above. In instances where a patient is significantly large, it may be advantageous to attach a second belt  1200  on the vest  200 . According to an aspect the present disclosure, the second back attachment segment  242  may be used for an attachment and application of a second belt  1200  with the vest  200 . 
       FIG. 13C  illustrates a front perspective view of the compression vest system  100 , and sagittal, coronal, and transverse body planes  1340 ,  1360 ,  1380 . The body planes illustrated are well known in the art as reference planes that may be used to characterize and analyze spinal curvature (posture) and movement of an individual. In  FIG. 13C , the sagittal plane  1340  is disposed at the midline (median) and divides a body of the patient  20  into left and right parts that are equal. Accordingly, the sagittal plane  1340  illustrated is the median sagittal plane. In general, a sagittal body plane divides a body into right and left parts, which may be unequal where the plane analyzed is offset from the midline of the body. Where an analyzed sagittal plane is offset to the left or right from the midline, but closer to the midline than an outer edge of the plane (i.e., side of a body in question), it is considered a medial plane. Conversely, where the analyzed plane is closer to the edge of the plane than the midline it is considered a lateral plane. The coronal plane  1360  divides the body into anterior (front or ventral) and posterior (back or dorsal) parts. Finally, the transverse plane  1380  runs horizontally and divides the body into superior (upper/top) and inferior (lower) parts. 
     Anatomically, a trunk (or torso) for an individual includes their chest, abdomen, and back (including the spine). Trunk control refers an individual&#39;s ability to hold their torso upright, and control movement to and from that upright position. Thus, trunk control corresponds to an ability to control the movement of one&#39;s torso within the sagittal and coronal planes  1340 ,  1360 . More particularly, trunk control can be described as an ability to hold a center of one&#39;s trunk coincident with a line of intersection between the coronal plane  1360  and the median sagittal plane (sagittal plane  1340  in  FIG. 13C ). 
     Posture refers to the natural curves—cervical, thoracic, and lumbar—present in an individual&#39;s spine. An individual&#39;s posture is a reflection of the respective state of strength and flexibility in that individual&#39;s muscles and joints associated with their spine, hip, and legs. Alignment refers to how the head, shoulders, spine, hips, knees and ankles relate and line up with each other. As one of ordinary skill would readily understand, hip, knee, and ankle joints balance the natural curves of an individual&#39;s spine as the individual moves. Proper alignment of the body may reduce stress on the spine and help an individual maintain beneficial posture. Concurrently, an upright posture enables an individual to more easily maintain proper alignment. 
     When proper alignment and beneficial posture is achieved, improved muscle function may result, because muscles have to do less work, or work together more efficiently, to accomplish given movements. A holistic effect of reduced stress on muscles during normal movements may contribute to better optimizing motor control of muscles being used, and autonomic functioning of an individual&#39;s nervous system. A more specific benefit with respect to the muscles and joints associated with the spine, hip, and legs, is improved trunk control. Conversely, issues related to the spine giving rise to poor posture and alignment inhibit an individual&#39;s ability to exercise trunk control. 
     The first compressive forces  1300  applied by the vest  200  supplement a core strength of the patient  20  and increase the patient&#39;s ability to exercise trunk control. More specifically, by applying the first compressive forces  1300  (with or without the belt  1200 ), the vest  200  limits movement of a spine of the patient  20  in the sagittal plane  1340  and the coronal plane  1360 . Thus, in straightening the spine of the patient  20 , the vest  200  by itself, provides general spinal support and stability within two of the three body planes, and can promote improved posture. In addition, alignment between trunk and hips of the patient  20  may be improved. This may allow certain muscle groups in the legs and hips of the patient to work together at the same time, and thereby improve overall muscle function. For example, where the trunk and hips are in alignment, muscles in the hips and legs can fire together at the same time as the patient  20  moves from a sitting to a standing position. This lessens the burden on the muscles around the spine to maintain the trunk from shifting to the left or to right of the sagittal plane  1340 . 
     As the second compressive forces  1302  are directed radially inward similar to the first compressive forces  1300 , adding the belt  1200  enhances the spinal support and stability provided by the vest  200  within, and relative to the intersection of, the sagittal and coronal planes  1340 ,  1360 . More significantly, where the belt  1200  is attached to first back attachment segment  240 , the second compressive forces  1302  are applied in a lumbar region of the spine of the patient  200 . This has the effect of locking a trunk and hips of the patient  20  relative to each other and the transverse plane  1380 . With the trunk and hips locked in place in proper (or at least improved) spatial alignment relative to the transverse plane  1380 , movement and motor control of the muscles in the hips and lower back occur in a natural (or least less inhibited) manner for an individual for which movements involving these muscles are problematic. 
     Another benefit of the compression vest system  100  is that continued use may result in strengthening and, in effect, retraining of muscles in the trunk, hips, and legs involved in the movements for which functions of those muscles are improved by the system  100 . Further, as the compression vest system  100  causes a trunk of a sitting individual to be in an upright position, the muscles around the individual&#39;s spine responsible for holding the torso in the upright position will be active to some degree and thereby passively strengthened. Accordingly, even a person wearing compression vest system  100  may be inactive, muscles associated with the spine may be passively strengthened resulting in improved spinal stability and trunk control. To this point, the compression vest system  100  can assist with active core isometrics and passive strengthening, while at the same time, assist with increasing a spine angle and posture to be more upright. This in turn can help with motor control, posture, and body alignment, which play important roles in breathing, speech, eating, and swallowing, among other important functions of the body. 
       FIG. 14  illustrates a side elevation view of the vest  100 , according to an aspect of the present disclosure. In particular,  FIG. 14  illustrates a front view of the second side seam  254   b  where the second outer edge  222  and corresponding back outer edge  232  are attached, as well as the first side seam  254   a  from and interior perspective of the vest  200 . The second upper seam  256   b  where the second upper edge  226  and corresponding peripheral back upper edge  234   b  are attached is also shown. Stitching for the first and second side seams  254   a ,  254   b  and the first and second upper seam  256   a ,  256   b  may include reinforced or other types of stitching. As illustrated in  FIG. 14 , the body grip  280  attached to the vest  200  over the second side seam  254   a  includes grip ends  800   a  attached by grip stitching  800   b  to both the second panel  220  and the back panel  230 . However, other grip attachment configurations as discussed above may be implemented. 
       FIG. 15A  illustrates a side elevation view of a vest  1500  in a closed state, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. The vest  1500  includes an alternative configuration for an attachment between a second panel  1520  and a back panel  1530 . Said configuration includes a side closure  1550  defined by a side flap  1560  of the second panel  1520  and a back flap  1570  of the back panel  1530 . The back flap  1560  is configured to overlap and attach to the side flap  1560 . It will be understood that an attachment between a first panel  1510  and the back panel  1530  may be the same as the attachment with the second panel  1520  or any of the other configurations described herein. 
       FIG. 15B  illustrates a side elevation view of the vest  1500  in an open state, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. More specifically,  FIG. 15B  illustrates the vest  1500  having a closure  1502  between the first panel  1510  and second panel  1520  being closed, and the side closure  1550  being open. As shown, the side flap  1560  includes a second outer edge  1522  and a side panel attachment segment  1562  provided on or as part of a second exterior surface  1520   a  of the second panel  1520 . The back flap  1570  includes a back outer edge  1532  and a back side attachment segment  1572  attached to at least a portion of a back interior surface  1530   b  that overlaps the side panel attachment segment  1562  in a closed state. The side panel attachment segment  1562  and the back side attachment segment  1572  may each extend from a lower end  1508  of the vest  1500  to a lower end of an arm access as illustrated in  FIG. 15B . 
