Apparatus and method for facilitating absorption of copper into skin

Abstract

An apparatus and method allow for the facilitation of the absorption of nanoparticles of copper into skin. An uncoated sheet of copper mesh has copper as its major structural material and when placed directly on the skin, the copper mesh is sufficiently flexible to conform to the skin surface. Once positioned, the copper mesh remains in continuous contact with the skin to allow for the release of copper atoms for maximum absorption. The increased effective surface area of the copper mesh allows for a substantially greater amount of copper atoms to be absorbed by the skin. The air permeability of the copper mesh also allows air to pass through the mesh and contact the skin.

Description

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR FACILITATING ABSORPTION OF COPPER INTO SKINBACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] Copper is a metal having several therapeutic uses due to its cidal (germkilling), anti inflammatory, and other natural properties. Copper is electrostatically charged, and its charge is believed to interfere with nerve impulses signaling pain to the brain, much like magnets also interfere with nerve impulses. Copper is also highly effective in inactivating microorganisms such as viruses and bacteria and is also thought to be effective in destroying pollen particles.

[0002] Due in part to its anti inflammatory properties, copper is believed to highly effective for eliminating pain, swelling, and body stiffness in human bodies and may therefore be used in the treatment of various medical conditions. Copper is further believed to have similar effects and benefits on animals.

[0003] Copper occurs naturally in food and is needed by the human body to maintain health. After absorption, the human body eliminates excess copper through bile. However, only miniscule amounts of copper are absorbed through skin so a method for maximizing the amount of copper atoms supplied to the skin to facilitate absorption is needed.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] An apparatus and method allow for the facilitation of the absorption of nanoparticles of copper into skin. At least one uncoated sheet of copper mesh has copper as its major structural material. When the sheet of copper mesh is placed directly on the skin, it is sufficiently flexible to conform to the skin surface, which is characteristically different at different locations on a body. The apparatus or method may utilize a wrap orother device to position at least one uncoated sheet of copper at the desired location on the body.

[0005] Once positioned, the sheet of copper mesh remains in continuous contact with the skin to allow for the release of copper atoms to maximize absorption of copper atoms by the skin while in skin contact. The increased effective surface area of the copper mesh allows for a substantially greater number of copper atoms to reduce inflammation and to be absorbed by the skin. This increase in available copper atoms for absorption is often on the order of three times the number of copper atoms provided by flat impermeable copper sheets having similarly sized planar footprints. This substantial increase in available copper atoms can generally and often proportionately increase the therapeutic benefits of the copper from its contact with the skin.

[0006] The air permeability of the copper mesh also allows air to pass through the sheet of copper mesh and allows air to contact the skin while the sheet of copper mesh is in continuous contact with the skin.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] For a more complete understanding and appreciation of this invention, and its many advantages, reference will be made to the following Detailed Description of the Invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0008] FIG. 1 is front perspective view of an apparatus comprising a patch according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0009] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the patch of FIG. 1 ;

[0010] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the patch of FIG. 1 positioned on the lower back of a human body;

[0011] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the patch of FIG. 1 positioned on the upper back of a human body;

[0012] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the patch of FIG. 1 positioned on the back of the neck of a human body;

[0013] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the patch of FIG. 1 positioned on the chest of a human body;

[0014] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the patch of FIG. 1 positioned on the hip of a human body;

[0015] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an apparatus comprising a patch positioned on the shoulder of a human body according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0016] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an apparatus comprising a patch positioned on the back of a human body according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0017] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an apparatus comprising a patch positioned on the back of a human body according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0018] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an apparatus comprising a cuff positioned on the upper arm of a human body according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0019] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the cuff of FIG. 11 positioned on the lower arm of a human body;

[0020] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the cuff of FIG. 11 positioned on the upper leg of a human body;

[0021] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the cuff of FIG. 11 positioned on the lower leg of a human body;

[0022] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an apparatus comprising a wrap positioned on the foot of a human body according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0023] FIG. 16A is a top perspective view of an apparatus comprising a wrap positioned on the hand of a human body according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0024] FIG. 16B is a bottom perspective view of the wrap of FIG. 16A;

[0025] FIG. 17A is a front perspective view of an apparatus comprising a wrist guard according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0026] FIG. 17B is a rear perspective view of the wrist guard of FIG. 17A;

[0027] FIG. 18A is a top perspective view of the wrist guard of FIG. 17A positioned on a wrist / hand of a human body; and

[0028] FIG. 18B is a bottom perspective view of the wrist guard of FIG. 17A positioned on a wrist / hand of a human body.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0029] Referring to the drawings, some reference numerals are used to designate the same or corresponding parts through several of the embodiments and figures shown and described. Variations in corresponding parts are denoted in specific embodiments with the addition of lowercase letters. Subsequent variations in components that are depicted in the figures but not described are intended to correspond to the specific embodiments mentioned earlier and are discussed to the extent that they vary in form or function. It will be understood generally that variations in the embodiments could be interchanged without deviating from the intended scope of the invention.

