Air massaging device

Abstract

To provide an air massage device for preventing damage of a mounting part due to excessive fastening of a sleeve when the sleeve is wound around the mounting part of a leg or an arm.SOLUTION: Air bags 36 of an air massage device are stored in sleeves 12. The sleeves 12 include a left sleeve 24 and a right sleeve. The sleeves 12 are wound around to cover calves 58 of a left leg 221 and a right leg. The left sleeve 24 and the right sleeve include first and second cushion members 18, 20 on inner surfaces opposing to the left leg 221 and the right leg. Gaps 70 are formed between the left leg 221 and the right leg, and the sleeves 12 by the first and second cushion members 18, 20.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an air massage device that wraps around a patient's leg or arm and applies pressure by air.

Background Art

[0002] For example, when performing surgery on a patient or during hospitalization, an air massage device is used for the purpose of promoting the blood flow of the patient. The air massage device includes a band that wraps around the leg or arm and an air bag housed inside the band. With the band wrapped around the leg or arm, etc., by switching the supply state of air to the air bag and repeating pressurization and depressurization, compression and release of the leg or arm are alternately performed.

[0003] The air massage device disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes a pair of boots and a controller. The boots and the controller are connected to each other via a harness. The boots can hold the patient's lower limbs. The boots include a main fabric, a lining, and a sub-fabric. The main fabric and the sub-fabric are formed from a highly rigid material. The main fabric and the sub-fabric can maintain their shapes. A plurality of air bags are provided inside the main fabric and the lining. The air bags are connected to the controller via a harness.

[0004] Wrap the boots around the patient's lower limbs and cover the lower limbs with the main fabric and the sub-fabric. The lining is disposed inside the main fabric and the sub-fabric. The lining contacts the skin of the lower limbs.

[0005] By the operator operating the controller, the air massage device is driven along a pre-programmed massage pattern. Air is supplied from the controller to the air bags through the harness. The plurality of air bags inflate in order. As a result, the lower limbs are sequentially pressurized by the air bags. After pressurizing the lower limbs with the plurality of air bags for a predetermined time, the supply of air to the air bags is stopped to depressurize.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0006]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0007] The air massage device includes an inner lining that can contact the lower limbs inside the main fabric and the sub-fabric. When putting on the boots on the lower limbs, if the boots are tightly wound around the lower limbs, the lower limbs will be tightened by the rigid main fabric and sub-fabric. As a result, the skin of the lower limbs may be damaged by the winding of the boots. Also, when the boots are wound around the lower limbs, the ends or corners of the main fabric and sub-fabric may directly contact the lower limbs and damage the skin.

[0008] An object of the present invention is to solve the above-described problems.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0009] An aspect of the present invention includes an airbag to which pressurized air is supplied and a sleeve having the airbag. In an air massage device that attaches the sleeve to a wearing site on an arm or a leg and alternately performs compression and release of the wearing site by the airbag, the sleeve is wound so as to cover the wearing site, and an elastic member made of a compressible porous body is disposed on the inner surface of the sleeve facing the wearing site or inside the sleeve.

Effects of the Invention

[0010] According to the present invention, the following effects can be obtained.

[0011] That is, when the sleeve is wound around the wearing site on the leg or arm, the compressible elastic member promotes correct wearing and prevents excessive tightening of the wearing site by the sleeve. As a result, damage to the wearing site caused by excessive tightening of the sleeve can be prevented.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0012]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0013] The air massage device 10 is used, for example, in a hospital. The air massage device 10 is wound around the patient's leg 22 or arm. The air massage device 10 promotes blood flow in the leg 22 or arm by intermittently compressing the patient's leg 22 or arm.

[0014] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 6, the air massage device 10 includes a sleeve 12, a controller 14, a pair of connection tubes 16, and a set of first and second cushion members (elastic members) 18 and 20. The sleeve 12 is wound around the patient's leg 22 or arm. The sleeve 12 is wound around the leg 22 or arm and used in a cylindrical shape. Hereinafter, the case where the air massage device 10 including the sleeve 12 is attached to the patient's leg 22 will be described.

[0015] The sleeve 12 includes a left sleeve 24 and a right sleeve 26. The left sleeve 24 and the right sleeve 26 are a pair. The left sleeve 24 is attached to the patient's left leg 221. The right sleeve 26 is attached to the patient's right leg 222. The left sleeve 24 and the right sleeve 26 are substantially symmetric in shape.

[0016] The left sleeve 24 includes a sleeve body 281, a first fastening belt 301, and a second fastening belt 321. The right sleeve 26 includes a sleeve body 282, a first fastening belt 302, and a second fastening belt 322. Hereinafter, the left sleeve 24 will be described in detail. Since the right sleeve 26 has a substantially symmetric shape with the left sleeve 24, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0017] In the left sleeve 24, the sleeve body 281, the first fastening belt 301, and the second fastening belt 321 have substantially the same width dimension along the left - right direction (directions of arrows A1 and A2) of the left sleeve 24. The width direction of the left sleeve 24 is a direction orthogonal to the left - right direction of the left sleeve 24. The width direction is the direction in which the left leg 221 of the patient extends when the left leg 221 is attached to the left sleeve 24 (see FIG. 2). The width direction is the axial direction of the left sleeve 24 formed in a cylindrical shape when the left sleeve 24 is wound around the left leg 221 (see FIG. 6). One side (direction of arrow B1) of the width direction of the left sleeve 24 is the direction toward the ankle 84 of the left leg 221. The other side (direction of arrow B2) of the width direction of the left sleeve 24 is the direction opposite to the ankle 84 of the left leg 221.

[0018] The sleeve body 281 is shorter in the width direction (in the directions of arrows B1 and B2) than in the left - right direction (in the directions of arrows A1 and A2). The interior of the sleeve body 281 has an accommodation space 34 (see FIGS. 4 and 5). That is, the sleeve body 281 is in a bag shape. An airbag 36 is accommodated in the accommodation space 34. The number of airbags 36 may be one or a plurality. Here, the case where four first to fourth airbags 38, 40, 42, 44 are provided in the accommodation space 34 will be described.

