HK1238102B - Therapeutic cushion systems and methods - Google Patents

Description

Therapeutic pad systems and methods

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to and is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/455,389, filed August 8, 2014, entitled “Therapeutic Cushion Systems and Methods,” which is related to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/195,749, filed March 3, 2014, entitled “Therapeutic Cushion Systems and Methods,” U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/757,172, filed February 1, 2013 (now U.S. Patent No. 8,661,586), entitled “Therapeutic Cushion Systems and Methods,” U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/757,120, filed February 1, 2013, entitled “Therapeutic Cushion Systems and Methods,” U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/757,120, filed February 1, 2013, entitled “Therapeutic Cushion Systems and Methods,” and Methods,” filed on August 16, 2012, U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/710,913, entitled “Therapeutic Cushion Systems and Methods,” the disclosures of each of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

Background Art

Some embodiments described herein relate to therapeutic pad systems and methods, and in particular to therapeutic pad systems and methods for treating various medical conditions, such as, for example, gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a medical term that describes a condition in which partially digested stomach contents, laden with acid, reflux from the stomach into the esophagus—that is, flow in an abnormal, backward manner. Reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus is most common and is most damaging when people with GERD are sleeping and unaware that the reflux is occurring.

Some known systems use pillows or other support devices to effectively manage or control the symptoms of conditions that might otherwise require medical prescriptions or surgery. For example, some known pillow options include elevated pillows with protrusions within the pillow that are centered in the cervical region of the neck, intended to provide comfort or better resting conditions for individuals with heart disease, emphysema, or other breathing difficulties. Such pillows do not allow for extended support below the sacral region of the spine; nor do they provide any comfortable position other than supine.

Some known devices include orthopedic pillows that can be used to minimize snoring in individuals. While such pillows can be used to address conditions such as snoring, they may not be configured to treat conditions such as GERD. In fact, such orthopedic pillows typically only provide a component of elevation and fail to address any other components that may be desirable for alleviating symptoms in GERD patients.

Another known system includes a support pillow comprising a body having a central section and two wings that are used to control symptoms associated with hyperextension of the head and neck, which is often seen in infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia or other related conditions. Another known system includes a device that can be used to prevent positional skull deformity in infants by distributing the load borne by the infant's head (or other load) across a horizontal surface. While these systems can provide benefits for infants, their specific design and structural engineering are based on the user of the pillow, which is an infant. Such pillows have not been disclosed as providing benefits for adult or adolescent users suffering from GERD.

Most of the above-mentioned known systems focus on conditions related to infants and/or the head area only, without considering support for or interaction with the entire body. Other known systems include pillows that accommodate adults (as general body pillows) or infants (to help support infants in a sitting position). However, such systems do not contemplate the use of pillows to alleviate symptoms associated with gastric or esophageal disorders. Additionally, such pillows may not accommodate the necessary features specific to controlling or managing such disorders. Another known system includes large contoured body pillows to facilitate relief of persistent back and neck pain, respiratory and digestive disorders; however, the volume of such pillows is generally greater than is practical for use by a normal, bedridden individual.

Therefore, there is a need for therapeutic cushion systems and methods that can address the shortcomings of known pillow systems identified above and can be used to manage and/or control symptoms associated with GERD and/or other medical conditions while maintaining a practical and adaptable fit for the user.

Summary of the Invention

Described herein are devices and methods for providing therapeutic treatment for symptoms associated with GERD and/or other digestive disorders and/or other medical conditions. In some embodiments, a device includes a base support member comprising a support element portion and a sleeve portion. The support element portion has a first end and a second end, and a top surface disposed at an angle relative to a bottom surface of the support element. The second end has a height greater than the first end. A support pillow member is fixedly coupled to the base support member between at least a portion of the sleeve portion and at least a portion of the second end of the support element portion. The support pillow member, the support element portion, and the sleeve portion collectively define an interior region that includes a receiving portion configured to receive at least a portion of a user's arm therein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a therapeutic pad system according to an embodiment.

2 is a perspective view of a therapeutic pad system according to an embodiment.

3 is a side view of the therapeutic pad system of FIG. 2 .

4 is a top view of the riser and support elements of the therapeutic pad system of FIG. 2 .

5 is a top view of the body element of the therapeutic pad system of FIG. 2 .

6 is a side perspective view of the riser element and support element of the therapeutic pad system of FIG. 2 .

7 is a side view of a support element of the therapeutic pad system of FIG. 2 .

8 is a front perspective view of a support element of the therapeutic pad system of FIG. 2 .

9 is a side perspective view of the cushion member of the support element of FIG. 8 .

10 is a front perspective view of the rising element of the therapeutic pad system of FIG. 2 .

FIG. 11 is a partially disassembled view of the riser element of FIG. 10 .

FIG12 is a side view of the rising element of FIG11.

Figure 13 is a top view of the main body component of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 2.

14A and 14B illustrate a method of assembling the therapeutic pad system of FIG. 2 .

15A-15C illustrate a method of adjusting the position of a riser element relative to a support element of the therapeutic pad system of FIG. 2 .

16-19 illustrate a method of using the therapeutic pad system of FIG. 2 .

20 and 21 are each perspective views of the therapeutic pad system of FIG. 2 illustrating the body element in different configurations.

22 and 23 are each perspective views of the therapeutic pad system of FIG. 2 illustrating alternative orientations of use of the therapeutic pad system.

24(A) through 24(J) each illustrate the therapeutic pad system of FIG. 2 in use by a user with the body element in different configurations and the user in different positions.

25 is a perspective view of a therapeutic pad system according to another embodiment.

26-29 and 30(A)-30(I) each illustrate a different embodiment of a body element.

31(A) to 31(E) each illustrate a different embodiment of a body element including different fill partitioning options.

Figure 32(A) is a top view of a therapeutic pad system according to another embodiment shown in a first configuration, and Figure 32(B) is a top view of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 32(A) shown in a second configuration.

Figure 33 is a side view of the therapeutic pad system of Figures 32(A) and 32(B).

Figure 34 is a perspective view of the therapeutic pad system of Figures 32(A) and 32(B) shown on a bed, and Figure 35 is a perspective view of the therapeutic pad system of Figures 32(A) and 32(B) illustrating a user positioned on the therapeutic pad system.

36 is a perspective view of a therapeutic cushion system with an optional pillow according to another embodiment.

Figure 37 is a side view of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 36, and Figure 38 is an end view taken along line A-A of Figure 37.

39 is a top view of the therapeutic pad system of FIG. 37 showing side support members on either side of the support element.

40 is a cross-sectional view of the side support member of the therapeutic pad system of FIG. 36 .

41 is a top view of the therapeutic pad system of FIG. 36 with an optional body element.

42(A) to 42(D) each illustrate a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a side support member.

43 is a perspective view of a therapeutic cushion system with an optional pillow according to another embodiment.

Figure 44 is a side view of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 43, and Figure 45 is an end view taken along line B-B of Figure 44.

46 is a top view of the therapeutic pad system of FIG. 43 , wherein side support members are shown disposed on both sides of the support element.

Figure 47 is a top view of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 43 with an optional body element.

Figure 48 is a side view of a therapeutic pad system according to another embodiment, and Figure 49 is an end view of the therapeutic pad system taken along line C-C of Figure 48.

50 is a top view of a sling member of the therapeutic pad system of FIG. 48; and FIG. 51 is a top view of the sling member of the therapeutic pad system of FIG. 48 with an optional body element.

Figure 52 is a top view of the frame and pad components of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 48.

53 is a side view of the therapeutic pad system of FIG. 48 illustrating a bed length version; and FIG. 54 is a side view of the therapeutic pad system of FIG. 48 illustrating a torso length version.

55 is a side view of a therapeutic pad system according to another embodiment.

56 is a side view of a therapeutic pad system according to another embodiment.

Figure 57 is a side view of a therapeutic pad system according to another embodiment; and Figure 58 is an exploded side view of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 57.

Figure 59 is a side view of a therapeutic pad system according to another embodiment; and Figure 60 is an exploded side view of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 59.

61 is a top view of a support element according to an embodiment.

Figure 62 is a side view of the support element of Figure 61, shown adjacent to a portion of the rising element.

Figure 63 is a front end view of the support element of Figure 61 cut along the E-E line of Figure 61; and Figure 64 is a foot end view of the support element of Figure 61 cut along the D-D line of Figure 61.

65 is a side view of a support element according to another embodiment.

66 is a side view of a support element according to another embodiment.

Figure 67 is a perspective view of a therapeutic pad system according to another embodiment.

Figure 68 is a top view of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 67.

Figure 69 is an end view of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 67 taken along line F-F of Figure 68.

Figure 70 is a side view of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 67.

Figure 71 is a perspective view of a therapeutic pad system according to another embodiment.

Figure 72 is a top view of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 71.

Figure 73 is an end view of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 71 taken along line G-G of Figure 72.

Figure 74 is a side view of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 71.

Figure 75 is a top view of a therapeutic pad system according to another embodiment.

76 is a top view of a support element including anti-slip features according to an embodiment.

77 is a side perspective view of a support element including anti-slip features according to another embodiment.

78(A) to 78(F) are each top views of different embodiments of support elements including anti-slip features.

79 is a side perspective view of a therapeutic pad system according to another embodiment.

Figure 80 is a side perspective view of the side extension element of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 79.

Figure 81 is a perspective view of a therapeutic pad system according to another embodiment.

Figure 82 is a side view of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 81.

Figure 83 is a top view of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 81.

Figure 84 is a bottom view of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 81.

Figure 85 is a front end view; and Figure 86 is a rear end view of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 81.

Figure 87 is a side view of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 81 with the body element removed.

Figure 88 is a front end view; and Figure 89 is a rear end view of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 81 with the body element removed.

Figure 90 is a top view; and Figure 91 is a bottom view of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 81 with the body element removed.

92 is a perspective view of a portion of the base support of the therapeutic pad system of FIG. 81 , shown transparent to illustrate the interior area of the base support.

Figure 93 is a top view of a portion of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 81 with the body element removed.

Figure 94 is a disassembled view of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 81.

Figure 95 is a partial exploded view of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 81.

Figure 96 is a perspective view of a therapeutic pad system according to another embodiment.

Figure 97 is a top view of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 96.

Figure 98 is a side view of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 96.

Figure 99 is a bottom view of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 96.

Figure 100 is a front view of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 96.

Figure 101 is a rear end view of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 96.

Figure 102 is a front perspective view of the base support member of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 96.

103 is a bottom perspective view of the base support of the therapeutic pad system of FIG. 96 .

104 is a rear end view of the base support of the therapeutic pad system of FIG. 96 .

Figure 105 is a side view of the base support member of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 96.

Figure 106 is a top view of the base support member of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 96.

Figure 107 is a bottom view of the base support member of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 96.

Figure 108 is a rear perspective view of the base support member of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 96.

Figure 109 is a top view of the main body component of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 96.

Figure 110 is a front view of the main body element of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 96.

Figure 111 is a side view of the main body element of the therapeutic pad system of Figure 96.

112 is a partial side view illustrating a user positioned on the therapeutic pad system of FIG. 96 .

Figure 113 is a perspective view illustrating a user positioned on the therapeutic pad system of Figure 96.

114 is a top view of a body element according to another embodiment.

Figure 115 is a front view of the main body element of Figure 114.

Figure 116 is a side view of the main body element of Figure 114.

Figure 117 is a side view of the main body element of Figure 114.

118 is a top view of a body element according to another embodiment.

Figure 119 is a front view of the main body element of Figure 118.

Figure 120 is a side view of the main body element of Figure 118.

121 is an exploded perspective view of the base support of FIG. 102 and the body element of FIG. 114 shown with the base support disposed on a support surface.

122 is a perspective view of the base support of FIG. 102 and the body element of FIG. 114 shown with the base support disposed on a support surface.

123 is a side view illustrating a user positioned on the base support of FIG. 102 and using the body element of FIG. 114 .

124 and 125 are each bar graphs illustrating the results of a first example study evaluating the effects of using a therapeutic pad system.

126-129 are each a bar graph illustrating the results of a second example study evaluating the effects of using a therapeutic pad system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Described herein are devices and methods for providing therapeutic treatment for symptoms associated with GERD and/or other digestive disorders and/or other medical conditions or diseases. In some embodiments, a therapeutic pad system as described herein can allow a user to sleep comfortably for extended periods of time in a substantially flat or tilted right lateral decubitus (RLD) position, or a substantially flat or tilted left lateral decubitus (LLD) position. In the tilted RLD position or the tilted LLD position, the therapeutic pad system can be used to minimize or eliminate gastroesophageal reflux. For example, the tilted RLD position can facilitate gastric emptying into the duodenum, and the tilted LLD position can facilitate reducing reflux episodes.

In some embodiments, a device includes a base support member comprising a support element portion and a sleeve portion. The support element portion has a first end, a second end, and a top surface disposed at an angle relative to a bottom surface of the support element. The second end has a height greater than a height of the first end. A support pillow member is fixedly coupled to the base support member between at least a portion of the sleeve portion and at least a portion of the second end of the support element portion. The support pillow member, the support element portion, and the sleeve portion collectively define an interior region including a receiving portion configured to receive at least a portion of a user's arm therein.

In some embodiments, a device includes a base support member comprising a support element portion and a sleeve portion. The support element portion has a first end, a second end, and a top surface disposed at an angle relative to a bottom surface. The second end of the support element portion has a height greater than the first end of the support element portion. A support pillow member formed of a foam material is coupled to the sleeve portion. The support pillow member, the support element portion, and the sleeve portion collectively define an interior region including a receiving portion configured to receive at least a portion of a user's arm therein.

In some embodiments, a device includes a body element including a foam insert member disposed within an outer cover. The body element includes an arcuate portion, and first and second arms extending from the arcuate portion, respectively. The body element also includes a side support bolster disposed on at least one of the first arm or the second arm and configured to maintain a user in a side position. In some embodiments, the body element includes a neck support portion that can support the user's neck when the user's head is disposed on the arcuate portion.

In some embodiments, a device includes a support base and a support pillow component. The support base includes a support element portion and a sleeve portion. The support element portion has a first end, a second end, and a top surface disposed at an angle relative to a bottom surface of the support element. The second end has a height greater than the first end. The support element portion and the riser portion collectively define an interior region. The support pillow component can be positioned within the interior region. The support pillow component, the support element portion, and the sleeve portion collectively define a receiving portion configured to receive at least a portion of a user's arm therein.

In some embodiments, a method of using a therapeutic pad system may include: coupling a riser element of the pad system to a support element of the pad system, such that the riser element and the support element collectively define a receiving portion between the riser element and the support element. The support element includes a top surface disposed at an angle relative to the bottom surface. The body element may be configured to be placed on at least one of a portion of the support element or a portion of the riser element. The body element has a first arm and a second arm connected by an arcuate portion. The support element, the riser element, and the body element are collectively configured to support a user in an inclined side position, wherein the user's arm may be disposed within the receiving portion.

In some embodiments, a device includes a support element having a first end, a second end, and a top surface arranged at a certain angle relative to the bottom surface. The height of the second end is greater than the height of the first end. The riser is coupled to the body element so that the body can move between a first position and a second position, in which the first portion of the body extends from the side of the riser and the second portion of the body is arranged substantially perpendicular to the first portion, and in the second position, the first portion of the body is arranged on top of the riser. The second portion of the body is configured to be at least partially disposed on the support portion when the riser is disposed adjacent to the second end of the body.

In some embodiments, a method for treating symptoms associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may include positioning a user's body on a therapeutic pad system such that the user is positioned on the therapeutic pad system in an inclined right lateral decubitus (RLD) position or an inclined left lateral decubitus (LLD) position such that the user's pyloric sphincter is positioned at an elevation below the elevation of the user's esophageal sphincter. For example, the user may be positioned on a support element (or base support, as described herein) of the therapeutic pad system having an inclined top surface between 6 and 30 degrees. In such embodiments, the user may be positioned on the support element (or base support) at an angle between approximately 5 and 20 degrees, depending on factors such as, for example, the density and/or deflection characteristics of the support element and/or the user's weight. The user's right or left arm may be positioned within a receiving portion of the therapeutic pad system, the receiving portion being defined between the support element and a rising element of the therapeutic pad system. The user of the therapeutic pad system may be maintained in the inclined RLD or LLD position for a sufficient period of time to treat symptoms associated with GERD. In some embodiments, the period of time is at least 1 hour. In some embodiments, the period of time is 6 hours. In some embodiments, the maintaining comprises positioning the body element of the therapeutic pad system proximate to at least one of a riser element or a support element of the therapeutic pad system. In some embodiments, the maintaining comprises positioning the body element of the therapeutic pad system proximate to a base support of the therapeutic pad system.

In some embodiments, a device includes a pad system comprising a support element portion and a riser element portion. The support element portion has a first end and a second end, and a top surface disposed at an angle relative to the bottom surface. The height of the second end is greater than the height of the first end. The support element portion and the riser element portion collectively define a receiving portion configured to receive a user's arm therein, and a side support member is configured to be disposed on a portion of the top surface of the support element portion. The side support member is configured to maintain the user in a side position on the pad system.

In some embodiments, a device includes a frame member and a sling member coupled to the frame member. The sling member defines an opening between a first portion and a second portion of the sling member. The first portion of the sling member is configured to support a user's head, and the second portion of the sling member is disposed at an angle between approximately 6 degrees and approximately 30 degrees relative to the first portion. The opening is configured to receive at least a portion of a user's arm therethrough. A padding member is disposed below the opening and is configured to support at least a portion of a user's arm when disposed through the opening. The device is configured to be supported on a support surface and to support a user in an inclined side position.

