WO2015113132A1

WO2015113132A1 - Body support and alignment pillow

Info

Publication number: WO2015113132A1
Application number: PCT/CA2014/050758
Authority: WO
Inventors: Colin Fenton
Original assignee: Colin Fenton
Priority date: 2014-01-29
Filing date: 2014-08-08
Publication date: 2015-08-06
Also published as: USD736542S1; US20150208812A1; CA2842604A1

Abstract

There is provided a body alignment and support pillow. The pillow includes a first portion that is substantially rectangular in profile and tapered at least in part. The first portion of the pillow is positionable under the chest and abdomen of a user during lateral slumber and promotes laterally upright positioning of the user's back, shoulders, and pelvis. The pillow includes a second portion that aligns with and is integrally formed with the first portion of the pillow. The second portion of the pillow is substantially rectangular in profile and is positionable between the user's thighs and knees. The pillow includes recessed regions extending between the first portion of the pillow and the second portion of the pillow. The second portion of the pillow is at least in part thinner in cross-section than the first portion of the pillow.

Description

BODY SUPPORT AND ALIGNMENT PILLOW Field of the Invention

[0001] There is provided a pillow. In particular, there is provided a body support and alignment pillow.

Description of the Related Art [0002] People sometimes lay on their sides when they sleep. However, after a while, they may become uncomfortable; a person's neck, shoulders, back, and/or pelvic region may start to ache because their shoulder may drop forward and their back may arch inwards from their stomach. The person's chest may drop towards the mattress. Their stomach may stick out in a forward direction as the stomach muscles relax. This action of the stomach may flex and twist the spine into the wrong position, and may place an inward curve and twist on the neck, back, hips and knees. This action may result in a further dropping of the stomach towards the mattress, which may thus make for an uncomfortable sleep. These factors may twist the person's spine into an awkward position and may place the person's hips into an awkward position. [0003] Also, when a person is resting on their side using a conventional pillow, their legs may be in an awkward position. Their knees and ankles may be touching each other. This uncomfortable position may cause pain from pressure points. When a person sleeps on their side, their legs may cross over one another. This may result in the knees abutting each other in a bone-on-bone manner. This may lead to pressure points by one's arteries and veins. This may be very dangerous if blood flow is disrupted and cannot continue to flow to the lower part of the legs. [0004] If the hips and pelvic are not supported, the user may adjust their thighs and knees to try to find a more comfortable position. In this case, people may tuck their blankets in between their knees. However, frequent adjustment may be needed in order to try to find a comfortable position within which to rest. The body may thus be frequently working and not resting like it should.

[0005] The above described uncomfortable positioning may result in a disturbed sleep. The discomfort that may result from this unsupported position may cause people to roll over onto their other side, and the process may start all over again. Tossing and turning may thus repeatedly occur. As a result, some people may eventually roll onto their back or stomach. Such positioning may create more uncomfortable and further unnatural positions in which to sleep. Moreover, sleeping on one's back may also promote snoring.

[0006] United States Patent Publication No. 2005/0060806 to Wilkinson provides a system for adjustably positioning at least two body zones of a person relative to a base surface on which the person is resting. The system comprises at least two adjustable sections. Each adjustable section has a non-remote, individually adjustable mechanism for adjusting the elevation of the section. In one embodiment, each of the at least two adjustable sections comprises an inflatable/deflatable bladder positioned between an upper non-adjustable cushioned element and a lower non-adjustable cushioned element. The non-remote, individually adjustable mechanism comprises a valve mounted on an outer surface of the inflatable/deflatable bladder.

[0007] Each section of the pillow in Wilkinson may be independently adjustable. This may result in a system that is overly adjustable in which the user may adjust the pillow for optimized comfort as opposed to optimized body alignment. When the user rolls over, positioning of the pillow and user may require further adjustment. These aspects of the pillow may be particularly undesired and challenging to correct when the user is in a drowsy or semi-asleep state. [0008] United States Patent No. 8,468,627 to Leach provides an elongated angular multiple position body pillow. The pillow embodies an enlarged center section having a curved top portion and a substantially straight base. Two arms extend longitudinally from the center section and at an adjustable angle thereto. The terminal ends of each arm are provided with one half of a fabric tie which fabric ties, when brought into contact with one another. This causes the pillow to be temporarily fixed in a semi-toroidal shape. The elongated angular multiple position body pillow is adapted to support a user when the user is lying on her side, in a seated position, reclining with her back elevated, or nursing an infant. [0009] Here too the above pillow may be overly adjustable by the user, enabling a user to use the pillow in a manner detrimental to the user' s body alignment and overall health. Moreover, the pillow may be relatively cumbersome compared to a conventional pillow, inhibiting the user' s ability to roll over in an efficient and smooth manner.

[0010] United States Patent No. 8,074,310 to Robbins provides a resilient base cushion that has top and bottom surfaces, and a peripheral side wall, upper and lower ends. The cushion includes an upper section, a lower section, and an intermediate section.

