Compression fabrics with tailored comfort

Abstract

Certain embodiments according to the invention provide compression articles suitable for a wide variety of uses (e.g., compression socks, athletic garments, etc.). In accordance with certain embodiments, the compression article includes at least two uniform compression regions, including a first uniform compression region having a first compression pressure and a second uniform compression region having a second compression pressure, and at least one transitioning compression region, including a first transitioning compression region positioned between the first and second uniform compression regions. The first transitioning compression region comprises a first end adjacent or proximate to the first uniform compression region and a second end adjacent or proximate to the second uniform compression region. The first transitioning compression region comprises a compression pressure gradient extending from the first end to the second end of the first transitioning compression region.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 070,960 filed on Sep. 11, 2014, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD[0002]The presently-disclosed invention relates generally to compression fabrics and more particularly to compression articles made with such compression fabrics to provide tailored comfort and / or a tailored compression pressure profile along the length of such compression articles.BACKGROUND[0003]For medical applications, the application of inlay stretch yarn or plated stretch yarn and a laid-in stitch in a compression garment may provide a desired compression “dosage” for preventative and therapeutic purposes. Most medical compression garments are individually designed and manufactured for a particular part of the body, such as stockings, gloves, sleeves, face masks, and body suits, and are worn for an appointed time depending on the medical tre...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The invention provides compression articles with at least two uniform compression regions and one transitioning compression region that has a gradient of compression pressure. This article can be used for a variety of uses such as compression socks, athletic garments, and shapewear. The method for making the seamless compression article involves forming a first uniform compression region, a first transitioning compression region with a gradient of compression pressure, and a second uniform compression region with a different compression pressure.

Problems solved by technology

However, this approach creates an abrupt change in compression moving between different sections of the garment.

These abrupt changes make it difficult to put on and take off the garment because it can cause discomfort and / or pain, particularly for the elderly or handicapped individuals.

Moreover, in some scenarios, standard compression garments may even restrict circulation by bunching or tightening at the seams, particularly at the foot, toe, ankle, or lower leg area.

In this regard, standard compression articles are difficult to use and may even exacerbate medical problems.

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