     In the configuration illustrated in  FIGS. 15A and 15B , a body grip  1580  is provided as being entirely attached to a location on the second panel  1520  so at to be adjacent to the back outer edge  1532  when the side closure  1550  is closed. The positioning of the body grip  1590  is advantageous since the back panel  1530  overlaps the second side panel  1520  for the side closure  1560 . Thus, when the body grip  1590  is pulled, a force applied thereto will act to move an overlapped panel (i.e. the second panel  1520 ) toward an overlapping panel (i.e. the back panel  1530 ). Accordingly, an attachment between the side panel attachment segment  1562  and the back panel attachment segment  1572  is likely to be enhanced or undisturbed. It will be understood that other configurations may be implemented in which the second panel  1520  overlaps the back panel  1530 , and the body grip  1580  is attached to the back panel  1530 . 
       FIG. 16  illustrates a side elevation view of a vest  1600  in a closed state, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. The vest  1600  includes an alternative configuration for an attachment between a second panel  1620  and a back panel  1630  that includes a closure  1650  in the form of a zippered closure. The closure  1650  includes teeth  1650   a  provided on each of a second outer edge  1622  and a back outer edge  1632 , and a zipper slider  1650   b . A body grip  1680  is attached to the second side panel  1620  adjacent to the second outer edge  1622 , but may be attached to the back panel  1630  adjacent to the back outer edge  1632 . Alternatively, each of the second panel  1620  and the back panel  1630  may include a respective body grip  1680  in a respective position discussed above. 
     The side closure  1550  or the side closure  1650  are particularly advantageous for positioning the vests  1500 ,  1600  on patients that do not have use of their arms, have had stroke, or suffer from ALS or cerebral palsy. In these situations, a caregiver can open the side closures ( 1550  or  1650 ) and place the vest ( 1500  or  1600 ) on a patient with little or no help from the patient. 
       FIGS. 17 and 18  illustrate a compression vest and a compression belt  1200  according to an aspect of the present disclosure.  FIGS. 19A and 19B  illustrate overhead views of a cloak  1902  according to the present disclosure. Together,  FIGS. 17, 18, and 19A  (or  19 B) illustrate a component view of an integrated compression vest system  1900 , according to aspect of the present disclosure. The integrated compression vest system  1900  includes the vest  200 , or any of the vests described herein, the belt  1200 , and a cloak  1902 . The cloak  1902  includes a first end  1904  and a second end  1906 . A first surface  1902   a  of the cloak  1902  is illustrated in  FIG. 19A , and includes a first cloak attachment segment  1908  attached or formed on the first end  1904  of the cloak  1902 . In addition, cloak grips  1912  are attached to the first surface  1902   a  along outer edges of the cloak  1902  via respective grip attachments  800 . Further, intermediate attachment segments  1914  may be provided along a center of the cloak  1902  as illustrated in  FIG. 19A . 
       FIG. 19B  illustrates an overhead view of a second surface  1902   b  of the cloak  1902 , according to aspect of the present disclosure. A second cloak attachment segment  1916  is provided on the second cloak surface  1902   b  at the first end  1904 , and at least one intermediate attachment segment  1914  may be provided at the second end  1906  of the cloak  1902 . As shown in  FIG. 18 , grip stitching  800   b  extend through and may be visible on the second cloak surface  1902   b.    
     The first and second cloak attachment segments  1908 ,  1916  may be configured to attach to: (1) the first and/or second back attachment segments  240 ,  242  of the vest  200 ; and (2) the second belt attachment segment  1208 . The cloak  1902  may be formed from the same or different material (fabric) as the panels  210 ,  220 ,  230  of the vest  200 . Accordingly, even though the cloak  1902  is illustrated in a flat state in  FIGS. 19A and 19B , the cloak  1902  is flexible and can be rolled or folded into a compact arrangement. In addition, the intermediate attachment segments  1914  may include at least one attachment segment positioned on each of the first and second cloak surfaces  1902   a ,  1902   b  so as to overlap and attach to one another when the cloak  1902  is rolled or folded into the compact arrangement, and thereby maintain the cloak  1902  in the compact arrangement. At least one intermediate attachment segment  1914  may be positioned so as to be exposed in the compact arrangement such that it may be used to attach the cloak  1902  to, and be carried by, the vest  200  and/or belt  1200  being worn by a patient or carried by a caregiver. 
       FIG. 20  illustrates an implementation of the integrated compression vest system  1900 , according to an aspect of the present disclosure. As in the illustrated implementation, the cloak  1902  may be used for a transport of an individual  1900  that may be immobile. In the particular use of the integrated compression vest system  1900  illustrated in  FIGS. 17-19B : (1) the first cloak attachment segment  1908  is attached to the second back attachment segment  242  (see  FIG. 17 ) of the vest  200  worn by the individual  1900 ; (2) the second belt attachment segment  1208  is attached to the second cloak attachment segments  1916  (See  FIG. 18 ); (3) the belt flanks  1204  are wrapped around the individual  1900 ; and (4) the elastic tension bands  1230  are stretched past normal state lengths and attached to respective third belt attachment segments  1210 . Further with respect to the implementation illustrated in  FIG. 18 : (5) first compressive forces are applied to the individual  1900  by the vest  200 ; (6) the cloak  1902  is securely attached to the vest  200  via the first cloak attachment segment  1908  being attached to the second back attachment segment  242 , and second compressive force  1302  applied by the belt  1200  to the cloak  1902 , the vest  200 , and the individual  1900 ; and (7) the belt  1200  is securely attached to the cloak  1902  as a result of the second cloak attachment segment  1916  being attached to the second belt attachment segment  1208 , and the second compressive forces  1302  applied to the cloak  1902  by the belt  1200 . Accordingly, in this configuration the cloak  1902  is securely attached to the individual  1900 , and with the exception of portions of the cloak  1902  not attached to the vest  200  and the belt  1200  (e.g. portions of the cloak  1902  supporting legs of the individual and having accessible cloak grips  1912 ), the integrated compression vest system  1900  is configured to remain stationary relative to the individual if external forces are applied to grips  1912  thereof. As such, the front and or back grips  218 ,  228 ,  236 ,  238  on the vest  200 , the belt grips  1220 , and the cloak grips  1912  may be used (e.g. grabbed, pulled) by a plurality of caregivers to safely lift and carry the individual  2000  similar to a manner in which a stretcher or litter could be used. 
     According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the first and second cloak attachment segments  1908 ,  1916  may be provided at a center of the cloak  1902  equidistant from the first cloak end  1904  and the second cloak  1906 . Further, cloak grips  1912  may be provided at each of the first cloak end  1904  and the second cloak  1906  such that when the cloak  1902  is attached to the vest  200  being worn by a smaller individual, such as a child, the cloak  1902  extends past a head and legs of the individual. As a result, the cloak  1902  may be used to support the head and legs of the individual where the integrated compression vest system  1900  is used to lift and carry the smaller individual. It will be understood that the cloak may be also be provided in different lengths, and a cloak of a particular size may be selected according to a size of an individual to be supported by the integrated compression vest system  1900 . 
