Flexible multijoint therapeutic pads

Abstract

Flexible multijoint thermal therapy pads which are dimensioned and structured to promote effective thermal therapy by promoting increased flexibility, comfort, convenience and heat transfer when applied to a range of joints in the body. Pads according to the present invention feature distinct members each of which corresponds to and may be applied to conform to a limb or body part surrounding the knee, shoulder and other joints. The pads connect these members using at least one conduit that is not substantially centered on the kneecap or top of the shoulder when they are applied for thermal therapy on the knee or shoulder, respectively. The pads thus do not blindly adhere to traditional multijoint notions of symmetry, but instead opt for increased flexibility, prevention of undesired blockage or occlusion during joint flexure and restriction of range of motion. Pad structures according to the present invention also may be employed to regulate, on a localized basis, thermal medium local velocity at desired points within the pads to deliver a greater or a lesser heat transfer rate at desired areas such as adjacent to the patella in the knee or the humeral head in the shoulder. Increased flexibility, comfort, convenience and optimum heat transfer increase the chances that patients will persist in the full course of thermal therapy in order to promote more effective healing in a shorter period of time.