A WEARABLE DEVICE TO MANAGE LYMPHEDEMA
Project
Background
Funding Sources:
-
Virginia Tech Link License Launch Fund ($50,000)
-
Regional Accelerator and Mentoring Program (RAMP) Fund ($20,000)
-
Carilion Clinic Innovation Proof-of-Concept Fund ($20,000)
LymphaVibe is a wearable, at-home therapy device designed to support people living with lymphedema. It delivers targeted, customizable vibration patterns mimicking manual lymphatic drainage techniques. Through a companion app, patients can personalize treatment regimens to fit their needs and integrate therapy seamlessly into daily life.
Our Solution
A Wearable Device Combining
Vibration + Compression
Our device has 16 embedded vibration motors in a compression sleeve, providing a customizable lymphatic drainage massage that can be used by patients at home.
Goals: To promote lymphatic drainage and patient independence by creating a better at-home treatment option
Milestones
SUMMER 2021
FALL 2021-2024
FALL 2021-2024
SUMMER 2023
FALL 2023
SUMMER 2024
SUMMER 2024
FALL 2024-PRESENT
Summer 2021
The project first started as a summer internship but quickly evolved into something bigger. We were connected with Tara Newberry, an occupational therapist, who first proposed the idea of combining vibration and compression to alleviate lymphedema symptoms.
After initial prototyping during the summer, we received more funding from Carilion Innovations to continue our work.
Tara Newberry's initial sketch. The project started with a focus on head and neck lymphedema.
Initial render of vibration motor placement
Meet the Team
.png)
Leah Thomas
VT BME '22
Laura Wenger
VT BME '23
Seth Jarvis
VT BME '23
Dr. Chris Arena, PhD
Co-PI; VT BEAM Faculty
Dr. Andre Muelenaer, MD
Co-PI; VT BEAM Faculty
Tara Newberry, COTA/L, CLT, OCC
Occupational Therapist