A resilient head cushion has a middle component positioned across the top of the base cushion and side components laterally spaced from the upper section. A pair of similarly configured resilient leg cushions are partially positioned upon the intermediate and lower sections of the base cushion. Each cushion of a pair of similarly configured resilient abdominal cushions has a wedge-shaped configuration and is positioned upon the intermediate section of the base cushion above the leg cushions.

[0011] The cushion in Robbins may be expensive to manufacture, with its many parts. Also, the cushion may be relatively large and cumbersome compared to a conventional pillow. The cushion may thus take up room on the bed and inhibit intimacy with one's partner. [0012] United States Patent No. 5,269,323 to Krouskop provides a body support system for supporting a human body lying on a bed in a side position. The system includes a body support and first and second flexible arms extending outwardly from the support. A head engaging structure is connected to one of the arms and a leg engaging structure is connected to the other arms for maintaining the body support against the body. The support may include a flat side, and an incline side and be right triangular in cross section. Preferably, the head engaging structure and leg engaging structure are substantially the same for reversibility.

[0013] The body support system in Krouskop may be relatively restricting compared to a conventional pillow because, for example, it does not appear to enable the user to roll over during the course of the night. Also, the flexible arms may result in a system that requires periodic adjustment before going to bed and during the course of the night to try to ensure that a healthy alignment of the body is maintained.

[0014] There is accordingly a need for an improved body support and alignment system.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0015] There is provided a body support and alignment system disclosed herein that overcomes the above disadvantages. [0016] There is accordingly provided a body alignment and support pillow for a user. The pillow includes an upper, torso-supporting portion shaped to support and be at least partially positioned underneath the chest and abdomen during lateral slumber. The upper portion of the pillow promotes laterally upright positioning of the shoulder, back and pelvis of the user. It functions to promote squaring of the shoulders and thighs of the user and supports the abdomen and pelvic area in their natural position. If the user's abdomen protrudes forward, the muscles may pull the pelvis down and forward, creating an excessive curve in the lower torso and causing the abdomen to protrude forward even more. The resulting pressure on the lower spine may eventually cause dysfunction and injury. The pillow includes a lower, thigh and knee-supporting portion which is positionable between the thighs and knees of the user. The lower portion of the pillow aligns with the upper portion of the pillow. [0017] There is also provided a body alignment and support pillow. The pillow includes a first portion that is tapered at least in part. The first portion of the pillow is substantially rectangular in profile. The pillow includes a second portion integrally connected to and formed with the first portion of the pillow. The second portion of the pillow is substantially rectangular in profile. The pillow includes recessed regions extending between the first portion of the pillow and the second portion of the pillow. The second portion of the pillow is at least in part thinner in cross-section than the first portion of the pillow.

[0018] According to a further aspect, there is a provided a body alignment and support pillow for a user. The pillow includes a means for promoting laterally upright positioning of the shoulders, neck, back and pelvis during lateral slumber. The pillow includes a means for cushioning knees and holding in place the means for promoting positioning of the back.

[0019] According to another aspect, there is provided a method of aligning and supporting a person's body during lateral slumber. The method includes using a body alignment and support pillow. The pillow has an upper portion with a tapered section and a lower portion aligned with the upper portion thereof. The method includes positioning the tapered section of the upper portion of the pillow underneath the chest and abdomen. The upper portion of the pillow promotes laterally upright positioning of the shoulders, chest, abdomen, back and pelvis thereby. The method includes positioning the lower portion of the pillow between the thighs and knees. The lower portion of the pillow supports the knees and holds the upper portion of the pillow in place. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0020] The invention will be more readily understood from the following description of preferred embodiments thereof given, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is a front, side perspective view of a body alignment and support pillow according to one aspect;

Figure 2 is a rear, side perspective view thereof;

Figure 3 is a first side view thereof including an inner longitudinal edge portion of the pillow;

Figure 4 is a second side view thereof opposite the first side view, including an outer longitudinal edge portion of the pillow;

Figure 5 is a top plan view thereof;

Figure 6 is a bottom plan view thereof;

Figure 7 is a distal end view thereof;

Figure 8 is a proximal end view thereof; Figure 9 is a top perspective view of the pillow of Figure 1 together with a user being supported by the pillow along a first side of the user;

Figure 10 is a side perspective view of the pillow and the user of Figure 9, with the user lying on a mattress, the pillow being at least partially interposed between the user and the mattress; Figure 11 is a top perspective view of the pillow, the user and the mattress of Figure 10, with the user being shown on his or her back, with the pillow having a lower portion squeezed between the user's thighs and knees and the pillow having an upper portion held between the user's arms;

Figure 12 is a side perspective view of the pillow, the user and the mattress of Figure 9, the user being supported by the pillow along a second side of the user; Figure 13 is a front, side perspective view of a body alignment and support pillow according to a second aspect;

