Uplift - adjustable abdominal compression
A concealable, comfortable, and user-controlled abdominal compression device to dynamically treat symptoms of POTS and better support the day-to-day needs of patients.
* This is a device in development and not yet approved by the FDA.
Vision
Discover how we’re reimagining compression therapy based on real patient needs.
Origins of Uplift
Our journey began in 2021 when a cardiologist reached out to Duke Biomedical Engineering with an urgent challenge: a patient with severe dysautonomia had exhausted all available treatment options and faced palliative care. This single case illuminated a broader healthcare crisis. Despite affecting millions worldwide, conditions like Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) remain vastly underdiagnosed and have only recently begun receiving the attention they deserve. With treatments often falling short and many aspects of these conditions still poorly understood, we saw an opportunity—and an obligation—to help. Today, our multidisciplinary team is pioneering innovative compression solutions to transform the lives of dysautonomia patients.
Technology
How it Works
Uplift combines simplicity with precision control. The low-profile garment fastens easily around the waist with Velcro straps. A rotational knob engages our proprietary cinching mechanism, allowing you to adjust compression exactly as needed. The built-in pressure monitoring system ensures therapeutic effectiveness while preventing over-compression. For patients requiring additional support, an optional pressure pad can be inserted to provide targeted relief.
Design Evolution
The first prototype featured an inflatable air bladder integrated into a belt design. While initial patient testing showed promise for symptom relief, comprehensive user feedback highlighted opportunities to improve comfort and discreteness.
We explored targeted compression using an adjustable piston mechanism. Clinical testing with healthy volunteers revealed that while localized pressure showed effects, distributed compression proved more effective for managing symptoms.
Combining insights from previous versions, we developed a streamlined design using an innovative cinching mechanism for broad compression. This iteration maintains the option for targeted pressure while prioritizing concealability and user comfort. Clinical trials with dysautonomia patients are underway to further optimize the design.
Key Differentiators
Therapeutic Precision
Delivers consistent 30-40 mmHg compression required for symptom relief.
User-Controlled Adjustment
Customizable pressure settings to accommodate different body types and symptom severity, ensuring optimal therapeutic benefit for each patient.
Smart Engagement
Ability to engage/disengage compression on demand, preventing discomfort during prolonged wear - especially beneficial for patients with GI sensitivities.
Clinical Evidence
Backed by Science and Driven by Outcomes
Survey Study
Our nationwide survey of 358 individuals with POTS and nOH revealed a significant disconnect in compression therapy. Despite showing superior efficacy, abdominal compression is less commonly used than leg compression. Nearly all participants (99%) reported using compression garments, yet patient ratings highlighted major shortcomings in comfort, wearability, and effectiveness. Notably, fewer than 10% perceived compression as an effective symptom management strategy. These findings underscore the urgent need for innovative compression solutions that combine therapeutic efficacy with patient-centered design, supported by improved education initiatives.
Phase I Trial
Our Phase 1 study with 47 healthy participants evaluated the physiological effects of two novel abdominal compression device during postural changes. Results showed that the device significantly reduced heart rate spikes upon standing and maintained stable blood pressure, suggesting improved venous return. This proof-of-concept study provides foundational evidence for the device's mechanism of action in managing orthostatic intolerance and paves the way for clinical trials in patients with dysautonomia.
Phase II Trial: Coming Spring 2025
In collaboration with the Duke Syncope a Clinic, we're preparing to launch a clinical trial testing our compression device in patients with POTS. This IRB-pending study will evaluate the device's effectiveness in managing orthostatic symptoms and improving quality of life. Stay tuned for updates as we work to validate this innovative solution for the dysautonomia community.
Community Impact
Partnering to Drive Positive Change
2024 Dysautonomia International 12th Annual Conference
Team member Kishen presented findings from the survey study, engaging with hundreds of patients, caregivers, healthcare providers, and industry representatives.
The POTScast
Kishen and Sameer joined Standing Up to POTS' podcast to explore compression therapy challenges and share our vision for next-generation solutions with the POTS community.
Dysautonomia Awareness Month Lighting Event
As part of a volunteer team, Kishen helped coordinate the turquoise illumination of Chicago's Sears Tower in October 2024, amplifying visibility for dysautonomia.
2024 Duke University Biomedical Engineering Poster Session
In April 2024, team member Sara presented Uplift as well as early study findings at Duke's BME poster session.
People of Uplift
Explore our talented team of experts and advisors racing to build Uplift.
Scientific Advisors
Eric Richardson, PhD
Professor at Duke Biomedical Engineering; Founding Director of Duke Design Health; Former R&D Engineer at Medtronic
Joe Knight, PhD, MBA
CEO at Simpson Interventions, Inc.; Executive in Residence at Duke University Biomedical Engineering; Former President & CEO at InnAVasc Medical, Inc.
Marat Fudim, MD, MHS
Cardiologist at Duke; Health Technology Advisory Group Member at AHA
Camille Frazier-Mills, MD, MHS
Clinical Vice Chief in Cardiology at Duke
Contact Us
With many exiting things going on, we are unfortunately currently unable to respond to individual requests about our latest clinical study and the state of our product. However, please fill out the form and our team will keep you updated!