In some embodiments, a device includes a body member having a first end portion including an arcuate portion, and a first arm and a second arm each extending away from the arcuate portion. The body member is configured to maintain a user in a side position. The body member includes an outer sleeve member and a pillow insert. The outer sleeve member includes stitching along an outer edge portion and is free of stitching along an inner edge portion.

In some embodiments, a device includes a support element comprising a first end and a second end having a height greater than that of the first end. The support element further includes a top surface disposed at an angle relative to a bottom surface, a pad portion, and an inflatable chamber configured to adjustably modify the firmness and/or height of the support element. The device also includes a riser element. The riser element and the support element collectively define a receiving portion configured to receive a user's arm.

In some embodiments, a kit includes a pad system comprising a plurality of support elements and a plurality of riser elements. Each support element from the plurality of support elements includes a first end and a second end, and a top surface disposed at an angle relative to the bottom surface. Each support element from the plurality of support elements can be selectively stacked on top of another support element in the support elements to change at least one of the thickness or firmness of the support portion of the pad system. Each riser from the plurality of riser elements can be selectively stacked on top of another riser element to change at least one of the thickness or firmness of the riser portion of the pad system. The riser portion and the support portion are collectively configured to support a user in a reclined side position, wherein the user's arm is disposed within a receiving portion defined between the support portion and the riser portion.

In some embodiments, a kit includes a mat system comprising a plurality of stackable elements. Each stackable element from the plurality of stackable elements includes a support element and a riser element. Each support element includes a first end and a second end, and a top surface arranged at a certain angle relative to the bottom surface. At least one stackable element from the plurality of stackable elements includes an opening defined between the support element and the riser element. Each stackable element from the plurality of stackable elements can be selectively stacked on top of another stackable element to change at least one of the thickness or firmness of the mat system.

In some embodiments, a device includes a support element and a riser element. The support element has a first end and a second end, and a top surface disposed at an angle relative to a bottom surface. The second end has a height greater than the first end. The top surface is disposed at an angle between about 6 degrees and about 30 degrees relative to the bottom surface. The riser element includes a strip configured to adjustably couple the riser element proximate the second end of the support element.

FIG1 is a schematic illustration of a therapeutic pad system, according to an embodiment. The therapeutic pad system (also referred to herein as the “pad system”) 100 includes a support element 120 (also referred to herein as a “wedge-shaped support” or “wedge-shaped element”), a riser element 122, and a body element 124 (also referred to herein as a “body pillow”). As described above, the pad system 100 can be used, for example, to treat symptoms associated with GERD and/or other digestive disorders and/or other medical conditions. For example, the pad system 100 can allow a user to sleep for extended periods of time in an inclined right lateral decubitus (RLD) position (described in more detail below), which can minimize or eliminate gastroesophageal reflux while facilitating gastric emptying into the duodenum, or in an inclined left lateral decubitus (LLD) position for extended periods of time, which can facilitate reducing reflux episodes.

In other words, the height dimension of the support element 120 varies from a caudal end of the support element 120 (also referred to herein as the "first end") to a cranial end of the support element 120 (also referred to herein as the "second end") (e.g., closest to the user's head), with the maximum height dimension being, for example, at the cranial end of the support element 120. The support element 120 can include a concave portion or recessed portion (not shown in FIG. 1 ) disposed on a top surface of the support element 120, for example, at or near the cranial end as described in more detail below with reference to specific embodiments. For example, the concave portion can be used to relieve pressure in the user's lower armpits when the user is lying on the pad system 100 in a transverse decubitus position.

The support element 120 can also have a shape that can promote an appropriate torso angle to enable a user to comfortably maintain a transverse lying position on the support element 120 during use. For example, the support element 120 can include a curved outer portion that can help increase the comfort of a user in a transverse lying position for an extended period of time without uncomfortable pressure or pain in the lower shoulder or arm. In some embodiments, the support element 120 can include a chamfered corner on the cranial end of the support element 120 that can accommodate additional ergonomic arm and elbow placement during use of the pad system 100.

The support element 120 can be of a variety of lengths, widths, and/or thicknesses. For example, in some embodiments, the support element 120 can be shorter than a typical bed size, allowing the user's legs to at least partially extend off the support element 120 during use. Such a support element 120 can be referred to as having torso length. In some embodiments, the support element 120 can be the length of a typical bed and may be referred to herein as having bed length. In some embodiments, the support element 120 can include multiple sections that can be stacked together.

The support element 120 may include a shell 121 and a cushion member 123 that may be disposed within the shell 121. The shell 121 of the support element 120 may be formed from one or more materials. For example, in some embodiments, the shell 121 may include a top portion that a user contacts during use of the cushion system 100 formed from a first material, and a bottom portion that contacts a support surface (e.g., a top surface of a bed) on which the support element 120 is disposed during use, which is formed from a second material. The top portion (e.g., the top surface) of the shell 121 may be formed from, for example, a highly conformable four-way stretch material such as cotton/spandex, nylon/spandex, polyester/spandex, or any blend of cotton, nylon, or polyester in combination with spandex or elastane, and the bottom portion may be formed from a sturdier material such as, for example, poplin, canvas, gabardine, or twill made using any combination of cotton, polyester, or nylon to provide durability.

The shell 121 of the support element 120 may include an opening through which the pad member 123 may be inserted, and may include fasteners, such as, for example, a zipper, buttons, snaps, flaps, hook and loop fasteners, or other suitable coupling methods, to close or partially close the opening. The pad member 123 may be formed of one or more foam materials, such as, for example, polyurethane or rubber latex or viscoelastic polyurethane (e.g., memory foam). In some embodiments, the pad member 123 may include a variety of different foam materials, each having a different density and/or different deflection characteristics. In alternative embodiments, the pad member 123 may include one or more inflatable chambers. In other alternative embodiments, the pad member 123 may include a filling material, such as a polyester material, disposed within the inner shell. In some embodiments, the support element 120 may include a plurality of pad members 123. For example, a plurality of pad members 123 may be stacked together within the shell 121.

The rising element 122 can be removably coupled to the support element 120. For example, the rising element 122 can be coupled to the support element 120 near or proximate to the second end (i.e., the head-side end) of the support element 120 and can be used to support the neck and head of the user. The rising element 122 can be coupled to the support element 120 by a variety of different coupling methods. For example, in some embodiments, the rising element 122 can include a strip along the lateral side edge of the rising element 122, which can be coupled to the support element 120 along the lateral side edge of the support element 120. The strip can include a coupling portion that can be coupled to a matching coupling portion provided on the support element 120. For example, the coupling portion on the support element 120 can be a button, and the coupling portion on the rising element 122 can be a hole or opening configured to couple to the button. In alternative embodiments, other types of coupling portions can be included. For example, the rising element 122 can be coupled to the support element 120 by hook and loop fasteners, snaps, a string or tie, a zipper, or any other suitable coupling method. In another alternative embodiment, the strips may be on the support element 120 and may be coupled to the riser element 122. In another alternative embodiment, the support element 120 and the riser element 122 may be formed as or combined into a single uniform component.

In some embodiments, the strap may include multiple coupling portions so that the riser 122 and the support element 120 are adjustably coupled together. For example, a strap on the riser 122 (as described above) may include multiple openings disposed at different locations along the length of the strap, which may be selectively coupled to buttons on the support element 120. In alternative embodiments, the support element may include multiple coupling portions to which coupling portions on the strap may be selectively coupled. The adjustability of the position of the riser 122 relative to the support element 120 may allow the user to adjust the angle of the user's head and/or neck while supported on the riser 122. Additionally, the adjustability of the riser 122 relative to the support element 120 may compress the riser 122 to change or affect, for example, the height of the user's head when supported on the riser 122. Thus, the user may position the riser 122 to achieve a desired position and/or compression of the riser 122, and/or to accommodate users with arms of different sizes.

In some embodiments, the rising element 122 can be coupled to the support element 120 such that a receiving portion is formed between the second end of the support element 120 and the end of the rising element 122. The receiving portion can be, for example, an opening, a gap, a cavity, a pocket, a space, or a gap between the support element 120 and the rising element 122, into which the user can insert at least a portion of the user's arm. The receiving portion can be defined by a flexible or conformable portion of the pad system 100 such that the size of the receiving portion can change as the user inserts the arm. For example, in some embodiments, a portion of the support element 120 can contact a portion of the rising element 122 such that when the user inserts the arm into the receiving portion, the user moves or bends a portion of the support element 120 and/or a portion of the rising element 122.

During use of pad system 100, a user can place their lower shoulder and arm within the receiving portion while lying in a side position. Inserting the user's arm within the receiving portion between support element 120 and riser element 122 can also reduce the user's tendency to slide downward on the angled top surface of support element 120 and can help stabilize the user in a side or side position during use of pad system 100. The position of the user's arm and shoulder can be adjusted within the receiving portion between support element 120 and riser element 122 so that the user's lower armpit rests within the concave portion of support element 120.

The rising element 122 may include a pillow insert 125 that may be disposed within an outer shell 127. The outer shell 127 may include an opening through which the pillow insert 125 may be inserted and may include fasteners, such as, for example, a zipper, buttons, snaps, flaps, hook and loop fasteners, or other suitable coupling methods, to close or partially close the opening. The outer shell 127 may be formed of the same or similar material as the outer shell 121 described above for the support element 120. For example, the outer shell 127 may include a first portion formed of a four-way stretch material and a second portion formed of a stronger material, such as described for the support element 120. The pillow insert 125 may include an inner shell (not shown in FIG. 1 ) that may contain a fill material (not shown in FIG. 1 ) therein. The fill material may, for example, be a clustered polyester fiber material, such as, for example, any combination of polyester fibers, clustered polyester fibers, a down substitute made of synthetic fibers, polystyrene beads/pellets, chopped foam, or soft down. The inner shell of pillow insert 125 may also be formed using the four-way stretch material of outer shell 127 as described above. The inner shell of pillow insert 125 may also include an opening through which filling material may be inserted and may include fasteners, such as, for example, a zipper, buttons, snaps, or other suitable coupling methods, to close or partially close the opening. In alternative embodiments, the inner shell may not include such an opening. For example, after the filling material has been inserted into the inner shell, the inner shell may be closed, such as by sewing.

The four-way stretch material of the outer shell 127 of the riser element 122 described above, together with the pillow insert 125 having an inner shell formed from the four-way stretch material and having a clustered polyester fiber fill material, can allow the riser element 122 to have stretchability and shape retention. For example, in such an embodiment, a user can conform the riser element 122 to a desired thickness and/or shape based on the user's needs and preferences. For example, a user can conform or adjust the riser element 122 to form a cavity, or otherwise fit or conform to the user's face, ears, arms, etc. The conformed shape can be maintained for an extended period of time, and/or until the user disperses the fill material of the pillow insert 125 by, for example, shaking or sanding the riser element 122.

The body element 124 may include a pillow insert 129 that may be disposed within the sleeve member 131. The sleeve member 131 may include one or more openings through which the pillow insert 129 may be inserted, and may include fasteners, such as, for example, a zipper, buttons, snaps, or other suitable coupling methods, to close or partially close the opening. The pillow insert 129 may be formed the same as or similar to the pillow insert 125 described above for the riser element 122. For example, the pillow insert 129 may include an inner shell (not shown in FIG. 1 ) containing a filler material (not shown in FIG. 1 ). The filler material may, for example, be a clustered polyester fiber material, such as, for example, the material described above for the riser element 122. The inner shell of the body element 124 may be formed from, for example, a four-way stretch material as described above for the inner shell of the riser element 122. The sleeve member 131 can be formed from, for example, a four-way stretch material as described above for the riser element 122 and the support element 120, or can be constructed from a two-way stretch material, such as, for example, a jersey or double-sided fabric. Thus, as described above for the riser element 122, the body element 124 can also be manipulated, conformed, adjusted, dispersed, etc., to conform to a desired shape and/or thickness. The inner shell of the pillow insert 129 can also include an opening through which the filling material can be inserted, and can include fasteners, such as, for example, zippers, buttons, snaps, or other suitable coupling methods, to close or partially close the opening. In alternative embodiments, the inner shell may not include such an opening. For example, after the filling material has been inserted into the inner shell, the inner shell can be closed, for example, by sewing.

The body element 124 can have a variety of different shapes and can have a variety of different sizes. For example, in some embodiments, the body element 124 can include an arcuate portion at the head side end connecting the first arm and the second arm of the body element 124. In some embodiments, the arcuate portion can have a curvature of, for example, substantially 180 degrees. In other embodiments, the arcuate portion can have a different curvature, for example, between approximately 30 degrees and 180 degrees. In some embodiments, the first arm and the second arm can extend parallel to each other away from the arcuate portion. In some embodiments, the length of the first arm of the body element 124 can be approximately half the length of the second arm of the body element 124. In some embodiments, the length of the first arm can be substantially the same as the length of the second arm.

As described in more detail below, the body element 124 can be reconfigured into a variety of different shapes and configurations for use on the support element 120 and/or the riser element 122. Optionally, in some embodiments, the body element 124 can be used independently of the support element 120 and the riser element 122. In some embodiments, the body element 124 and the riser element 122 can be integrally formed or combined within a single component. In such an embodiment, the body element 124 can be moved from a first position in which the body element 124 is unfolded to a second configuration in which the body element 124 is folded and such that a portion of the body element 124 is disposed over a portion of the riser element 122. In some embodiments, the body element 124 and the riser element 122 can be coupled by a flexible hinge such that the body element 124 can move between a folded configuration and an unfolded configuration. In some embodiments, the flexible hinge can be formed from, for example, a fabric material.

Sleeve member 131 of body element 124 can be formed into a tubular shape so that pillow insert 129 can be inserted therein through an opening defined at one end of sleeve member 131. Sleeve member 131 can include stitching along a single outer edge, so that body element 124 can be free of stitching along the inner edge portion of sleeve member 131, where the user typically contacts sleeve member 131 during use. Because many known body pillows with such inner stitching can tend to tighten when tension is applied, resulting in an awkward and potentially painful fit for the user, such an embodiment can provide increased comfort for the user. Additionally, by stitching along the outer edge portion, sleeve member 131 can eliminate or reduce deformation of body element 124 during use, which can further provide improved feel and comfort for the user. In some embodiments, stitching can be included on body element 124 at additional target areas, such as those described with reference to Figures 26-28. The inner shell of pillow insert 129 of body element 124 can also be constructed into a tubular shape in the same or similar manner as sleeve member 131. For example, the inner shell of pillow insert 129 may include stitching along the outer edge of the inner shell, but no stitching along the inner edge.

As described above, the user can manipulate, conform, disperse, etc. the clustered polyester fiber fill material within the body element 124 and/or riser element 122 to create cavities or protrusions to accommodate specific body parts and/or portions to suit the user's needs and/or preferences. The shapes and/or cavities formed by the user can be maintained for extended periods of time, and/or until the user disperses the fill material of the riser element 122 and/or body element 124 by, for example, shaking the riser element 122 and/or body element 124. The combination of the four-way stretch material and the clustered polyester fill material can allow the fill material to be redistributed throughout the body element 124 and/or riser element 122 in a balanced manner. The reconfigurable fill material of the body element 124 and/or riser element 122 can also minimize undesirable and irreversible migration of the fill material, which can occur in some known pad systems due to their non-flexible fill and non-stretch material. Additionally, the clustered polyester fiber fill material of the body element 124 and/or riser element 122 can be mechanically washed and dried without causing clumping of the fill material. The combination of the fill material and four-way stretch outer shell 127 and inner shell of the pillow insert 125 of the riser element 122, and the sleeve member 131 and inner shell of the pillow insert 129 of the body element 124, provides for post-laundering redistribution of the fill material to substantially its original state.

In some embodiments, the pad system 100 may include side support members or portions (not shown in FIG. 1 ) that may serve as alternatives to the body element 124. In some embodiments, the rise element 122 and the support element 120 are formed as a single component and define a receiving portion (e.g., a space or opening) in which the user's arm may be positioned during use. In some embodiments, the pad system 100 may be implemented in an adjustable bed, such as, for example, a bed used in a medical facility. In some embodiments, the pad system 100 may be implemented using a sling-type support element and a rise element. For example, in such embodiments, the sling-type support element and the rise element may include a sling portion coupled to a frame member. In some such embodiments, the support legs or feet and/or wheels (such as casters) may be coupled to the frame member. In some embodiments, the pad system 100 may include one or more inflatable chambers that may allow a user to adjust the height and/or firmness of the pad system 100.

In some embodiments, the mat system 100 can include stackable elements. For example, in some embodiments, the support element 120 can include a plurality of individually stackable support sections, each having a cushion member and an outer shell, and a plurality of stackable riser elements 122, each having a cushion member or pillow insert within the outer shell. In some embodiments, the mat system 100 can include a plurality of stackable elements, each including a support element and a riser element formed as a single component. Example embodiments of mat systems including such stackable elements are described in more detail below.

To use the pad system 100, a user can removably couple the riser element 122 to the support element 120 as described above. The user can place the riser element 122 and the support element 120 on a support surface (e.g., the top surface of a bed) before or after coupling them together. The body element 124 can be positioned on the support element 120, or a portion of the body element 124 can be positioned on the support element 120 and a portion can be positioned on the riser element 120. The user can then lie on the assembled pad system 100 in an RLD or LLD position so that the user is roughly aligned in the center portion of the support element 120. The user inserts the user's right or left arm under the body element 124 and into the receiving portion formed between the support element 120 and the riser element 122. Optionally, the user can adjust the position of the user's right or left arm and shoulder within the receiving portion between the support element 120 and the riser element 122 so that the user's lower armpit rests within the central concave portion of the support element 120.

