Knithera Lymph is a breakthrough textile-based wearable device that merges soft robotics with high-performance textile engineering for the management of lymphedema, mimicking the manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) massage done by occupational therapists. Designed to replicate the precision and gentleness of MLD, it provides a safe, comfortable, and user-centric alternative to current bulky and poorly adapted systems, positioning this product as a powerful innovation.
At its core, Knithera Lymph integrates pneumatic actuators within an adjustable, breathable, and comfortable knitted sleeve that conforms uniquely to each patient’s limb anatomy. Personalised 3D-printed inflatable polymeric bladders apply targeted pressure within a therapist-validated range, mimicking the Leduc method’s call-up and reabsorption manoeuvres. An integrated mobile application ensures streamlined access to MLD sessions, providing both users and therapists with real-time monitoring, data recording, and treatment personalization.
By uniting advanced textile design, clinical methodologies, soft robotics, and digital health, Knithera Lymph delivers reliable, repeatable, and highly personalised lymphatic drainage, offering users a more accessible solution for long-term lymphedema management.
Current development status
Working prototypes
Use of Proceeds
Production scale-up
Medical Device Certification
Intellectual property status
Not Protected
The sleeve’s textile structure was engineered to ensure the performance of the actuation systems whilst guaranteeing user’s comfort and safety. To achieve this, the product was designed as a double-layered knitted system: Layer 1 - Direct contact with the skin: Interlock knit fabric - thermal and moisture management properties, soft and comfortable, minimizing potential skin irritation; Layer 2 - System encapsulation: Double-face knit fabric - Encapsulates the actuation system, directing pressure accurately while maintaining full breathability and ensuring controlled force. Adjustability is built through integrated fastening elements (straps and loops), and modular geometry, allowing the sleeve to conform seamlessly to individual limb shapes and edema progression patterns. This is essential and a key differentiator from other market solutions, closely simulating the necessary adjustments that the certified therapist must provide to achieve a successful MLD. Furthermore, this product incorporates sustainable fibers in both knitted fabrics and functional finishes in the first layer, guaranteeing antibacterial and fast-drying properties, ensuring that the user’s skin remains fresh, comfortable, and protected.
The system integrates multiple 3D-printed inflatable polymeric bladders, modeled from human arm scans and lymphedema patients’ limb measurements, and strategically positioned across the proximal, central, and distal regions of the upper arm, forearm and hand. These actuators perform both downward and upward drainage movements, mirroring the therapist’s sequential approach.
To guarantee clinical fidelity, forces applied by certified therapists during MLD were measured using instrumented pressure sensors. Measurements confirm that therapist-defined “very gentle pressures” do not exceed 1.5 N, providing a validated safety threshold for the device’s pneumatic control system.
Prototype testing demonstrates the sleeve’s ability to produce clear, repetitive downward and upward actuation cycles across the upper arm, forearm and hand regions, successfully matching the gentle pressure patterns characteristic of therapist-performed MLD. The soft robotic system shows promising fidelity in recreating the nuanced force distribution required for effective lymphatic drainage.
Beyond technical performance, Knithera Lymph has the potential to transform lymphedema care by ensuring consistent access to high-quality therapy, enabling user autonomy and reducing dependence on clinical availability. This is further reinforced with the integration of a mobile application, allowing users and therapists to monitor and tailor the sessions for specific needs, whilst recording the data for treatment tracking.
With over 25 years of textile research and development, innovation is in our DNA. It activates change and allows us to become frontrunners in the production of natural-based knitted fabrics, upholding sustainable values and cutting-edge materials.
New production techniques and innovative performance materials remain central to our research efforts, combined with pioneering creative applications that push the boundaries of what’s possible. This approach is strengthened by data-driven work platforms and supported by scientific investments and partnerships, ensuring both creativity and efficiency across all our endeavours.
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