[0019] The first to fourth airbags 38, 40, 42, 44 are rectangular in shape and long in the left - right direction (in the directions of arrows A1 and A2). The first to fourth airbags 38, 40, 42, 44 are in a bag shape formed by welding a pair of resin sheets to each other. The first to fourth airbags 38, 40, 42, 44 are arranged substantially in parallel along the width direction (in the directions of arrows B1 and B2) of the sleeve bodies 281, 282.

[0020] The first airbag 38 is arranged on the side of one of the width directions (in the direction of arrow B1) closest to the outside. The second airbag 40 to the fourth airbag 44 are arranged in order toward the other width direction (in the direction of arrow B2).

[0021] The first to fourth airbags 38, 40, 42, 44 are arranged at equal intervals in the width direction (in the directions of arrows B1 and B2). Also, the volumes of the first to fourth airbags 38, 40, 42, 44 are proportional to the air tightening force (pressure). Therefore, in order to increase the pressure of the sleeve bodies 281, 282, the first to fourth airbags 38, 40, 42, 44 may be arranged adjacent to each other without gaps. The first to fourth airbags 38, 40, 42, 44 are fixed at predetermined positions in the accommodation space 34. One end of the connection tube 16 is connected to each of the first to fourth airbags 38, 40, 42, 44. Pressurized air is supplied to the first to fourth airbags 38, 40, 42, 44 through the connection tube 16, and the air is held inside the first to fourth airbags 38, 40, 42, 44 for a certain period of time.

[0022] The first tightening belt 301 extends leftward (in the direction of arrow A1) from the left end of the portion in the sleeve body 281 where the left leg 221 is disposed. The first tightening belt 301 includes a pair of first and second tightening portions 46, 48. The first tightening belt 301 is wound around the left leg 221 together with the second tightening belt 321 described later to attach the sleeve body 281 in a cylindrical shape.

[0023] The first tightening portion 46 and the second tightening portion 48 are spaced apart in the width direction of the first tightening belt 301. The first tightening portion 46 is disposed on one side (in the direction of arrow B1) in the width direction of the first tightening belt 301. The first tightening portion 46 includes a first surface fastener 50. The first surface fastener 50 is attached to the inner surface of the first tightening portion 46. The inner surface of the first tightening portion 46 is the surface facing the left leg 221 when the left sleeve 24 is wound around the left leg 221. In the embodiment of the present invention, surface fasteners are used for the first and second tightening portions 46, 48, but it is not limited thereto. As detachable fixing means for the left sleeve 24 and the right sleeve 26 with respect to the left leg 221 and the right leg 222, for example, any means such as buttons, metal fittings, hooks, etc. can be selected.

[0024] The first surface fastener 50 is disposed at the left end of the first tightening portion 46. The first surface fastener 50 is linear along the width direction (in the directions of arrows B1, B2) of the first tightening portion 46.

[0025] The second tightening portion 48 is disposed on the other side (in the direction of arrow B2) in the width direction of the first tightening belt 301. The second tightening portion 48 includes a second surface fastener 52. The second surface fastener 52 is attached to the inner surface of the second tightening portion 48. The inner surface of the second tightening portion 48 is the surface facing the left leg 221 when the left sleeve 24 is wound around the left leg 221. The second surface fastener 52 is disposed at the left end of the second tightening portion 48.

[0026] The second surface fastener 52 is linear along the width direction (in the directions of arrows B1, B2) of the second tightening portion 48. The first surface fastener 50 and the second surface fastener 52 are linearly arranged in the width direction.

[0027] The second fastening belt 321 extends rightward (in the direction of arrow A2) from the right end of the sleeve body 281. The second fastening belt 321 is in the shape of a strip having a predetermined length in the left-right direction and the width direction. The length of the second fastening belt 321 in the left-right direction is longer than the length of the first fastening belt 301 in the left-right direction.

[0028] The second fastening belt 321 is provided with a pair of third and fourth surface fasteners 54, 56. The third and fourth surface fasteners 54, 56 extend from the right end of the second fastening belt 321 toward the sleeve bodies 281, 282. The third and fourth surface fasteners 54, 56 extend linearly along the left-right direction (in the directions of arrows A1, A2) of the second fastening belt 321.

[0029] The third and fourth surface fasteners 54, 56 extend to the vicinity of the left end of the second fastening belt 321. The third surface fastener 54 and the fourth surface fastener 56 are substantially parallel. The third and fourth surface fasteners 54, 56 are attached to the outer surface of the second fastening belt 321. The outer surface of the second fastening belt 321 is the surface opposite to the surface facing the left leg 221 when the left sleeve 24 is wound around the left leg 221 of the patient.

[0030] The third surface fastener 54 is disposed close to one end in the width direction of the second fastening belt 321. The third surface fastener 54 is disposed at a predetermined distance from the one end in the width direction toward the other end in the width direction (in the direction of arrow B2).

[0031] The fourth surface fastener 56 is disposed close to the other end in the width direction of the second fastening belt 321. The third surface fastener 54 is disposed at a predetermined distance from the other end in the width direction toward the one end in the width direction (in the direction of arrow B1).

[0032] When the left sleeve 24 is wound around the outside of the left leg 221 of the patient, the sleeve body 281 is disposed at a position facing the calf portion 58 which is the wearing portion. The first fastening belt 301 and the second fastening belt 321 are curved and worn so as to cover from the side portion of the left leg 221 to the shin portion 60.

[0033] At this time, as shown in FIG. 5, the first tightening belt 301 is wound on the outside, and the second tightening belt 321 is wound on the inside of the first tightening belt 301. That is, the first tightening belt 301 and the second tightening belt 321 overlap in the winding direction (circumferential direction).