With the user's arms within the space between the support element 120 and the riser element 122, the mat system 100 can maintain the user in an inclined RLD or LLD position. Thus, the tendency of the user to slide down the angled portion of the support element 120 can be reduced or eliminated. Further illustration and details of how a user can be positioned on the mat system 100 are described below. In some embodiments, the support element 120 and the riser element 122 can be used without the body element 124. In some embodiments, it may be desirable to use only the body element 124.

As described above, the pad system 100 can be used as a method for treating GERD and/or other digestive disorders. To use the pad system 100 for this purpose, the user can follow the steps described above for positioning on the pad system 100 in either the tilted RLD position or the tilted LLD position. For example, in the tilted RLD position, the therapeutic pad system 100 can be used to minimize or eliminate gastroesophageal reflux while facilitating gastric emptying into the duodenum. For example, in the tilted RLD position, the user's gastric outlet valve (i.e., the pyloric sphincter) will be positioned substantially on the lower right side of the user's abdomen, which is lower than or at an elevation less than the elevation of the user's esophageal sphincter. Thus, when the user remains in the tilted RLD position for a sufficient period of time, the user's gastric contents can be discharged from the stomach and into the duodenum. For example, a period of time between approximately 1 hour and 4 hours may be required for the gastric contents to empty into the duodenum such that the user experiences relief from the symptoms associated with GERD and/or other digestive disorders. The time frame may vary depending on various factors, such as, for example, the user's overall health, other conditions the user may have (such as diabetes or gastroparesis), or the type and amount of food the user consumed prior to resting on the pad system, etc. In another example, being in a reclined LLD position may result in a reduction in the frequency of reflux episodes for the user.

2 through 25 illustrate a therapeutic pad system and method of using the therapeutic pad system according to an embodiment. Therapeutic pad system 200 (also referred to herein as a "pad system") includes a support element 220, a riser element 222, and a body element 224. As described with respect to pad system 100, pad system 200 can be used, for example, to treat symptoms associated with GERD and/or other digestive disorders.

The support element 220 can have a variety of different shapes and/or sizes. In this embodiment, the support element 220 has a substantially wedge-shaped shape, as shown in the side view of FIG. 7 , for example. Specifically, the support element 220 includes a top surface 237 disposed at an angle θ relative to a bottom surface 239, as shown in FIG. 7 . In some embodiments, the angle θ can be, for example, between approximately 6 degrees and approximately 30 degrees. In other words, the support element 220 has a height H1 at the first end 215 of the support element 220 and a height H2 at the second end 216 of the support element 220, and, for example, as shown in FIG. 7 , the height H2 is greater than the height H1. The height H1 can be, for example, up to 2 inches, and the height H2 can be, for example, between approximately 6 inches and 14 inches. The support element 220 also has a length L, which can be, for example, between approximately 20 inches and 40 inches, so that the support element 220 has a torso length (as described above) and can facilitate an appropriate torso angle to allow the user to comfortably maintain a transverse lying position on the support element 220 during use.

The support element 220 also includes a concave portion 230 disposed on a top surface 237 of the support element 220 (e.g., see Figures 4, 5, 8, and 9). As described above, the concave portion 230 can be used to relieve pressure in the user's lower armpits when the user is lying on the pad system 200 in a transverse lying position. The support element 220 also includes a curved outer portion that can help improve the comfort of a user lying in a transverse lying position for extended periods of time without uncomfortable pressure or pain in the lower shoulder or arm. In this embodiment, the support element 220 also includes a beveled corner portion 233 on the second end of the support element 220 (e.g., see Figures 4 and 6) that can accommodate additional ergonomic arm and elbow placement during use of the pad system 200.

The support element 220 includes, for example, a shell 221 as shown in Figures 4 and 6 to 8, and a cushion member 223 as shown in Figure 9 that can be disposed within the shell 221. The shell 221 of the support element 220 can be formed from one or more materials as described above for the support element 120. For example, the shell 221 can include a top portion 238 (see, for example, Figures 7 to 8) that contacts a support surface (e.g., the top surface of a bed) on which the user contacts the cushion system 200 during use, which is formed from a first material, and a bottom portion 236 on which the support element 220 is disposed during use, which is formed from a second material different from the first material. The top portion of the shell 221 can be formed from, for example, a four-way stretch material, and the bottom portion can be formed from a stronger material as described above for the support element 120. The top portion 238 and the bottom portion 236 can be coupled together using, for example, stitching. In this embodiment, the support element 220 includes buttons 228 on the lateral side edges of the support element 220 (e.g., see Figures 2, 3, and 6 to 8), which can be used to removably couple the rising element 222 to the support element 220 as described in more detail below.

The housing 221 of the support element 120 may further include an opening (not shown) through which the pad member 223 may be inserted, and may include fasteners (not shown), such as, for example, a zipper, buttons, snaps, flaps, or other suitable coupling methods, to close or partially close the opening. In this embodiment, the pad member 223 is formed, for example, from one or more foam materials as previously described. As shown in FIG9 , the pad member 223 includes a cavity 244 defined on a top surface portion of the pad member 223. When the pad member 223 is disposed within the housing 221, the cavity 244 forms the concave portion 230 of the support element 220.

The rising element 222 includes a pillow insert 225 that can be disposed within a shell 227. The shell 227 can include an opening 242, as shown in Figure 11, through which the pillow insert 225 can be inserted. As previously described with respect to the cushion assembly 100, the shell 227 can include fasteners (not shown), such as, for example, a zipper, buttons, snaps, or other suitable coupling methods, to close or partially close the opening. The shell 227 can be formed of the same or similar material as the shell 221 described above with respect to the support element 220. For example, the shell 227 can include a first portion 232 formed of a four-way stretch material and a second portion 234 formed of a stronger material. The pillow insert 225 can include an inner shell 235, which can be formed of a four-way stretch material as described above and can contain a filler material (not shown) therein. The filler material can be, for example, a clustered polyester fiber material, such as, for example, the material described above with respect to the pillow insert 125. The inner shell 235 of the pillow insert 225 may also include an opening (not shown) through which the filling material may be inserted, and may include fasteners (not shown), such as, for example, a zipper, buttons, snaps, or other suitable coupling methods, to close or partially close the opening. In alternative embodiments, the inner shell 235 may not include such an opening. For example, after the filling material has been inserted into the inner shell 235, the inner shell 235 may be closed, for example, by sewing.

As described above with respect to cushion assembly 100, the four-way stretch material of outer shell 227 of riser member 222, in combination with the four-way stretch material of inner shell 235 and the clustered polyester fiber fill material of pillow insert 225, can allow riser element 222 to have stretchability and shape retention. For example, as previously described, a user can conform riser element 222 to a desired thickness and/or shape, and/or form cavities or protrusions to meet the user's needs and preferences.

For example, as shown in Figures 2 to 4, the rising element 222 can be removably coupled to the support element 220. For example, in this embodiment, the rising element 222 includes strips 226 along the lateral side edge portions of the rising element 222, and the strips 226 each include multiple sets of buttonholes 240, which can be selectively coupled to the buttons 226 on the support element 220. The rising element 222 can also include a band 219 (for example, see Figures 10 to 12), which can be used to hold the strips 226 against the lateral side edges of the rising element 222. In this way, as described in more detail below, the rising element 222 and the support element 220 can be adjustably coupled together to meet the specific needs of the user. For example, as previously described, the rising element 222 can be coupled to the support element 220 so that the receiving portion 258 (for example, a space, opening, gap, pocket, etc.) (for example, see Figure 4) is defined between the second end 216 of the support element 220 and the rising element 222. When lying in the RLD or LLD position, the user can place the lower shoulder and arm in the receiving portion 258. The strap 226 can be formed, for example, from the same material as the bottom portion 234 of the rising element 222 (e.g., poplin, canvas, gabardine, or twill made using any combination of cotton, polyester, or nylon) to provide strength to the strap 226. Similarly, the buttons 228 of the support element 220 can be provided on the bottom portion 236 of the support element 220, which can be formed from the same material as the bottom portion 234 of the rising element 222.

As shown in Figures 5 and 13, in this embodiment, the body element 224 includes an arcuate portion 241 having a curvature of substantially 180 degrees at the cranial end, a first arm 247 and a second arm 248, each extending from the arcuate portion 241 in the caudal direction. In this embodiment, the length of the first arm 247 is shorter than the length of the second arm 248. For example, the length of the first arm 247 can be, for example, approximately half the length of the second arm 248. As described in more detail below, the body element 224 can be reconfigured into a variety of different shapes for use on the support element 220 and/or the riser element 222. Optionally, in some embodiments, the body element 224 can be used independently of the support element 220 and the riser element 222.

The body element 224 includes a pillow insert 229 that can be disposed within a sleeve member 231 (e.g., see FIG. 12 ). The sleeve member 231 can be formed into a tubular shape and include a first opening 243 and a second opening 245 through which the pillow insert 229 can be inserted. The opening 243 can include a fastener (not shown), such as, for example, a zipper that can be used to close the opening 243. As shown in FIG. 12 , the fastener can also extend along an outer edge of the sleeve member 231 so that a portion 251 of the sleeve member 231 along the outer edge portion 249 can be opened to facilitate insertion and removal of the pillow insert 229. Optionally, a second fastener (not shown) can be included that can be used to open and close the opening 245 in a similar manner.

The tubular shape of the sleeve member 231 can be formed, for example, by sewing or stitching along an outer edge portion 249 of the sleeve member 231. Thus, the sleeve member 231 can be free of stitching along an inner edge portion 250 of the sleeve member 231, which a user typically contacts during use. As described above, leaving the inner edge portion 250 free of stitching can provide increased comfort to the user and can eliminate or reduce deformation of the body element 224 during use. In this embodiment, the sleeve member 231 also includes a stitching feature 252 that extends at an angle from the inner edge portion 250 to the outer edge portion 249. The stitching 252 can extend at a 45-degree angle, for example.

The pillow insert 229 can be formed the same as or similar to the pillow insert 225 described above for the riser element 222. For example, the pillow insert 229 can include an inner shell 246, which can contain a filler material (not shown). As previously described for the pillow insert 129, the filler material can be, for example, a clustered polyester fiber material. The inner shell 246 can be formed from, for example, a four-way stretch material as described above. The sleeve member 231 can be formed from, for example, a four-way stretch material as described above for the riser element 222 and the support element 220, or alternatively can be formed from, for example, a two-way stretch material as described for the sleeve member 131. Therefore, as described above for the riser element 222, the body element 224 can also be manipulated, conformed, adjusted, dispersed, etc. to conform to a desired shape and/or thickness. Although not shown, the inner shell 246 of the pillow insert 229 may also include an opening through which the filling material may be inserted, and may include fasteners (not shown), such as, for example, a zipper, buttons, snaps, or other suitable coupling methods, to close or partially close the opening. In alternative embodiments, the inner shell 246 may not include such an opening. For example, after the filling material has been inserted into the inner shell 246, the inner shell 246 may be closed, such as by sewing.

As shown in Figures 13, 14, and 15A to 15C, to use the pad system 200, a user can removably couple the riser 222 to the support member 220. Specifically, the user can select one of the set of openings 240 on the strap 226 to couple to the button 228 on the support member 220 so that the riser 222 is positioned at a desired location relative to the support member 222. For example, the riser 222 can be positioned relative to the support member 220 so that the riser 222 is at a desired height to position the user's head and neck and at a desired longitudinal distance from the support member 220. As shown in Figure 15A, if the user couples the first set of buttonholes 240 (the set farthest from the end of the strap 226) to the button 228, the riser 222 will be at a maximum height. 15B , if the user uses the second set of buttonholes 240, the riser 222 will be at a medium height, and if the user uses the third set of buttonholes 240 (the set closest to the end of the strap 226), the riser 222 will be at a lowest height. The user can place the riser 222 and support member 220, for example, on a bed or other surface where the user intends to use the pad system 200, either before or after coupling the riser 222 to the support member 220.

For example, as shown in FIG14 , with the riser 222 coupled to the support member 220, the user can place the body member 224 on top of the riser 222 and the support member 220. Specifically, for example, as shown in FIG2 , FIG3 , FIG14 and FIG15A to FIG15C , the arcuate portion 241 is placed on the riser 222 and the second arm 248 of the body member 224 is located on the left side of the riser 222 and the support member 220 (as viewed in a top view of the pad system) such that a portion of the second arm 248 (depending on its length) extends away from the support member 220. Although the pad system 200 is described below with respect to a user positioned in the RLD position, it should be understood that the pad system 200 may alternatively be assembled for a user to be positioned on the pad system 200 in the LLD position in a similar manner.

The user can then lie on the assembled pad system 200 in the RLD position, so that the user is roughly aligned in the center portion of the support element 220. For example, as shown in FIG16, the user can insert the user's right arm under the curved portion 241 of the body element 224 and into the receiving portion 258 between the rising element 222 and the support element 220, and then extend through the space on the outside of the second arm 248 of the body element 224, as shown in FIG17. In other words, the user's arm can be positioned within the receiving portion 258, and the user's hand can extend out of the space. The user can check to ensure that the user's body is roughly in the middle of the support element 220. Optionally, the user can adjust the position of the user's right arm and shoulder within the space between the support element 220 and the rising element 222 so that the user's lower armpit rests within the central concave portion 230 of the support element 220. As shown in Figure 18, the user can then place the second arm 248 (i.e., the long arm) between the user's legs and place or tuck the first arm (short arm) behind or under the user's back, thighs and/or buttocks, with the user's knees in a bent position. As shown in Figure 19, the user can position the user's head, neck, and arms until the user is in a comfortable position. In some embodiments, the user's buttocks can be anchored or supported on a bed or support surface, and the pad system 200 is provided on the bed or support surface to help limit or prevent the user from sliding downward from the support element 220 and maintain the user in a desired position on the pad system 200. For example, in some embodiments, the support element 220 can have such a length that when the user is positioned on the pad system 200, the user's buttocks are at least partially positioned on the bed or support surface.

The pad system 200 can maintain the user in a reclined RLD position with the user's arms positioned within the space between the support element 220 and the rise element 222. Thus, the tendency of the user to slide off the angled top surface portion 237 of the support element 220 can be reduced or eliminated. As described above, the user can also manipulate, conform, disperse, etc. the clustered polyester fiber fill material within the body element 224 and/or rise element 222 to create cavities or protrusions to accommodate specific body parts and/or portions thereof associated with use for GERD or other medical conditions to accommodate the user's needs and/or preferences, for example, a user can accommodate a breathing apparatus or other similar device.

Figures 20 to 23 illustrate different alternative configurations for using the cushion system 200. Figure 20 illustrates a body element 224 having a second arm 228 folded over an arcuate portion 241. Figure 21 illustrates the body element 224 with the second arm 248 folded toward the first arm 247 so that the second arm 248 does not extend substantially away from the support element 220. Figures 22 and 23 illustrate the use of the cushion system 200 with the riser element 222 and the support element 220 positioned in alternative positions. Specifically, Figure 22 illustrates the support element 220 positioned in an upright position with the second end 216 supported on a support surface (e.g., a bed or floor) and the riser element 222 positioned in an upright position proximate to the support element 220. As shown in Figure 23, the body element 224 can be positioned against the riser element 222 and the support element 220 so that a user in a sitting or semi-sitting position can use the cushion system 200 as a backrest. 24 illustrates the use of the mat system 200 without the riser member 222. As shown in FIG.

Figures 24(A) to 24(J) each illustrate a user using the mat system 200 in various configurations and positions. Figure 24(A) illustrates a user positioned in an inclined LLD position. In other words, the body element 224 is positioned on the support element 220 and the riser element 222 with the second arm 248 (i.e., the long arm) on the right side of the mat system 200 (as viewed from a top view of the mat system 200). Figures 24(B) and 24(C) illustrate a user in an inclined RLD position as described above, for example, with reference to Figures 16 to 19. Figures 24(D) and 24(E) illustrate the body element 224 in a folded position similar to the configuration shown with reference to Figure 20, with the user positioned on the mat system 200 in an inclined supine position. Figures 24(F) and 24(G) illustrate the body element 224 in a folded position similar to the configuration shown with reference to Figure 21, with the user positioned on the mat system 200 in a prone position. Figure 24(I) illustrates the cushion system 200 in an upright, tilted configuration similar to that shown with reference to Figures 22 and 23, and Figure 24(H) illustrates the cushion system 200 in a configuration similar to Figure 24(I), but with the body element 224 wrapped around the front of the user. This position can be used, for example, to support the user's hand(s), a book, or, in the case of a nursing mother, a nursing baby.

FIG24(J) illustrates the pad system 200 with the user in a right reclined position similar to the position shown in FIG24(C), except that FIG24(J) shows the pad system 200 with the second arm 248 (long arm) of the body member 224 extending along the user's back and tucked or positioned forward between the user's knees. This position allows the user to change from the RLD position to the LLD position (or vice versa) without having to flip over on the body member 224.

FIG25 illustrates the use of a mat system 200′ that is similar to mat system 200. Mat system 200′ includes a support element 220′ that can be configured the same as or similar to support element 220. In this embodiment, support element 220′ is longer than support element 220 and can be used without a riser element. As shown in FIG25 , support element 220′ can be used with body element 224 described above, or with another body element as described herein.