Figure 14 is a rear, side perspective view thereof; Figure 15 is a first side view thereof, including an inner longitudinal edge portion of the pillow;

Figure 16 is a second side view thereof opposite the first side view, including an outer longitudinal edge portion of the pillow;

Figure 17 is a top plan view thereof; Figure 18 is a bottom plan view thereof; Figure 19 is a distal end view thereof;

Figure 20 is a proximal end view thereof;

Figure 21 is a front, side perspective view of a body alignment and support pillow according to a third aspect; Figure 22 is a rear, side perspective view thereof;

Figure 23 is a first side view thereof, including an inner longitudinal edge portion of the pillow;

Figure 24 is a second side view thereof opposite the first side view, including an outer longitudinal edge portion of the pillow;

Figure 25 is a top plan view thereof;

Figure 26 is a bottom plan view thereof;

Figure 27 is a distal end view thereof; and Figure 28 is a proximal end view thereof.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0021] Referring to the drawings and first to Figure 1, there is shown a body alignment and support pillow 20 for a user 22, seen in Figure 9.

[0022] Referring to Figures 9 to 12, the user is a person having a torso 24. The user's torso includes a top 26 and a bottom 28 spaced-apart from the top. The user 22 has a head 30 and a pair of arms 32 and 34 connected to and extending from top 26 of torso 24. The user has shoulders 36 aligned with the top of the user's torso, a chest 37 spaced-apart below the shoulders, an abdomen 38 positioned between the top and bottom of the user's torso, a back 40 spaced-apart from the user's abdomen, and a pelvis 41 positioned by the bottom 28 of the user's torso. The user's back extends from the top 26 towards the bottom 28 of torso 24. The user 22 has a pair of legs 42 and 44 each of which includes: a thigh having a lower part; a knee adjacent to the lower part of the thigh; and a shank having an upper part adjacent to the knee. This is seen by thigh 46, lower part 47 of the thigh, knee 48, shank 49 and upper part 50 of the shank for leg 44.

[0023] The pillow 20 is substantially rectangular in profile in this example, as best seen in Figures 5 and 6. It is made of low-resilience polyurethane foam, or memory foam, in one example of many, according to one aspect. The pillow may come in adult and child sizes. In this example four-pound memory foam may be used for the adults' pillows and three-pound memory foam may be used for the children's pillows; however, this is not strictly required and other materials may be used. The pillow may also include a zippered cover (not shown) that can be removed for periodic washing. The zippered part on the pillow may be located at the feet end of the pillow by end 54. The zipper may at least partially extend along respective ones of inner and outer longitudinal edge portions 56 and 58 of the pillow. This may allow enough exposure to readily remove the pillow case. A king size pillow case may work well with an adult-size pillow described further below and a regular pillow case may work well with a child-size pillow also described further below.

[0024] The pillow extends from a proximal end 52, best seen in Figure 8, to a distal end 54, best seen in Figure 7, which is spaced-apart from the proximal end. Referring to Figure 10, the pillow is shaped such that proximal end 52 of the pillow is positionable adjacent to the shoulders 36 of the user 22. Distal end 54 of the pillow is positionable adjacent to the knees 48 and upper part 50 of shanks 49 of the user 22 in this example. Arm 32 of the user 22 seen in Figure 9 may abut against proximal end 52 of the pillow 20.

[0025] The pillow 20 has an inner longitudinal edge portion 56, best seen in Figures 1 and 3, for positioning adjacent to the user 22, seen in Figure 9. Referring back to Figure 1, the inner longitudinal edge portion of the pillow extends from proximal end 52 of the pillow to its distal end 54. The inner longitudinal edge portion 56 of the pillow 20 is substantially continuous and straight in shape in this example. The pillow has an outer longitudinal edge portion 58, best seen in Figures 4 and 7, which is spaced-apart from its inner longitudinal edge portion. The outer longitudinal edge portion of the pillow is spaced-apart from torso 24 of user 22 in use, as seen in Figure 9. The outer longitudinal edge portion 58 of the pillow 20 extends from proximal end 52 of the pillow to distal end 54 thereof. As best seen in Figure 4, the outer longitudinal edge portion 58 of the pillow substantially comprises two generally rectangular- shaped regions 51 and 53. Region 51 extends from proximal end 52 towards distal end 54. Region 53 extends from distal end 54 towards proximal end 52. Region 51 is wider and longer relative to region 53 in this example.

[0026] As best seen in Figures 1 and 4, the outer longitudinal edge portion 58 of the pillow 20 includes a pair of spaced-apart thigh and knee positioning, concave recessed regions 55 and 57 interposed between and extending between regions 51 and 53 thereof. Referring to Figure 10, the recessed regions are shaped for receiving the user's knees 48 therewithin.

[0027] Referring back to Figure 1, the pillow 20 has a longitudinal central axis 59 that extends from proximal end 52 to distal end 54 of the pillow. The central axis is positioned between inner longitudinal edge portion 56 and outer longitudinal edge portion 58 of the pillow.