[0034] When the left sleeve 24 is wound around the outside of the left leg 221 of the patient, a part of the third surface fastener 54 faces the first surface fastener 50. When the left sleeve 24 is wound around the outside of the left leg 221 of the patient, a part of the fourth surface fastener 56 faces the second surface fastener 52. The first surface fastener 50 and the third surface fastener 54 are fixed to each other by coming into contact. The second surface fastener 52 and the fourth surface fastener 56 are fixed to each other by coming into contact. When the left sleeve 24 is wound around the outside of the left leg 221 of the patient, the first tightening belt 301 and the second tightening belt 321 are fixed at two positions, one at each end in the width direction of the left sleeve 24.

[0035] The second tightening belts 321, 322 include a set of first and second cushion members 18, 20.

[0036] The first and second cushion members 18, 20 have compressible elasticity. The first and second cushion members 18, 20 are formed of an elastic member. The elastic member is, for example, polyurethane foam, polypropylene foam, urethane, sponge, or the like. The first and second cushion members 18, 20 are porous bodies having a plurality of pores. The first and second cushion members 18, 20 preferably have an open cell structure in which a plurality of pores are connected to each other.

[0037] The first and second cushion members 18, 20 are arranged along the left-right direction (directions of arrows A1, A2) of the second tightening belt 321. The first and second cushion members 18, 20 are in a straight line along the left-right direction. The first and second cushion members 18, 20 are attached to the inner surface of the second tightening belt 321. The inner surface of the second tightening belt 321 is the surface facing the left leg 221 when the left sleeve 24 is wound around the left leg 221.

[0038] Each of the first and second cushion members 18 and 20 includes a main body portion 62 and a contact portion 64. The main body portion 62 has an attachment surface 66. The attachment surface 66 is a flat surface. The attachment surface 66 is fixed in contact with the inner surface of the second tightening belt 321.

[0039] The contact portion 64 is disposed in a direction opposite to the attachment surface 66 of the main body portion 62. The contact portion 64 protrudes in a direction away from the main body portion 62. The contact portion 64 includes a plurality of top portions 68. The top portions 68 are tapered in a direction away from the main body portion 62. The plurality of top portions 68 are arranged at equal intervals along the extending direction of the first and second cushion members 18 and 20. The first and second cushion members 18 and 20 have a predetermined height from the attachment surface 66 of the main body portion 62 to the tip of the top portion 68.

[0040] When the left sleeve 24 is wound around the left leg 221, the first and second cushion members 18 and 20 curve together with the second tightening belt 321. The contact portions 64 of the first and second cushion members 18 and 20 face the left leg 221. The first and second cushion members 18 and 20 face each other from the side portion of the left leg 221 to the shin portion 60. The first and second cushion members 18 and 20 curve along the outer surface of the left leg 221. The tip portions of the top portions 68 in the first and second cushion members 18 and 20 contact the left leg 221.

[0041] When the left sleeve 24 is wound around the left leg 221, the first and second cushion members 18 and 20 are disposed between the left leg 221 and the second tightening belt 321. Thereby, a gap 70 (see FIG. 5) is formed between the left leg 221 and the second tightening belt 321.

[0042] When the top portions 68 of the first and second cushion members 18 and 20 contact the left leg 221, a space 72 (see FIG. 5) is formed between two adjacent top portions 68. The space 72 penetrates along the width direction of the left sleeve 24, that is, the extending direction of the left leg 221. Thereby, one side and the other side in the width direction of the left sleeve 24 communicate with each other through the first and second cushion members 18 and 20.

[0043] The first and second cushion members 18 and 20 are not limited to being mounted on the inner surface of the left sleeve 24. The first and second cushion members 18 and 20 may be accommodated inside the second fastening belt 321.

[0044] The controller 14 has a main body case 74. The main body case 74 is box-shaped. Inside the main body case 74, a control unit (not shown), a compressor, a valve, a power supply unit, and a battery are accommodated. The main body case 74 is provided with a power switch 76. The power supply unit generates drive power for driving the air massager device 10 based on AC power supplied from a commercial power supply. The battery stores drive power for driving the air massager device 10. When the operator operates the power switch 76, a control signal is output from the control unit to the compressor or the exhaust valve. Thereby, the air massager device 10 is driven by the power from the power supply unit or the battery.

[0045] The compressor mainly compresses air by the power from the power supply unit. The compressed air is supplied from the compressor to the connection tube 16. The valve is connected to each of a plurality of connection tubes 16 described later. By opening and closing each valve, the supply state of air to the first to fourth air bags 38, 40, 42, and 44 through the connection tube 16 from the compressor is switched.

[0046] The side wall of the main body case 74 is provided with a tube connection portion 78. The connection tube 16 can be connected to the tube connection portion 78. The tube connection portion 78 is long in the lateral direction of the main body case 74. Compressed air by a compressor (not shown) is supplied to the tube connection portion 78.

[0047] The connection tube 16 includes four tubes 80 and a connector 82. The four tubes 80 are arranged in parallel. The four tubes 80 have substantially the same length. One end of each tube 80 is connected to the first to fourth airbags 38, 40, 42, 44 respectively. That is, the number of tubes 80 corresponds to the number of airbags 36. The other end of each tube 80 is connected to the connector 82. The connector 82 combines the four tubes 80. The connector 82 is long in the parallel direction of the tubes 80. The shape of the connector 82 corresponds to the shape of the tube connection portion 78. The connector 82 can be connected to the tube connection portion 78. The connector 82 is detachable from the main body case 74 via the tube connection portion 78.

[0048] When the connector 82 is connected to the tube connection portion 78, the four tubes 80 are respectively connected to a compressor (not shown) via valves. The air compressed by the compressor is supplied to the first to fourth airbags 38, 40, 42, 44 through the connector 82 and the tubes 80.

[0049] Next, the case of attaching the left sleeve 24 of the air massage device 10 to the left leg 221 of a patient will be described.

[0050] First, as shown in FIG. 2, place the left sleeve 24 on a flat surface such as a bed with the inner surface of the left sleeve 24 facing upward. At this time, arrange the first tightening belt 301 of the left sleeve 24 on the left side (in the direction of arrow A1) of the sleeve body 281. Arrange the second tightening belt 321 on the right side (in the direction of arrow A2) of the sleeve body 281.