Figures 26-28 each illustrate a different embodiment of a body element showing various stitching features. Each of the body elements of Figures 26-28 can be configured the same as or similar to, and function the same as or similar to, the embodiments of the body elements described above. Figure 26 illustrates a body element 324 that is similar to body element 224 described above and includes a sleeve member 331 having stitching 353 along an outer edge portion 349 of body element 324 and a pair of stitching features 352 disposed at an angle and extending from an inner edge portion 350 of body element 324 to outer edge portion 349. Figure 27 illustrates a body element 424 that includes a sleeve member 431 and a pair of stitching features 452 having stitching 453 along an outer edge portion 449, each stitching feature 452 disposed at an angle and extending from an inner edge portion 450 to an outer edge portion 449. The body member 424 also includes stitching features 454 that extend from the inner edge portion 450 to the outer edge portion 449 and are disposed between stitching features 452. Figure 28 illustrates a body member 524 including a sleeve member 531 having stitching 553 along the outer edge portion 549 of the body member 524 and four stitching features 552 that extend at an angle from the inner edge portion 550 of the body member 524 to the outer edge portion 549 of the body member 524.

The stitching features 352, 452, 454, 552 described above may be disposed at substantially equal distances from one another or at different distances from one another on the respective body members 324, 424, 524. Further, in alternative embodiments, more or fewer stitching features may be included on the body members of the pad systems described herein.

Figures 29 and 30(A) to 30(I) illustrate different embodiments of body elements that can be used alone or within a cushion system as described herein. Each of the body elements described with reference to Figures 29 and 30(A) to 30(I) can be configured to be the same as or similar to, and function the same as or similar to, the embodiments of the body elements described above. Figure 29 illustrates a body element 624. The body element 624 includes a first arm 647 and a second arm 648, and a sleeve member 631 in which a pillow insert (not shown) is disposed, the sleeve member 631 having an inner edge portion 650 and an outer edge portion 649. The sleeve member 631 includes a similar stitching feature 652 extending at an angle from the inner edge portion 650 to the outer edge portion 649, and can include stitching along the outer edge portion 649 as described above with reference to the previous embodiments (not shown). In this embodiment, the second arm 648 includes an end 655 that is disposed at an angle relative to the remainder of the second arm 648. The end portion 655 can be disposed at an angle of, for example, up to about 25 degrees. A stitching feature 656 can be disposed at the beginning of the bend portion 655. The first arm 647 includes a rounded or curved end portion 657, and the end of the end portion 655 can optionally be similarly rounded. Figures 30(A) to 30(I) each illustrate different embodiments of body elements having different shapes and sizes.

Figures 31(A) to 31(E) each illustrate another different embodiment of a body element that can be used alone or within a pad system as described herein and includes a variety of different fill partitioning options. The fill partitioning can allow various fill materials and/or fill materials with different densities to be placed at target locations within the body element. The fill areas can be formed, for example, by internal fabric baffles, sewn segments, or by independent, separate insert components. During manufacturing, for example, via a semi-permanently sewn closure, each area within the body element can be accessed and/or inserted into the body element. Alternatively, each area can be accessed by the user (e.g., during use at home) via a closure member (including, for example, zipper(s), snap(s), button(s), hook-and-loop fasteners, etc.). Each embodiment of the body element described with reference to Figures 31(A) to 31(E) can include the same or similar features as the other embodiments of the body element described herein and can have the same or similar functions, and therefore certain details are not described with reference to Figures 31(A) to 31(E).

FIG31(A) illustrates a body element 2124 including a first filling region A and a second filling region B. FIG31(B) illustrates a body element 2224 including a first filling region A and a second filling region B. FIG31(C) illustrates a body element 2324 including a first filling region A, a second filling region B, and a third filling region C. FIG31(D) illustrates a body element 2424 including a first filling region A, a second filling region B, and a third filling region C. FIG31(E) illustrates a body element 2524 including a first filling region A, a second filling region B, a third filling region C, a fourth filling region D, and a fifth filling region E.

The filler regions shown and described with reference to Figures 31(A) through 31(E) are example embodiments of body elements having various numbers and types of filler regions. It should be understood that alternative embodiments may include filler regions of varying numbers, sizes, and/or shapes. Further, although not illustrated with reference to other embodiments of body elements described herein, it should be understood that other embodiments of body elements may include filler regions.

FIG32(A), FIG32(B), and FIG33 to FIG35 illustrate another embodiment of a therapeutic pad system. The therapeutic pad system 700 (also referred to herein as a "pad system") includes a support element 720, a riser element 722, and a body element 724. The support element 720, the riser element 722, and the body element 724 can each be configured the same or similar to the support elements, riser elements, and body elements described above for the previous embodiments and can function the same or similarly. Therefore, some details are not described below with reference to the support element 720, the riser element 722, and/or the body element 724.

The support element 720 can be formed the same as or similar to the support elements described above. For example, as shown in FIG33 , the support element 720 can include a first end 715 and a second end 716 and a top surface 737 that is angled relative to a bottom surface 739 .

In this embodiment, the body element 724 and the rising element 722 are formed as a single component, and the body element 724 can be moved between a first unfolded configuration as shown in FIG32(B) and a second unfolded configuration as shown in FIG32(A). A fabric hinge portion 763 is formed between a portion of the body element 724 and a portion of the rising element 722, which allows a user to fold a portion of the body element 724 for use. Specifically, the body element 724 includes a first arm 747 connected to the rising element 722 by the fabric hinge portion 763, and a second arm 748. As shown in FIG32(A), FIG32(B) and FIG33 to FIG35, when in the second folded configuration, the first arm 747 is substantially disposed on the rising element 722.

The user can use the pad system 700 in the same or similar manner as described above for the previous embodiments. For example, as shown in Figure 34, the user can place the pad system 700 on a bed and position the combined riser element 722 and body element 724 proximate the second end 716 of the support element 720. For example, the riser element 722 can be positioned a desired distance from the support element 720 such that a receiving portion (e.g., a gap, opening, pocket, etc.) 758 is defined between the riser element 722 and the support element 720. As described above and as shown, for example, in Figures 34 and 35, the body element 724 can be folded over the riser element 722. As shown in Figure 35, the user can be positioned on the pad system 700 in an inclined side position with the user's arm disposed within the receiving portion 758.

Figures 36 to 41 illustrate an embodiment of a therapeutic pad system that includes a bed-length support element. The therapeutic pad system 800 (also referred to herein as a "pad system") includes a support element 820, a riser element 822, and side support members 864. The support element 820 and the riser element 822 can each be configured to be the same as or similar to the support element and the riser element described above for the previous embodiments, and can function the same as or similar to them, respectively. Therefore, some details regarding the support element 820 and the riser element 822 are not described below. The pad system 800 can also include an optional pillow 859, or the pillow 859 can be a pillow provided by the user.

In this embodiment, the support element 820 and the riser element 822 are formed as a single component and a receiving portion 858 is defined between the support element 820 and the riser element 822. The receiving portion 858 can be used as a shoulder relief area to allow a user to place a portion of the user's arm when using the pad system 800. In this embodiment, the support element 820 and the riser element 822 can collectively have a wedge shape. Specifically, the support element 820 includes a top surface 837 that is angled relative to a bottom surface 839 between the first end 815 and the second end 816. The riser element 822 includes a top surface 817 that is disposed at an angle relative to a bottom surface 818 that is continuous with the bottom surface 839 of the support element 820.

The support element 820 and the riser element 822 can be placed on a support surface S (as shown in Figures 37, 38, and 41), such as, for example, a bed, a box spring, a bed base, or the floor, for use by a user. As shown in Figures 37, 38, and 41, the support element 820 and the riser element 822 together have a length that is substantially the same as the length of the support surface (e.g., a bed) on which they will be used. In an alternative embodiment, the pad system 800 can have a torso size as described above, for example, for pad systems 200 and 700.

The support element 820 may include a cushion member (not shown) and a concave portion 830 as described above for the previous embodiments. The cushion member may be formed of, for example, one or more foam materials as described above for the previous embodiments. The rising element 822 may include a pillow insert (not shown) and a rising foam portion (not shown). The rising foam portion may be integral with the cushion member of the support element 820, or alternatively may be a separate foam portion or multiple foam portions that are configured to be the same or similar to the cushion member. The housing 861 may enclose the cushion member and pillow insert of the support element and the foam portion of the rising element. The housing 861 may be formed of one or more materials as described above for the housing 121 and the housing 127.

The pillow insert can be disposed, for example, within a pocket formed in the raised foam portion, or can be disposed on top of the raised foam portion. The pillow insert can include an inner shell (not shown) and fill material (not shown) as described above with respect to the previous embodiments, such that the raised element 822 can include a compliant region to allow a user to form a cavity or protrusion to accommodate a specific body part and/or portion to suit the user's needs and/or preferences.

The side support members 864 can be placed on the support element 820 during use and are used to help maintain the user in a lateral position. In alternative embodiments, the side support members 864 can be fixedly attached to the support element 820 or formed integrally with the support element 820. In this embodiment, the side support members 864 have a wedge shape, which has a generally triangular cross-section as shown in FIG. 40 . In alternative embodiments, the side support members 864 can have different shapes, sizes, and cross-sections, such as, for example, the cross-sectional views of alternative embodiments of side support members 864-1, 864-2, 864-3, and 864-4 illustrated in FIG. 42(A) to FIG. 42(D) . The side support members 864 can include a housing 865 (e.g., see FIG. 39 ) and an insert member 866 (e.g., see FIG. 40 ). The housing 865 can, for example, be configured to be the same or similar to the housings 125 and 127 or the sleeve member 131 described above. The insert members 866 of the side support members 864 can be formed from, for example, one or more foam materials, or can include a fill material, such as the fill material described above for the pillow insert 125.

Depending on the user's specific needs, the user can be positioned on the pad system 800 as described above for the previous embodiments in an inclined RLD or LLD position, with the user's right arm or left arm disposed within the receiving portion 858. As described above, side support members 864 can be placed on the support element 820 and used to help maintain the user in the RLD or LLD position. For example, as shown in FIG39, the side support members 864 can be disposed on the support element 820 on either the right or left side of the support element 820.

FIG41 illustrates a cushion system 800 having an optional body element 824 instead of side support members 864 and pillow 859. Body element 824 can be formed the same or similar to the body element described above for the previous embodiment and function the same or similarly. When using body element 824, the user can avoid using pillow 859.

43-47 illustrate an embodiment of a therapeutic pad system similar to pad system 800. Therapeutic pad system 900 (also referred to herein as a "pad system") includes a support element 920, a riser element 922, and side support members 964. Support element 920, riser element 922 can each be configured the same or similar to, and function the same or similar to, the support elements and riser elements described above for the previous embodiments. Pad system 900 can also include an optional pillow 959, or pillow 959 can be a pillow provided by the user.

In this embodiment, the support element 920 and the riser element 922 are integrally formed as a single component and have a wedge shape in common. In this embodiment, for example, as shown in Figure 43, the support element 920 and the riser element 922 have a top surface 937 that is arranged at a certain angle relative to the bottom surface 939 between the first end 915 and the second end 916. The support element 920 and the riser element 933 can be formed to be the same or similar to those described above for the support element 820 and the riser element 822, and include the same or similar features therewith, except that in this embodiment, the support element 920 and the riser element 922 do not define a space or receiving portion in which the user's arm can be set. The support element 920 and the riser element 922 can be placed on a support surface S (as shown in Figures 44, 45 and 47), such as, for example, on a bed, for use by the user. As shown in Figures 44, 45 and 47, the support element 920 and the riser element 922 have a length that is substantially the same as the length of the support surface (e.g., bed) on which they will be used. In an alternative embodiment, pad system 900 can have the torso size described above for pad systems 200 and 700.

Side support members 964 may also be configured the same as or similar to side support members 864 and include the same features as described above for side support members 864. Side support members 964 may be placed on support element 920 during use and used to help maintain the user in a side position. In alternative embodiments, side support members 964 may be fixedly attached to support element 920 or integrally formed therewith.

Depending on the particular needs of the user, the user can be positioned on the cushion system 900 as described above for the previous embodiments in an inclined RLD or LLD position. As described above, side support members 964 can be placed on the support element 920 and used to help maintain the user in the inclined RLD or LLD position. For example, as shown in FIG46, the side supports 964 can be provided on the support element 920 on the right or left side of the support element 920. FIG47 illustrates the cushion system 900 having an optional body element 924 instead of the side support members 964 and an optional pillow 959. The body element 924 can be formed the same or similar to the body element described above and function the same or similarly.

Figures 48 to 52 illustrate a sling-type therapeutic pad system according to one embodiment. Therapeutic pad system 1000 (also referred to herein as a "pad system") includes a support member 1020, a riser member 1022, and an optional body member 1024 (shown in Figure 51). In this embodiment, support member 1020 and riser member 1022 are integrally formed and include a sling member 1067 coupled to a frame member 1068. Support member 1020 has a wedge shape, for example, as shown in the side view of Figure 48.

The sling member 1067 can be formed, for example, from a fabric material, such as, for example, any suitable stretch or non-stretch fabric material, such as, for example, canvas or nylon. The frame member 1068 can be formed, for example, from one or more metal, wood, or plastic materials. The sling member 1067 can be coupled to the frame member 1068 using a variety of different coupling methods. For example, the sling member 1067 can be coupled to the frame member 1068 using ties, straps, rivets, buttons, snaps, hook-and-loop fasteners, or any other suitable coupling method, such that the sling member 1067 is sufficiently taut to support the user. The sling member 1067 defines a receiving portion 1058 (e.g., an opening, space, gap, etc.) through which the user can place their right or left arm during use of the pad system 1000. The pad system also includes a lower cushioning member 1069 so that when the user's arm is extended through the opening 1058, the arm can rest on the cushioning member 1069.

As shown in FIG51 , the mat system 1000 can also include a body element 1024. The body element 1024 can be formed the same as or similar to other body elements described herein and can be used in the same or similar manner as other body elements described herein, such as, for example, body element 624 shown in FIG29 . For example, when using the mat system 1000, the body element 1024 can help maintain the user in a side position and help the user slide off the angled portion of the support element 1022. During use, as shown in FIG53 , the mat system 1000 can be placed on a support surface S, such as a bed.

FIG53 illustrates a pad system 1000 having a bed-sized length, and FIG54 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the pad system 1000 having a torso-sized length. Pad system 1000' can be formed to be the same as or similar to pad system 1000 and can function the same as or similar to pad system 1000 and can be supported on a support surface S as shown in FIG54. For example, pad system 1000' includes a support element 1020' and a riser element 1022' that are integrally formed and define an opening (not shown) that can serve as a shoulder relief area for placing a user's arm. Support element 1020' and riser element 1022' include a sling member 1067' coupled to a frame member 1068', and a cushion member 1069' disposed below the opening.

Figure 55 illustrates an embodiment of a pad system that includes an inflatable air chamber. Therapeutic pad system 1100 (also referred to herein as a "pad system") includes a support element 1120 and a riser element 1122. Although not shown, pad system 1100 may also include a body element as described above for the previous embodiments. In this embodiment, support element 1120 includes a pad member 1123 and an inflatable chamber 1170, each of which is encased within a shell 1121. Similarly, riser element 1122 includes a pad member 1171 and an inflatable chamber 1172, each of which is encased within a shell 1127. Pad member 1123 and pad member 1171 can be formed from, for example, one or more foam materials as described above, for example, with respect to pad member 123. Shell 1121 and shell 1127 can each be formed from, for example, one or more materials described above with respect to shell 121 and shell 127.

As described above with respect to the previous embodiments, the support element 1120 can include a first end 1115 and a second end 1116 and a top surface 1137 that is angled relative to a bottom surface 1139 between the first end 1115 and the second end 1115. As described above with respect to the previous embodiments, the support element 1120 can also include a concave portion (not shown) and a chamfered or angled corner (not shown) disposed on the second end 1116 of the support element 1120. In some embodiments, the riser 1122 can also include a pillow insert (not shown), which can be disposed, for example, within a pocket formed in the cushion member 1171 of the riser 1122 or can be disposed on top of the cushion member 1171. The pillow insert can include an inner shell (not shown) and a filler material (not shown) as described above with respect to the previous embodiments, such that the riser 1122 can include a conformable area to allow a user to form a cavity or protrusion to accommodate a specific body part and/or portion to suit the user's needs and/or preferences.

Inflatable air chamber 1170 can be coupled to air pump device 1173, and inflatable chamber 1172 can be coupled to air pump device 1174. Air pump device 1173 and/or air pump device 1174 can be, for example, manual pumps in which a user can manually pump air into and out of inflatable air chambers 1170 and 1172 and adjust the air pressure within inflatable air chambers 1170 and 1172. In alternative embodiments, air pump device 1173 and/or air pump device 1174 can be automatic pumps and include controls (not shown) for user adjustment of the air pressure within inflatable air chambers 1170 and 1172. In alternative embodiments, a single air pump device (e.g., manual or automatic) can be used to pump air into and out of both inflatable air chambers 1170 and 1172.

The pad system 1100 can be used the same or similarly to the pad systems described above for the previous embodiments. In this embodiment, a user can place the support element 1120 and the riser 1122 on a support surface S (e.g., a bed) such that the second end 1116 (e.g., the highest end) of the support element 1120 is positioned at a desired distance from the riser 1122. Thus, a receiving portion 1158 between the support element 1122 and the riser 1120 can be defined such that a user can place an arm within the receiving portion 1158 during use of the pad system 1100. The user can also adjust the air pressure within the air chambers 1170 and 1172 such that the support element 1120 and the riser 1122 each have a desired firmness. As described above for the previous embodiments, the support element 1120 and the riser 1122 can collectively have a bed-sized length that is substantially the same as the length of the support surface (e.g., a bed) on which they will be used, or can alternatively have a torso-sized length as described above for pad systems 200 and 700.

