Somawave is a revolutionary new therapeutic support surface that goes beyond pressure relief to provide relaxing wave massage and circulatory assistance. Its continuous motion improves comfort and prevents stiffness, pain and other circulatory problems arising from immobility. Somawave incorporates a proprietary patented travelling wave generator.
Movement is vital in order to maintain health. Too often we sit, sleep or remain immobilized for prolonged periods. Lack of mobility reduces blood circulation and lymphatic flow. Excessive pressure on one spot on the body without relief can block areas of flow completely. These conditions can lead to pain, stiffness and circulatory problems such as thrombosis and bed sores.
Support surfaces come in two types, static and dynamic. The usual normal seats, cushions and beds we rest and sleep on are static supports surfaces that do not move. Movement to sustain circulation needs to be supplied by the occupant by shifting their weight periodically, through stretching, tossing or turning. A normal healthy individual shifts their weight automatically while sitting or sleeping several times every hour, usually enough to maintain adequate circulation and health. When this is not possible, as for example, in cramped seating, or when a person is sedated, elderly or infirm, all sorts of mild to severe conditions can develop.
Dynamic support surfaces provide the movement required to improve circulation and can reduce or eliminate the need for caregiver assistance. Dynamic support surfaces vary the support pressure on the body often enough so that flow is never stopped for more than brief periods. Some dynamic support surfaces go further by improving circulation in the body. They are usually air-operated devices with air cells that inflate and deflate periodically. When this movement is aggressive and continuous, blood circulation can be enhanced but usually this type of device cycles too slowly to actually assist circulation and is effective only in relieving pressure.
Somawave therapeutic support surfaces are circulatory assist devices, actually increasing circulation rather than simply relieving pressure. A patented1 mechanical wave-generating mechanism runs continuously, promoting circulation in the direction of wave travel. This wave motion feels much like a gentle massage, going through a complete cycle 5 to 10 times per minute.
Somawave support surface cushions and mattresses are currently available on a rental basis as wheelchair cushions and mattresses for massage and treatment tables. By 2004 they will be available for rental and purchase for regular sized beds, arm rests, foot supports and a variety of seat and back cushions. Somawave will be also available through select licensed automotive, airline seat and mattress manufacturers by 2005.