[0051] Next, the ankle 84 of the left leg 221 is set as one side in the width direction of the left sleeve 24 (in the direction of arrow B1), and the calf portion 58 of the left leg 221 is placed on the inner surface of the sleeve body 281 from above the sleeve body 281. At this time, the calf portion 58 is in close contact with the inner surface of the sleeve body 281. The shin portion 60 of the left leg 221 is arranged upward in the direction opposite to the sleeve body 281. The shin portion 60 is released. In the width direction of the left sleeve 24, the calf portion 58 of the left leg 221 is covered by the sleeve body 281 from the upper part to the vicinity of the ankle 84.

[0052] At this time, the first airbag 38 faces the first part 86 closest to the ankle 84 in the calf portion 58. The second airbag 40 faces the second part 88 in the direction of the thigh (in the direction of arrow B2, the other side in the width direction) from the first part 86 in the calf portion 58. The third airbag 42 faces the third part 90 in the direction of the thigh (in the direction of arrow B2, the other side in the width direction) from the second part 88 in the calf portion 58. The fourth airbag 44 faces the fourth part 92 in the direction of the thigh (in the direction of arrow B2, the other side in the width direction) from the third part 90 in the calf portion 58.

[0053] Next, the operator grips the second tightening belt 321, moves it toward the left leg 221, and wraps it around. That is, the second tightening belt 321 is moved toward the left side (in the direction of arrow A1 in FIG. 2). As shown in FIG. 5, from the right side portion 581 of the calf portion 58 to the upper part of the shin portion 60 and to the left side portion 582 of the calf portion 58 in the left leg 221 are covered by the second tightening belt 321.

[0054] The inner surface of the second tightening belt 321 faces the right side portion 581 and the left side portion 582 of the calf portion 58 and the shin portion 60. The outer surface of the second tightening belt 321 is exposed to the outside in the direction opposite to the left leg 221. The third and fourth surface fasteners 54, 56 are exposed to the outside of the second tightening belt 321.

[0055] As shown in FIG. 5, the first and second cushion members 18 and 20 are curved together with the second tightening belt 321 and wound around the left leg 221. The first and second cushion members 18 and 20 continuously contact from the right side portion 581 of the calf portion 58 to the left side portion 582 of the shin portion 60 and the calf portion 58 inside the second tightening belt 321.

[0056] At this time, the tip portions of the plurality of tops 68 at the contact portion 64 contact the calf portion 58 and the shin portion 60. A space 72 is formed between adjacent tops 68. The space 72 penetrates in the extending direction of the left leg 221 (directions of arrows B1 and B2 in FIG. 2). The space 72 communicates the one side in the width direction (the direction toward the ankle 84) and the other side in the width direction (the direction opposite to the direction toward the ankle 84) of the left sleeve 24.

[0057] The first and second cushion members 18 and 20 form a gap 70 (see FIG. 5) between the inner surface of the second tightening belt 321 and the left leg 221. The gap 70 is substantially constant in the radial direction substantially orthogonal to the extending direction of the first and second cushion members 18 and 20. The gap 70 is disposed at positions facing the right side portion 581 and the left side portion 582 of the calf portion 58 and the shin portion 60. Thereby, a gap 70 with a predetermined interval is provided between the second tightening belt 321 and the left leg 221, and the second tightening belt 321 is attached to the left leg 221. Therefore, the second tightening belt 321 is not in contact with the left leg 221.

[0058] Finally, the operator grips the first tightening belt 301, moves it toward the left leg 221, and winds it. That is, the first tightening belt 301 is moved toward the right side (direction of arrow A2 in FIG. 2). As shown in FIG. 5, the left side portion 582 of the calf portion 58 on the left leg 221 is covered by the first tightening belt 301.

[0059] The inner surface of the first tightening belt 301 faces the outer surface of the second tightening belt 321 at a position facing the left side portion 582 of the calf portion 58. The first tightening belt 301 is wound around the outside of the second tightening belt 321. The first and second surface fasteners 50, 52 of the first tightening belt 301 face the second tightening belt 321. The first surface fastener 50 intersects and contacts the third surface fastener 54. Thereby, the first surface fastener 50 and the third surface fastener 54 are connected. The second surface fastener 52 intersects and contacts the fourth surface fastener 56. The second surface fastener 52 and the fourth surface fastener 56 are connected.

[0060] Thereby, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the right side portion 581, the shin portion 60, and the left side portion 582 of the calf portion 58 of the left leg 221 are completely covered by the first tightening belt 301 and the second tightening belt 321. The first tightening belt 301 and the second tightening belt 321 are connected to each other via the first to fourth surface fasteners 50, 52, 54, 56 (see FIG. 5).

[0061] The left sleeve 24 is worn so as to cover the calf portion 58 and the shin portion 60 of the left leg 221. In this way, the right side portion 581, the shin portion 60, and the left side portion 582 of the calf portion 58 of the left leg 221 are completely covered by the first tightening belt 301 and the second tightening belt 321, and the first tightening belt 301 and the second tightening belt 321 are connected to each other via the first to fourth surface fasteners 50, 52, 54, 56. When the left sleeve 24 is worn on the left leg 221, in the embodiment of the present invention, a state in which there is a gap 70 between the first and second tightening belts 301, 321 and the left leg 221 by the first and second cushion members 18, 20 is defined as a state in which the left sleeve 24 is correctly worn. Since the same applies to the case where the right sleeve 26 is worn on the right leg 222 of the patient, detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0062] In this way, the first and second cushion members 18 and 20 are provided on the inner surface of the left sleeve 24. Thereby, when the left sleeve 24 is attached to the left leg 221, a gap 70 can be provided between the first and second fastening belts 301 and 321 and the left leg 221 by the first and second cushion members 18 and 20. That is, the left sleeve 24 is correctly attached to the left leg 221. Also, when the left sleeve 24 is attached to the left leg 221, the first and second fastening belts 301 and 321 and the left leg 221 can be made non-contact. The fastening force (pressure) of the first and second fastening belts 301 and 321 on the left leg 221 can be relaxed by the first and second cushion members 18 and 20. Since the first and second cushion members 18 and 20 have elasticity, when the left sleeve 24 is attached to the left leg 221, the burden on the left leg 221 is reduced.