Figure 56 illustrates another embodiment of a pad system that includes an air chamber. Therapeutic pad system 1200 (also referred to herein as a "pad system") includes a support element 1220 and a riser element 1222, and may also include a body element (not shown) as described above for the previous embodiment. In this embodiment, support element 1220 and riser element 1222 are integrally formed and include a pad member 1223, a pad member 1271, and an inflatable chamber 1170, each of which is encased within a housing 1261. Pad member 1223 and pad member 1271 are integrally formed as a single component or are separate components. Pad member 1223 and pad member 1271 can each be formed of, for example, one or more foam materials as described above, for example, for pad member 123. Housing 1621 can be formed of, for example, one or more materials as described above, for example, for housing 121 and housing 127. The support element 1220 and the rising element 1222 define a receiving portion (e.g., an opening, space, gap, pocket, etc.) 1258 in which a user can place an arm during use of the pad system 1200.

As described above with respect to the previous embodiments, the support element 1220 can include a first end 1215 and a second end 1216 and a top surface 1237 that is angled relative to a bottom surface 1239 between the first end 1215 and the second end 1215. As described above with respect to the previous embodiments, the support element 1220 can also include a concave portion (not shown) and chamfered or angled corners (not shown) disposed on the second end 1216. In some embodiments, the riser 1222 can also include a pillow insert (not shown), which can be disposed, for example, within a pocket formed in the cushion member 1271 of the riser 1222 or can be disposed on top of the cushion member 1271. The pillow insert can include an inner shell (not shown) and a filler material (not shown) as described above with respect to the previous embodiments, such that the riser 1222 can include a conforming area to allow a user to form a cavity or protrusion to accommodate a specific body part and/or portion to suit the user's needs and/or preferences.

The inflatable air chamber 1270 can be coupled to an air pump device 1273. The air pump device 1173 can be, for example, a manual pump in which a user can manually pump air into and out of the inflatable air chamber 1273 and adjust the air pressure within the inflatable air chamber 1270. In an alternative embodiment, the air pump device 1273 can be an automatic pump and include a control device (not shown) for the user to adjust the air pressure within the inflatable air chamber 1270. In an alternative embodiment, the riser element 1222 and the support element 1220 can each include an inflatable air chamber, and two separate air pump devices (e.g., manual or automatic) can be used to pump air into and out of the two inflatable air chambers in a manner similar to that described above for the cushion system 1100.

The pad system 1200 can be used the same or similarly to the pad systems described above for the previous embodiments. In this embodiment, a user can place the pad system 1200 on a support surface S (e.g., a bed) and can adjust the air pressure within the air chamber 1270 so that the support element 1220 and the riser element 1222 each have a desired firmness. As described above for the previous embodiments, the support element 1220 and the riser element 1222 can collectively have a bed-sized length that is substantially the same as the length of the support surface (e.g., a bed) on which they will be used, or can alternatively have a torso-sized length as described above for pad systems 200 and 700.

Figures 57 and 58 illustrate an embodiment of a pad system that includes stackable portions to allow a user to assemble the pad system to have a desired thickness and/or firmness. Therapeutic pad system 1300 (also referred to herein as a "pad system") includes a support element 1320 and a riser element 1322. Although not shown, pad system 1300 may also include a body element as described above with respect to the previous embodiments. In this embodiment, support element 1320 includes a plurality of stackable support elements 1375, 1376, and 1377, and riser element 1322 includes a plurality of stackable riser elements 1378, 1379, and 1380 (collectively referred to herein as stackable elements). Although support element 1320 is shown as having three stackable support elements and riser element 1322 is shown as having three stackable riser elements, it should be understood that more or fewer stackable support elements and stackable riser elements may alternatively be included. Additionally, support element 1320 may include a different number of stackable support elements than the number of stackable riser elements of riser element 1322.

Each of the stackable elements 1375 to 1380 can include a cushion member encased in a housing as described above for the previous embodiments of the support element (e.g., support element 123). The cushion member can be formed, for example, from one or more foam materials as described above for cushion member 123. Each stackable element 1375 to 1380 can have a cushion member formed from a foam material having the same or different densities. The stackable support elements 1375 to 1377 can be selectively stacked to form support element 1320 such that support element 1320 has a desired height or thickness and/or desired firmness. Similarly, the stackable riser members 1378 to 1380 can be selectively stacked to form riser member 1322 such that riser member 1322 has a desired height or thickness and/or desired firmness.

57 , each of the stackable support elements 1375 to 1377 of the support element 1320 can include an angled top surface such that the support element 1320 has a wedge shape with a top surface 1337 that is angled relative to a bottom surface 1339 from the first end 1315 to the second end 1316. In alternative embodiments, each of the stackable support elements 1375 to 1377 can have a substantially horizontal or flat top surface, or can have a layered or stepped top surface. As described above with respect to the previous embodiments, each of the stackable support elements 1375 to 1377 of the support element 1320 can also include, for example, a concave portion (not shown) at a substantially central location on the highest portion or second end 1316 of the support element 1320, as well as chamfered or angled corners (not shown).

Each of the stackable elements 1378 to 1380 includes a top surface that is at least partially substantially horizontal or flat. In alternative embodiments, each of the stackable elements 1378 to 1380 may have a top surface that is angled or may be layered or stepped. In some embodiments, the riser 1322 may further include a pillow insert (not shown) that may be disposed within a pocket formed, for example, in at least one of the stackable riser elements (such as the stackable riser 1378 intended to serve as the top of the riser 1322). The pillow insert may include an inner shell (not shown) and a filler material (not shown) as described above with respect to the previous embodiments, such that the stackable riser 1378 of the riser 1322 may include a conforming area to allow a user to form a cavity or protrusion to accommodate a specific body part and/or portion to suit the user's needs and/or preferences. In some embodiments, the stackable riser 1378 may not include a pillow insert, but rather include filler material disposed on top of the cushion member of the stackable riser 1378.

Mat system 1300 can be used similarly or similarly to the mat systems described above for the previous embodiments. In this embodiment, a user can place support element 1320 and riser 1322 on a support surface S (e.g., a bed) such that second end 1316 (e.g., the highest end) of support element 1320 is positioned at a desired distance from riser 1322. Thus, a receiving portion 1358 between support element 1322 and riser 1320 can be defined such that a user can place an arm within receiving portion 1358 during use of mat system 1300. For example, a user can stack one or more of stackable support elements 1375-1377 of support element 1320 such that support element 1320 is at a desired height (or has a desired thickness) and has a desired firmness. A user can also stack one or more of stackable riser elements 1378-1380 of riser 1322 such that riser 1322 is at a desired height (or has a desired thickness) and has a desired firmness. The user can stack the stackable elements 1375-1380 on the support surface S, or can first stack the stackable elements 1375-1380 and then place the assembled support element 1320 and the assembled riser element 1322 on the support surface S. As described above with respect to the previous embodiments, the support element 1320 and the riser element 1322 can collectively have a bed-sized length that is substantially the same as the length of the support surface (e.g., a bed) on which they will be used, or can alternatively have a torso-sized length as described above with respect to the pad systems 200 and 700.

Figures 59 and 60 illustrate another embodiment of a pad system that includes stackable portions to allow a user to assemble the pad system to have a desired thickness and/or firmness. Therapeutic pad system 1400 (also referred to herein as a "pad system") includes a support element 1420 and a riser element 1422, and may also include a body element (not shown) as described above with respect to the embodiments. In this embodiment, support element 1420 and riser element 1422 are formed as a single pad element and include a plurality of stackable pad elements 1475, 1476, and 1477 that can be stacked on top of each other to form support element 1420 and riser element 1422. At least one of stackable pad elements 1475 to 1477 can define a receiving portion 1458 between riser element 1422 and support element 1420, into which a user can place an arm during use of pad system 1400. For example, as shown in Figures 59 to 60, stackable pad element 1475 defines receiving portion 1458. Although the combined support element 1420 and riser element 1422 are shown having three stackable cushion elements, it should be understood that more or fewer stackable cushion elements may alternatively be included.

Stackable cushion elements 1475-1477 can each be formed, for example, similar to the stackable support elements and stackable riser elements described above for cushion system 1300. For example, stackable cushion elements 1475-1480 can each include a cushion member formed from, for example, one or more foam materials as described above for cushion member 123. Each of cushion members 1475-1477 can be formed from a foam material having the same or different density.

Each pad member 1475 to 1477 can also include a shell formed from one or more materials, such as those described above for shells 121 and 127. Each of the pad members 1475 to 1477 can include a top surface that is angled relative to the bottom surface, such that the support element 1420 has a wedge shape with a top surface 1437 that is angled relative to the bottom surface 1439 from the first end 1415 to the second end 1416, as shown in FIG59. In alternative embodiments, each of the stackable elements 1475 to 1477 can have a substantially horizontal or flat top surface, or can have a layered or stepped top surface. As described above for the previous embodiments, each of the stackable pad members 1475 to 1477 can also include, for example, a concave portion (not shown) located substantially centrally on the highest portion of the stackable pad member, and chamfered or angled corners (not shown).

Each of the stackable elements 1478 to 1380 includes a top surface that is at least partially substantially horizontal or flat. In alternative embodiments, each of the stackable elements 1478 to 1480 may have a top surface that is angled, or that may be layered or stepped. As described above for rising element 1322, rising element 1422 may also include a pillow insert (not shown) that may be disposed, for example, within a pocket formed in stackable cushion element 1475. The pillow insert may include an inner shell (not shown) and a filling material (not shown) as described above for the previous embodiments, such that rising element 1422 may include a conforming area to allow a user to form a cavity or protrusion to accommodate a specific body part and/or portion to accommodate the user's needs and/or preferences. In some embodiments, stackable cushion element 1475 may not include a pillow insert, but rather include a filling material disposed on the top portion of cushion element 1475.

The pad system 1400 can be used the same as or similar to the pad system 1300 described above. In this embodiment, a user can place the pad system 1400 (i.e., collectively the support element 1420 and the riser element 1422) on a support surface S (e.g., a bed). For example, a user can stack one or more of the stackable pad elements 1475 to 1477 so that the support element 1420 and the riser element 1422 are at a desired height (or have a desired thickness) and have a desired firmness. As described above for the previous embodiments, the support element 1420 and the riser element 1422 collectively can have a bed-sized length that is substantially the same as the length of the support surface (e.g., a bed) on which they will be used, or can alternatively have a torso-sized length as described above for pad systems 200 and 700.

Figures 61-64 illustrate an embodiment of a cushion system that includes a support element having side bolster portions that can be used to help maintain a user in a lateral position on the cushion system. Therapeutic cushion system 1500 (also referred to herein as the "cushion system") includes a support element 1520 (see Figure 62) that can be used with a riser element 1522 (such as, for example, riser elements 1122 or 1322). Pad system 1500 also includes a first side bolster portion 1582 and a second side bolster portion 1583 disposed on opposite sides of support element 1520. Side bolster portions 1582 and 1583 can be used to help maintain a user in a lateral position during use of cushion system 1500. In this embodiment, side bolster portions 1582 and 1583 each include a first top surface portion 1585 and a second top surface portion 1586 that is disposed at a different angle relative to a bottom portion 1539 of support element 1520 than first top surface portion 1586. For example, as shown in Figures 61 and 62, the side bolster portions 1582 and 1583 each also include an angled portion or bevel portion 1581.

Support element 1520 also includes an angled top surface 1537, a concave portion 1530, and a chamfered or angled portion 1533 at a second end of support element 1520. As with the previous embodiments, support element 1520 can include a cushion member (not shown), which can be formed from, for example, one or more foam materials, and a shell 1521 that can encase the cushion member and side bolster portions 1582 and 1583. In some embodiments, side bolster portions 1582 and 1583 can be formed from a foam material having a different density than the foam material forming support element 1520. In alternative embodiments, side bolster portions 1582 and 1583 can each be formed as a separate component (i.e., separate from support element 1520, similar to side support members 864 and 964 described above).

The pad system 1500 can be used in the same or similar manner as the pad systems described above for the previous embodiments. For example, in this embodiment, the user can place the support element 1520 on the support surface such that the second end (e.g., the uppermost end) of the support element 1520 is positioned at a desired distance from the riser element 1522 (as shown in FIG. 62 ). Thus, a receiving portion 1558 between the support element 1520 and the riser element 1522 can be defined such that the user can place an arm within the receiving portion 1558 during use of the pad system 1500. For example, the user can position the user's body in a lateral position (i.e., a right lateral position or a left lateral position) and place the user's arm within the open space 1558. An optional body element (not shown) can also be used in the same or similar manner as described above for the previous embodiments. As described above for the previous embodiments, the support element 1520 can be sized such that the support element 1520 and the riser element 1522 together have a bed-sized length, or can alternatively have a torso-sized length.

65 and 66 each illustrate an embodiment of a pad system that includes a side bolster portion. FIG65 illustrates a therapeutic pad system 1600 (also referred to herein as a "pad system") that includes a support element 1620 and a riser element 1622 formed as a single component. The support element 1620 and the riser element 1622 collectively define a receiving portion 1658 in which a user may place their arm during use of the pad system 1600. As with the prior embodiments, the pad system 1600 also includes a first side bolster portion 1682, and a second side bolster portion (not shown in FIG65) on an opposite side of the support element 1620, each of which can be used to help maintain the user in a lateral position during use of the pad system 1600. As with the prior embodiment, the first side bolster portion 1682 and the second side bolster portion (not shown) each include a first top surface portion 1685, and a second top surface portion 1686 that is disposed at a different angle relative to the bottom surface 1639 of the support member 1620 than the first top surface portion 1685. The first side bolster portion 1682 (and the second side bolster portion) also each include an angled portion or chamfer 1681.

As described above with respect to the previous embodiment, the support element 1620 includes an angled top surface 1637 and may include a concave portion (not shown) at the second end of the support element 1620. As with the previous embodiment, the support element 1620 may include a cushion member (not shown), which may be formed, for example, from one or more foam materials, and the housing 1661 may fit the cushion member, the first side bolster portion 1682, and the second side bolster portion (not shown). The housing 1661 may also fit the cushion member (not shown) and the pillow insert portion (not shown) of the riser element 1622.

FIG66 illustrates a therapeutic pad system 1700 (also referred to herein as a “pad system”) that includes a support element 1720 and a riser element 1722 formed as a single component. The support element 1720 and the riser element 1722 collectively define a receiving portion 1758 in which a user can place their arm during use of the pad system 1700. As with the prior embodiments, the pad system 1700 also includes a first side bolster portion 1782 and a second side bolster portion (not shown in FIG66 ) on an opposite side of the support element 1720, each of which can be used to help a user maintain a side position during use of the pad system 1700. As with the prior embodiments, the first side bolster portion 1782 and the second side bolster portion (not shown) each include a first top surface portion 1785 and a second top surface portion 1786 that are disposed at a different angle relative to the bottom surface 1739 of the support element 1720 than the first top surface portion 1785. The first side bolster portion 1782 (and the second side bolster portion) also each include an angled portion or chamfered portion 1781 .

As described above with respect to the previous embodiment, the support element 1720 includes an angled top surface 1737 and may include a concave portion (not shown) at the second end of the support element 1720. As with the previous embodiment, the support element 1720 may include a cushion member (not shown), which may be formed, for example, from one or more foam materials, and the housing 1761 may fit the cushion member, the first side bolster portion 1782, and the second side bolster portion (not shown). The housing 1761 may also fit the cushion member (not shown) and the pillow insert portion (not shown) of the riser element 1722.

Each of pad systems 1600 and 1700 can be used in the same or similar manner as described above for the prior embodiments of pad systems. For example, a user can place pad system 1600 or 1700 (i.e., support elements 1620, 1720 and rise elements 1622, 1722) on a support surface, and the user can position the user's body in a side position (i.e., a right lateral position or a left lateral position) and place the user's arm within receiving portion 1658 or 1758. As described above for the prior embodiments, pad system 1600 (i.e., collectively, support element 1620 and rise element 1622) and pad system 1700 (i.e., collectively, support element 1720 and rise element 1722) can have a bed-sized length, or can alternatively have a torso-sized length. An optional body element (not shown) can also be used in the same or similar manner as described above for the prior embodiments.

Figures 67-70 illustrate another embodiment of a pad system having a side bolster portion. In this embodiment, therapeutic pad system 1800 (also referred to herein as a "pad system") includes a support element 1820 and a riser element 1822 formed as a single component. Support element 1820 and riser element 1822 collectively define a receiving portion 1858 in which a user can place their arm during use of pad system 1800. Pad system 1800 also includes a side bolster portion 1882 disposed on one side of support element 1820. Side bolster portion 1882 can be used to help the user maintain a right side position during use of pad system 1800. In this embodiment, side bolster 1882 includes a first top surface portion 1885 and a second top surface portion 1886, which is disposed at a different angle relative to a bottom surface 1839 of support element 1820 than first top surface portion 1885.

The support element 1820 includes an angled top surface 1837 and a recess 1830 at the second end of the support element 1820, as described above for the previous embodiment. As with the previous embodiment, the support element 1820 can include a cushion member (not shown) that can be formed, for example, from one or more foam materials, and a housing 1861 (see, for example, Figures 67 and 70) can fit the cushion member and the side bolster portion 1882. The housing 1861 can also fit the cushion member (not shown) and the pillow insert portion (not shown) of the riser element 1822. In this embodiment, the side bolster 1882 includes a first top surface portion and a second top surface portion that is angled relative to the bottom surface 1839 of the support element 1820 at a different angle than the first top surface portion.

The pad system 1800 can be used in the same or similar manner as described above for the previous embodiments of the pad system. For example, a user can place the pad system 1800 (i.e., the support element 1820 and the riser element 1822) on a support surface. In this embodiment, the user can position the user's body in a right position and place the user's right arm within the open space 1858. The optional body element (not shown) can also be used in the same or similar manner as described above for the previous embodiments.

