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BSN garment tested for post space orthostatic intolerance

22 Aug '16

2 min read

Integrated medical therapy solutions provider BSN Medical is in an ongoing partnership with NASA to develop a specialised gradient compression garment for protection against post space flight orthostatic intolerance.

Post-space flight orthostatic intolerance is the inability to stand upright without experiencing a rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, light headedness or feeling faint upon return to earth's gravity.

According to BSN, astronauts who live in space, even for short periods of time, experience physiological adaptations that have noticeable consequences once they return to earth's gravity.

Since 2009, NASA scientists have been examining the usefulness of different configurations of BSN's Jobst lower body compression garments as a countermeasure to post-space flight orthostatic intolerance.

This work has led to the development of a custom-fitted, three-piece, abdomen-high, elastic gradient compression garment designed by BSN engineers.

Currently, the Jobst three-piece garments are being tested on astronauts returning from four-to-six month stays on the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the joint NASA-Russian field test study.

Upon landing in Kazakhstan, crew members are taken into a medical tent where they remove their space suits, put on the Jobst gradient compression garments, and participate in the study protocols.

“To date, only a few astronauts have worn the Jobst gradient compression garments during the study, but preliminary observations are promising and conclusive evidence will not be available until the study is completed,” BSN said.

Scientists plan to test a total of 15 crew members before deciding whether to transition the Jobst three-piece compression garments from research to normal usage. (AR)

Fibre2Fashion News Desk – India