Multi-function support garment

Abstract

A multi-function support garment comprising a central portion 10 that has an inner and outer surface. An elastic swath 12 connects the sides of the central portion 10 to create a continuous encircling band. Adjustment members 14 are connected to the outer surface of the elastic swath. Free ends 24 of the adjustment members 14 are detachably attached to the central portion. If desired, the adjustment members can be attached in a criss-cross fashion to localize or concentrate the application of inwardly directed supporting pressure.

What is claimed is:  
     
         1 . A multifunction support garment comprising: 
 a central portion including an inner surface and an outer surface which is adapted to engage other members;    an elastic swath which connects the sides of the central portion to create a continuous encircling band; and    adjustment members attached to the elastic swath.    
     
     
         2 . The multifunction support garment according to  claim 1 , wherein the adjustment members are attached in a row proximate the middle of the elastic swath.  
     
     
         3 . The multifunction support garment according to  claim 1 , wherein the adjustment members have free ends that exert pressure upon the central portion when attached thereto.  
     
     
         4 . The multifunction support garment according to  claim 1 , wherein the adjustment members include means for accommodating accouterments.  
     
     
         5 . A multifunction support garment according to  claim 2 , wherein the three adjustment bands have the capability of extending longitudinally or laterally in a cross-cross fashion to allow additional degrees of freedom.  
     
     
         6 . A multifunction support garment according to  claim 2 , wherein each adjustment member has an attachment means at its end which attaches to the outer surface of the central portion.  
     
     
         7 . The multifunction support garment according to  claim 1 , wherein the device can be used to support the hips, waist, ribs or chest.  
     
     
         8 . The multifunction support garment according to  claim 1 , wherein the central portion can be placed on the back, front, or side of the wearer to target compression to any area of the torso.  
     
     
         9 . The multifunction support garment according to  claim 1 , wherein the elastic swath does not crease or fold when placed in situ and is readily compliant with the anatomical shape of the wearer.  
     
     
         10 . A method of using the multi-function support garment according to  claim 1 , comprising the steps of: 
 positioning the central portion of the support garment so that its inner surface is located proximate to an anatomical area to which support is to be directed;    attaching a free end of each adjustment member to an outer surface of the central portion under tension so that the adjustment members lie approximately in a parallel orientation with respect to each other or at least two of them are oriented in a criss-cross fashion.