[0063] Next, the operation of the air massage device 10 will be described.

[0064] For example, the left sleeve 24 is attached to the left leg 221 of a patient lying supine on a bed, and the right sleeve 26 is attached to the right leg 222. The connectors 82 of the respective connection tubes 16 of the left sleeve 24 and the right sleeve 26 are respectively connected to the tube connection portion 78 of the controller 14.

[0065] An operator operates the power switch 76 of the controller 14. Thereby, the power of the air massage device 10 is turned on. The operator operates an operation unit (not shown) to select a massage pattern according to the patient. The massage pattern is pre-programmed.

[0066] Next, when the operator presses the start button, the massage by the air massage device 10 is started. Along with the operation of this start button, a control signal is output from the control unit to the compressor and the compressor is driven.

[0067] The air compressed by the compressor is supplied to the tube 80 of the connection tube 16 and is sequentially supplied to the first to fourth air bags 38, 40, 42, 44 of the left sleeve 24 and the right sleeve 26. First, air is supplied to the first air bag 38, and air is supplied from the tube 80 in the order of the second air bag 40, the third air bag 42, and the fourth air bag 44.

[0068] When air is supplied to the first air bag 38 through the tube 80, the first air bag 38 expands in the sleeve bodies 281 and 282. As the first air bag 38 expands, the first part 86 of the calf portions 58 of the left leg 221 and the right leg 222 is compressed inward. Thereby, the muscles of the first part 86 are compressed, and blood flow is promoted from the first part 86 toward the second part 88. The pressure of the air supplied to the first air bag 38 is maintained by a valve (not shown) housed in the controller 14. Therefore, the first part 86 is continuously compressed by the first air bag 38.

[0069] Next to the first air bag 38, air is supplied to the second air bag 40 through the tube 80. Thereby, the second air bag 40 expands in the sleeve bodies 281 and 282. As the second air bag 40 expands, the second part 88 of the calf portion 58 is compressed inward.

[0070] Thereby, the muscles of the second part 88 are compressed, and blood flow is promoted from the second part 88 toward the third part 90. The pressure of the air supplied to the second air bag 40 is maintained by a valve (not shown) housed in the controller 14. Therefore, the second part 88 is continuously compressed by the second air bag 40. The compression of the first part 86 by the first air bag 38 also continues.

[0071] Next to the second air bag 40, air is supplied to the third air bag 42 through the tube 80. Thereby, the third air bag 42 expands in the sleeve bodies 281 and 282. As the third air bag 42 expands, the third part 90 of the calf portion 58 is compressed inward.

[0072] As a result, the muscle of the third part 90 is compressed, and blood flow is promoted from the third part 90 toward the fourth part 92. The pressure of the air supplied to the third airbag 42 is maintained by a valve (not shown) housed in the controller 14. Therefore, the third part 90 is continuously compressed by the third airbag 42. The compression of the first and second parts 86 and 88 by the first and second airbags 38 and 40 is also continued respectively.

[0073] Next to the third airbag 42, air is supplied to the fourth airbag 44 through the tube 80. As a result, the fourth airbag 44 expands in the sleeve bodies 281 and 282. Along with the expansion of the fourth airbag 44, the fourth part 92 of the calf part 58 is compressed inward.

[0074] As a result, the muscle of the fourth part 92 is compressed, and blood flow is promoted from the fourth part 92 toward the other thigh in the width direction. The pressure of the air supplied to the fourth airbag 44 is maintained by a valve (not shown) housed in the controller 14. Therefore, the fourth part 92 is continuously compressed by the fourth airbag 44. The compression of the first to third parts 86, 88, and 90 by the first to third airbags 38, 40, and 42 is also continued respectively.

[0075] Then, after the first to fourth airbags 38, 40, 42, and 44 are all inflated and compress the calf parts 58 of the left leg 221 and the right leg 222 at a predetermined pressure, the exhaust valve (not shown) of the controller 14 is opened. Along with the opening of the exhaust valve, the first to fourth airbags 38, 40, 42, and 44 are released to the atmosphere through the respective tubes 80.

[0076] As a result, the air in the first to fourth airbags 38, 40, 42, and 44 is simultaneously exhausted through the tube 80. As the air is exhausted, the first to fourth airbags 38, 40, 42, and 44 contract. The compression of the calf portion 58 by the first to fourth airbags 38, 40, 42, and 44 is released. The calf portion 58 is released from the compression by the first to fourth airbags 38, 40, 42, and 44.

[0077] After a certain period of time has elapsed since the air in the first to fourth airbags 38, 40, 42, and 44 has been exhausted, air is again supplied from the compressor to the first to fourth airbags 38, 40, 42, and 44 through the tube 80 based on a control signal from the controller 14. As a result, from the first part 86 to the fourth part 92 of the calf portion 58 is again sequentially compressed by the first to fourth airbags 38, 40, 42, and 44.

[0078] In this way, the supply of air to the first to fourth airbags 38, 40, 42, and 44 and the exhaust of air from the first to fourth airbags 38, 40, 42, and 44 are regarded as one cycle, and by repeating this cycle at regular intervals, massage of the patient's left leg 221 and right leg 222 is performed. In the embodiment of the present invention, the left sleeve 24 and the right sleeve 26 compress and release the patient's left leg 221 and right leg 222 simultaneously on the left and right, but the present invention is not limited thereto. Massage of either the patient's left leg 221 or right leg 222 may be performed alternately one leg at a time.

[0079] When finishing the massage of the patient, the operator presses a stop button (not shown) of the controller 14. As a result, the power supply to the compressor is stopped, and the massage of the left leg 221 and right leg 222 by the air massage device 10 is completed. The same applies when performing massage on the patient's left arm and right arm.

