System for applying pulsating pressure to the body

摘要

The system includes a stocking for stimulating fluid flow within the leg of the wearer to thereby reduce the likelihood of venous thrombosis during surgery, post-operative recovery periods, and during other periods of inactivity. The stocking is easy to apply and remove, is lightweight and comfortable for wear by bed patients or ambulant patients. The stocking includes a seamless knitted leg which is fashioned to generally conform to the configuration of the leg on which the stocking is to be placed and is sufficiently stretchable to permit easy placement and removal but is otherwise substantially unstretchable. A longitudinally extending pocket is provided along the front portion of the leg and covers substantially one-half the circumferential surface of the leg with an expandable bladder generally conforming to the size of the pocket and positioned within the pocket. The system also includes pumping means for periodically expanding the bladder to exert direct pressure against the front of the leg and to circumferentially contract the remainder of the leg of the stocking to stimulate the fluid flow in the leg of the wearer.