     Additional advantages of the compression vest system  100  described herein are provided by the multiple grips and attachment segments that are accessible from an exterior of the vest ( 200 ,  1500 ,  1600 ) and the belt  1200 . For example, neck braces, back splits, and heat or cool packs may be attached to the back attachment segments  240 ,  242 ,  420 , or positioned in pockets provided on the interior or exterior surfaces of the vest  200 . A multitude of the grips may have rings, such as carabiner clips or D-rings, placed thereon; the rings being capable of being engaged by hooks at the end of an extension of a crane or hoist so that a patient can be hoisted from one location, like a building experiencing an emergency (e.g. fire), to a safe location. Another example of an application of the grips and rings being the transport of an individual from a ship or building via helicopter having a cable(s) attached to the rings attached to the grips on the vest  200 . The grips, and specifically the grip attachments described herein  800 , being capable of fully supporting the weight of a patient. 
       FIGS. 21A and 21B  illustrate front and rear perspective views of a compression and lower spinal support vest system  2100  (“compression vest system  2100 ”) including the compression vest  200  (“vest  200 ”) and a spinal supportive compression belt  2150  (“belt  2150 ”). 
     The vest includes a first panel  210  and a second panel  220 ; both extending from a back panel  230  that defines a back region. Both of the first and second panels  210 ,  230  may be respectively attached directly to the back panel via a seam, zippered closure, or hook and loop inter-engagement. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the first panel  210  and/or the second panel  220  may be formed as one piece with the back panel  230 . The first, second, and back panels  210 ,  220 ,  230  may be formed from the same material or different materials. 
     According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the first, second, and back panels  210 ,  220 ,  230  may be formed from a fabric material such as canvas or nylon. In one example, one or more, or all of the panels  210 ,  220 ,  230  may be formed from a material having some degree of water resistance and/or fire retardance, such as a fabric having a fiber thickness of 600 denier (d),  900   d ,  1000   d , or higher to be suitable for an environment in which the compression vest system  2100  will be used. In addition, portions of interior and exterior surfaces of the vest  200  may be lined with cotton or fleece material to provide added comfort to a patient wearing or a caregiver touching the vest  200 . Further, portions of the first, second, and back panels  210 ,  220 ,  230  may be formed from elastic material. 
     A closure  300  between the first panel  210  and the second panel  220  is provided by an engagement between an interior surface of the first panel  210  and an exterior surface of the second  220 . Accordingly, in a closed state as illustrated in  FIG. 21A , the first panel  210  wraps around the patient  20  to overlap the second panel  220 . One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the first panel  210  may be attached to the second panel  220  so that the first, second, and back panels  210 ,  220 ,  230  tightly wrapped around a torso of the patient  20 . As a result, the body of the vest  200  will exert primary compressive forces  1300  (“vest compressive force  1300 ”) radially on the torso of the patient  20 . In particular, the first compressive forces  1300  may be applied over an area of the patient&#39;s body that corresponds to lower cervical, thoracic, and upper lumbar regions of the patent&#39;s spine. Thus, independent of the below described compressive forces applied to the patient by the belt  2150 , the vest  200  can apply the first compressive force  1300  to the body (torso) of the patient  20  as a function of the closure  300 . The first compressive force  1300 , especially in combination with the belt  2150 , can prevent the vest  200  from shifting relative to the patient  20  when external forces are applied to grips such as a first grip  218 , a body grip  280 , front grips  228 , first back grips  236 , and/or second back grips  238 . 
     The incorporated grips,  218 ,  228 ,  236 ,  238 ,  280  are substantially inelastic and rigidly attached to a garment (vest  200 ) that remains stationary relative to the patient  20 . As a result, a caregiver, irrespective of a size relative to the patient  20 , can, especially when the vest  200  is combined with the belt  2150  which also includes belt grips  2180 , select a combination of grips to use that: (A) will maximize a degree of leverage the caregiver is capable of comfortably and safely implementing relative to the patient  20  to aid a movement thereof; and (B) can be relied on to provide a constant grip and minimize a risk of having to re-grip, or dropping the patient  20 . As defined herein a patient may be any individual requiring assistance to move in any manner, and a caregiver may be any individual attempting to aid the patient and need not be a medical professional such as a doctor, nurse, or physical therapist. 
     The vest  200  can be combined with the belt  2150  through an engagement between one of a first back attachment segment  240  and a second back attachment segment  242 , and a corresponding central belt attachment segment  2162  described in more detail below. In another example, the belt may be sewn on, or otherwise permanently attached, to the back panel  230  of the vest  200 . 
     As defined herein, an attachment segment includes a layer of interlocking material, such as hook and loop fastener material, that is capable of being fastened (e.g. stitched, glued, molded) to a surface of the vest  200  (i.e. a surface of the first, second, or back panel  210 ,  220 ,  230 ) or the belt  2150 . A layer of interlocking material enabling a given panel on which it is fastened, to remain attached to another panel that includes a layer of interlocking material that positionally opposes the layer on the given panel. Alternatively, an attachment segment may be defined as a surface of the vest  200  or of the belt  2150  that is formed from (i.e. is itself a layer of) an interlocking material. 
     It will be understood that an interlocking material may include any type of material provided on or as a given surface that, with respect to another surface provided with the same material or different material, is capable of: (A) remaining attached to the other surface without the aid of external force; and (B) being repeatedly detached from and reattached to the other surface. As discussed herein, a same material includes materials having corresponding components, as in the case of hook and loop fastener material wherein a layer component for a given surface includes hooks, and an opposing layer component for another surface includes loops. 
       FIGS. 21A and 21B  further illustrate perspective views of an interior  2152  and an exterior  2154  of the belt  2150  (“belt interior  2152 ”), according to an aspect of the present disclosure. As illustrated in  FIG. 21A , the belt  2150  includes a first belt flank  2156  (“first flank  2156 ) and a second belt flank  2158  (“second flank  2158 ”) that extend from opposite sides of a central strip  2155  of the belt  2152 . An interior attachment segment  2126  may be provided on a far end of the second flank  2158 , and may be fastened to the belt  2150  via double segment stitching. 
     Defined by and between ends of the central strip  2155 , is a segmented pouch  2160  that includes a central belt attachment segment  2162 . The central belt attachment segment  2162  may be fastened to the belt  2150  by both segment stitching and double segment stitching and be configured to detachably attach to at least the first back attachment segment  240 . The central belt attachment segment  2162  can define a surface of the segmented pouch  2160  as well as a portion of a surface of the interior  2152  that spans substantially over a longitudinal length of the central strip  2155 . In another example, the central belt attachment segment  2162  can define more or less than an entire surface of the segmented pouch  2160  so as to substantially correspond to a shape and size of the first back attachment segment  240 . In another example, the central belt attachment segment  2162  may be shorter than the first back attachment segment  240  so as to promote the belt  2150  remaining on, and stationary relative to, the vest  200 . 
     The segmented pouch  2160  may include one or more pockets  2164  constructed of a first pocket layer  2166 A and second pocket layer  2166 B (See  FIG. 21B ) (“layers  2166 ”) that extend between vertical stitching  2168  (See  FIG. 21B ). A stay  2170  is provide between the layers  2166  for each pocket  2164  of the segmented pouch  2160 . In practice, the stays  2170  will be positioned between an exterior  2154  of the belt  2150  and the back panel  230  of the vest  200 . 