[0030] FIGS. 1 and 2 depict front and rear perspective views of an apparatus of the invention that is a patch 10a comprising an uncoated sheet of copper mesh 12a cut into a rectangular shape having four perimeter edges 14a. A flexible nylon binding 16a is sewn into the sheet of copper mesh 12a along each of the outer perimeter edges 14a for wearer comfort. The copper mesh 12a is 99.95% copper such that copper is the majorstructural component of the mesh 12a. However, it will be appreciated that any copper mesh in which the percentage of copper present is sufficiently high so as to account for a substantial majority of the material present in the copper mesh is within the contemplated scope of the invention. Such copper mesh is to be considered to have copper as its major structural component. The size of the mesh 12a itself is about 100 x 100 mesh per linear inch, about 0.0045 inches in diameter, and having an opening of about 0.006 inches. One example of an appropriately implemented mesh includes the 100 x 100 Copper Mesh available from the Belleville Wire Cloth Co. of Cedar Grove, New Jersey.

[0031] It will be appreciated that other mesh sizes can also be used within the intended scope of the invention. Other contemplated example mesh sizes include:

[0032] Coarse: About 14 x 14 mesh per linear inch, about 0.020 inches in diameter, and having a width opening of about 0.051 inches.

[0033] Finer Coarse: About 50 x 50 mesh per linear inch, about 0.009 inches in diameter, and having a width opening of about 0.011 inches.

[0034] Fine: About 150 x 150 mesh per linear inch, about 0.0023 inches in diameter, and having an opening of about 0.003 inches.

[0035] In addition, although the invention has been shown and described utilizing several example copper mesh sizes, it will be appreciated the invention can also utilize at least any sized copper mesh ranging from extremely coarse to extremely fine within about the ranges of between about 6 x 6 and 200 x 200 mesh per linear inch, between about 0.035 and 0.0021 inches in diameter, and having a width opening of between about 0.132 and 0.0029 inches, although other sizes are also possible within the contemplated scope of the invention.

[0036] Referring again to the patch 10a of FIGS. 1 and 2, the depicted sheet of copper mesh 12a has a planar footprint of approximately 8 x 10 inches, has 10,000 holesin one square inch, or 100 x 100 wires per linear inch, and a wire thickness of 0.0045 inches. Due to the permeability of the copper mesh 12a, air easily passes through the patch 10a. For every square inch of copper mesh 12a, the mesh 12a provides an increased effective copper surface area equivalent to approximately 2.82 square inches of a flat and impermeable copper surface. This creates an approximately proportionate release of copper atoms such that approximately three times as many nano particles of copper are released by the copper mesh 12a than would be released by similarly sized flat and impermeable surface of copper.

[0037] Patches having other planar footprint sizes can also be implemented within the contemplated scope of the invention. For example, it is contemplated that patches with a copper mesh having a planar footprint of approximately 6 x 12 inches would be appropriately implemented in several embodiments of the invention. A 6 x 12 inch patch would provide an effective copper surface area equivalent to 201 square inches of flat copper surface. Other copper mesh sizes create approximately correspondingly similar results.

[0038] Referring again to the approximately 8 x 10 inch patch 10a of FIGS. 1 and 2, the patch 10a comprises of a single layer of copper mesh 12a which is flexible and uncoated. The patch 10a is flat until it is bent to the contour of the body location to which it is positioned such as the back, arms, leg, hip, hands shoulder, or foot. For optimal effectiveness, the copper is positioned to remain in direct and continuous contact with the skin. Such positioning allows and maximizes the release of copper atoms by the copper mesh 12a and absorption by the skin.

[0039] Copper a highly effective cidal (germ killing) material, suitable for the treatment and inactivation of bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms. Copper is also a known anti inflammatory agent, recommended for the treatment of general pain, stiffness, and conditions such as arthritis and neuropathy. Since copper is electrostaticallycharged, its charge is thought to interfere with body nerve impulses signaling pain to the brain, much like magnets also interfere with such nerve impulses. Maximizing the release of copper atoms and facilitating their absorption into the skin allows for an approximately proportional level of effectiveness of the copper used for such purposes.

