| 摘要 |
<p>An inflatable pad (10) comprises at least one bladder (11) to engage the sole of a foot and is divided into two sections (15, 17) which are interconnected by means of a restrictor (22). Use of this apparatus involves dorsal and plantar flexion of the foot, which mimics the walking action. This improves blood circulation in the legs and prevents the formation of thrombi which is a risk to a person who has been confined to bed or a sitting position for extended periods of time. The pad 10 is formed from two superposed sheets of plastics material (preferably vapour permeable material) and defines bladders 11 and 12. Apertures 31 and 32 are provided on the pad for inflation, for example, by mouth or pump. In use, the two bladders 11, 12 are partially inflated and the apertures closed. The pad 10 is placed on the ground in front of the user's chair and the heels of the feet of the user placed over bladder sections 14, 15. The heels are pressed against the pad 10 and the air from bladder sections 14, 15 is pushed into bladder sections 16, 17 via restrictors 21, 22 such that the fronts of the feet are lifted. The user then presses down on sections 16, 17 to push the air back into sections 14, 15 and the cycle continues. The cycle is carried out as long as the user is seated. The pad 10 may be held in place by suitable securing means (not shown), preferably cushioned securing means for securing the pad onto the foot or feet.</p> |