     As defined herein, a stay may be a rigid or semi-rigid type of panel, layer, board, or slat. In one example, a stay may be provided by a flat piece of hard material such as a lightweight metal (e.g., titanium, aluminum, etc.), or a thermoplastic material such as a polycarbonate (e.g, Lexan). In other examples, a stay may be provided by a strip of semi-flexible plastic having a degree of elasticity suitable for the spinal support needs of a particular patient. In another example, a stay may be formed with a degree of curvature suited for a location of a patient&#39;s body the stay is configured to support. In yet another example, a stay may be substantially flat along its edges and define a concave profile along a longitudinal length on or both sides. In still another example, a stay may be provided in a shape of a rectangular box having rounded corners and/or beveled edges at least along its width. 
     In one example, the central strip  2155  extends between zippers  2184 . A tape and chain of each zipper  2184  respectively closest to the segmented pouch  2160  defines an outer edge of the central strip  2155 . Concurrently, a tape and chain of each zipper  2184  not defining an outer edge of the central strip  2155 , defines an inner edge of a respective one of the first flank  2156  and the second flank  2158 . As explained in more detail with reference to  FIGS. 23A-23D , a slider for one or both of the zippers  2184  may be used to expand an overall longitudinal length of the belt  2150 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 21B , the exterior of the belt  2150  includes an exterior belt attachment segment  2172  provided on an exterior surface of the first flank  2156 . In use, the patient  20  or the patient&#39;s caregiver may attach the central belt attachment segment  2162  to the first or second back attachment segment  240 ,  242 , and wrap the first and second flanks  2156 ,  2158  around the patient&#39;s lumbar/waist region. An interior surface of the second flank  2158  may overlap an exterior surface of the first flank  2156  so that the interior belt attachment segment  2126  engages and attaches to the exterior belt attachment segment  2172 . An exterior belt attachment segment  2172  is also provided on an exterior surface of the second flank  2158 . 
     Belt grips  2180  may be provide on the exterior  2154  of the belt  2150 . At least one belt grip  2180  may be attached to the surface of the belt exterior  2154  on each side of the central strip  2160  via respective grip attachments. Similar to grips provided on the vest  200 , the grip attachments include grip ends attached to the surface of the exterior  2154  by grip stitching  2182  that may be visible on the belt interior surface (See  FIG. 21A ). 
     The belt  2150  includes vents  2186  positioned inwardly of the belt grips  2186  relative the central strip  2155 . The vents  2186  are in a folded position in  FIG. 21B  as a result of the zippers  2184  illustrated in  FIG. 21A  being closed. As explained in more detail with reference to  FIGS. 23A-D , when either of the zippers  2184  is opened such that opposing chains are disengaged, the vents  2186  can be extended laterally to the extent that each defines a respective amount of longitudinal slack, and extend the longitudinal length of the belt  2150 . The vents  2186  can be formed from the same material a primary portion of the belt  2150  to which components such as the attachment segments  2126 ,  2158 ,  2172  and the grips  2180  are attached. The belt including its components can, in turn, be formed from the same materials as the vest  200  and corresponding components thereof. 
     A reinforcement segment  2188  covers, and may provide attachment points for, one or more elastic tension bands  2190 . Each elastic tension band  2190  includes a band body  2192  and a band end  2194  extending from the band body  2192 . Reinforcement-type stitching  2196  (hereafter referred to as “band stitching  2196 ”) similar to reinforcement stitching of the grip stitching  2182  may attach an attachment segment  2198  (See  FIG. 23A , hereafter referred to as “band attachment segment  2198 ”) to the band end  2194 . 
     In use, the band ends  2194  may be passed through spaces between respective belt grips  2180  and a surface of the exterior  2154 , and the band attachment segments  2198  may be attached to respective exterior belt attachment segments  2172 . If both elastic tension bands  2190  are not extended beyond respective normal state lengths prior to attachment to the exterior belt attachment segments  2172 , the belt  2150  will remain in the passive state. A portion of the belt  2150  capable of recoiling is limited to portions of the central strip  2155  between outer edges of the central belt attachment segment  2162  and locations where the band ends  2194  are attached to respective third belt attachment segments  2110 . Where the elastic tension bands  2190  are in a tensile state, and the belt  2150  is thus in an active state, ends of the elastic tension bands  2190  attached to the belt  2150  are in a state of tension. In a situation where the compression vest system  2100  is used by a patient that has extended the elastic tension bands  2190  to a maximum length, substantial tensile forces may be exerted on attachment points between the elastic tension bands  2190  and the belt  2150 . 
       FIG. 21B  further illustrates second pocket layers  2166 B of the pockets  2164  of the segmented pouch  2160 . As indicated by the undulations of the layers  2166  illustrated in  FIGS. 21A and 21B , the stays  2170  can have thickness so as to cause the layers  2166  to bulge beyond a normal thickness of a primary portion of the belt  2150  to which grips and attachment segments are attached. In one example, a thickness, number, and configuration of the stays  2170  will be determined according to location and magnitude of loads on a sacral-lumbar area of a patient to be relieved. As explained in more detail with reference to  FIGS. 22A and 22B , the combination of the vest  200  and the belt  2150 , with the segmented pouching  2160 , can provide a patient with targeted lower spinal support. 
       FIGS. 22A and 22B  illustrate front and rear perspective views of the compression vest system  2100 , according to an aspect of the present disclosure. In the configuration illustrated: (1) the first panel  210  is attached to the second panel  220  via the closure  300 ; (2) the belt  2150  is attached to the vest  200  via the central belt attachment segment  2162  and the first back attachment segment  240 ; and (3) the first and second flanks  2156 ,  2158  are wrapped around a torso of the patient  20  such that the first belt attachment segment  2156  (not shown) is attached to the exterior belt attachment segment  2172  provided on the first flank  2156 . In addition, the elastic tension bands  2190  have been attached to the first and second flanks  2156 ,  2158  so as to be in a state of tension. The first compressive force  1300  applied by the vest  200  provides general support to a patient&#39;s spine, especially with respect to opposing movement of a patient&#39;s spine in sagittal and coronal body planes. 
     Adding the belt  2150  so as to be tightly or form-fittingly (with respect to a form of the patient  20 ) wrapped around the vest  200  worn by the patient  20  will result in second compressive forces  1302  generally/broadly exerted on the lower torso of the patient  20 , particularly in a lumbar and sacral region. Further, the belt  2150 , even without the segmented pouch  2160 , generally assists in controlling movement of a patient&#39;s spine in the sagittal plane and supports the patient&#39;s lumbar/sacral region. Extending the elastic tension bands  2190  beyond normal state lengths and attaching them to the exterior belt attachment segments  2172  increases the second compressive forces  1302  exerted on the patient  20 . 
     The first and second compressive forces  1300 ,  1302  counter act forces applied to the compression system  200  resulting from any of the first and second front, first and second back, body, and belt grips  218 ,  228 ,  236 ,  238 ,  280 ,  2120  being pulled or pushed in any direction. As a result, the first and second compressive forces  1300 ,  1302  act to: (A) support the spine in sagittal and coronal body planes; and (B) resist and eliminate, or at least substantially minimize a vertical displacement, a rotational displacement, and a front to back displacement of the vest  200  and the belt  2150  relative to the patient  20 . Further, the addition of the segmented pouch  2160  enables the compression vest system  2100  to provide targeted load relief to vertebrae in a patient&#39;s spine. 
