Mattress with semi-independent pressure relieving pillars

Abstract

A foam core cushion mattress assembly provides semi-independent foam pillars on the upper surface of the mattress. The mattress may be unitary, or comprise three cushioning components: a base, a body support cushion, and a foot cushion insert. A removable fabric cover envelops the mattress assembly. The body support cushion is constructed from a flat, rectangular solid, foam element whose upper surface is cut into an array of rectangular solid pillars, preferably by a hot wire cutting method. The array of rectangular solid pillars is grouped into a central array comprising pillars with generally square top surfaces and edge rows of rectangular solid pillars having rectangular top surfaces. The depth of the hot wire cuts into the surface of the body support cushion is preferably approximately one-half the overall thickness of the body support cushion or approximately three fourths of the length of the shortest face of the pillar. A zippered fabric cover removably envelops the assembled cushioning components. The resultant structure defines a plurality of semi-independently compressible pillars, which supports a reclining, or in the supine, position on the mattress. Methods of manufacture, and treatment and alleviation of decubitus ulcer formation are also presented.