Inflatable/deflatable pillow for the relief of neck or back pain

摘要

Medical apparatus for the relief, treatment and/or prevention of neck or back pain comprises an inflatable support pillow (2) and an inflation device connected to the pillow. The support pillow is adapted for interpositioning between a patient's occiput and a head rest and supports the neck and sides of the head. The inflation device includes a pump and control means, such as a timer, for controlling the inflation and deflation of the pillow through a repetitive cycle which causes the patient's head to be moved with a nodding and/or side-to-side motion. Such movement gently massages the patient's neck to alleviate or prevent pain. The device can be adapted for back treatment.