[0028] The pillow 20 includes a first, upper, torso-supporting portion or upper portion 60 which extends from proximal end 52 of the pillow towards distal end 54 thereof. The upper portion of the pillow also extends from inner longitudinal edge portion 56 to the rectangular- shaped region 51 of outer longitudinal edge portion 58 of the pillow, seen in Figure 4. Rectangular- shaped region 51 thus aligns the upper portion of the pillow. The upper portion 60 of the pillow 20 is substantially rectangular in profile as seen in Figure 5. Referring to Figure 10, the upper portion of the pillow is shaped to extend from the top 26 to the bottom 28 of the torso 24 of user 22.

[0029] As seen in Figure 1, the upper portion 60 of the pillow has two longitudinal sections, in this example, an outer longitudinal section 62 and an inner longitudinal, tapered, inner longitudinal section 64, as best seen in Figure 8. The outer longitudinal section is substantially a rectangular prism in shape in this example. The outer longitudinal section 62 of the upper portion 60 of the pillow 20 is configured to be spaced-apart from the chest 37 and abdomen 38 of the user in use, as seen in Figure 9, and may receive and support arm 34 of user 22. The user's head 30 is supported by a conventional pillow 63 in this example, though this is not strictly required. Outer longitudinal section 62 extends from rectangular- shaped region 51 of outer longitudinal edge portion 58, as seen in Figure 4, towards inner longitudinal edge portion 56 of the pillow as seen in Figure 9. [0030] Inner longitudinal section 64 of the upper portion 60 of the pillow 20 is best seen in Figures 1 to 3. It is wedge-like and in this example substantially a triangular prism in shape. Referring to Figure 1, the inner longitudinal section is integrally connected to outer longitudinal section 62 of the upper portion 60 of the pillow 20. Referring to Figure 9, the inner longitudinal section of the upper portion of the pillow is shaped to support the chest 37 and abdomen 38 of the user and be at least partially positioned underneath the chest and abdomen during lateral slumber. This is also seen in Figure 10 by user 22 sleeping on some of mattress 61 in this example, with the mattress extending along a first side 65 of the user.

[0031] The inner longitudinal section 64 of the upper portion 60 of the pillow 20 has a first, flat and substantially rectangular side 66, seen in Figure 1, and a second flat and substantially rectangular side 68, seen in Figure 2, which connect via edge portion 56. Side 66 is angularly spaced-apart side 68. The inner longitudinal section 64 extends from outer longitudinal section 62 and tapers to inner longitudinal edge portion 56 of the pillow 20. Inner longitudinal section 64 of the upper portion 60 of the pillow thus tapers towards the chest 37 and abdomen 38 in use, as seen with reference to Figures 1 and 9. As best seen in Figure 8, the inner longitudinal section 64 is substantially triangular in cross-section in this example, in the shape of an isosceles triangle. [0032] The upper portion 60 of the pillow is thus shaped to promote straight or laterally upright positioning of the body of the user 22 as seen in Figures 9 and 10 while maintaining a natural curvature to the back. The pillow so shaped may inhibit twisting or rolling forward of the user's torso 24. The pillow may thus function to reduce pressure on sacrum and stabilize the trunk. The term "straight" when used in reference to the back is understood to be mean generally or substantially straight. The upper portion 60 of the pillow 20 may thus be referred to as a means for promoting laterally upright positioning of the back during lateral slumber.

[0033] Referring to Figure 1, the upper portion 60 of the pillow has a central longitudinal axis that aligns with and corresponds with longitudinal axis 59 of the pillow. Longitudinal axis 59 extends between outer longitudinal section 62 of the upper portion 60 of the pillow and inner longitudinal section 64 of the upper portion of the pillow in this example.

[0034] As seen in Figures 1 and 2, the pillow 20 has a second, lower, thigh and knee supporting portion or lower portion 70. The lower portion of the pillow extends from the distal end 54 of the pillow towards the proximal end 52 of the pillow. The lower portion 70 of the pillow 20 is substantially rectangular in profile, as best seen in Figure 5. The lower portion of the pillow is integrally formed with and connected to the upper portion 60 of the pillow and is, at least in part, thinner in cross-section than the upper portion of the pillow, as best seen with reference to Figures 3 and 4.

[0035] Referring to Figure 1, the lower portion 70 of the pillow 20 extends from inner longitudinal edge portion 56 to rectangular-shaped region 53 of the outer longitudinal edge portion 58, shown in Figure 4. Region 53 thus aligns with the lower portion of the pillow. As seen in Figure 10, the lower portion of the pillow 20 is shaped to extend from the bottom 28 of the torso 24 to the upper part 50 of shank 49 in this example. The lower portion is thus positionable between the thighs 46 and knees 48 and upper part of the shank of the user 22. [0036] The lower portion 70 of the pillow has two longitudinal sections, in this example, comprising an outer longitudinal section 72 and an inner longitudinal section 74. The outer longitudinal section is substantially a rectangular prism in shape in this example. The outer longitudinal section 72 of the lower portion 70 of the pillow 20 is positioned to be received between the thigh 46 and knees 48 and upper parts 50 of the shanks 49 of the user 22 when in use, as seen in Figure 9. The outer longitudinal section 72 of the lower portion of the pillow aligns with and is integrally connected to the outer longitudinal section 62 of the upper portion 60 of the pillow. The pillow 20 is thus shaped to promote support and alignment of the pelvis 41 and knees 48 with the outer longitudinal sections 72 and 62 of the pillow.