[0040] For example, FIG. 3 depicts the patch 10a positioned on the lower back 18 of a human body 20. The patch 10a may be placed at this location to alleviate lower back pain and is placed in direct contact with the skin. During application, the flexibility of the copper mesh 12a and nylon binding 16a allows the patch 10a to conform to the contours of the lower back 18 and maintain continuous contact with the skin of the lower back 18. After application, the patch 10a may be secured in position using an adhesive, adhesive tape, a brace, a cover, a sling, tight clothing or undergarments worn by the wearer, or any other suitable means for preventing patch movement.

[0041] Upon application of the patch 10a to the skin, the patch 10a will typically generate a warm and soothing sensation. The position of the patch 10a depicted in FIG. 3 can be advantageous as when the wearer lies down, the position of the patch 10a on the body 20 is between the hips 22 and horizontal to the spine 24. The wearer can then lie on the patch, possibly overnight, for treatment of lower back pain. This procedure can also be used for the treatment of other painful conditions such as sciatica, strain or sprain in muscles or ligaments, bulging discs, arthritis, and osteoporosis.

[0042] FIG. 4 depicts a similar treatment of the upper back 26 by positioning the patch 10a horizontal to the spine 24 and between the wearer’s shoulders 28. In this position, the patch 10a can be similarly fixed to its position on the body 20 with an adhesive, tape, undergarments, tight clothing, a sling, or other immobilization method. However, due to the flexibility of the sheet of copper mesh 12a and nylon binding 16a, the patch 10a neverthelessflexibly conforms to the body contours of the upper back 26 to allow for direct and continued contact between the copper mesh 12a and skin of the body 20.

[0043] It will be appreciated that the patch 10a can be similarly relocated to other areas of the body 20 as need for local treatment. For example, moving the patch slightly higher along the body 20 and spine 24 to the back of the neck 30, as depicted in FIG. 5, allows for the treatment of neck pain and other symptoms associated with the neck 30 and upper portion of the spine 24. In this positioning, the patch 10a may be further secured to the neck 30 and immobilize by having the wearer place a pillow (not shown) under the neck 30 as the wearer lies down. In such case, the pillow will create additional pressure against the patch 10a to further conform the copper mesh 12a against the skin of the neck 30 during use.

[0044] The patch 10a can also be positioned on the front of the body 20. For example, FIG. 6 depicts the patch 10a being positioned and secured to the wearer’s chest 32, with the patch 10a flexibly conforming to the local contours of that area of the body 20 to enable direct and continued contact between the copper mesh 12a and skin of the chest 32. It will be further appreciated that depending on the location of pain or the desired condition to be treated, the patch 10a can also be relocated further down the front of the body 20 to the area of the stomach 34. As with backside positioning, securing the patch 10a on the front or other locations of the body 20 can be accomplished with adhesive, adhesive tape, undergarments, tight clothing, a sling, or other appropriate methods.

[0045] For example, FIG. 7 depicts the patch 10a positioned on a hip 22 of the wearer’s body 20 in which the patch 10a is being secured to its location by being slipped under the wearer’s tight undergarment 36 as shown. In this positioning, the tightness of the undergarment 36 provides additional pressure against the patch 10a to conform the patch 10a to the contours of the wearer’s hip 22 and provide direct and continued contact between the sheet of copper mesh 12a and the skin of the hip 22. The wearer may choose to further securethe patch 10a in the depicted position on the body 20 with the addition of adhesive, adhesive tape, or other means of securement. The wearer can also secure the copper mesh 12a of the patch 10a against the skin of the hip 22 by placing the patch 10a directly under the hip 22 and lying the user’s body 20 on the hip 22.

[0046] It will be further appreciated that different sized sheets of copper mesh can be used for patches sized appropriately for use on different parts of the body. For example, FIG. 8 depicts a patch 10b of the invention that is slightly smaller than the patch 10a depicted in FIGS. 1-7 but appropriately sized for positioning and securement on a shoulder 28. In this positioning, the wearer may utilize a tight shirt or sport suit to provide additional pressure against the patch 10b to conform the patch 10b to the contours of the wearer’s shoulder 28 and provide direct and continued contact between the sheet of copper mesh 12b and the skin of the shoulder 28. The wearer may again choose to further secure the patch 10b in position with the addition of adhesive, adhesive tape, or other means of securement.

[0047] Patch size and dimensioning can also reflect specific or targeted areas of a body. For example, FIG. 9 depicts a contemplated patch 10c of the invention having a sheet of copper mesh 12c sized to contact a large area of the wearer’s body 20 extending from the lower back 18 to the upper back 26 and across towards each of the wearer’s shoulders 28. Despite the relatively large area of coverage, the flexibility of the copper mesh 12c and nylon binding 16c nevertheless allows the patch 10c to conform to the various contours of the lower and upper back 18 and 26. The wearer can secure the copper mesh 12c in continuous contact with the skin either with securement means or by lying down to press the skin of the lower and upper back 18 and 26 into the copper mesh 12c.