[0080] As described above, in the embodiment of the present invention, the air massage device 10 includes a plurality of first to fourth air bags 38, 40, 42, 44 and sleeves 12 (left sleeve 24 and right sleeve 26). The left sleeve 24 and the right sleeve 26 each have sleeve bodies 281, 282 in which the first to fourth air bags 38, 40, 42, 44 are housed. The inner surfaces of the left sleeve 24 and the right sleeve 26 are provided with first and second cushion members 18, 20. The inner surfaces of the left sleeve 24 and the right sleeve 26 are surfaces facing the left leg 221 and the right leg 222, respectively.

[0081] When the left sleeve 24 is wound around and attached to the left leg 221, the first and second cushion members 18, 20 come into contact with the left leg 221. The first and second cushion members 18, 20 form a gap 70 between the left sleeve 24 and the left leg 221. Thereby, when the left sleeve 24 is wound around and attached to the left leg 221, excessive tightening of the left sleeve 24 to the left leg 221 is prevented by the first and second cushion members 18, 20 made of elastic members. Damage to the left leg 221 (skin) caused by excessive tightening of the left sleeve 24 is prevented, and the correct attachment of the left sleeve 24 to the left leg 221 is promoted by the first and second cushion members 18, 20.

[0082] By forming a sufficient gap 70 between the left sleeve 24 and the left leg 221 and correctly attaching the left sleeve 24 to the left leg 221, when the left leg 221 is compressed upward by the inflation of the air bag 36, the compression of the first and second cushion members 18, 20 is not hindered, so that the compression of the left leg 221 can be appropriately performed. When the left leg 221 is massaged by the air bag 36, excessive tightening of the left leg 221 by the left sleeve 24 is prevented. The air permeability of the attachment site of the left sleeve 24 to the left leg 221 can be increased by the gap 70. The stuffiness at the attachment site of the left sleeve 24 is reduced.

[0083] When the first and second cushion members 18 and 20 come into contact with the left leg 221, the contact resistance between the left sleeve 24 and the left leg 221 increases. As a result, the rotational movement of the left sleeve 24 from the wearing site of the left leg 221 is suppressed.

[0084] When the right sleeve 26 is wound around the right leg 222, the first and second cushion members 18 and 20 come into contact with the right leg 222. The first and second cushion members 18 and 20 form a gap 70 between the right sleeve 26 and the right leg 222. Thereby, when the right sleeve 26 is wound around and worn on the right leg 222, excessive tightening of the right sleeve 26 to the right leg 222 is prevented by the first and second cushion members 18 and 20 made of elastic members. Damage to the right leg 222 (skin) caused by excessive tightening of the right sleeve 26 is prevented, and proper wearing of the right sleeve 26 on the right leg 222 is promoted by the first and second cushion members 18 and 20.

[0085] By forming a sufficient gap 70 between the right sleeve 26 and the right leg 222 and properly wearing the right sleeve 26 on the right leg 222, when the right leg 222 is compressed upward by the inflation of the airbag 36, the compression of the first and second cushion members 18 and 20 is not hindered, so that the compression of the right leg 222 can be properly performed. When the airbag 36 massages the right leg 222, excessive tightening of the right leg 222 by the right sleeve 26 is prevented. The gap 70 can enhance the air permeability of the wearing site of the right sleeve 26 on the right leg 222. Moisture accumulation at the wearing site of the right sleeve 26 is reduced.

[0086] When the first and second cushion members 18 and 20 come into contact with the right leg 222, the contact resistance between the right sleeve 26 and the right leg 222 increases. As a result, the rotational movement of the right sleeve 26 from the wearing site of the right leg 222 is suppressed.

[0087] The first and second cushion members 18 and 20 are formed of a compressible porous body having a plurality of pores, so that ventilation when the first and second cushion members 18 and 20 come into contact with the left leg 221 and the right leg 222 can be enhanced more.

[0088] The first and second cushion members 18 and 20 may be respectively accommodated in the accommodation spaces 34 inside the left sleeve 24 and the right sleeve 26. At this time, since the first and second cushion members 18 and 20 can be prevented from directly touching the patient's skin, the discomfort and unpleasant feeling of the patient are reduced. Also, during the use of the air massage device 10, peeling of the first and second cushion members 18 and 20 from the left sleeve 24 and the right sleeve 26 can be prevented, which is effective when the left sleeve 24 and the right sleeve 26 are used over a long period. Since sufficient gaps 70 can be secured between the first and second cushion members 18 and 20 and the left leg 221, excessive tightening of the left sleeve 24 to the left leg 221 is prevented. Since sufficient gaps 70 can be secured between the first and second cushion members 18 and 20 and the right leg 222, excessive tightening of the right sleeve 26 to the right leg 222 is prevented.

[0089] For example, the left sleeve 100 according to the first modification shown in FIG. 7 may be adopted. Here, the left sleeve 100 will be described, but the right sleeve (not shown) has a symmetrical shape to the left sleeve 100. In addition, the same reference numerals are given to the same components as the above-described left sleeve 24, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0090] The second tightening belt 321 of the left sleeve 100 includes first and second cushion members 102 and 104. The first cushion member 102 is disposed near one end in the width direction of the second tightening belt 321. The second cushion member 104 is disposed near the other end in the width direction of the second tightening belt 321. That is, the first and second cushion members 102 and 104 are respectively disposed at both ends in the width direction of the second tightening belt 321. In other words, the first and second cushion members 102 and 104 are disposed at both axial ends of the left sleeve 100 formed in a cylindrical shape when the left sleeve 100 is wound around the left leg 221.

[0091] The second tightening belt 321 includes a third surface fastener 54 on the other side in the width direction (in the direction of arrow B2) of the first cushion member 102. The second tightening belt 321 includes a fourth surface fastener 56 on one side in the width direction (in the direction of arrow B1) of the second cushion member 104.

[0092] In the above-described left sleeve 100, the first and second cushion members 102 and 104 are respectively provided at both ends in the width direction of the second tightening belt 321. Thereby, a sufficient gap 70 is ensured between the left sleeve 100 and the left leg 221 by the two first and second cushion members 102 and 104, and contact between the first and second tightening belts 301 and 321 and the left leg 221 can be reliably prevented. As a result, excessive tightening of the left leg 221 by the left sleeve 100 can be reliably prevented.

