Thermal pack holding device and method for relief of breast pain or discomfort

A thermal relief system, comprising:

• a thermal pack holding device, comprising:
• a substantially flat base panel having an upper surface, a lower surface, and an outer perimeter, the base panel comprising a soft, flexible fabric material and having a length in a range of about 14 to 42 inches and a width in a range of about 7 to 15 inches, and wherein the ratio of the length to the width is in a range of 2:1 to 4:1,
• a first pocket panel attached to or integral to a left portion of the upper surface of the base panel forming a first pocket having a first interior space, and having an opening into the first interior, and
• a second pocket panel attached to or integral to a right portion of the upper surface of the base panel forming a second pocket having a second interior space, and having an opening into the second interior space,
• and wherein the thermal pack holding device is absent restraining means able to cause, effect, or enhance compression or constriction of the breasts;
• and
• a first thermal pack disposed within the first interior space of the first pocket, and a second thermal pack disposed within the second interior space of the second pocket.

A method of relieving breast pain or discomfort in a subject in need of such relief, comprising:

• providing a thermal pack holding device, comprising:
• a substantially flat base panel having an upper surface, a lower surface, and an outer perimeter, the base panel comprising a soft, flexible fabric material and having a length in a range of about 14 to 32 inches and a width in a range of about 7 to 15 inches, and wherein the ratio of the length to the width is in a range of 2:1 to 4:1,
• a first pocket panel attached to or integral to a left portion of the upper surface of the base panel forming a first pocket having a first interior space, and having an opening into the first interior space and wherein the first interior space of the first pocket is sized to contain a first thermal pack, and
• a second pocket panel attached to or integral to a right portion of the upper surface of the base panel forming a second pocket having a second interior space, and having an opening into the second interior space and wherein the second interior space of the second pocket is sized to contain a second thermal pack,
• and wherein the thermal pack holding device is absent restraining means able to cause, effect, or enhance compression or constriction of the breasts;
• disposing a first thermal pack in the interior space of the first pocket and a second thermal pack in the interior space of the second pocket forming a loaded thermal pack holding device;
• and
• resting the loaded thermal pack holding device upon the breasts of the subject, wherein the subject is in a reclining or semi-reclining position, wherein compression or constriction of the breasts due to restraining means is absent, thereby relieving breast pain or discomfort without causing breast compression or constriction which could lead to cessation of lactation.