[0048] Compare the patch 10c of FIG. 9 with the patch lOd of FIG. 10. In FIG. 10, the patch lOd is substantially narrowed such that the sheet of copper mesh 12d contacts the skin of the lower and upper back 18 and 26 only in areas near the spine 24 to allow for moretargeted treatment. Securement by securement means or by the user lying down on the patch lOd specifically results in conforming the copper mesh 12d to the contours of the body 20 in the targeted area, in this case near the spine 24. The air permeability of the copper mesh 12d also allows air to permeate the mesh 12d and contact the skin while the copper mesh 12d is also in contact with the skin.

[0049] Although the invention has been shown and described as a patch, it will be appreciated that other configurations can also be utilized within the contemplated scope of the invention. For example, FIG. 11 depicts an apparatus of the invention that is a cuff 38e positioned on the upper arm 42 of a human body 20. The cuff 38e includes cuff body 40e including a sheet of flexible copper mesh 12e and at least two outer perimeter edges 14e each having a nylon binding 16e sewn into the copper mesh 12e along the edges 14e. Elastic material may also be included with the nylon binding 16e to allow for elastic positioning of the cuff 38e around the upper arm 42 and to secure the copper mesh 12e in continued contact with the skin of the upper arm 42 during use. The cuff can also be secured in position with an adhesive, adhesive tape, a VELCRO® fastener, athletic bandage, a cover, a brace, tight clothing, a sling, or other means of securing the copper mesh 12e in contact with the skin of the upper arm 42. This positioning of the cuff body 40e allows the cuff 38e to both target treatment to a specific portion of the body 20 and facilitate the absorption of copper atoms partially or fully around the targeted area of the upper arm 42.

[0050] Referring briefly to FIG. 12, a similar cuff 38f is depicted positioned around a portion of the lower arm 44 to allow the depicted cuff body 40f to both target treatment to and facilitate the absorption of copper atoms partially or fully around the targeted area of the lower arm 44.

[0051] Now referring to FIG. 13, another similar cuff 38g is depicted as being positioned around a portion of the upper leg 46 to allow the depicted cuff body 40g to both target treatment to and facilitate the absorption of copper atoms partially or fully around the targeted area of the upper leg 46.

[0052] FIG. 14 also depicts a further similar cuff38h positioned around a portion of the lower leg 48 to allow the depicted cuff body 40h to both target treatment to and facilitate the absorption of copper atoms partially or fully around the targeted area of the lower leg 48.

[0053] Although the invention has been shown and described as facilitating the absorption of copper and effecting treatment to areas of the arms and legs using a cuff, it will be appreciated that effective copper absorption and treatment is also possible with the use of a patch, similar to those depicted in FIGS. 1-10. For example, a patch having an 8 x 10 inch sheet of copper mesh or a comparably size can also be used to target and reduce pain and discomfort when secured to an upper or lower arm or leg and secured to the area by tape, VELCRO®, a sling, and / or elastic. A patch utilized in this way allows for the possible treatment of strain or sprain in muscles or ligaments, leg cramps, and tennis elbow.

[0054] It will be appreciated that the invention also contemplates the facilitation of copper atom absorption at the hand and foot extremities of the body. For example, FIG. 15 depicts a wrap 50i of the invention wrapped around a foot 52 of the wearer’s body 20. The wrap 50i includes a wrap body 54i comprising copper mesh 12i having nylon binding 16i sewn into the edges 14i of the copper mesh 12i. The wrap body 54 secures the copper mesh 12i to its position on the foot 52 with adhesive tape, a foot cover, a brace, a VELCRO® fastener, elastic, and / or other securement means to allow for facilitated copper absorption, air permeation and contact with the skin, and targeted treatment of areas ofthe foot 52. The wrap 50i can also be placed under a sock or shoe to further secure the wrap 50i in its targeted position on the foot 52.

[0055] Although the invention has been shown and described for the targeted treatment of feet using a wrap, it will be appreciated that other devices can be similarly utilized provided continued contact is provided between a sheet of uncoated copper mesh and the skin of the foot. For example, an apparatus (not shown) that is a 7 x 3.5 inch sheet of copper mesh can be wrapped around or placed under the foot, or a 3.5 x 3.5 inch sheet of copper mesh placed either under the heel or ball of the foot and secured with mole skin. The device can also be secured around the foot by loops, a VELCRO® fastener, and / or an elastic band. Alternatively, the apparatus can be a sheet of copper mesh and be shaped like an insert for a shoe that covers the front and / or back of the foot, the wearer then wearing the apparatus under a shoe to secure the copper mesh against the skin for copper atom absorption.