[0037] Outer longitudinal section 72 is wider than outer longitudinal section 62 of the upper portion 60 of the pillow. The outer longitudinal section 72 of the lower portion 70 of the pillow thus extends from rectangular- shaped region 53 of the outer longitudinal edge portion 58, seen in Figure 4, towards inner longitudinal edge portion 56 of the pillow, as seen in Figure 1, to a greater extent than does outer longitudinal section 62 of the upper portion 60 of the pillow.

[0038] As seen in Figures 1 and 2, the lower portion 70 of the pillow includes a pair of concave recessed regions 71 and 73 that extend from regions 55 and 57 of longitudinal edge portion 58 towards inner longitudinal edge portion 56. Regions 71 and 73 are positioned between the proximal end 52 and distal end 54 of the pillow 20 and are interposed between outer longitudinal sections 72 and 62 of the pillow 20. The recessed regions thus extend between the upper portion 60 of the pillow 20 and the lower portion 70 of the pillow. Regions 55, 57, 71 and 73 are shaped to at least partially receive and support the knees 48 of the user and lower parts 47 of his or her thighs 46, as seen in Figures 9 and 10.

[0039] Inner longitudinal section 74 of the lower portion 70 of the pillow 20 is best seen in Figure 3. It is wedge-like and in this example substantially a triangular prism in shape. Referring to Figure 1, the inner longitudinal section is integrally connected to the outer longitudinal section 72 of the lower portion 70 of the pillow 20. As seen in Figure 9, the inner longitudinal section 74 of the lower portion 70 of the pillow 20 is shaped to support and be at least partially positioned between the thigh 46 and upper part 50 of the shank 49 during lateral slumber in this example. [0040] The inner longitudinal section 74 of the lower portion 70 of the pillow 20 has a first, flat and substantially rectangular, side 76, seen in Figure 1, and a second, flat and substantially rectangular, side 78, seen in Figure 2, which connect together via inner longitudinal edge portion 56. Side 76 is angularly spaced-apart from side 78.

[0041] The inner longitudinal section 74 of the lower portion 70 of the pillow 20 aligns with, is integrally connected to and is contiguous with the inner longitudinal section 64 of the upper portion 60 of the pillow. Sides 66 and 76 seen in Figure 1 are integrally connected to, and extend in parallel with, each other. As seen in Figure 2, sides 68 and 78 are integrally connected to, and extend in parallel with, each other.

[0042] The inner longitudinal section 74 extends from outer longitudinal section 72 and tapers to inner longitudinal edge portion 56 of the pillow 20. Inner longitudinal section 74 of the lower portion 70 of the pillow thus tapers towards the user's thighs 46, as seen with reference to Figures 1 and 9. As best seen in Figure 8, the inner longitudinal section is substantially triangular in cross-section in this example, in the shape of an isosceles triangle. The inner longitudinal section 74, together with regions 55, 57, 71 and 73, may therefore function to inhibit pressure points from along the contours of the user's thighs, knees and shanks. The pillow 20 is thus shaped to promote at least partial bending of the user's knees 48 towards his or her torso 24, as seen in Figure 9

[0043] Referring to Figure 1, the lower portion of the pillow has a central longitudinal axis that aligns with axis 59. The lower portion 70 of the pillow 20 thus also aligns with the upper portion 60 of the pillow. The longitudinal axis of the upper portion of the pillow aligns in parallel with the longitudinal axis of the lower portion of the pillow in this example. [0044] The lower portion 70 of the pillow functions to both support the user's thighs 46 and knees 48, seen in Figure 9, and hold the upper portion 60 of the pillow in place via the knees. Referring to Figure 12, the lower portion 70 of the pillow is positioned between the knees 48 of the user 22 and this promotes positioning of the upper portion of the pillow at least partially underneath the chest 37 and abdomen 38. The lower portion 70 of the pillow 20 may thus be referred to as a means for cushioning the thighs and knees and holding in place the means for promoting positioning of the back and pelvis.

[0045] The pillow 20 so positioned, with its upper portion 60 ending at the top 26 of the torso 24 and its upper portion 60 held in place by thighs 46 and knees 48 gripping its lower portion 70, enables the user 22 using the pillow to readily switch from lying along mattress 61 on first side 65 of the user 22 seen in Figure 10, rolling on the user's back 40 as seen in Figure 11, to a position lying along the mattress on a second side 67 of the user other as seen in Figure 12.