[0093] This left sleeve 100 is optimal, for example, for a thin patient whose calf portion 58 is thinner than a predetermined thickness, or when the air massaging device 10 is used over a long period of time.

[0094] The first and second cushion members 102 and 104 reliably separate the left sleeve 100 from the left leg 221. As a result, contact between the left sleeve 100 and the left leg 221 can be more reliably prevented. Consequently, excessive tightening of the left leg 221 by the left sleeve 100 can be more reliably prevented. Damage to the left leg 221 (skin) caused by contact between the left sleeve 100 and the left leg 221 can be reliably prevented. The breathability of the mounting site of the left sleeve 100 on the left leg 221 can be enhanced to prevent stuffiness.

[0095] For example, the left sleeve 110 according to the second modification shown in FIG. 8 may be employed. Here, the left sleeve 110 will be described, but the right sleeve (not shown) has a symmetrical shape to the left sleeve 110. In addition, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same components as the above-described left sleeve 24, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0096] The left sleeve 110 includes first and second cushion members 112 and 114.

[0097] The first cushion member 112 extends from the second tightening belt 321 to the sleeve body 281. The first cushion member 112 extends along the left-right direction (directions of arrows A1 and A2) of the left sleeve 110. The first cushion member 112 is disposed near one end in the width direction of the second tightening belt 321 and the sleeve body 281.

[0098] The first cushion member 112 is disposed so as to overlap the first airbag 38. The first cushion member 112 is disposed on one side in the width direction from the third surface fastener 54.

[0099] The second cushion member 114 extends from the second tightening belt 321 to the sleeve body 281. The second cushion member 114 extends along the left-right direction (directions of arrows A1 and A2) of the left sleeve 110. The second cushion member 114 is disposed near the other end in the width direction of the second tightening belt 321 and the sleeve body 281.

[0100] The second cushion member 114 is disposed so as to overlap the fourth airbag 44. The second cushion member 114 is disposed on the other side in the width direction from the fourth surface fastener 56.

[0101] That is, the first and second cushion members 112 and 114 are respectively disposed at both ends in the width direction of the second tightening belt 321 and the sleeve body 281. In other words, when the left sleeve 110 is wound around the left leg 221, the first and second cushion members 112 and 114 are disposed at both axial ends of the left sleeve 110 formed in a cylindrical shape.

[0102] By adopting this left sleeve 110, the first and second cushion members 112 and 114 can be brought into contact with the entire calf portion 58. Therefore, a gap 70 can be provided between the left sleeve 110 and the left leg 221 over substantially the entire circumference of the left leg 221. Thereby, excessive tightening of the left leg 221 by the left sleeve 110 can be more reliably prevented. Damage to the left leg 221 (skin) caused by excessive tightening of the left leg 221 by the left sleeve 110 can be reliably prevented. By making the first and second cushion members 112 and 114 long, the contact resistance between the left sleeve 110 and the left leg 221 can be increased. Thereby, when the left sleeve 110 is attached to the left leg 221, rotation of the left sleeve 110 can be more reliably prevented.

[0103] For example, the left sleeve 120 according to the third modification shown in FIG. 9 may be adopted. Here, the left sleeve 120 will be described, but the right sleeve (not shown) has a symmetrical shape to the left sleeve 120. In addition, the same reference numerals are given to the same components as the above-described left sleeve 24, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0104] The left sleeve 120 includes one cushion member (elastic member) 122. The cushion member 122 extends from the second fastening belt 321 to the sleeve body 281. The cushion member 122 is disposed substantially at the center in the width direction of the second fastening belt 321 and the sleeve body 281. In other words, when the left sleeve 120 is wound around the left leg 221, the cushion member 122 is disposed at both axial ends of the left sleeve 120 that has become cylindrical.

[0105] The cushion member 122 extends linearly along the left - right direction (directions of arrows A1 and A2) of the left sleeve 120. In the sleeve body 281, the cushion member 122 is disposed at a position where it contacts the second airbag 40 and the third airbag 42. In other words, the cushion member 122 is disposed straddling the second airbag 40 and the third airbag 42.

[0106] In the above - described left sleeve 120, by providing one cushion member 122 substantially at the center in the width direction, a sufficient gap 70 can be ensured between the left sleeve 120 and the left leg 221 by the single cushion member 122. Since only one cushion member 122 contacts the left leg 221, the contact area of the cushion member 122 is smaller than when two first and second cushion members contact the left leg 221. Therefore, when the left sleeve 120 is attached to the left leg 221, the load on the left leg 221 by the cushion member 122 is reduced. This left sleeve 120 is optimal, for example, for a patient with a calf part 58 of a predetermined thickness or when used for several days after surgery.

[0107] For example, the left sleeve 130 according to the fourth modification shown in FIG. 10 may be employed. Here, the left sleeve 130 will be described, but the right sleeve (not shown) has a symmetrical shape to the left sleeve 130. Components identical to those of the above - described left sleeve 24 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0108] The left sleeve 130 includes a first cushion member (elastic body) 132 and a pair of second cushion members (elastic members) 1341 and 1342. The first cushion member 132 is disposed on the sleeve body 281. The first cushion member 132 is disposed substantially at the center in the width direction of the sleeve body 281. The first cushion member 132 is disposed at a position in contact with the second airbag 40 and the third airbag 42. In other words, the first cushion member 132 is disposed across the second airbag 40 and the third airbag 42.

[0109] The first cushion member 132 includes a first main body portion 136 and a first contact portion 138. The first main body portion 136 is fixed in contact with the inner surface of the sleeve body 281. The first contact portion 138 protrudes in a direction away from the first main body portion 136. The first contact portion 138 is recessed toward the first main body portion 136 when the left sleeve 130 is viewed in the width direction. The cross-sectional shape of the first contact portion 138 is an arc shape. The cross-sectional shape of the first contact portion 138 is a gently curved shape. The cross-sectional shape of the first contact portion 138 corresponds to the shape of the calf portion 58 of the left leg 221. The first cushion member 132 is most recessed at substantially the center in the left-right direction.