[0056] When used on the feet as shown and described, the invention can rapidly reduce pain, burning, swelling, tingling, and aching and can be used to restore lost feeling in the feet or other body parts. Typically, the mesh can be secured overnight for day-long effects. The device can also be used for a shorter time period of 4 hours or less but may be less effective if used for such shorter intervals. The invention can then be used for the treatment of arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, cysts, lupus, peripheral neuropathy, Raynaud’s Syndrome, various bodily injuries, restless leg syndrome, and other painful or uncomfortable conditions, especially those involving inflammations.

[0057] Wraps similar to that of FIG. 15 can also be used to direct treatment to areas of the hands. For example, FIGS 16A depicts a top view of a wrap 50j of the invention wrapped around a hand 56 of the wearer’s body. As best understood by comparing FIG. 16A with the bottom view of the wrap 50j in FIG. 16B, the wrap 50jincludes a wrap body 54j comprising a flexible sheet of copper mesh 12 j having a nylon binding 16j sewn into the edges 14j of the copper mesh 12j. The wrap body 54j further includes an overlap with a VELCRO® closure to allow the wrap 50j to position and secure the copper mesh 12 j against the skin of both the top and bottom of the hand 56 after the copper mesh 12j and binding 16j are flexibly wrapped around the hand 56 as shown. However, it will be appreciated that other securement means such as adhesive tape, elastic and / or other securement means can also be used. This positioning allows for facilitated copper absorption, air permeation and contact with the skin, and targeted treatment of areas of the hand 56.

[0058] Many other types of apparatuses can also be used to implement the invention within the contemplated invention scope. For example, FIG. 17A depicts a front perspective view of an apparatus of the invention that is a wrist guard 60. As best understood by comparing FIG. 17A with the rear perspective view of the wrist guard 60 in FIG. 17B, the wrist guard 60 includes a guard body 62 having a sheet of flexible copper mesh 12k and at least two outer perimeter edges 14k each having a nylon binding 16k sewn into the copper mesh 12k along the edges 14k and extending between two distal ends 64 of the copper mesh 12k. A backstrap 66 of flexible material and extends between each distal end 64 of the copper mesh 12k. A tightener webbing 68 and buckle 70 also extend between the distal ends 64 of the copper mesh 12k.

[0059] FIG. 18A depicts a top perspective view of the wrist guard 60 of FIGS. 17A and B positioned on a human wrist / hand 56. A bottom perspective view of the wrist guard 60 positioned on the wrist / hand 56 is depicted in FIG. 18B. As best understood by comparing FIGS. 18A and B with FIGS. 17A and B, the wearer’s wrist / hand 56 is positioned between the copper mesh 12k and the backstrap 66 when wearing the wrist guard 60 as depicted in FIGS. 18A and B. The tightener webbing 68 is then tightened through the buckle 70 to draw thedistal ends 64 of the guard body 62 together, tightening the copper mesh 12k against the skin of the wrist / hand 56 and securing the guard body 62 to maintain the copper mesh 12k and skin in continuous contact. This allows the wrist guard 60 to provide targeted treatment and absorption of copper atoms to areas of the wrist / hand 56 while allowing for air to permeate the copper mesh 12k and contact the skin.

[0060] Although the invention has been shown and described for the targeted treatment of hands using a wrap or wrist guard, it will be appreciated that other devices can be similarly utilized provided continued contact is provided between a sheet of uncoated copper mesh and the skin of the hand. For example, an apparatus (not shown) that is a 5 x 3 inch sheet of copper mesh can be wrapped around or placed on the top (back) and / or bottom (palm) of the hand and thumb and be secured by elastic loops, a VELCRO® fastener, and / or an elastic strip. Alternatively, the apparatus can be a sheet of copper mesh and be shaped like an insert for a glove that covers the top (back) and / or bottom (palm) of the hand and thumb, the wearer then wearing the apparatus under a glove to secure the copper mesh in continued contact against the skin of the hand for copper atom absorption.

[0061] When used on the hands as shown and described, the invention can rapidly reduce pain, stiffness, swelling, redness and aching when wrapped around a hand and / or fingers. Typically, the mesh can be secured overnight for day-long effects. The device can also be used for a shorter time period such as 2 hours or less but may be less effective if used for such shorter intervals. The invention can then be used for the treatment of arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, basal joint arthritis, carpal tunnel, gout, swelling, cysts, lupus, peripheral neuropathy, Raynaud’s Syndrome, various bodily injuries, trigger finger, De Quervain Syndrome and other painful or uncomfortable conditions, especially those involving inflammations.

[0062] Although the invention has been shown and described for use in facilitating the absorption of copper atoms in the skin of humans, it will be appreciated the invention can also be similarly used on animals. In such use, comparable levels of effectiveness can be expected depending on the species receiving treatment.