[0046] According to another aspect, there is provided a method of aligning and supporting one's body during lateral slumber using pillow 20. Referring to Figure 9, the method includes positioning the tapered, inner longitudinal section 64 of the upper portion 60 of the pillow underneath the user's chest 37 and abdomen 38. The upper portion 60 of the pillow 20 promotes laterally upright positioning of the user's back, shoulders, chest and pelvis thereby. The method includes positioning the lower portion 70 of the pillow between the user's thighs 47 and knees 48. The lower portion of the pillow supports the thighs, knees and pelvis and holds the upper portion of the pillow in place.

[0047] Figures 13 to 20 show a body alignment and support pillow 20.1 according to a second aspect. Like parts have like numbers and functions as the pillow 20 shown in Figures 1 to 12 with the addition of ".1". Pillow 20.1 is substantially the same as pillow 20 shown in Figures 1 to 12 with at least the following exceptions.

[0048] The upper portion 60.1 of the pillow 20.1 extends from rectangular- shaped region 51.1 of the outer longitudinal edge portion 58.1, seen in Figure 16, and tapers in a smooth and continuous manner to inner longitudinal edge portion 56.1, as best seen with references to Figures 13, 14 and 20. As seen in Figures 13 and 14, the upper portion of the pillow includes a pair of spaced-apart sides 80 and 82 extending from rectangular- shaped region 51.1 of the outer longitudinal edge portion, seen in Figure 16, to the inner longitudinal edge portion 56.1 of the pillow 20.1. Each of the sides is convex.

[0049] The lower portion 70.1 of the pillow 20.1 extends from rectangular- shaped region 53.1 of outer longitudinal edge portion 58.1, seen in Figure 16, and tapers in a smooth and continuous manner to inner longitudinal edge portion 56.1. As seen in Figures 13 and 14, the lower portion of the pillow includes a pair of spaced-apart sides 84 and 86 extending from region 53.1 of outer longitudinal edge portion, seen in Figure 16, to the inner longitudinal edge portion. Each of sides 84 and 86 is convex at least in part.

[0050] Figures 21 to 28 show a body alignment and support pillow 20.2 according to a third aspect. Like parts have like numbers and functions as the pillow 20 shown in Figures 1 to 12 with the addition of ".2". Pillow 20.2 is substantially the same as pillow 20 shown in Figures 1 to 12 with at least the following exceptions.

[0051] Lower portion 70.2 of pillow 20.2 is substantially in the shape of a rectangular prism which extends from rectangular- shaped region 53.2 of outer longitudinal edge portion 58.2, seen in Figure 24, to inner longitudinal edge portion 56.2 of the pillow. As seen in Figures 21 and 22, recessed regions 71.2 and 73.2 also extend from outer longitudinal edge portion 58.2 to inner longitudinal edge portion 56.2 of the pillow. The lower portion 70.2 of the pillow 20.2 includes a pair of spaced-apart sides 88 and 90 that are substantially flat and parallel with each other, in this example. Referring to Figure 24, the lower portion 70.2 of the pillow has a cross-sectional thickness t_l5 extending between the knees of the user in use, which is less than the cross-sectional thickness t₂ of the outer longitudinal section 62.2 of the pillow 20.2.

[0052] The pillows as herein described may be good for everyone wanting a peaceful rest: the pillow is designed for use as a regular sleep support for adults and children. The pillow may also promote proper body support and alignment for people who are overweight and for pregnant women. For the latter, the pillow may enable the baby in the womb to be supported during a sleep, which may thereby allow both mother and baby to have a restful sleep. [0053] The pillow may further be used for persons in some pain or who are injured. The latter may include shoulder, upper or lower back, neck, chest, hip, leg and knee pain or discomfort, for example. The pillow may provide relief for morning shoulder, back, hip, knee pain and stiffness. The pillow may be particularly well-suited for therapeutic bed rest and hospital applications, for minimizing fatigue in the shoulders, chest, arms, back, hips and knees.

[0054] The pillow as herein described provides still further advantages. For example, the comforting alignment provided by the pillow promotes and encourages sleeping on one's side, and discourages sleeping on one's back and/or stomach. The pillow so configured and used may reduce snoring while keeping the person on his or her side and may enhance breathing while sleeping. The pillow may enable the person to obtain quality sleep in their preferred side sleeping position. The pillow is symmetrical and this may facilitate sleeping on either side of the pillow. Improved rest arising from use of the pillow as herein described may result in a person that is more alert throughout the day and may thus promote improved daily life and work performance. [0055] The pillow is designed for the contour of the thighs and may thus relieve or inhibit pressure points. The pillow's memory foam may further inhibit pressure points from arising. It may also minimize or inhibit friction and pressure gradients between the legs as the user sleeps or rests on their side. The knees are brought up and separated by the pillow in a natural state: the pillow in the knee and thigh area is designed to have a curvature corresponding to the natural gap between the thighs. The pillow so shaped may thus support the thighs and knees at a desired distance of separation, thereby inhibiting pressure on the pelvic area, thighs, knees and feet. The pillow thus separates the thighs and knees of the user so as to relax the user's hip muscles. [0056] The pillow as herein described may relax muscles for a better sleep. The pillow so shaped may be sufficiently narrow as to enable other persons, such as one's partner, to also fit on the same bed. The pillow as herein described is designed to move and roll with the user. The pillow so integrally connected inhibits the need for a person to individually readjust its various portions during the course of the night.