     Each stay  2170  in the segmented pouch  2160  can exert a compressive force over a respective portion of a lumbar and sacral spinal region of a patient. More specifically, with the elastic tension bands  2190  extending over the portion of the central strip  2155  including the segmented pouch  2160  and placed in tension, each stay  2170  in the segmented pouch  2160  applies an individual compressive force  2250  on a respective first pocket layer  2166 A of the belt  2150 , which is transmitted over a corresponding area of the back panel  230  of the vest  200 . In the case of the belt  2150 , the individual compressive forces  2250  are directed to a posterior of the patient in the lumbar and sacral portions of the patient&#39;s spine. 
     A cumulative effect of the individual compressive forces  2250  applied over a total surface area of a corresponding region of the vest  200 , and thereby the patient, may produce intracavitary pressure that reduces load on intervertebral discs. As a result, a degree of reduction in load on the intervertebral discs in an area of the spine between the first (“L-1”) and just below the fifth vertebrae (“L-5”) of the lumbar spine, may be achieved. Such a reduction may be proportional to a cumulative magnitude of the individual compressive forces  2250  applied by the stays  2170  of the belt  2150 . Accordingly, a patient utilizing the compression vest system  2100  may experience a substantial improvement in stability in their lumbar spine. 
       FIGS. 23A and 23B  respectively illustrate elevation views of the exterior  2154  and interior  2152  of the belt  2150  in a compact state, whereas  FIGS. 23C and 23D  respectively illustrate elevation views of the same portions of the belt  2150  in an expanded state. As illustrated in  FIG. 23A , vents  2186  are folded inwards toward the reinforcement segment  2188  with the zippers  2184  in a closed state. The vents  2186  may be sized to have a desired width in order to provided a desired degree of overall extension for the belt  2150 . In one example, the vent  2186  may be sized to accommodate a piece of equipment that a patient may have to use or wear to some degree of regularity, but not all of the time. In another example, where the patient may be expected to grow a certain amount in a predictable amount of time, the vents  2186  may extend a certain amount so the patient can use their compression vest system  2100  until a next different size is required. 
     With the belt  2150  in the compact state, the vents  2186  may protrude from a surface of the exterior  2154  of the belt  2150 . However, with the elastic tension bands  2190  extended through the spaces between the surface of the exterior  2154  and the belt grips  2180  and attached to the exterior belt attachment segments  2172 , each elastic tension band  2190  can press down a respective vent  2186 . As result, any bulge that may result from vents  2186  being folded will be minimized by the normal function of the elastic tension bands  2190 . Accordingly, the vents  2186  will not obstruct an individual&#39;s ability to run their hand between one of the belt grips  2186  and the belt exterior  2154 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 23B , the zippers  2184  of the belt  2150  are closed. The sliders for each zipper  2184  are positioned at an upper edge of the belt  2150 . As one of ordinary skill in the art would readily recognize, moving the slider towards the bottom edge of the belt  2150  will cause opposing chains to disengage until the slider is moved to a stopper of one chain that is beyond the last tooth of the opposing chain, thereby separating the edges once joined.  FIGS. 23C and 23D  illustrate a case in which both of the zippers  2184  have been opened. The vents  2186  are therefore shown in an extended state. 
     In particular, first and second vent edges  2186 A,  2186 B are shown. The first vent edge  2186 A of each zipper  2184  may define or substantially correspond to an inner edge of an edge of a respective one of the first flank  2156  and the second flank  2158 . Each of the second vent edges  2186 B defines or substantially corresponds to a respective outer edge of the central strip  2155 . 
     In one example, the vent  2186  includes first and second chains  2184 A,  2184 B of the zipper  2184  illustrated in  FIG. 23D . Thus, the vent includes a section of fabric with long edges that either define or have attached thereto, tape on which a chain of teeth is included. Accordingly, either the tape or an edge of the section of fabric there attached is also attached to a respective outer edge of the central strip  2155  and an inner edge of a respective one of the first and second flanks  2156 ,  2158 . In another example, the tape and chain are incorporated in the edges of the central strip  2155  and the first and second flanks  2156 ,  2158 . In that case, the long edges of the section of fabric defining the vent  2186  will be sewn or otherwise permanently attached to an edge of the central strip  2155  and a respective one of the first and second flanks  2156 ,  2158 . 
     In either configuration for the vent  2186  discussed above, the vent  2186  may include two layers. A first layer may be formed of elastic material and define a portion of the belt exterior  2154  in an expanded state of the belt  2150 . The second layer may be made of inelastic material and define a portion of the belt interior  2152  in the expanded state. As a result, the elastic layer in the compact state will limit a degree that the in-elastic layer will bulge out, and the in-elastic layer can limit an extent that the elastic layer can be stretched in the expanded state of the belt  2150 . 
       FIG. 24  illustrates an elevation view of a belt  2400  including removable stays  2170 , according to an aspect of the present disclosure. In particular the segmented pouch of the belt  2400  includes first, second, third, and fourth versions  2402 ,  2404 ,  2406 ,  2408  of the pocket  2164 . The first pocket  2402  is closed like the pockets  2164  provided in the belt  2100  illustrated in  FIGS. 21-23D . The second pocket  2404  is a version of the first pocket  2402  that has be cut adjacent to a top edge of the belt  2400 , or otherwise opened by making a hole in the first pocket layer  2166 A, to remove a respective stay  2170 . Thus, the first pocket  2402  is configured to permanently retain a stay  2170  unless altered in such a way that a repair would be necessary. A close up of a stay  2170  that may correspond to the stay  2170  removed from the second pocket  2404  is illustrated in  FIG. 25 . 
     The stay  2170  illustrated in  FIG. 25  may be a rigid panel having front and back surfaces  2500  bordered by short edges  2502  and long edges  2504 . As illustrated, the stay  2170  is provided in a shape of a rectangular box having rounded corners. The surfaces  2500  may be flat or contoured so as to be convex or concave relative to a plane extending along a longitudinal axis of the stay  2170 . The surfaces  2500  of stay  2170  may be formed with a degree of curvature suited for a location of a patient&#39;s body that the particular stay  2170  is configured to support. Accordingly, the stay  2170  in the first pocket  2402  may have a different shape or surface contour as compared to the stays in the second, third, or fourth pockets  2404 ,  2406 ,  2408 . In yet another example, the faces of the short and long edges  2502 ,  2504  of the stay  2170  extending parallel to a plane extending along a longitudinal axis of the stay  2170 , may be substantially flat, and one or both of the surfaces may define concave or convex profile along the longitudinal length of the stay  2170 . In still another example not shown, the stay  2170  may be provided in the shape of the rectangular box having rounded corners as with the stay of  FIG. 25 , but further include beveled edges for the short and/or long edges  2502 ,  2504 . 