Cushion system 1800 (i.e., collectively, support element 1820 and riser element 1822) has a bed-sized length. Figures 71-74 illustrate cushion system 1900 (also referred to herein as "cushion system"), which can be configured the same as or similar to cushion system 1800, but has a torso-sized length. Cushion system 1900 includes support element 1920, riser element 1922, and side bolsters 1982. Support element 1920 and riser element 1922 are formed as a single component and collectively define a receiving portion 1958 in which a user can place their arms during use of cushion system 1900. Side bolster portion 1982 is disposed on one side of support element 1920 and can be used to help a user maintain a right side position during use of cushion system 1900. In this embodiment, side bolster 1982 includes a top surface 1985 that is angled relative to bottom surface 1939 of support element 1920. For example, as shown in Figures 71 and 72, the side bolsters 1982 extend beyond the tail or foot end of the support member 1920.

As described above with respect to the previous embodiments, the support element 1920 includes an angled top surface 1937 and a concave portion 1930 at the second end of the support element 1920. As with the previous embodiments, the support element 1920 can include a cushion member (not shown), which can be formed from, for example, one or more foam materials, and a housing 1961 (e.g., see Figures 71 and 74) can enclose the cushion member and the side bolster portions 1982. The housing 1961 can also enclose the cushion member (not shown) and the pillow insert portion (not shown) of the riser element 1922.

The pad system 1900 can be used in the same or similar manner as described above for the previous embodiments of the pad system. For example, a user can place the pad system 1900 (i.e., support element 1920 and riser element 1922) on a support surface. In this embodiment, the user can position the user's body in a right position on the pad system 1900 and place the user's right arm within the open space 1958. The optional body element (not shown) can also be used in the same or similar manner as described above for the previous embodiments.

Although pad systems 1800 and 1900 are described above as having side bolster portions on one side of pad systems 1800, 1900, allowing a user to position on pad systems 1800, 1900 in a right-side position, with the user's right arm within open spaces 1858, 1958, in alternative embodiments, pad systems 1800 and 1900 can be configured so that a user can position on pad systems 1800, 1900 in a left-side position. For example, pad systems 1800 and 1900 can each alternatively include a side bolster portion on the left side of the pad system, as well as an open space configured to allow a user to position on the pad system in a left-side position, with the user's left arm within the open space. An example of such an embodiment is shown in FIG. 75. As shown in FIG. 75, therapeutic pad system 2000 (also referred to herein as "pad system") can include a support element 2020 and a riser element 2020 that collectively define a receiving portion 2058, as well as a side bolster portion 2082. Pad system 2000 may include features that are the same or similar to those of pad systems 1800 and 1900 and may function the same or similarly to those of pad systems 1800 and 1900 .

Figures 76, 77, and 78(A) to 78(E) each illustrate different embodiments of support elements that include anti-slip features and can be included in a mat system as described herein. The anti-slip surface feature(s) can be provided on the top surface of the support element and/or on the bottom surface of a side support member (e.g., 864, 964) or a bolster member (e.g., 1582, 1583). For example, the anti-slip surface feature can be provided on the bottom surface of a side support member (or a separate bolster member) and/or on the top surface of the support element on which the side support element is to be provided. Thus, the anti-slip surface feature(s) can also be used, for example, to maintain a side support member (e.g., 864, 964) or a separate bolster member (e.g., 1582, 1583) in a desired position on the support element. The anti-slip surface feature(s) can also be used, for example, to maintain a body element in a desired position on the support element and/or to help maintain a user in a desired position on the support element.

The anti-slip feature can include, for example, a patterned tactile treatment for producing an anti-slip surface. The patterned treatment can include, for example, ink, rubber, silicone, or (a plurality of) other suitable materials, which can, for example, be digitally printed, screen-printed, sprayed, brushed, ironed, sewn, or otherwise applied to at least a portion of the material on the top surface of the support element. The anti-slip surface treatment can include, for example, straight lines, curves, diagonals, various shapes (such as, for example, squares, circles, rectangles, blocks, polygons, ellipses, etc.) and/or other fuzzy shapes. In some embodiments, the anti-slip surface treatment can include a grooved or grid-like pattern. In some embodiments, the anti-slip surface treatment can be applied as a flat or smooth surface, or can be applied so that the anti-slip surface is elevated relative to the surface to which it is applied. Figures 76, 77, and 78 (A) to 78 (E) illustrate some example patterns and configurations of the anti-slip surface, and it should be understood that other patterns and configurations can be included alternatively.

Each embodiment of the support element described with reference to Figures 76, 77, and 78(A) to 78(E) may include the same or similar features and function the same or similarly as the other embodiments of the support element described herein, and therefore, certain details are not described with reference to Figures 76, 77, and 78(A) to 78(E). Further, although not shown with respect to other embodiments of the support element described herein, it should be understood that other embodiments of the support element may include anti-slip features as described with respect to Figures 76, 77, and 78(A) to 78(E).

FIG76 illustrates a support element 2620 that includes two anti-slip surface features A disposed on the lateral sides of the top surface of support element 2620, and an anti-slip surface feature B disposed on the central portion of the top surface. In this embodiment, the anti-slip surface feature A can be used, for example, to help maintain a body element (not shown) in a desired position on support element 2624. The anti-slip surface treatment B can be used, for example, to keep a user of support element 2524 in a desired position substantially centered on support element 2624, and can also help prevent or reduce the user's tendency to slide off the angled top surface of the support element. FIG77 illustrates a support element 2720 that includes only two anti-slip surface features A disposed on the lateral sides of the top surface of support element 2720. In this embodiment, the anti-slip surface features A can function in the same manner as described above for the anti-slip surface features A of support element 2620. This embodiment also illustrates an example of an applied anti-slip pattern. FIG78(A) through FIG78(F) each illustrate a top view of a different embodiment of a support element having various anti-slip surface features.

Figures 79 and 80 illustrate a therapeutic pad system that includes side extension elements. If the user's body occupies a majority of the support element, the side extension elements can be coupled to the support element to provide a greater width to support the user's body and/or to support the main body element. As shown in Figure 79, the therapeutic pad system 2800 includes a support element 2820, a rising element 2822, and a side extension element 2887. The support element 2820 and the rising element 2822 can be formed to be the same or similar to the previous embodiments described herein (e.g., support element 220 and rising element 222) and function the same or similar thereto, and therefore are not described in detail with reference to Figures 79 and 80.

80 , side extension element 2887 includes a first extension member 2888, a second extension member 2889, and a connecting strap 2890 extending between first extension member 2888 and second extension member 2889. As shown in FIG79 , side extension element 2887 may be fixedly or removably coupled to support element 2820 such that first extension member 2888 is disposed on a first lateral side of support element 2820 and second extension member 2889 is disposed on an opposing second lateral side of support element 2820.

First extension member 2888 and second extension member 2889 can each be configured the same as or similar to support elements as described herein (e.g., support element 120). For example, first extension member 2888 and second extension member 2889 can each have an angled top surface (e.g., a wedge shape) that substantially matches the angle of support element 2820. For example, in some embodiments, first extension member 2888 and second extension member 2889 can each have a top surface that has an angle of between 6 degrees and 30 degrees relative to the bottom surface.

The first extension member 2888 and the second extension member 2889 can each have a variety of different lengths, widths, and/or thicknesses. For example, the first extension member 2888 and the second extension member 2889 can each have a torso length, or can each have a bed length as described above with respect to the support element 120. The first extension member 2888 and the second extension member 2889 can each further include a cushion member (not shown) disposed within the housing 2891.

The housing 2891 can be formed of the same or similar materials as the housing 121 described above, and can include a top portion formed of a first material that a user contacts during use, and a bottom portion that contacts a support surface (e.g., a top surface of a bed) formed of a second material. The top portion (e.g., the top surface) of the housing 2891 can be formed of, for example, a highly conformable four-way stretch material such as, for example, cotton/spandex, nylon/spandex, polyester/spandex, or any blend of cotton, nylon, or polyester in combination with spandex, and the bottom portion can be formed of a sturdier material such as, for example, poplin, canvas, gabardine, or twill made using any combination of cotton, polyester, or nylon to provide durability.

The housing 2891 may further include an opening (not shown) through which the padding member may be inserted, and may include fasteners, such as, for example, a zipper, buttons, snaps, flaps, hook-and-loop fasteners, or other suitable coupling methods, to close or partially close the opening. The padding members of the side extension elements 2887 may be formed from the same or similar materials as described above for the padding members 123. For example, the padding members of the side extension elements 2887 may be formed from one or more foam materials, such as, for example, polyurethane or rubber latex, and in some embodiments, may include a plurality of different foam materials, each having a different density.

The side extension element 2887 also includes a strip 2892 on each of the first extension member 2888 and the second extension member 2889. The strip 2892 can be formed of, for example, the same or similar material as the strip 226 of the riser element 222 described above. Each strip 2892 can include a buttonhole 2893 (shown only on the extension member 2888 in FIG. 80 ) that can be used to removably couple the side extension element 2887 to a button on the support element 2820 (e.g., similar to the button 228 on the support element 220 described above) (not shown in FIG. 79 and FIG. 80 ). For example, in some embodiments, the side extension element 2887 can be coupled to the support element 2820 using the same buttons used to couple the riser element 2822 to the support element 2820. In some embodiments, a different set of buttons can be used. In alternative embodiments, other coupling methods may be used to couple the strap 2892 to the support element 2820, such as, for example, hook and loop fasteners, snaps, strings or ties, a zipper, or any other suitable coupling method.

Connecting strip 2890 can be formed of, for example, an elastic material such that connecting strip 2890 can substantially hold each of first extension member 2888 and second extension member 2889 against support element 2820. Each of first extension member 2888 and second extension member 2889 can also include an anti-slip surface treatment 2894 (shown only on extension member 2889 in FIG. 80 ) as described above for the previous embodiments of the support element.

Figures 81 to 95 illustrate another embodiment of a therapeutic pad system. The therapeutic pad system 2900 (also referred to herein as a "pad system") includes a base support 2910, a support pillow member 2984, and an optional body member 2924. The base support 2910 can be constructed the same or similar to the support elements (e.g., 120, 220, etc.) described above for the previous embodiments, and can function the same or similar thereto. The support pillow member 2984 can be constructed the same or similar to the riser elements (e.g., 122, 222, etc.) described above for the previous embodiments, and can function the same or similar thereto. For example, the same or similar materials can be used to construct the base support 2910 and the support pillow member 2984 as described above for the previous embodiments of the support element and the riser element, respectively. Therefore, some details regarding the materials and construction of the base support 2910 and/or the support pillow member 2984 may not be described below. Body element 2924 can be formed the same or similar to, and function the same or similar to, the body elements described above with respect to the previous embodiments (e.g., 124, etc.). For example, body element 2910 can be formed the same or similar to body element 624 described with respect to FIG. 29. Therefore, some details regarding body element 2924 will not be described below.

The base support 2910 includes a support member portion 2920 and a sleeve portion 2996 and can be formed from one or more components. For example, in some embodiments, the base support 2910 is formed as a single component, and in other embodiments, the base support 2910 can be formed from multiple components that are coupled together to form a single component. For example, multiple components can be adhesively bonded together to form a single component for the base support 2910.

The base support 2910 may include an internal cushioning member (not shown) and an outer shell 2961 that can fit the cushioning member of the base support 2910. The outer shell 2961 can be formed from, for example, one or more materials as described above for the outer shell 121 of the support element 120. The internal cushioning member can be formed from, for example, one or more foam materials as described above for the previous embodiments. The support element portion 2920 and the fitting portion 2996 of the base support 2910 can be integrally formed as a single component, or can be separate components coupled together using, for example, an adhesive. Further, each of the support element portion 2920 and the fitting portion 2996 can be formed as a single component, or have multiple components (e.g., foam components) coupled (e.g., bonded) together. In some embodiments, the cushioning member of the support element portion 2920 can be formed from the same foam material(s) as the foam material(s) used to form the fitting portion 2996. In some embodiments, different foam materials are used for the cushioning member of the support element portion 2920 and the cushioning member of the fitting portion 2996.

The base support 2910 defines an interior area 2995 (e.g., as shown in Figures 90-95) between the sleeve portion 2996 and the support element portion 2920, in which the support pillow member 2984 can be disposed. When the support pillow member 2984 is disposed within the interior area 2995, a receiving portion 2958 is defined by the base support 2910 and the support pillow member 2984 on each side of the support pillow member 2984. As with the previous embodiments, the receiving portion 2958 can serve as a relief area for a user to place a portion of the user's arm and/or shoulder when using the pad system 2900.

The base support 2910 also defines lower arm/elbow release cavities 2997 (also referred to herein as "cavities" or "release cavities") on each side of the base support 2910, which are capable of receiving a portion of a user's arm/hand therethrough. For example, the release cavity(ies) 2997 communicate with the interior region 2995 (e.g., see FIG. 92 ), such that when a user places their arm within the interior region 2995, the user can extend their hand and/or a portion of their arm through one of the release cavities 2997. Thus, the release cavity(ies) 2997 can be used to allow increased movement of the user's hand and/or arm while positioned within the receiving portion 2958 and can also serve as ventilation channels. The base support 2910 can also include an optional pocket 2998 and/or an optional transport handle 2999 that can be coupled to the housing 2961. For example, in some embodiments, the pocket 2998 and/or transport handle 2999 can be sewn to the housing 2961. Pocket 2998 can be formed of the same or different material(s) as housing 2961 and can be used, for example, to hold objects such as a cell phone. Handle 2999 can also be formed of the same or different material(s) as housing 2961 and can be used to help transport base support 2910 to a desired location.

The support member portion 2920 of the base support 2910 can have a variety of different shapes and/or sizes. For example, as shown in Figures 81, 82, 87, 94, and 95, the support member portion 2920 can have a wedge shape. Specifically, the support member portion 2920 includes a top surface 2937 that is angled (e.g., see Figures 87, 90, and 91) relative to a bottom surface 2939 (e.g., see Figures 83, 84, and 87) between the first end 2915 and the second end 2916. In other words, the height of the second end 2916 is greater than the height of the first end 2915. In some embodiments, the angled top surface 2937 can be arranged at an angle of, for example, between 6 and 30 degrees relative to the bottom surface 2939 of the support member portion 2920. The support element portion 2920 also includes a concave portion 2930, and a chamfered or angled corner 2933 on the second end 2916 of the support element portion 2920 (e.g., see Figures 90 and 91), which can accommodate additional ergonomic arm and elbow placement during use of the pad system 2900.

Sleeve portion 2996 extends from support element portion 2920 and can have a variety of shapes and/or sizes. For example, in this embodiment, as shown in Figures 90 and 91, sleeve portion 2996 has a curved shape, for example, when viewed from above. In other embodiments, it can have a different shape, such as, for example, a square, rectangular, oval, trapezoidal, or a curved shape having a different radius than the sleeve portion 2996 shown in Figures 90 and 91. Sleeve portion 2996 has a top surface 2917 and a bottom surface 2918. In some embodiments, top surface 2917 is substantially parallel to bottom surface 2918. In some embodiments, top surface 2917 and bottom surface 2918 are disposed at an angle relative to each other. In some embodiments, top surface 2917 and/or bottom surface 2918 can be angled relative to the support surface on which pad system 2900 is disposed.

The support pillow member 2984 can include a pillow insert (not shown) that can be disposed within the shell 2927 (e.g., see Figures 90 and 91). For example, the shell 2927 can include an opening through which the pillow insert can be inserted and can include fasteners, such as, for example, a zipper, buttons, snaps, flaps, hook and loop fasteners, or other suitable coupling methods, to close or partially close the opening. The shell 2927 can be formed of the same or similar materials as, for example, described above for the shell 127. For example, in some embodiments, the shell 2927 can include a first portion formed of a four-way stretch material and a second portion formed of a stronger material. For example, in some embodiments, the top surface of the shell 2927 of the support pillow member 2984 can be formed of a four-way stretch material and the bottom surface of the shell 2927 of the support pillow member 2984 can be formed of a stronger material.

As described above for pillow inserts 125 and 225, the pillow insert (which is disposed within the outer shell 2927) may include an inner shell (not shown) that may contain fill material (not shown) therein. The fill material may be, for example, a clustered polyester fiber material, such as, for example, polyester fibers, clustered polyester fibers, a down substitute made from synthetic fibers, polystyrene beads/pellets, shredded foam, or any combination of soft down. The inner shell of the pillow insert may also be formed from a four-way stretch material as described above for pillow insert 125. In some embodiments, the inner shell of the pillow insert may also include an opening through which the fill material may be inserted, and may include fasteners, such as, for example, zippers, buttons, snaps, or other suitable coupling methods, to close or partially close the opening. In alternative embodiments, the inner shell may not include such an opening. For example, after the fill material has been inserted into the inner shell, the inner shell may be closed, for example, by sewing.

The four-way stretch material of the outer shell 2927 of the support pillow member 2984 described above, together with the pillow insert having an inner shell formed of the four-way stretch material and having a clustered polyester fiber fill material, can allow the support pillow member 2984 to have extensibility and shape retention. For example, in such an embodiment, a user can conform the support pillow member 2984 to a desired thickness and/or shape based on the user's needs and preferences. For example, a user can conform or adjust the support pillow member 2984 to form a cavity, or otherwise fit or conform to the user's head, face, ears, shoulders, arms, etc. The conforming shape can be maintained for an extended period of time and/or until the user distributes the fill material of the pillow insert by, for example, shaking or sanding the support pillow member 2984.

