A new foam for support of the physically handicapped

This article is intended to inform professionals in the fields of rehabilitation medicine and biomedical engineering of some of the more significant properities of Temper Foam, a new foam for support of the physically handicapped. The unique properties of this foam are explained in terms of its microstructure, illustrated by scanning electron micrographs and by mechanical tests using an Instron Materials Testing machine. Fourteen non-ambulatory patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy are using this foam in custom-fitted contoured support systems. Normally, these children show increasing signs of discomfort and skin breakdown due to their inability to alternate areas of weight bearing and high local pressure such as the ischial tuberosities. In our support systems lined with Temper Foam these problems have completely dissappeared. We find that Temper Foam types T-36, T-38 and -41 are ideally suited for patients weighing up to 35 kg. T-41 may be used for patients weighing up to 70 kg.