Anti-osteoarthritis and anti-hypothermia garment and device

Abstract

A multilayered material is provided that exhibits therapeutic effects for relieving the pain and swelling of various forms of arthritis (particularly osteoarthritis), delaying the onset of osteoarthritis, or preventing hypothermia or alleviating conditions caused by hypothermia. The flexible, breathable multilayered material includes a first layer of soft and hypoallergenic material (e.g., cotton, silk, linen), a second layer of soft, heat retentive material (e.g., wool, cashmere) contacting the first layer, and a third layer of water repellent material contacting the second layer. Additionally, the multilayered material provides a thin, flexible, breathable fabric that can be used to construct various garments, devices, and gears to combat harsh weather conditions.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 317,155 filed on Dec. 12, 2002 (attorney docket number 01026-1005), which is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 212,213 filed on Aug. 6, 2002 (attorney docket number 01026-1002), which is a Continuation-In-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09 / 934,755 filed on Aug. 23, 2001; the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates to textile fabrics, and more particularly to a multilayered material used to construct garments, gears, or devices capable of providing therapeutic effects relating to various forms of arthritis (particularly osteoarthritis) and conditions associated with hypothermia. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] Usability of a material in the construction of garments, gears, and devices depends largely on whether the material can be readily manipulated and that the material c...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention is a multilayered material that can be used to create garments, devices, and gear that can provide therapeutic effects for arthritis, osteoarthritis, and hypothermia. The material is flexible, breathable, and can retain body heat while providing warmth to the areas it covers. It can be used to create garments that are light-to-medium weight and provide medical benefits, physical fit, and a cosmetic appearance. The material can also be layered to meet the requirements of different body parts. The invention provides a solution for creating comfortable and effective clothing that can be worn for extended periods without causing any negative effects.

Problems solved by technology

The materials used in a wet suit do not permit wide application to other garments, in part because of its bulkiness and because it cannot be worn for a long period of time.

For instance, foam rubber is not a material that should be in contact with the skin for any length of time, as it can cause severe irritation and does not allow the escape of perspiration.

One drawback with such an approach stems from the fact that plastics are non-porous and causes perspiration buildup.

This buildup of moisture does not permit the garment to be worn for any extended period of time, and thus, may detract from any therapeutic effect.

These materials, however, are suitable for outdoor garments and gears, as they are not worn for any extended period.

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