     As applied to the stay  2170  illustrated in  FIG. 5 , the above discussion generally defining a stay according to the present disclosure provides that that the stay  2170  may be a rigid or semi-rigid type of panel, layer, board, or slat. Further, the stay  2170  illustrated in  FIG. 25  may be provided by a flat piece of hard material such as a lightweight metal (e.g., titanium, aluminum, etc.), or a thermoplastic material such as a polycarbonate (e.g, Lexan). In other examples, the stay  2170  may be provided by a strip of semi-flexible plastic having a degree of elasticity suitable for the spinal support needs of a particular patient. As with the shape of the stays  2170  for the different pockets of the belt  2400 , materials for the stay  2170  in the first pocket  2402  may differ from materials used for the stays  2170  in the second, third, and fourth pockets  2404 ,  2406 ,  2408  in order to provide a desired level of load reduction in a desired location on a patient. 
     The third and fourth pockets  2406 ,  2408  provide alternative configurations that allow respective stays  2170  to be removed, reinserted, or replaced with different sized stays as needed by a patient. In particular, the third pocket  2400  includes a zippered access  2600 , and the fourth pocket  2408  provides hook and loop access  2700 . 
       FIG. 26  illustrates a close up of the zippered access  2600  of the third pocket  2406 . As illustrated, a first tape  2602  may be attached to the first pocket layer  2166 A in an area between a top edge of the belt  2400  and a top of an opening in the first pocket layer  2166 A. The first tape  2602  includes a first chain  2604  of teeth. A second tape  2606  including a second chain  2608  of teeth may be attached to a bottom of the opening in the first pocket layer  2166 A, which may be correspond to an area of the first pocket layer  2166 A disposed just above a top short edge  2502  of a stay  2170  when the stay  2170  is positioned in the third pocket  2406 . A slider  2612  may be moved from a left side to a right side to open the opening in the first pocket layer  2166 A so that the stay  2170  can be removed from or inserted in to the third pocket  2406 . 
       FIG. 27  illustrates a close up of the hook and loop access  2700  of the fourth pocket  2408 . As illustrated, a first strip  2702  including a first attachment segment  2704  of hook or loop material is sewn, glued, or otherwise attached to the first pocket layer  2166 A in an area between the top edge of the belt  2400  and a top of an opening in the first pocket layer  2166 A. A second strip  2706  including a second attachment segment  2708  of loop or hook material may be attached to a bottom of the opening in the first pocket layer  2166 A, which may be correspond to an area of the first pocket layer  2166 A disposed just above a top short edge  2502  of a stay  2170  when the stay  2170  is positioned in the fourth pocket  2408 . The second strip  2706  may be pulled apart from the first strip  2702 A to open the opening and either remove the stay  2170  or place it in the fourth pocket  2408 . As will be understood the second strip  2706  may be pressed into locked engagement with the first strip  2706  to close the opening and securely hold the stay  2170  within the fourth pocket  2408 . 
     For the purposes of this disclosure, the size and shape of the pockets  2164  and stays  2170  for the belts  2150 ,  2400  illustrated in  FIGS. 21A-28  may be considered a standard size and shape. Thus, these components may be referred to hereafter as the “standard pocket  2164 ” and the “standard stay  2170 .” As noted above, different sizes, shapes, and configurations of stays may be provided in a segmented pouch to optimize a magnitude, orientation, and location of a desired load relief on a patient&#39;s spine. As such,  FIGS. 28-41A  illustrate different configurations of belts for a compression system according to the present disclosure. 
       FIG. 28  illustrates an elevation view of a belt  2800  including a segmented pouch  2860  with a series of stays  2870  having a narrow width (“narrow stay  2870 ”). Pockets  2864  defined by vertical stitching in pocket layers  2866  on an interior and exterior of the belt  2800  have a width to accommodate to a size of the narrow stays  2870  (“narrow pockets  2864 ”). The pocket layer  2866  illustrated in  FIG. 28  may span an entire length of and define a first attachment layer  2862  of the belt  2800 . The narrow pockets  2864  may be divided into groups of four narrow pockets  2864  on opposite sides of a central region  2850  of the belt  2800 . 
       FIG. 29  illustrates an elevation view of a  2900  belt including a segmented pouch  2960  including first and second intermediately sized stays  2970 ,  2990 , according to an aspect of the present disclosure. In particular, a first attachment segment  2962  defines a pocket layer  2966  is segmented into first and second intermediate sized pocket layers  2966 ,  2968  by vertical stitching to provide first and second intermediate sized pockets  2964 ,  2984 . The first intermediate sized pockets and stays  2964 ,  2970 , are slightly wider than the narrow pockets and stays  2864 ,  2870 , and wider than the standard pockets and stays  2164 ,  2170 . Further the first intermediate sized pockets and stays  2964 ,  2970  are positioned equidistantly to the left and right of a center of the belt  2900 . The second intermediate sized pocket  2984  is wider than the standard pocket  2164 , and may be provided at the center of the belt  2900 . 
       FIG. 30  illustrates an elevation view of a belt  3000  including narrow, second intermediate sized, and short stays  2870 ,  2990 ,  3070 , according to an aspect of the present disclosure. The narrow stays  2870  are provided in narrow pockets  2870  position equidistantly to the left and right of a center of the belt  3000 . The short stays  3070  are positioned in short pockets  3064  formed by pocket layers  3066  provided vertically between stitching for belt grips of the belt  3000 . In this location the short stays  3070  can apply compressive forces from opposing lateral-most sagittal planes relative to a midline of a patient&#39;s trunk when elastic tension bands are positioned in tension. 
       FIG. 31  illustrates an elevation view of a belt  3100  including wide and short stays  3190 ,  3070 , according to an aspect of the present disclosure. The wide stays  3190  are positioned within wide pockets  3184  defined by vertical stitching in pocket layers  3186  of the belt. Previous examples of segmented pouches according to the present have been located in portions of respective belts that in use, correspond to a posterior of a person wearing the belt. The belt  3100  illustrated in  FIG. 31  includes an anterior segmented pouch  3150  including standard stays  2170 . When the belt  3100  is positioned on a patient, localized individual compressive forces will be applied to anterior side of an individual&#39;s lumbar and sacral region. 
     In general, the anteriorly positioned stays  2170  may provide the additional support required to those individuals who experience mild to severe decreases in trunk control. The anteriorly positioned stays  2170  may also provide structural support that yields overall functional improvements in those individuals with mild to severe alignment and structural spine issues like scoliosis. In addition, the anteriorly positioned stays  2170  can provide protection and an important barrier to prevent injury or pain after surgeries like open heart surgeries. For example, stitches or staples employed to close an incision of a patient who has undergone open heart surgery, will be restricted from moving apart and shielded from external objects by the stays  2170 . Finally, the anteriorly positioned stays  2170  can provide an individual wearing the compression vest system  2100  according to the present disclosure with much needed protection as compared to various “turtle shell” solutions. Said individual may experience increased comfort, movement, function, and more importantly quality of life post-surgery by wearing the compression vest system  2100  including a belt with anteriorly positioned stays. 
       FIG. 32  illustrates an elevation view of a belt  3200  that includes a first modular segmented pouch  3300  (“first modular pouch  3300 ”) illustrated in  FIGS. 33A and 33B . The belt  3200  includes a central attachment segment  3262  that is configured to attach to a first pouch attachment segment  3312  on an exterior  3310  of the first modular pouch  3300 . The first modular segmented pouch  3300  includes a plurality of pockets  3364  defined by vertical stitching  3368  attaching first and second pocket layers  3366 A,  3366 B. Each pocket  3364  may include a stay  3370  that may be identical to the standard stay  2170  illustrated in  FIG. 25 . The first pocket layer  3366 A for each pocket  3364  may have a closed configuration  3380 , a zippered opening  3382 , or a hook and loop access  3384 . The stays  3370  for the pockets  3364  including either the zippered opening  3382  or the hook and loop access  3384  can be removably placed in respective pockets  3364 . 