[0063] Those skilled in the art will realize that this invention is capable of embodiments different from those shown and described. It will be appreciated that the detail of the structure of the disclosed apparatuses and methodologies can be changed in various ways without departing from the invention itself. Accordingly, the drawings and Detailed Description of the Invention are to be regarded as including such equivalents as do not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An apparatus for facilitating the absorption of copper into skin comprising: at least one uncoated sheet of copper mesh, said sheet of copper mesh having copper as its major structural material, said sheet of copper mesh being sufficiently flexible to conform to a surface of skin when said sheet of copper mesh is placed in contact with the skin; said sheet of copper mesh being positioned to remain in continuous contact with the skin to allow for the release of copper atoms to reduce inflammation and to maximize absorption of copper atoms by the skin while said sheet of copper mesh remains in contact with the skin; and said sheet of copper mesh allowing air to permeate said sheet of copper mesh and allow the air to contact the skin while said sheet of copper mesh is also in contact with the skin.

2. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising: said sheet of copper mesh having four outer perimeter edges; and a nylon binding being sewn into said sheet of copper mesh along at least one of said outer perimeter edges.

3. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the size of said copper mesh is in the range of between about 6 x 6 and 200 x 200 mesh per linear inch, between about 0.035 and 0.0021 inches in diameter, and having a width opening of between about 0.132 and 0.0029 inches.

4. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the size of said copper mesh is about 14 x 14 mesh per linear inch, about 0.020 inches in diameter, and having a width opening of about 0.051 inches.

5. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the size of said copper mesh is about 50 x 50 mesh per linear inch, about 0.009 inches in diameter, and having a width opening of about 0.011 inches.

6. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the size of said copper mesh is about 100 x 100 mesh per linear inch, about 0.0045 inches in diameter, and having an opening of about 0.006 inches.

7. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the size of said copper mesh is about 150 x 150 mesh per linear inch, about 0.0023 inches in diameter, and having an opening of about 0.003 inches.

8. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said apparatus is a patch.

9. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said apparatus is a cuff.

10. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said apparatus is a wrist guard.11 . The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said apparatus is a knee cover for securement to a knee.

12. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said apparatus is a shoulder cover for securement to a shoulder.

13. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said apparatus is securable to the skin of an animal.

14. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said apparatus is securable to any one of the group consisting of an arm, hand, leg, back, neck, hip, knee, chest, stomach, shoulder, wrist, ankle, elbow, and foot.

15. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said apparatus is securable along a spine.

16. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said apparatus is a hip cover.

17. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said apparatus is securable to the skin with adhesive.

18. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said apparatus is securable to the skin with adhesive tape.

19. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said apparatus is securable to the skin by positioning under clothing.

20. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said apparatus is securable to the skin with a VELCRO® fastener.

21. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said apparatus is securable to the skin with a sling.

22. A cuff for facilitating the absorption of copper into skin comprising: at least one cuff body, said cuff body positioning at least one uncoated sheet of copper mesh, said sheet of copper mesh having copper as its major structural material, said sheet of copper mesh being sufficiently flexible to conform to a surface of skin when said cuff positions said sheet of copper mesh in contact with the skin; said cuff body positioning said sheet of copper mesh to remain in continuous contact with the skin to allow for the release of copper atoms to reduce inflammation and to maximize absorption of the copper atoms by the skin while said sheet of copper mesh remains in contact with the skin; and said sheet of copper mesh allowing air to permeate said sheet of copper mesh and allow the air to contact the skin while said sheet of copper mesh is also in contact with the skin.

23. The cuff of claim 22 further comprising: said sheet of copper mesh having at least two outer perimeter edges; and a nylon binding being sewn into said sheet of copper mesh along at least one of said outer perimeter edges.

24. The cuff of claim 22 wherein the size of said copper mesh is in the range of between about 6 x 6 and 200 x 200 mesh per linear inch, between about 0.035 and 0.0021 inches in diameter, and having a width opening of between about 0.132 and 0.0029 inches.

25. The cuff of claim 22 wherein the size of said copper mesh is about 14 x 14 mesh per linear inch, about 0.020 inches in diameter, and having a width opening of about 0.051 inches.

26. The cuff of claim 22 wherein the size of said copper mesh is about 50 x 50 mesh per linear inch, about 0.009 inches in diameter, and having a width opening of about 0.011 inches.

27. The cuff of claim 22 wherein the size of said copper mesh is about 100 x 100 mesh per linear inch, about 0.0045 inches in diameter, and having an opening of about 0.006 inches.

28. The cuff of claim 22 wherein the size of said copper mesh is about 150 x 150 mesh per linear inch, about 0.0023 inches in diameter, and having an opening of about 0.003 inches.

