Project Description:

Each year, an estimated 30 million people are prescribed compression stockings for lower extremity venous and lymphatic disorders such as varicose veins, lymphedema, and chronic venous insufficiency. Yet only about 8% of these patients are adherent, meaning roughly 27 million people are not receiving the therapeutic benefit they need. A major barrier is that conventional compression stockings are difficult to don and doff, poorly fitted, and often uncomfortable for extended periods of use, especially for older adults with limited hand strength. This project proposes a modular compression system consisting of segmented socks that attach via neodymium magnets.

Each of the three segments is available in small, medium, and large, allowing patients to mix and match sizes along the foot and upper/lower calves for a near-tailored fit at approximately the cost of standard compression stockings. To support precise fitting, we introduce a 3D leg scanner that pharmacists and nurses can use to capture accurate limb geometry and recommend segment size combinations for each region of the leg. An accompanying, simplified mobile app guides users through easy donning and doffing with step-by-step tutorials, while tracking sock lifecycle to enable personalized, data-driven therapy over time. Mechanical testing demonstrates that traditional one-piece compression stockings require an average donning force of 105 N, exceeding the typical maximum grip force of 65 N in adults over 65.

In contrast, our individual segments require only ~33 N of force, approximately a 70% reduction from the standard, bringing the task within the physical capabilities of older users. Additionally, our segmented system reduces donning and doffing time by 21%. Together, these innovations directly target the usability and fit barriers that drive non-adherence, intending to increase compliance and transform compression therapy into an accessible, sustainable part of daily life.