As described above, for example, as shown in Figures 93-95 , a support pillow member 2984 can be placed within the interior region 2995 defined by the base support 2910. The sleeve portion 2996 can allow for easier setup of the cushion system 2900 and increase user comfort, adjustability, and fit of the cushion system 2900. With the support pillow member 2984 positioned within the interior region 2995, the user's arm can easily enter and exit the receiving portion 2958 and the release cavity 2997. Further, when positioned within the interior region 2995, the support pillow member 2984 is not constrained by a specific attachment point and can move freely within the interior region 2995. For example, as shown in Figure 93 , the support pillow member 2984 can move side to side in the direction of arrow A and/or up and down in the direction of arrow B.

29. The curved sleeve portion 2996 extending from the support element portion 2920 can help provide overall stability to the pad system 2900. In some embodiments, the sleeve portion 2995 can be, for example, approximately 3 inches wide in a top view. The base support 2910 can have a variety of different lengths and widths. For example, in some embodiments, the overall width of the base support 2910 can range from 24 inches to 39 inches, for example. In one example, the overall width of the base support 2910 is approximately 30 inches. In some embodiments, the base support 2910 can have a torso-sized length as described above for, for example, pad systems 200 and 700.

In use, the base support 2910 can be placed on a support surface, such as, for example, a bed, box spring, bed base, or floor, for use by a user in the same or similar manner as described above with respect to the previous embodiments. For example, as shown in Figures 94 and 95, the support pillow member 2984 can be placed within the interior region 2995. For example, as shown in Figures 81 to 83 and 95, the body element 2924 can then be positioned on the top surface of the base support 2910 and/or the support pillow member 2984. The user can be positioned on the pad system 2900 as described above with respect to the previous embodiments in an inclined right lateral decubitus position (RLD) or an inclined left lateral decubitus position (LLD), depending on the user's particular needs, with the user's right or left arm positioned within the receiving portion 2958 and optionally extending through the relief cavity 2997. For example, the user can be positioned on the base support 2910 of the therapeutic pad system 2900 having an angled top surface between 6 and 30 degrees. In such an embodiment, the user can be positioned on the base support 2910 at an angle of between approximately 5 degrees and 20 degrees, depending on factors such as, for example, the density and/or deflection characteristics of the base support 2910, and/or the weight of the user. In some cases, the user of the therapeutic pad system 2900 can be maintained in the reclined RLD position or LLD position for a period of time sufficient to treat symptoms associated with GERD. In some embodiments, the period of time is at least 1 hour. In some embodiments, the period of time is 6 hours. In some embodiments, the maintaining includes positioning a body element (e.g., body element 2924) of the therapeutic pad system 2900 proximate to the base support 2910, and optionally, proximate to the support pillow member 2996 of the therapeutic pad system 2900.

Figures 96 to 113 illustrate another embodiment of a therapeutic pad system. Therapeutic pad system 3000 (also referred to herein as a "pad system") includes a base support 3010, a support pillow member 3084, and an optional body element 3024. Some features of the base support 3010 can be configured the same or similarly as the support elements (e.g., 120, 220, etc.) described above for the previous embodiments, and can function the same or similarly. For example, the same or similar materials can be used to construct the base support 3010 as described above for the previous embodiments of the support elements. Therefore, some details regarding the materials and construction of the base support 3010 may not be described below.

As with previous embodiments (e.g., 2910), base support 3010 includes a support element portion 3020 and a sheathing portion 3096 and can be formed from one or more components. For example, in some embodiments, base support 3010 is formed as a single component, while in other embodiments, base support 3010 can be formed with multiple components that are coupled together to form a single component. For example, multiple components can be adhesively bonded together to form a single component for base support 3010.

The base support 3010 may include an internal cushion member (not shown) and an outer shell 3061 that can fit the cushion member of the base support 3010. The internal cushion member can be formed by, for example, one or more foam materials as described above for the previous embodiments. The support element portion 3020 and the set portion 3096 of the base support 3010 can be formed as a single component, or can be separate components coupled together using, for example, an adhesive. Further, each of the support element portion 3020 and the set portion 3096 can be formed as a single component, or by multiple components (e.g., foam components) coupled (e.g., combined) together. In some embodiments, the cushion member of the support element portion 3020 can be formed by the same (multiple) foam material as the (multiple) foam material used to form the set portion 3096. In some embodiments, different (multiple) foam materials are used for the cushion member of the support element portion 3020 and the cushion member of the set portion 3096.

In this embodiment, the support pillow member 3084 is formed of a foam material and is coupled to, or integrally or monolithically formed with, the encasement portion 3096 and/or the support portion 3020 of the base support 3010. In some embodiments, the support pillow member 3084 can be fixedly coupled to the base support 3010. In some embodiments, the support pillow member 3084 is formed of the same foam material as the foam material used to form the support element portion 3020 and/or the encasement portion 3096 of the base support 3010. In some embodiments, the support pillow member 3084 is formed of a different foam material than the foam material used to form the support element portion 3020 and/or the encasement portion 3096 of the base support 3010. In some embodiments, the support pillow member 3084 is a separate component that is adhesively or otherwise coupled to the suit portion 3096 (e.g., see FIG. 108 , which illustrates the support pillow member 3084 coupled to the suit portion 3096). The support pillow member 3084 can include a top surface 3008 that is substantially flush or aligned with the top surface 3017 of the suit portion 3096 (e.g., see FIG. 102 ), and a bottom surface 3009 that is substantially flush or aligned with the bottom surface 3018 of the suit portion 3096 (e.g., see FIG. 102 ) and/or the bottom surface 3039 of the support element portion 3020 (e.g., see FIG. 103 ). The support pillow member 3084 can also include a shoulder relief area or cutout 3057. The shoulder relief area 3057 can provide additional relief for the user's arms and/or shoulders.

The support pillow member 3084 can be disposed within or enclosed within the shell 3061 along with the inner cushion member (not shown) of the base support 3010. The shell 3061 can be formed of one or more materials as described above for the shell 121 of the support element 120. In some embodiments, the shell 3061 can be formed of a four-way stretch material. In some embodiments, the shell 3061 can be composed of a two-way stretch material, such as, for example, a plain weave or double-weave cloth or velvet fabric. In some embodiments, the shell 3061 can be formed of more than one material. For example, in some embodiments, the top portion of the shell 3061 can be formed of a two-way stretch material or a four-way stretch material, and the bottom portion of the shell 3061 can be formed of a stronger material. In some embodiments, the shell 3061 can include a two-way stretch material or a four-way stretch material with an impermeable lower cover or sublayer (i.e., inner surface) on the outer surface to protect the inner cushion member from liquid absorption.

The housing 3061 can include an opening through which the support pillow member 3084 and the base support 3010 can be inserted, and can include fasteners, such as, for example, a zipper, buttons, snaps, flaps, hook-and-loop fasteners, or other suitable coupling methods, to close or partially close the opening. In this embodiment, for example, as shown in Figures 99, 100, and 105, a zipper 3007 is used to open and close the housing 3061. As shown in Figures 98 to 100 and 105, the zipper 3007 wraps around the sleeve portion 3096 at the front or head end of the base support 3010, around the side of a portion of the support element portion 3020 (e.g., see Figures 98 and 100), and down across the bottom surface 3039 of the support element portion 3020 (as shown in Figure 99).

In this embodiment, the base support 3010 (i.e., the support portion 3020 and the sleeve portion 3096) and the support pillow member 3084 collectively define an interior region 3095 (e.g., as shown in Figures 106-107). The interior region 3095 includes receiving portions 3058 on each side of the support pillow member 3084, which are in fluid communication with each other via a central region 3002 between the support pillow member 3084 and the support element portion 3020. In some embodiments, the interior region 3095 may not include all or a portion of the central region 3002. For example, in alternative embodiments, the support pillow member 3084 may be connected to or integrally formed with the support element portion 3020 at the central region. As with the previous embodiments, when using the pad system 3000, the receiving portions 3058 can serve as a relief area for a user to place a portion of the user's arm and/or shoulder. In this embodiment, the receiving portions 3058 can include increased volume for greater elbow and arm motion, as well as increased placement or positioning options for the user.

As with the previous embodiments, the base support 3010 further defines lower arm/elbow release cavities 3097 (also referred to herein as "cavities" or "release cavities") on each side of the base support 3010, which are capable of receiving a portion of a user's arm and/or hand therethrough. For example, the release cavity(ies) 3097 communicate with the interior region 3095, such that when a user places their arm within the interior region 3095 (i.e., the receiving portion 3058), the user can extend their hand and/or a portion of their arm through one of the release cavities 3097. In this embodiment, the release cavities can be larger in both height and length than those in the previous embodiments, thereby providing additional arm and elbow movement options and increasing ventilation within the receiving portion 3058 and the release cavities 3097. For example, as shown in Figures 100, 102, and 103, the release cavities 3097 can also extend or partially wrap around to the front or head end of the base support 3010. Although not shown, the base support 3010 can also include an optional pocket and/or an optional delivery handle, which can be coupled to the housing 3061 as described above with respect to the embodiments.

The base support 3010 can have a variety of different lengths and widths. For example, in some embodiments, the overall width of the base support 3010 can range from 24 inches to 39 inches. In one example, the overall width of the base support 3010 is approximately 30 inches. In some embodiments, the base support 3010 can have a torso-sized length, such as described above for pad systems 200 and 700.

The support element portion 3020 of the base support 3010 can have a variety of different shapes and/or sizes. For example, as shown in Figures 98 and 105, the support element portion 3020 can have a wedge shape. Specifically, the support element portion 3020 includes a top surface 3037 that is angled (e.g., see Figure 105) relative to a bottom surface 3039 (e.g., see Figures 98 and 105) between the first end 3015 and the second end 3016. In other words, the second end 3016 is taller than the first end 3015. In some embodiments, the angled top surface 3037 can be, for example, disposed at an angle between 6 and 30 degrees relative to the bottom surface 3039 of the support element portion 3020. The support element portion 3020 also includes a concave portion 3030 (e.g., see Figures 102, 104, and 106) that can be used to relieve pressure in the user's lower armpits when the user is lying in the pad system 3000 in a transverse lying position, and a chamfered or angled corner 3033 on the second end 3016 of the support element portion 3020 (e.g., see Figures 106 and 107) that can accommodate additional ergonomic arm and elbow placement during use of the pad system 3000.

The sleeve portion 3096 extends from the support element portion 3020 and can have a variety of shapes and/or sizes. For example, in this embodiment, as shown in Figures 97 and 106, the sleeve portion 3096 has a curved shape, for example, when viewed from above. In other embodiments, it can have a different shape, such as, for example, a square, rectangle, oval, trapezoid, or a curved shape having a different radius than the sleeve portion 3096 shown in Figures 97 and 106. In some embodiments, the top surface 3017 of the sleeve portion 3096 is substantially parallel to the bottom surface 3018 of the sleeve portion 3096 (see, for example, Figure 105). In some embodiments, the top surface 3017 and bottom surface 3018 can be arranged at an angle relative to each other. In some embodiments, the top surface 3017 and/or bottom surface 3018 can be angled relative to the support surface on which the pad system 3000 is disposed. In some embodiments, the sleeve portion 3096 can be, for example, approximately 3 inches wide when viewed from above.

As with the previous embodiments, the curved encapsulation portion 3096 extending from the support element portion 3020 can help provide overall stability to the pad system 3000. For example, the sleeve portion 3096 can allow a user's arm (or hand) to be stabilized or otherwise elevated to reduce or prevent edema resulting from the user's arm loosely rocking into the release cavity 3097. The sleeve portion 3096 can thus provide an arm/hand rest that can help control arm placement and can help improve user comfort and stability as well as improve sleep and rest.

In this embodiment, for example, as shown in Figures 109 to 111, the body element 3024 includes an arcuate portion 3041 having a curvature of approximately 180 degrees at its cranial end, a first arm 3047, and a second arm 3048, each extending in a caudal direction from the arcuate portion 3041. In this embodiment, the length of the first arm 3047 is shorter than the length of the second arm 3048. For example, in some embodiments, the length of the first arm 3047 may be shorter than the length of the second arm 3048, for example, in the range of 25% to 50%. The second arm 3048 may include a slightly tapered end 3003 (e.g., having a narrower thickness) to increase comfort when the second arm 3048 is placed between the user's knees. The body element 3024 can be used with the base support 3010 in the same or similar manner as described above with respect to the previous embodiment. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the body element 3024 can be used independently of the base support 3010.

In this embodiment, the body element 3024 includes a foam pillow insert member (not shown) disposed within a sleeve or cover member 3031. The sleeve member 3031 may include one or more openings through which the foam pillow insert may be inserted and may include fasteners, such as, for example, a zipper, buttons, snaps, or other suitable coupling methods, to close or partially close the opening. The foam pillow insert may be formed from one or more foam materials and may be formed from the same or different foam materials used to construct the support pillow member 3084 and/or the base support member 3010. In some embodiments, the foam pillow insert may include optional bend relief cutouts (not shown) at selected locations to allow the body element 3024 to be opened (e.g., see FIG. 117 described below).

The sleeve member 3031 of the foam pillow insert of the enclosed body element 3024 can be formed of, for example, a four-way stretch material as described above for other embodiments. In some embodiments, the sleeve member 3031 can be made of a two-way stretch material, such as, for example, a jersey or double-weave or velvet fabric. Two-way stretch materials (such as velvet) can provide several beneficial properties, including, for example, comfort and washability. Velvet fabric can also exhibit properties similar to Velcro. For example, when the shell 3061 of the base support 3010 and the sleeve member 3031 of the body element 3024 are both formed of velvet material, the base support 3010 and the body element 3024 can "stick" together, thereby enhancing the maintenance of the user's side position. In some embodiments, the sleeve member 3031 can be formed of more than one material. For example, in some embodiments, the sleeve member 3031 can include a top portion formed of a two-way stretch material or a four-way stretch material, and a bottom portion formed of a stronger material. In some embodiments, the sleeve member 3031 can include a biaxial stretch material or a four-way stretch material on the outer surface, and an impermeable sublayer or bottom cover (i.e., inner surface) to protect the foam insert from liquid absorption. The tubular shape of the sleeve member 3031 can be formed, for example, in the same or similar manner as described above for the previous embodiments.

109-111 , the body member 3024 further includes lateral or side support bolsters 3060 on a top surface of the body member 3024. For example, a foam pillow insert member can be configured to include the side support bolsters 3060. The side support bolsters 3060 can help maintain a user in a lateral or side position on the cushion system 3000. For example, as shown in FIG111 , the side support bolsters 3060 each have a top surface portion 3004 that is angled relative to the bottom surface of the body member 3024, a head-end angled surface portion 3005, and a leg-end angled surface portion 3006. In some embodiments, the height of the side support bolster 3060 near where the user's chest might rest (e.g., at the highest point on the bolster 3060) can be approximately 6 inches relative to the support surface (e.g., a bed surface) on which the base support 3010 is placed, the portion of the base support 3010 near where the user's head might rest can be approximately 3 inches, and the portion of the base support 3010 near where the user's knees might rest can be approximately 4 inches.

In use, the base support 3010 can be placed on a support surface, such as, for example, a bed, a box spring, a bed base, or a floor, for use by a user in the same or similar manner as described above for the previous embodiments. For example, as shown in, for example, Figures 96 to 101, 112, and 113, the body element 3024 can be positioned on the top surface of the base support 3010 (i.e., at least on the support element portion 3020). The user can be positioned on the pad system 3000 as described above for the previous embodiments in an inclined right lateral decubitus position (RLD) or an inclined left lateral decubitus position (LLD), depending on the user's particular needs, with the user's right arm or left arm disposed within the receiving portion 3058 and optionally through the release cavity 3097. For example, a user can be positioned on the base support 3010 of the therapeutic pad system 3000 and, due to the angled top surface of the support element portion 3020, can be positioned at an angle between approximately 5 and 20 degrees, depending on factors such as, for example, the density and/or deflection characteristics of the base support 3010 and/or the user's weight. In some cases, the user of the therapeutic pad system 3000 can remain in the tilted RLD position or LLD position for a sufficient period of time to treat symptoms associated with GERD. In some embodiments, the period of time is at least 1 hour. In some embodiments, the period of time is 6 hours.

As shown in Figures 112 and 113 (at position A), a portion of the user's arm (and/or hand) can rest on the suit portion 3096 to help stabilize or otherwise maintain the user's arm/hand elevated, which, as described above, can help reduce or prevent edema. The suit portion 3096 can thus provide an arm/hand rest that can help control arm placement and can help improve user comfort and stability as well as improve sleep and rest.

Figures 114 to 117 illustrate another embodiment of a body element 3124 that can be used in any of the pad systems described herein. Body element 3124 can be configured the same as or similar to body element 3024 and function the same as or similar to body element 3024. Therefore, certain features of body element 3124 are not described below, and it should be understood that for those features not discussed, they can be the same as or similar to those similar features of body element 3024. In this embodiment, body element 3124 includes an arcuate portion 3141, a first arm 3147, and a second arm 3148, each extending from arcuate portion 3141 in a caudal direction. Body element 3124 can be used with base support 3010 (or any other pad system described herein) in the same or similar manner as described above for the previous embodiments. Body element 3124 can also be used independently of base support 3010.