[0057] The pillow as herein described is designed to support a person's body on either of their sides. The person's shoulder, arm, chest, abdominal, pelvic, thigh and knee area may be supported, keeping them upright. The pillow may support a person's front and back, reduce pressure on sacrum, and stabilize the trunk. The pillow may tuck under the chest and stomach (abdominal area) of the user, supporting the chest, stomach and the back in their natural straight position. This straightens out the whole spine from the neck down to the pelvic area, and also straightens the hips, thighs and knees. The straighter aligned spine, the more comfortable sleep the body may have. This proper alignment of the body allows less stress on the body therefore allowing for a better relaxed sleep. The pillow as herein described promotes positioning of the shoulder, chest, stomach and pelvis in their natural states, which may straighten out the whole spine from the neck down to the pelvic area while maintaining the natural curvature of the spine. The cushion-like support fits adjacent the chest and carries down along the abdominal and hip area between the thighs to the knee of the user, thus separating the legs and supporting the upper shoulders, chest, arm, spine, back and hip. The pillow so shaped may prevent the body and torso of the user from twisting or rolling forward. The pillow as herein described may maintain the spine's natural curvature, may minimize twisting of the user's back during resting and may stabilize the hips for side sleepers.

[0058] The person's arm may hug the pillow or rest on top of the pillow keeping the arm and shoulder upward. The pillow so shaped may also provide support to the upper shoulder by allowing the arm to so rest on the pillow, thereby keeping the arm and shoulder elevated. The pillow so shaped and used may inhibit the shoulder from dangling forward and downward, which rotates, twists, the upper body. The pillow as herein described may keep the shoulders, chest, back, hips, and thighs aligned as the user sleeps, promoting total muscle relaxation and a more restful sleep.

[0059] The pillow so shaped may also support the hips, thighs and knees, keeping the whole as one unit and well supported. The pillow causes the person to draw up their knees to the fetal position due to the comfort afforded by the pillow. This proper alignment of the body may cause less stress on the body, thereby allowing for a better relaxed sleep.

[0060] The memory foam may allow the user to pull and hug the pillow in towards his or her body, thus supporting the user's shoulders, arm, chest and abdomen. The pillow is tapered to fit into the side of the body. The texture of the foam makes it huggable and allows the user to pull it in towards the body for the extra support and has added comfort for the knees as well. The memory foam helps hold it shape. The pillow is tapered to fit into the person's body when on their side to help support the body. The texture of a three- pound memory foam, for example, may make it easier for a child to bring the pillow in close to hug it for extra needed support for example.

[0061] The pillow may be pulled in and tucked under the stomach area (abdominal area) so as to support the stomach area in its natural position. The pillow so positioned may support the pelvis and extends downs in between the thighs and knees for comfort and support. The pillow may be long enough so that a person can somewhat straighten their legs and not worry about running out of pillow comfort. The pillow may be short enough so as to promote bending of the knees and a fetal position. This may promote sleeping on one's side for a more comfortable sleep. The corners of the pillow may be rounded for comfort in this case.

[0062] It will be understood by someone skilled in the art that many of the details provided above are by way of example only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention which is to be determined with reference to at least the following claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A body alignment and support pillow for a user, the pillow comprising an upper, torso- supporting portion shaped to support and be at least partially positioned underneath the chest and abdomen of the user during lateral slumber, the upper portion of the pillow promoting laterally upright positioning of the back of the user, and a lower, knee- supporting portion which is positionable between the thighs and knees of the user, the lower portion aligning with the upper portion.

2. The pillow as claimed in claim 1 wherein the lower portion of the pillow, when positioned between the thighs and knees of the user, functions to hold the upper portion of the pillow in place underneath the chest and abdomen.

3. The pillow as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the pillow has a proximal end positionable adjacent to the shoulders of the user and a distal end positionable adjacent to the knees of the user, the upper portion of the pillow extending from the proximal end of the pillow towards the distal end thereof and the lower portion of the pillow extending from the distal end of the pillow towards the proximal end thereof.

4. The pillow as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the upper portion of the pillow is shaped to extend from the top to the bottom of the user's torso and wherein the upper portion of the pillow has an inner longitudinal section that is tapered.

5. The pillow as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the upper portion of the pillow has an inner longitudinal section that is substantially an isosceles triangle in shape in cross-section, the inner longitudinal section being positionable at least partially underneath and tapering towards the abdomen.

