| 摘要 |
A therapeutic device is provided for use in the treatment and/or rehabilitation of injuries to bodily extremities, such as the hands or feet. In the device a capsule or chamber is provided which is at least partially filled with a Newtonian or non-Newtonian liquid. An area approximating the shape of the extremity to under therapy, such as a hand, is formed and made an integral part of the capsule such that the extremity undergoing therapy may be inserted to move freely within the liquid physically coming into contact with the liquid. In one embodiment the capsule is molded from a single piece of transparent rubber with a fluid chamber formed at one end and a glove-like area formed at the other. The fluid chamber is filled with a liquid, such as medical grade silicone or organic polymer liquid, and then the glove-like area inverted to be located within the outer walls of the capsule. A user may then insert his or her hand into the chamber, by way of the glove, and undergo therapy or exercise within the environment of the liquid without actually coming into contact with the liquid. Variations of the invention permit the hand to be heated or cooled, either from within or radiantly. In addition, by making all materials transparent or translucent, it is possible for the patient or therapist to observe the hand undergoing therapy, thereby ensuring maximum effect without introducing the danger or causing additional damage.
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