     The second pocket layer  3366 B defines an interior  3390  of the modular segmented pouch  3300 , and can be formed with a cushioned layer  3392  of material. In one example the cushioned layer  3392  may be formed from neoprene. Further, the second pocket layer  3366 B can be provided with a surface that also provides an attachment segment. The attachment segments of the first modular pouch  3300  are configured to attach to the central belt attachment segment  3262 , and the first or second attachment segments  240 ,  242  of the vest  200 . 
       FIG. 34  illustrates an elevation view of the belt  3220  with the first modular pouch  3300  attached. More specifically, the first pouch attachment segment  3312  provided by the first pocket layer  3366 A is attached to the central belt attachment segment  3262 . Accordingly, the cushioned neoprene second pocket layer  3366 B will be pressed against a patient&#39;s back and provided cushioned support that may increase overall comfort. 
       FIG. 35  illustrates an elevation view of the belt  3200  with a modified first modular segmented pouch  3500  (“modified first modular pouch  3500 ”) attached. The modified first modular pouch  3500  may include a different configuration of pockets  3564  defined by vertical stitching attaching pocket layers  3564  as compared to the first modular pouch  3300  illustrated in  FIGS. 33A, 33B, and 34 . However, like the first modular pouch  3300 , the pocket layer  3566  defining an interior  3590  of the modified first modular pouch  3500  may include a cushioned layer  3592  of material. 
     In another example, the modified first modular pouch  3500  is the same pouch as the first modular pouch  3300 . As illustrated in  FIG. 33A , the first modular pouch  3300  includes removable stays  3370 . Accordingly, the modified first modular pouch  3500  may be the first modular pouch  3300  with the stays  3370  removed from the pockets  3364  on opposite sides of the central pocket  3364  illustrated in  FIG. 33A  that includes the closed configuration  3380 . 
       FIG. 36  illustrates an elevation view of a belt  3600  that includes a central attachment segment  3660  sized and configured to attach to the first modular pouch  3300 . The first modular pouch  3300  will be positioned to apply targeted compressive forces to a posterior of a patient. In addition, the belt  3600  includes an anterior pocket  3680  configured to receive either or both of an extra-wide stay  3670  and a second modular segmented pouch  3700  (“second modular pouch  3700 ) illustrated in  FIG. 37 . 
     The extra-wide stay  3670  may be received or removed through an opening  3684  in the anterior pocket  3680  that may include opposing fastening strips  3686  with zipper chains or strips of hook and loop material. In practice: the opening  3684  may be opened by moving a slider of a zipper or pulling one fastening strip  3686  away from the other where a hook and loop access is utilized; the extra-wide stay  3670  can be positioned in the pocket  3680 ; and the opening  3684  can be closed. As explained with reference to  FIGS. 38A and 38B , the single wide shape of the extra-wide stay  3670  may be particularly beneficial to patients that have recently undergone open heart surgery, who need assistance with trunk control while at the same time needing to protect staples or stitches where an incision was made. A width of the extra-wide stay  3670  (i.e., a dimension extending along a longitudinal length of the belt  3600 ) may be substantially equal to a width of an abdomen area of a patient wearing a compression vest system according to the present disclosure. The same options for material, edge-shape, and surface contour that can be used to provide the stays  2170 ,  2870 ,  2970 ,  3070 ,  3170  may be employed to provide the extra-wide stay  3670 . Further, the extra-wide stay  3670  can be formed with edges, surface contours, and an overall curvature that is customized to the shape of patient&#39;s abdomen so as to promote comfort. 
     An exterior surface  3688  of the anterior pocket  3680  illustrated in  FIG. 36  defines an attachment segment (“anterior attachment segment  3688 ”) configured to attach to a pouch attachment segment  3782  of the second modular pouch  3700 . In one example, the anterior attachment segment  3688  extends over an entire width of the anterior pocket  3680 , which substantially corresponds to a width of the of the extra-wide stay  3670 . This in turn, may provide an attachment segment having a width the same as second modular pouch  3700 . In another example, the extra-wide stay  3670  having a smaller width may be provided, and the anterior pocket  3680  may be configured with vertical stitching inward of the edges of the anterior attachment segment  3688  so as to define an opening that corresponds to the width of the extra-wide stay  3670 . 
     The second modular pouch  3700  may include a plurality of pockets  3364  which are defined by stitching  3368  in the pouch attachment segment  3782  to have a same configuration (e.g., size) as the pockets  3364  of the first modular pouch  3300 . However, as the second modular pouch  3700  is configured to attach to the attachment segment  3688  which may be smaller than the central attachment segment  3660  of the belt  3600 , and the second modular pouch  3700  may have fewer pockets  3364  than the first modular pouch  3300  as illustrated. Each of the pockets  3364  may be provided with a zipper  3382  (or hook and loop access), so that respective stays  3370  may be removed or replaced. 
     It will be noted that both the first and second modular pouches  3300 ,  3700  may be configured with some or all of their respective pockets  3364  provided with zippered or hook and loop access openings so that each pouch may be variably configured to apply compressive forces to a patient&#39;s trunk where most effective. For example, the second modular pouch  3700  may have three pockets  3364  but only a middle pocket  3364  may include a stay  3370 . Other configurations may provide stays  3370  only in the first and third pockets  3364 . A configuration of stays in the second modular pouch  3700  can be coordinated with a configuration of stays  3370  in the first modular pouch  3300  so that the localized/individual/targeted compressive forces are applied equidistantly around a circumference defined by a cross-section of a patient&#39;s (radially compressed—given the action of the vest compression system  2100  including the belt  3600 ) trunk. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that different configurations of stays  3370  can be implemented via the first and second modular pouches  3300 ,  3700 . 
       FIGS. 38A and 38B  illustrate front and rear perspective views of a compression vest system  3800  including the vest  200  and the belt  3600 . The belt  3600  is provided with the first modular pouch  3300  attached to the central belt attachment segment  3660  (not shown), and the extra-wide stay  3670  positioned in the anterior pocket  3680 . As illustrated, the first modular pouch  3300  is provided with a stay  3370  in each of its respective pockets  3364 . 
     As discussed above with reference to  FIGS. 22A and 22B , the first compressive forces  1300  applied by the vest  200  provide general support to a patient&#39;s spine, especially with respect to opposing movement of the spine in sagittal and coronal body planes. Were the belt  3600 , absent the extra-wide stay  3670  and the first modular pouch  3300 , added to the vest  200  so as to be tightly or form-fittingly wrapped around the vest  200  worn by the patient  20 , it still would cause the second compressive forces  1302  to be generally/broadly exerted on the lower torso of the patient  20 . These second compressive forces  1302  being applied in the lumbar/sacral region of a patient have the effect of locking a trunk and hips of the patient relative to each other and a transverse body plane. With the trunk and hips locked in place in proper (or at least improved) spatial alignment relative to the transverse plane, movement and motor control of the muscles in the hips and lower back occur in a natural (or least less inhibited) manner for an individual for which movements involving these muscles are problematic. 