29. The cuff of claim 22 wherein said cuff secures said copper mesh to the skin of an animal.

30. The cuff of claim 22 wherein said cuff is secured to any one of the group consisting of an arm, hand, leg, back, neck, hip, knee, chest, stomach, shoulder, wrist, ankle, elbow, and foot.

31. The cuff of claim 22 wherein said cuff secures said copper mesh to the skin with an adhesive.

32. The cuff of claim 22 wherein said cuff secures said copper mesh to the skin with an adhesive tape.

33. The cuff of claim 22 wherein said cuff secures said copper mesh to the skin by being positioned under clothing.

34. The cuff of claim 22 wherein said cuff secures said copper mesh to the skin with a VELCRO® fastener35. The cuff of claim 22 wherein said cuff secures said copper mesh to the skin with an elastic band.

36. A wrap for facilitating the absorption of copper into skin comprising: at least one wrap body, said wrap body positioning at least one uncoated sheet of copper mesh, said sheet of copper mesh having copper as its major structural material, said sheet of copper mesh being sufficiently flexible to conform to a surface of skin when said wrap positions said sheet of copper mesh in contact with the skin; said wrap body positioning said sheet of copper mesh to remain in continuous contact with the skin to allow for the release of copper atoms to reduce inflammation and to maximize absorption of the copper atoms by the skin while said sheet of copper mesh remains in contact with the skin; and said sheet of copper mesh allowing air to permeate said sheet of copper mesh and allow the air to contact the skin while said sheet of copper mesh is also in contact with the skin.

37. The wrap of claim 36 further comprising: said sheet of copper mesh having four outer perimeter edges; and a nylon binding being sewn into said sheet of copper mesh along at least one of said outer perimeter edges.

38. The wrap of claim 36 wherein the size of said copper mesh is in the range of between about 6 x 6 and 200 x 200 mesh per linear inch, between about 0.035 and 0.0021inches in diameter, and having a width opening of between about 0.132 and 0.0029 inches.

39. The wrap of claim 36 wherein the size of said copper mesh is about 14 x 14 mesh per linear inch, about 0.020 inches in diameter, and having a width opening of about 0.051 inches.

40. The wrap of claim 36 wherein the size of said copper mesh is about 50 x 50 mesh per linear inch, about 0.009 inches in diameter, and having a width opening of about 0.011 inches.

41. The wrap of claim 36 wherein the size of said copper mesh is about 100 x 100 mesh per linear inch, about 0.0045 inches in diameter, and having an opening of about 0.006 inches.

42. The wrap of claim 36 wherein the size of said copper mesh is about 150 x 150 mesh per linear inch, about 0.0023 inches in diameter, and having an opening of about 0.003 inches.

43. The wrap of claim 36 wherein said wrap is secured to the skin of an animal.

44. The wrap of claim 36 wherein said wrap is secured to any one of the group consisting of an arm, hand, leg, back, neck, hip, knee, chest, stomach, shoulder, wrist, ankle, elbow, and foot.

45. The wrap of claim 36 wherein said wrap secures said copper mesh to the skin with a buckle.

46. The wrap of claim 36 wherein said wrap secures said copper mesh to the skin with an adhesive.

47. The wrap of claim 36 wherein said wrap secures said copper mesh to the skin with an adhesive tape.

48. The wrap of claim 36 wherein said wrap secures said copper mesh to the skin by being positioned under clothing.

49. The wrap of claim 36 wherein said wrap secures said copper mesh to the skin with a VELCRO® fastener50. The wrap of claim 36 wherein said wrap secures said copper mesh to the skin with a sling.

51. A method of facilitating skin absorption of copper atoms comprising: providing at least one uncoated sheet of copper mesh, said sheet of copper mesh having copper as its major structural material, said sheet of copper mesh being sufficiently flexible to conform to a surface of skin when said sheet of copper mesh is placed in contact with the skin; positioning said sheet of copper mesh in continuous contact with the skin and allowing for the release of copper atoms to reduce inflammation and to maximize the absorption of the copper atoms by the skin while said sheet of copper mesh remains in contact with the skin; and positioning said sheet of copper mesh to allow air to permeate said sheet of copper mesh and allow the air to contact the skin while said sheet of copper mesh is also in contact with the skin.

52. The method of claim 51 wherein the size of said copper mesh provided is in the range of between about 6 x 6 and 200 x 200 mesh per linear inch, between about 0.035 and 0.0021 inches in diameter, and having a width opening of between about 0.132 and 0.0029 inches.

53. The method of claim 51 wherein the size of said copper mesh provided is about 14 x 14 mesh per linear inch, about 0.020 inches in diameter, and having a width opening of about 0.051 inches.