In this embodiment, body element 3124 includes a foam pillow insert member (not shown) disposed within a sleeve or cover member 3131, which can each be configured the same or similarly and function the same or similarly as the foam pillow insert and sleeve member 3031 described above for body element 3024, respectively. As shown in Figures 114-116, body element 3124 includes a lateral or side support bolster 3160 on the top surface of body element 3124, which is identical to the lateral support bolster 3060 described above. In this embodiment, body element 3124 also includes a neck support portion 3162. In this embodiment, as viewed in the top view of Figure 114, neck support portion 3162 is substantially arcuate. In some embodiments, neck support portion 3162 can be contoured. In some embodiments, the foam pillow insert can include optional bend relief cutouts (not shown) at selected locations to allow body element 3124 to bend, for example, at bend position B as shown in Figure 117.

Figures 118-120 illustrate another embodiment of a body element 3224 that can be used in any of the pad systems described herein. Body element 3224 can be constructed the same as or similar to body element 3024 and function the same as or similar to body element 3024. Therefore, certain features of body element 3224 are not described below, and it should be understood that for those features not discussed, they can be the same as or similar to those of body element 3024. In this embodiment, body element 3224 includes an arcuate portion 3241, a first arm 3247, and a second arm 3248, each extending from arcuate portion 3241 in a caudal direction. Body element 3224 can be used with base support 3010 (or any other pad system described herein) in the same or similar manner as described above for the previous embodiments. Body element 3224 can also be used independently of base support 3010.

118, 120, and 121. In this embodiment, the body element 3224 includes a foam pillow insert member (not shown) disposed within a sleeve or cover member 3231, which can each be constructed the same as or similar to, and function the same as or similar to, the foam pillow insert and sleeve member 3031, respectively, described above with respect to the body element 3024. As shown in Figures 118-120, the body element 3224 includes a lateral or side support bolster 3260 on the top surface of the body element 3224 that is the same as the lateral support bolster 3060 described above. The body element 3224 also includes a neck support portion 3262. In this embodiment, as best shown in Figure 118, the neck support portion 3262 is a raised portion that extends across the width of the body element 3224. In some embodiments, the raised portion of the neck support portion 3262 can be wavy.

Using a foam material for the support pillow member 3084 and/or the body elements 3024, 3124, 3224 (i.e., the insert pillow member of the body elements 3024, 3124, 3224) can provide a variety of benefits. For example, the foam material can be durable, can maintain its shape over time and use, and can resist flattening or losing loft, thereby, in some cases, significantly increasing the lifespan of the support pillow member 3084 and/or the body elements 3024, 3124, 3224. The foam material can also be more consistent in shape and size and, therefore, can provide less potential comfort variation for the user. An all-foam pillow can also reduce user maintenance, such as, for example, rocking or sanding the pillow. The foam can also have better support and, therefore, be more tolerant of undesirable lateral user movement. This can increase the user's ability to maintain a side sleeping position. In some cases, using foam to form the support pillow member 3084 and/or body elements 3024, 3124, 3224 can also be easier to manufacture, require less worker cycle time, provide more repeatable and reproducible operations, and/or remove worker subjectivity, such as in the fiber filling process. The packaging and transportation of the foam product can also allow the product to be compressed in a non-destructive manner.

121-123 illustrate the use of the base support 3010 of the pad system 3000 having a body element 3124. As shown in FIG121, the base support 3010 can be placed on a support surface, such as, for example, a bed, a box spring, a bed base, or a floor, for use by a user in the same or similar manner as described above for the previous embodiments. For example, as shown in FIG121-122, the body element 3124 can be positioned on the top surface of the base support 3010. The user can be positioned on the pad system 3000 as described above for the previous embodiments in an inclined right lateral decubitus position (RLD) or an inclined left lateral decubitus position (LLD), depending on the user's particular needs, with the user's right arm or left arm disposed within the receiving portion 3058 and, as shown in FIG123, optionally extending through the relief cavity 3097. 123, a user can place their head on the curved portion of the body element 3124, with the user's neck supported on the neck support portion 3162, and the arms 3148 of the body element 3124 can be positioned between the user's legs.

In an alternative embodiment, similar to support pillow member 2984, a support pillow member (e.g., 3084) can be formed of a foam material and be a separate component that can be placed within the interior area defined between the suit portion and the support element portion of the base support. In other words, the support pillow member is not fixedly attached to or integrally formed with the suit portion or the support element portion. In such an embodiment, the support pillow member can have a separate housing that can be formed the same or similarly to, for example, housing 2927, or other housing and cover components described herein.

In some embodiments, the therapeutic pad systems described herein may be provided as a kit that may include any combination or sub-combination of the various components of the pad systems described herein. For example, in some embodiments, the kit may include one or more support elements, one or more riser elements, and/or one or more body elements. In some embodiments, the kit may include one or more base supports, one or more support pillow members, and/or one or more body elements. In some embodiments, the kit may include one or more base supports, one or more support pillow members, and/or one or more body elements. In some embodiments, the kit may include: a plurality of pad members that may be selectively assembled into support elements; and/or a plurality of riser pad members that may be selectively assembled into riser elements, for example, as described above with respect to pad systems 1300 and 1400. In some embodiments, the kit may also include separate side support members (e.g., 864, 964) and/or side pillow members (e.g., 1582, 1682, 1782, 1982, 2082).

As described above, the therapeutic pad system described herein can be used to treat symptoms associated with GERD, and/or other digestive disorders, and/or other medical conditions or diseases as described herein. Pilot studies have been conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of using the therapeutic pad system described herein to treat patients suffering from GERD symptoms. The results of two such pilot studies, described below, demonstrate the benefits of using such a therapeutic pad system to treat GERD symptoms.

Exemplary Study 1:

A randomized controlled trial evaluating a sleep device (SD) was performed. See Erik Person, MD, MS, et al., "A Novel SleepAssist Device Prevents Gastroesophageal Reflux: A Randomized Controlled Trial," The American Journal of Gastroenterology, 108: S1-S36, October 2013. The SD used in the study consisted of a two-piece tilt base and body pillow distributed under the Medcline ^™ trademark by Amenity Health, Inc. of San Diego, California (the assignee of the present application). The SD used in the study maintained the patient in a lateral position while elevating the head and torso and was substantially the same as or similar to, for example, the therapeutic pad system 200 described herein. It was hypothesized that sleeping on the left side in a semi-fixed position with the head and torso elevated would significantly reduce gastric retrograde gastroesophageal reflux (GER).

This study involves a single institution, and randomized control involves the trial of 20 healthy volunteers, and each experimenter has 4 impedance-PH tests with a length of 6 hours. After placing the reflux probe, the experimenter goes home and eats a standard meal (1350kcal, 58g fat). Then, each experimenter lies down in one of 4 randomly assigned positions: SD right side down (SD-R), SD left side down (SD-L), standard wedge any position (W) and flat any position (F). Note that SD-R and SD-L include using SD (described above) to the volunteers positioned respectively with the right side down and the left side down. A wireless position monitor records the position of the volunteer during each study. In the 6-hour time period, the number of reflux attacks (RE) and esophageal acid exposure (EAE) is blindly calculated. Position monitor data are used to compare the position assigned and the actual position.

Figures 124 and 125 illustrate the results of the above study. Figure 124 is a graph illustrating the 6-hour average esophageal acid exposure (EAE) by position, wherein SD-L showed significantly less EAE than any other position. Figure 125 is a graph illustrating the 6-hour average number of reflux episodes (RE) by position, wherein SD-L showed significantly less reflux episodes than SD-R. In the graph, SD-L is the left side of the sleep device down, SD-R is the right side of the sleep device down, *=p<.05, **=p<.01, and ***=p<.001.

The results of the study show that, compared with sleep W (average 0.46% to 3.59%, p < .01), SD-R (average 0.46% to 4.59%, p < .001) and F (average 0.46% to 3.46%, p < .05), significantly fewer EAE patients experienced sleep SD-L within 6 hours. The SD-L of RE within 6 hours was significantly less than that of SD-R (average 5.55 to 13.23, p < .05). The patients assigned to SD-L spent an average of 83% of the first 2 hours and 61% of the 6 hours in the assigned position. Those assigned to SD-R spent 72% of the first 2 hours and 53% of the 6 hours in the assigned position. Within 6 hours, patients sleeping with W and F had significantly more time lying on their backs on average than R or L (p < .05).

The results of this study indicate that the Sleep Device SD effectively maintains a horizontal recumbent position. Left-side recumbency significantly reduces recumbent esophageal acid exposure. As in previous studies, the right-side down position gave the worst results, even with the aid of the Sleep Device.

Exemplary Study 2:

A second study evaluating a sleep positioning device (SPD) was also performed. See "Use of a Sleep Positioning Device Significantly Improved NocturnalGastroesophageal Reflux Symptoms" by Sanath Allampati MD et al., 2014. Compared to a traditional bed wedge, the SPD consists of a two-part inclined base (9 inches in height) and a lateral positioning body pillow. This study showed a reduction in nocturnal GERD (acid exposure and reflux episodes) in healthy volunteers who slept using the SPD. The SPD, which is also distributed by the assignee of the present application under the Medcline ^™ trademark, places and maintains the user in an inclined left lateral decubitus (I-LLD) sleeping position. The SPD used in the study is substantially the same as or similar to, for example, the therapeutic pad system 200 described herein. The purpose of this study is to determine whether the use of this SPD reduces nocturnal symptoms in patients diagnosed with GERD, as well as to evaluate its effectiveness in reducing the morning effects of nocturnal GERD and addressing patients' concerns about nocturnal GERD.

This research includes and relates to the single institution prospective trial of the patient of the moderate to severe nocturnal heartburn and nausea that suffers from continuous frequent to proton pump inhibitor (PPI).Patient completes the night GERD symptom severity and impact questionnaire (N-GSSIQ) when being enrolled.N-GSSIQ is the validation questionnaire that is made up of three parts (morning impact of nocturnal GERD symptoms, GERD and concern for nocturnal GERD), and wherein total possible score is 95.Then, patient is instructed to sleep two weeks on Medcline ^™ SPD, at least 6 hours every night.Patient is also instructed to start sleeping with I-LLD position, although their positioning throughout the night is not followed.At the end of two weeks of trial, patient redoes N-GSSIQ.Use SAS (version 9.2, The SAS Institute, Cary, NC) and R (version 3.0.3, The R Foundation for Statistical Computing, Vienna, Austria) to perform all analyses, it is used to construct the drawing of Figure 123 to Figure 126.

Results are shown graphically in Figures 126 to 129, which illustrate the N-GSSIQ before and after use of the Medcline ^™ SPD. Nine patients (4 females and 5 males, aged 59.9 ± 5.4 years, with a BMI of 29.4 ± 4.3) were recruited from an outpatient gastroenterology clinic. After two weeks of using the SPD, one patient could not be contacted to complete the N-GSSIQ. Significant improvements were seen in all N-GSSIQ scores before and after, including: total score (mean 54.3 vs. 15.4, p < 0.001), nocturnal GERD (mean 35.1 vs. 8.1, p < 0.001), morning effects of nocturnal GERD (mean 4.9 vs. 1.6, p = 0.015), and concern about nocturnal GERD (mean 14.3 vs. 5.6, p = 0.002). No adverse events were reported.

Studies have shown that in patients who experience nighttime heartburn and regurgitation despite PPI use, Medcline ^™ SPD significantly reduces nighttime symptoms, morning effects of nighttime GERD, and concerns about nighttime GERD after two weeks of use.

While various embodiments have been described above, it should be understood that they are presented by way of example only and not limitation. Where the methods described above indicate certain events occurring in a particular order, the ordering of certain events may be modified. Additionally, certain of the events may be performed simultaneously in parallel processes where possible, as well as sequentially as described above.

Where the schematic diagrams and/or embodiments described above indicate certain components arranged in certain orientations or positions, the arrangement of the components may be modified. Although embodiments have been specifically shown and described, it will be appreciated that various changes in form and detail may be made. Any portion of the apparatus and/or method described herein may be combined in any combination, except mutually exclusive combinations. The embodiments described herein may include various combinations and/or sub-combinations of the functions, components, and/or features of the different embodiments described.

For example, any embodiment of the cushion system can include a support element having a top surface that is angled relative to a bottom surface of the support element at an angle of, for example, between 6 degrees and 30 degrees. Any body element described herein can include an arcuate portion, and the arcuate portion can be curved, for example, between about 30 degrees and about 180 degrees. In another example, any embodiment of the cushion system can include one or more side bolsters, and/or one or more side support members. The body element can include a first arm and a second arm having a plurality of different lengths that are not necessarily shown. In addition, any body element described herein can be used alone or in combination with the support element or base support described herein.

Claims (22)

1. An apparatus comprising: A base support includes a support element portion and a fitting portion. The support element portion has a first end and a second end, and a top surface angled relative to a bottom surface. The height of the second end of the support element portion is greater than the height of the first end of the support element portion. The second end of the support element portion and the fitting portion together define an internal region, which is integrally defined about the perimeter of the internal region by a portion of the fitting portion and a portion of the second end of the support element portion. A support pillow member located within the inner region, when the support pillow member is located within the inner region, the support pillow member, the second end of the support element portion, and the sleeve portion jointly define a first receiving portion and a second receiving portion, the first receiving portion being between the support pillow member and at least one of the second end of the support element portion or the sleeve portion, and the second receiving portion being opposite to the first receiving portion and between the support pillow member and at least one of the second end of the support element portion or the sleeve portion, the first receiving portion and the second receiving portion being each configured to receive at least a portion of a user's arm therein. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a body element configured to be disposed on the top surface of at least one of the support element portion or the sleeve portion, the body element having a first arm and a second arm connected by an arcuate portion. 3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the first arm and the second arm of the body element each extend away from the arcuate portion in a substantially parallel direction. 4. The device of claim 1, wherein the supporting pillow member comprises a shell formed of a four-way stretched material and a polyester filling material disposed within the shell, such that the combination of the four-way stretched material and the polyester filling material allows the supporting pillow member to be conformal. 5. The device according to claim 1, wherein the suit portion has a substantially curved shape in top view. 6. The device of claim 1, wherein the base support defines a release cavity communicating with the internal region. 7. The device of claim 6, wherein the release cavity includes an opening defined in the side edge of the base support. 8. The device of claim 1, wherein the sleeve portion extends from the second end of the support element portion. 9. The device of claim 1, wherein the supporting pillow member includes a first side edge and an opposing second side edge, and the receiving portion is located on at least one of the first side edge or the second side edge of the supporting pillow member. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein when the support pillow member is located in the inner region, the first receiving portion is integrally defined about the perimeter of the first receiving portion by a portion of the support pillow member, a portion of the second end of the support element portion, and a portion of the sleeve portion; and when the support pillow member is located in the inner region, the second receiving portion is integrally defined about the perimeter of the first receiving portion by a portion of the support pillow member, a portion of the second end of the support element portion, and a portion of the sleeve portion. 11. An apparatus comprising: A base support includes a support element portion and a fitting portion. The support element portion has a first end and a second end, and a top surface angled relative to a bottom surface. The height of the second end of the support element portion is greater than the height of the first end of the support element portion. The support element portion has a centerline extending between the first end and the second end. The fitting portion extends from the second end of the support element portion. The support element portion and the fitting portion together define an internal region, which is integrally defined about the perimeter of the internal region by a portion of the fitting portion and a portion of the second end of the support element portion. A support pillow member located within the inner region, the support pillow member, the support element portion, and the suit portion jointly defining a receiving portion, wherein when the support pillow member is located within the inner region, the receiving portion is configured to receive at least a portion of a user's arm therein, the receiving portion having a centerline laterally offset from the centerline of the support element portion. 12. The device of claim 11, wherein the supporting pillow member includes a first side edge and an opposing second side edge, and the receiving portion is located on at least one of the first side edge or the second side edge of the supporting pillow member. 13. The apparatus of claim 11, further comprising: a body element configured to be disposed on the top surface of at least one of the support element portion or the sleeve portion, the body element having a first arm and a second arm connected by an arcuate portion. 14. The device of claim 11, wherein the supporting pillow member comprises a shell formed of a four-way stretched material and a polyester filling material disposed within the shell, such that the combination of the four-way stretched material and the polyester filling material allows the supporting pillow member to be conformal. 15. The device of claim 11, wherein the fitted portion has a substantially curved shape in top view. 16. The device of claim 11, wherein the base support defines a release cavity communicating with the internal region. 17. The device of claim 16, wherein the release cavity includes an opening defined in the side edge of the base support. 18. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein, when the support pillow member is located in the inner region, the receiving portion is integrally defined about the periphery of the receiving portion by a portion of the support pillow member, a portion of the second end of the support element portion, and a portion of the sleeve portion. 19. An apparatus comprising: A base support includes a support element portion and a fitting portion. The support element portion has a first end and a second end, and a top surface angled relative to a bottom surface. The height of the second end is greater than the height of the first end. The support element portion and the fitting portion together define an internal region between them. A support pillow member located within the inner region, the support pillow member including a first sidewall and an opposing second sidewall, the support pillow member, the support element portion, and the sleeve portion jointly defining a first receiving portion and a second receiving portion, wherein when the support pillow member is located within the inner region, the first receiving portion and the second receiving portion are each configured to receive at least a portion of a user's arm therein, the first receiving portion being located between the sleeve portion and one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall of the support pillow member, and the second receiving portion being located between the sleeve portion and the other of the first sidewall and the second sidewall of the support pillow member. 20. The apparatus of claim 19, further comprising: a body element configured to be disposed on the top surface of at least one of the support element portion or the sleeve portion, the body element having a first arm and a second arm connected by an arcuate portion. 21. The device of claim 19, wherein the supporting pillow member comprises a shell formed of a four-way stretched material and a polyester filling material disposed within the shell, such that the combination of the four-way stretched material and the polyester filling material allows the supporting pillow member to be conformal. 22. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the inner region is integrally defined about the perimeter of the inner region by a portion of the housing portion and a portion of the second end of the support element portion.