     However, the illustrated belt  3600  includes the extra-wide stay  3670  and the first modular pouch  3300  as noted above. Each stay  3370  in the first modular pouch  3300  can exert a respective individual compressive force over a respective portion of a lumbar and sacral spinal region of a patient. More specifically, each stay  3370  may apply an individual compressive force  3850  that is transmitted over a corresponding area of the back panel  230  of the vest  200 . The first individual compressive forces  3850  are directed to a posterior of the patient in the lumbar and sacral portions of the patient&#39;s spine and may produce intracavitary pressure that reduces load on intervertebral discs. Further, the individual compressive forces  3850  may combine with the second compressive forces  1302  to increase a vector of force that locks the trunk and hips of the patient relative to each other and the transverse body plane. Accordingly, the stays  3370  can enhance an ability of the compression vest system to maintain the patient&#39;s trunk and hips in spatial alignment. 
     Turning to the extra-wide stay  3670 , the belt  3600  in  FIGS. 38A and 38B  is orientated on the patient with the extra-wide stay  3670  positioned to apply a second individual compressive force  3880  to an anterior of the patient. With the width of the extra-wide stay  3670  being substantially greater than that of other stays discussed herein, when the belt  3600  is placed on the vest  200 , and respective tension bands are put in tension, the extra-wide stay  3670  exerts the second individual compressive force  3880  over an area substantially greater than the stays provided in the first modular pouch  3300 , for example. More specifically, the second individual compressive force  3880  may be applied uniformly over an area of the vest  200 , and thus over an area of an anterior of the patient, corresponding to at least the surface area of the extra-wide stay  3670 . 
     As with the first individual compressive forces  3850 , the second individual compressive force  3880  can combine with the other compressive forces  1300 ,  1302 ,  3850  to better limit spinal displacement in the sagittal and coronal body planes, provide support that facilitates improved trunk control for a patient, and lock the hips and trunk relative to each other and the transverse body plane. As discussed above, directing the compressive force to an anterior of an individual may provide the additional support required to those individuals who experience mild to severely decreased trunk control, and provide structural support that yields overall functional improvements in those individuals with mild to severe alignment and structural spine issues like scoliosis. 
     An added advantage of the size and shape of the extra-wide stay  3670  is how it can protect scares, wounds, incisions, or conceal and/or stabilize of devices, such as a catheter securement device. Each of the modular pouches described herein may offer some protection to a patient&#39;s incision, but the wide surface of the extra-wide stay  3670  ensures that only a substantially flat or ergonomically curved uniform plane of pressure is applied to the patient&#39;s skin where an incision or device may be disposed. Accordingly, pulling of the skin in different directions that may test an ability of sutures or staples to keep the incision closed may be minimized. Further, staples or devices like catheters are less likely to be caught on or moved by undulations in an individual&#39;s clothes, in particular when the individual moves, with the extra-wide stay  3670  applying the second individual compressive force over at least a respective surface area. 
       FIG. 39  illustrates an elevation view of a belt  3900  that includes an extended central attachment segment  3960  sized and configured to attach to multiple modular segmented pouches such as the second modular pouch  3700 , and one or more third modular segmented pouches  4000  (“third modular pouch  4000 ) illustrated in  FIG. 40 . As shown, the second modular pouch  3700  can be positioned on the extended central attachment segment  3960  to apply targeted compressive forces to a posterior of a patient. The third modular pouches  4000  can be positioned to apply targeted compressive forces to respective anterior areas of the patient. 
     The third modular pouch  4000  may include two pockets  3364  which are defined by stitching  3368  incorporated in a pouch attachment segment  4080  so as to have a same configuration (e.g., size) as the pockets  3364  of the first modular pouch  3300 . As only two pockets  3364  may be provided in the third modular pouch  4000 , one single zipper  4082  (or hook and loop access) that can open and close both pockets  3364  may be employed. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize this zipper or access configuration may be applied to any of the modular or fixed/integrated segmented pouches of the present disclosure. Conversely, the third modular pouch  4000  may include individual zippered or hook and loop accessible openings in each pocket  3364 , that which can be opened and closed to access, remove, or a stay  3370  in a respective pocket  3364 . 
       FIGS. 41A and 41B  illustrates front and rear perspective views of a full implementation of a compression vest system  4100  including the belt  3900  with the second and third modular pouches  3700 ,  4000 . 
     As discussed above with reference to  FIGS. 22A, 22B, 38A, and 38B  first compressive forces  1300  applied by the vest  200  provide general support to a patient&#39;s spine, especially with respect to opposing movement of the spine in sagittal and coronal body planes. Were the belt  3900  added absent the second and third modular pouches  3700 ,  4000 , it still would cause the second compressive forces  1302  to be generally/broadly exerted on the lower torso of the patient, which can help lock a trunk and hips relative to each other and a transverse body plane. 
     Each stay  3370  in each of the second and third modular pouches  3700 ,  4000  can exert a respective compressive force over a respective portion of a lumbar and sacral spinal region of a patient. More specifically, each stay  3370  in the second modular pouch  3700  may apply a first individual compressive force  4050 , and each stay  3370  in the third modular pouch may apply a second individual compressive force  4080  that is transmitted over a corresponding area of the back, first, and second panels  230 ,  210 ,  220  of the vest  200 . The first individual compressive forces  4050  are directed to a posterior, whereas the second individual compressive forces  4080  are directed to an anterior of the patient of  FIGS. 41A and 41B . 
     The third modular pouches  4000  are positioned substantially equidistant to a midline of the patient. Such positioning may be incorporated in an effort to directionally (vector direction) balance the forces being applied to the patient&#39;s trunk. However, the belt  4000  is advantageously configured to allow the multiple arrangements, each capable of applying a unique combination of directional forces on the patient. More specifically, the extended central attachment segment  3960  of the belt  3900  illustrated in  FIG. 39 , enables an individual, caregiver, or medical professional, to place modular segmented pouches in a variety of locations on the belt. When the belt  3900  is worn, each potential location for a modular pouch corresponds to a position along a circumference defined by an outer radial extent of a region of a patient including portions of their abdomen and lower back adjacent to a respective waist line. Thus, a caregiver, medical professional, or an individual prior to wearing a compression vest system, can customize where compressive forces are applied along the circumference. Thus, a cumulative effect of the all the compressive forces applied to a patient who is in moderate or significant need of trunk control support and assistance, can be tailored and optimized to obtain the most beneficial load reduction on the patient&#39;s spine, and yield the most significant functional improvement in the patient&#39;s muscles and joints during movement. 
     It will be appreciated that the foregoing description provides examples of the disclosed compression vest system and techniques for applying the compression vest system. These examples given above are merely illustrative and are not meant to be an exhaustive list of all possible designs, aspects, applications or modifications of the disclosure. Further, it is contemplated that other implementations of the disclosure may differ in detail from the foregoing examples. All references to the disclosure or examples thereof are intended to reference the particular example being discussed at that point and are not intended to imply any limitation as to the scope of the disclosure more generally. All language of distinction and disparagement with respect to certain features is intended to indicate a lack of preference for those features, but not to exclude such from the scope of the disclosure entirely unless otherwise indicated.