[0110] The pair of second cushion members 1341 and 1342 are disposed on the second tightening belt 321. The second cushion members 1341 and 1342 include a second main body portion 140 and a second contact portion 142. The second main body portion 140 is fixed in contact with the inner surface of the second tightening belt 321.

[0111] The second contact portion 142 protrudes in a direction away from the second main body portion 140. The second contact portion 142 bulges in a direction away from the second main body portion 140 when the left sleeve 130 is viewed in the width direction. The cross-sectional shape of the second contact portion 142 is an arc shape. The cross-sectional shape of the second contact portion 142 is a gently curved shape. The left-right direction substantially at the center of the second cushion members 1341 and 1342 bulges the most. The first cushion member 132 and the second cushion members 1341 and 1342 are arranged alternately in the width direction (directions of arrows B1 and B2) of the left sleeve 130.

[0112] One of the second cushion members 1341 is disposed near one end in the width direction of the second fastening belt 321. A third surface fastener 54 is disposed between the second cushion member 1341 and one end in the width direction of the second fastening belt 321.

[0113] The other second cushion member 1342 is disposed near the other end in the width direction of the second fastening belt 321. A fourth surface fastener 56 is disposed between the second cushion member 1342 and the other end in the width direction of the second fastening belt 321. The pair of second cushion members 1341, 1342 are disposed parallel to each other.

[0114] By adopting this left sleeve 130, when placing the patient's left leg 221 on the left sleeve 130, the first cushion member 132 that is recessed downward can guide the left leg 221 to the sleeve body 281. When the patient accidentally places the left leg 221 on the second fastening belt 321, the patient will feel a sense of discomfort by contacting the second cushion members 1341, 1342 that bulge upward, and will recognize that it is the wrong position. That is, by using the first cushion member 132 and the second cushion members 1341, 1342, it is possible to correctly guide the patient's left leg 221 to a predetermined position when placing it.

[0115] When the left sleeve 130 is attached to the patient's left leg 221, the first cushion member 132 contacts the calf portion 58, and the second cushion members 1341, 1342 contact the right side portion 581 and the left side portion 582 of the calf portion 58 and the shin portion 60. Thereby, a sufficient gap 70 is secured between the left sleeve 130 and the left leg 221.

[0116] In the above-described embodiment, the first cushion members 18, 102, 112, 132, the second cushion members 20, 104, 114, 1341, 1342, and the cushion member 122 are arranged at positions overlapping the airbag 36 so as not to reduce the volume of the airbag 36, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the first cushion members 18, 102, 112, 132, the second cushion members 20, 104, 114, 1341, 1342, and the cushion member 122 may be arranged at positions not overlapping the airbag 36, or may be arranged so as to overlap only a part of the airbag 36.

[0117] Summarizing the above embodiment, it is as follows.

[0118] The above embodiment includes an airbag (36) to which pressurized air is supplied and a sleeve (12) having the airbag, and the sleeve is attached to a wearing site (58) of an arm or a leg (22), and the airbag alternately compresses and releases the wearing site. In the air massage device (10), The sleeve is wound so as to cover the wearing site, On the inner surface of the sleeve facing the wearing site or inside the sleeve, elastic members (18, 20, 102, 104, 112, 114, 122, 1341, 1342) made of a compressible porous body are arranged.

[0119] A plurality of the elastic members are arranged at intervals along the axial direction of the sleeve that has been formed into a cylindrical shape by attaching the sleeve to the wearing site.

[0120] The elastic member is arranged substantially at the center in the axial direction of the sleeve that has been formed into a cylindrical shape by attaching the sleeve to the wearing site.

[0121] When the sleeve is attached to the wearing site of the leg, the elastic member contacts at least the shin portion (60) of the leg.

[0122] The sleeve includes a sleeve body (281, 282) provided with the airbag, and a tightening portion (321, 322) that extends from the sleeve body in the winding direction of the sleeve body and is fixed in a state of being wound around the mounting portion. The elastic member is disposed on at least one of the inner surface of the tightening portion and the inner surface of the sleeve body.

[0123] The elastic member has an elastic body (132) disposed on the sleeve body. The portion of the elastic body facing the mounting portion is recessed in a direction away from the mounting portion.

[0124] Note that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various configurations can be adopted without departing from the gist of the present invention.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0125] 10…Air massaging device 12…Sleeve 14…Controller 16…Connection tube 18, 102, 112, 132…First cushion member 20, 104, 114, 1341, 1342…Second cushion member 24, 100, 110, 120…Left sleeve 26…Right sleeve 36…Airbag 70…Gap 122…Cushion member

Claims

1. An air massage device comprising an airbag to which pressurized air is supplied and a sleeve having the airbag, the sleeve being attached to a wearing site on an arm or a leg, and the airbag alternately compressing and releasing the wearing site. In the air massage device, the sleeve is wound so as to cover the wearing site, an elastic member made of a compressible porous body is disposed on the inner surface of the sleeve facing the wearing site or inside the sleeve, the sleeve includes a sleeve body having the airbag and a tightening portion that extends from the sleeve body in the winding direction of the sleeve body and is fixed in a state of being wound around the wearing site, An air massage device, wherein the elastic member is disposed on at least one of the inner surface of the tightening portion and the inner surface of the sleeve body.

2. In the air massage device according to Claim 1, the elastic members are arranged at intervals along the axial direction of the sleeve that has become cylindrical by attaching the sleeve to the wearing site. An air massage device.

3. In the air massage device according to Claim 1, the elastic member is disposed substantially at the center in the axial direction of the sleeve that has become cylindrical by attaching the sleeve to the wearing site. An air massage device.

4. In the air massage device according to any one of Claims 1 to 3, when the sleeve is attached to the wearing site on the leg, the elastic member contacts at least the tibia of the leg. An air massage device.

5. In the air massage device according to any one of Claims 1 to 4, the elastic member has an elastic body disposed on the sleeve body, An air massage device, wherein a portion of the elastic body facing the wearing site is recessed in a direction away from the wearing site.

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