Background
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a major cause of death affecting people worldwide. Long-term immobility can increase the risk of DVT. This is a common issue amongst pregnant women, office workers, and airline pilots just to name a few. DVT is caused by a clot in the deep vein of the lower legs. If this clot becomes free, also known as an embolus, it can lead to a pulmonary embolism. Current estimates provided by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) suggest that about 60,000-100,000 Americans die from DVT each year and this rate is on the rise (1).
Although DVT can become fatal, it is mostly a preventable medical condition. Current treatments consist of elastic fabric stockings, compression, and anticoagulant medications. In certain populations anticoagulants are not desired and can lead to further complications such as hemorrhage. Currently fabricated compression sleeves have been known to cause blisters in the lower extremities. Common symptoms of DVT include swelling of the lower leg, redness of the skin, and tenderness. Factors like swelling can be a sign of poor venous return which causes DVT. Early signs can be used to activate therapeutic methods in order to cease disease progression.
Project Goal
Address DVT in sedentary populations by developing a portable external preventative treatment that improves venous return and thus helps prevent DVT.