6. The pillow as claimed in any one of claims 4 to 5 wherein the upper portion of the pillow has an outer longitudinal section integrally connected to the inner longitudinal section, the outer longitudinal section being substantially a rectangular prism.

7. The pillow as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5 wherein the upper portion of the pillow has an outer longitudinal section positioned to be spaced-apart from the abdomen when in use, the pillow being shaped to promote alignment of the knees with the outer longitudinal section of the pillow.

8. The pillow as claimed in any one of claims 6 to 7, wherein the lower portion is substantially a rectangular prism in shape, the lower portion of the pillow having a thickness extending between the knees of the user that is less than that of the outer longitudinal section of the pillow, the lower portion of the pillow separating the thighs and knees of the user so as to relax the user's hip muscles.

9. The pillow as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8, including a pair of spaced-apart knee positioning, concave recessed regions for receiving the knees therewithin, the concave regions being part of the lower portion of the pillow.

10. The pillow as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pillow has a proximal end, a distal end spaced-apart from the proximal end, the upper portion of the pillow extending from the proximal end towards the distal end, the lower portion of the pillow extending from the distal end towards the proximal end, an inner longitudinal edge portion that is substantially continuous in shape and an outer longitudinal portion, the longitudinal edge portions being spaced-apart from each other and extending from the proximal end to the distal end, the outer longitudinal edge portion including a pair of spaced-apart knee positioning concave recessed regions for receiving the knees therewithin, the concave regions being part of the lower portion of the pillow and being positioned between the distal end of the pillow and the proximal end of the pillow.

11. The pillow as claimed in claim 1 wherein the pillow has an inner longitudinal edge portion for positioning adjacent to the user and an outer longitudinal edge portion spaced-apart from the inner longitudinal edge portion, the upper portion of the pillow having a pair of spaced-apart sides extending from the outer longitudinal edge portion to the inner longitudinal edge portion, each of the sides being convex in shape and extending from the outer longitudinal edge portion to the inner longitudinal edge portion of the pillow.

12. The pillow as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the lower portion of the pillow is integrally connected to the upper portion of the pillow.

13. The pillow as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the pillow is shaped to promote at least partial bending of the knees towards the torso of the user.

14. The pillow as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 13 wherein the upper portion of the pillow has a longitudinal central axis and wherein the lower portion of the pillow has a longitudinal central axis, the longitudinal central axis of the upper portion of the pillow aligning in parallel with the longitudinal central axis of the lower portion of the pillow.

15. A body alignment and support pillow comprising: a first portion that is tapered at least in part, the first portion of the pillow being substantially rectangular in profile; a second portion integrally connected to and formed with the first portion of the pillow, the second portion of the pillow being substantially rectangular in profile; and recessed regions extending between the first portion of the pillow and the second portion of the pillow, the second portion of the pillow being at least in part thinner in cross-section than the first portion of the pillow.

16. The pillow as claimed in claim 15 wherein the first portion of the pillow comprises an outer longitudinal section that is substantially a rectangular prism and an inner longitudinal section integrally formed with the outer longitudinal section of the first portion of the pillow, the inner longitudinal section of the first portion of the pillow being substantially a triangular prism.

17. The pillow as claimed in any one of claims 15 or 16, wherein the second portion of the pillow comprises an outer longitudinal section that is substantially a rectangular prism and wherein the second portion of the pillow comprises an inner longitudinal section integrally connected to and formed with the outer longitudinal section of the second portion of the pillow, the inner longitudinal section of the second portion of the pillow being substantially a triangular prism.

18. The pillow as claimed in any one of claims 15 to 17 wherein the second portion of the pillow is tapered at least in part.

19. The pillow as claimed in claim 15 wherein the second portion of the pillow is substantially a rectangular prism.

20. The pillow as claimed in claim 15 further including an outer longitudinal edge portion that substantially comprises two generally rectangular- shaped regions which align with the first portion and the second portion, respectively, of the pillow, and an inner longitudinal edge portion that is substantially straight.

21. The pillow as claimed in claim 20 wherein the first portion and the second portion of the pillow each include a pair of spaced-apart convex sides that extend from the outer longitudinal edge portion of the pillow to the inner longitudinal edge portion of the pillow.

22. A body alignment and support pillow for a user, the pillow comprising: a means for promoting laterally upright positioning of the shoulders, neck, back and pelvis during lateral slumber; and a means for cushioning knees and holding in place the means for promoting positioning of the back.

23. A method of aligning and supporting a person's body during lateral slumber using a body alignment and support pillow, the pillow including an upper portion having a tapered section and a lower portion aligned with the upper portion thereof, the method comprising: positioning the tapered section of the upper portion of the pillow underneath the chest and abdomen, the upper portion of the pillow promoting laterally upright positioning of the body thereby; and positioning the lower portion of the pillow between the knees, the lower portion of the pillow supporting the thighs and knees and holding the upper portion of the pillow in place.