54. The method of claim 51 wherein the size of said copper mesh provided is about 50 x 50 mesh per linear inch, about 0.009 inches in diameter, and having a width opening of about 0.011 inches.

55. The method of claim 51 wherein the size of said copper mesh provided is about 100 x 100 mesh per linear inch, about 0.0045 inches in diameter, and having an opening of about 0.006 inches.

56. The method of claim 51 wherein the size of said copper mesh provided is about 150 x 150 mesh per linear inch, about 0.0023 inches in diameter, and having an opening of about 0.003 inches.

57. The method of claim 51 wherein said sheet of copper mesh is positioned with a patch.

58. The method of claim 51 wherein said sheet of copper mesh is positioned with a cuff.

59. The method of claim 51 wherein said sheet of copper mesh is secured to a hand or wrist with a wrist guard.

60. The method of claim 51 wherein said sheet of copper mesh is secured to a knee with a knee cover.

61. The method of claim 51 wherein said sheet of copper mesh is secured to a shoulder with a shoulder cover.

62. The method of claim 51 wherein said sheet of copper mesh is secured to the skin of an animal.

63. The method of claim 51 wherein said sheet of copper mesh is secured to any one of the group consisting of an arm, hand, leg, back, neck, hip, knee, chest, stomach, shoulder, wrist, ankle, elbow, and foot.

64. The method of claim 51 wherein said sheet of copper mesh is secured along a spine.

65. The method of claim 51 wherein said sheet of copper mesh is secured to the skin with adhesive.

66. The method of claim 51 wherein said sheet of copper mesh is secured to the skin with adhesive tape.

67. The method of claim 51 wherein said sheet of copper mesh is secured to the skin by being positioned under clothing.

68. The method of claim 51 wherein said sheet of copper mesh is secured to the skin with a VELCRO® fastener.

69. The method of claim 51 wherein said sheet of copper mesh .is secured to the skin with a sling.

70. A method of facilitating skin absorption of copper atoms comprising: providing a wrap having a wrap body, said wrap body positioning at least one uncoated sheet of copper mesh, said sheet of copper mesh having copper as its major structural material, said sheet of copper mesh being sufficiently flexible to conform to a surface of skin when said wrap positions said sheet of copper mesh in contact with the skin; positioning said wrap body to position said sheet of copper mesh in continuous contact with the skin to allow for the release of copper atoms to reduce inflammation and to maximize absorption of the copper atoms by the skin while said sheet of copper mesh remains in contact with the skin; and positioning said wrap body to position said sheet of copper mesh to allow air to permeate said sheet of copper mesh and allow the air to contact the skin while said sheet of copper mesh is also in contact with the skin.

71. The method of claim 70 wherein the size of said copper mesh provided is in the range of between about 6 x 6 and 200 x 200 mesh per linear inch, between about 0.035 and 0.0021 inches in diameter, and having a width opening of between about 0.132 and 0.0029 inches.

72. The method of claim 70 wherein the size of said copper mesh provided is about 14 x 14 mesh per linear inch, about 0.020 inches in diameter, and having a width opening of about 0.051 inches.

73. The method of claim 70 wherein the size of said copper mesh provided is about 50 x 50 mesh per linear inch, about 0.009 inches in diameter, and having a width opening of about 0.011 inches.

74. The method of claim 70 wherein the size of said copper mesh provided is about 100 x 100 mesh per linear inch, about 0.0045 inches in diameter, and having an opening of about 0.006 inches.

75. The method of claim 70 wherein the size of said copper mesh provided is about 150 x 150 mesh per linear inch, about 0.0023 inches in diameter, and having an opening of about 0.003 inches.

76. The method of claim 70 wherein said wrap body is a patch.

77. The method of claim 70 wherein said wrap body is a cuff.

78. The method of claim 70 wherein said wrap body secures said copper mesh to the skin of an animal.

79. The method of claim 70 wherein said wrap body secures said copper mesh to any one of the group consisting of an arm, hand, leg, back, neck, hip, knee, chest, stomach, shoulder, wrist, ankle, elbow, and foot.

80. The method of claim 70 wherein said wrap body secures said copper mesh to the skin with a buckle.

81. The method of claim 70 wherein said wrap body secures said copper mesh to the skin with an adhesive.

82. The method of claim 70 wherein said wrap body is secures said copper mesh to the skin with an adhesive tape.

83. The method of claim 70 wherein said wrap body secures said copper mesh to the skin by being positioned under clothing.

84. The method of claim 70 wherein said wrap body secures said copper mesh to the skin with a VELCRO® fastener85. The method of claim 70 wherein said wrap body is secures said copper mesh to the skin with a sling.

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