Orthopedic support device

Abstract

An orthopedic support device includes a body pillow that supports and biases the head, the neck, and the torso in a recumbent side position to help relieve pressure on the neck, hip, spine, and shoulders. The support device utilizes a bisected body portion that forms a channel. The channel runs along a longitudinal axis of the body portion, enabling at least partial entry of the torso in a sideways position. The channel terminates at a cavity at a body upper end. The cavity also helps retain the torso in the side position by enabling entry of an upper arm, such as a shoulder, when the arm extends down the sides of the torso. Further up along the device, at the head portion, an elevated contour portion slopes gently downward to create an angle efficacious for reducing stress on the neck. A side pouch can hold a heating pad.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 745,975 filed Dec. 26, 2012, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates generally to a support device, and more particularly relates to an orthopedic body pillow that supports and biases the head and the torso to a recumbent side position, and at least partially restricts the torso to the side position to help relieve stress on the spine, neck, and hips.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]The present invention relates generally to an orthopedic support device that biases the torso and the head to a recumbent side position and retains the torso in a channel to inhibit movement from the side position to help relieve stress on the spine, neck, hips, and shoulders.[0004]Typically, a recumbent position is the body configuration assumed during or prior to sleeping or relaxing. The proper support of a head,...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention is a therapeutic pillow designed to improve sleep by relieving pressure on the spine, shoulder, and arm. It offers a contoured headrest for a smooth transition, four inner liner strips to soften the doughnut center, and an added incline to support the arm while sleeping on the side. The separate inclined body arms also support the chest and back. This comforting system eliminates shoulder and arm discomfort, elevating the head, neck, and body in a natural position of comfort. It also relieves pressure on the hips and legs. The angled support system between the knees provides many levels of comfort for the hips and legs.

Problems solved by technology

Some persons, by virtue of pre-existing conditions, are susceptible to head, neck and upper body injuries.

In many instances, the spine with its many vertebrae, separated from each other by resilient disks and having nerves branching out from openings between adjacent vertebras, is the source of pain caused by stress and fatigue.

It is known that many traditional pillows and positioning devices do not provide lateral support of the torso or allow for variable positioning of the shoulder for the best possible relief of shoulder impingement and pain.

Additionally, such prior art pillows and positioning devices do not reduce joint reactive forces while providing lateral support for the torso and maximum number of effective arm positions.

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