Lymphoedema treatment device wins National James Dyson Award
Maynooth University graduate Zoë O’Sulllivan has been named the winner of the National James Dyson Award for Lymphia a handheld device that sets out to make manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) accessible, removing the need for frequent physiotherapy sessions or costly compression devices. O’Sullivan will receive €6,000 in prize money and advance to the international phase of the competition.
The competition challenges entrants to design devices that solve a problem. This problem may be a frustration that we all face in daily life, or a global issue. The important thing is that the solution is effective and demonstrates considered design thinking.
Entries are judged first at the national level by a panel of external judges and a Dyson engineer. Each operating market awards a national winner and two national runners-up. From these winners, a panel of Dyson engineers then select an international shortlist of the top 20 entries.
The inspiration behind the winning entry came from a friend of O’Sullivan’s who was suffering from lymphoedema in their legs, for which MLD was the only viable therapy. She witnessed first-hand how the condition can affect body image and self-esteem, and how compression garments, despite their effectiveness, can be uncomfortable to wear. After undergoing breast reduction surgery, O’Sullivan also struggled with haematomas and fluid retention in the breast and surrounding areas, due to the complicated healing process and issues with scar formation. MLD became an essential part of her recovery.
Lymphatic drainage therapy is essential for people living with conditions such as lipedema and lymphoedema. Lymphoedema occurs when lymph nodes are removed or damaged, leading to persistent swelling, often in the limbs. Up to 30% of breast cancer survivors develop this debilitating condition, but it can also affect those treated for prostate, ovarian, and melanoma cancers3.Lipedema, by contrast, is characterised by a painful swelling caused by an abnormal accumulation of fat cells. While its exact cause remains unknown, patients with lipedema – much like those with lymphoedema – must manage ongoing symptoms, often for life.
Awareness of these chronic conditions remains low. While exact figures are difficult to determine, it is estimated that up to 250 million people worldwide may be living with lymphoedema alone. Encouragingly, advances in treatment and care have reduced the number of cancer survivors who develop lymphoedema. However, patients undergoing axillary lymph node dissection still face a lifetime risk of 15% to 25%. Lipedema also lacks precise global statistics, but it is believed to affect up to 12% of women worldwide, regardless of race, ethnicity, or education. This highlights the widespread impact of this under-recognised condition.
Current solutions often rely on compression devices or professional massages with a physiotherapist. Both can be costly, time-consuming, and typically require attending appointments outside the home. Without regular treatment, these conditions can negatively impact body image and mental health, leaving people feeling trapped by limited options.
Lymphia is a home-use device designed to empower patients to perform Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) independently and with confidence. The device uses 10mm steel balls, carefully sized to be perceptible on skin while small enough to precisely stimulate individual lymphatic vessels, enhancing the comfort and effectiveness of the massage.
Lymphia also features an integrated pressure feedback system that guides users to apply the optimal level of force. A clear traffic light colour indicator shows whether the pressure is too low, too high, or just right. To further support users, the accompanying mobile application provides step-by-step instruction in professional MLD techniques, helping to ensure correct use and address the widespread misinformation surrounding MLD practice.
Compact, portable, and thoughtfully designed, the device feels more like an enjoyable accessory than a medical appliance. Lymphia’s attractive appearance encourages daily use, avoiding the stigma or discomfort often associated with other MLD devices.
O’Sullivan said: “I’m thrilled to have won the National James Dyson Award with Lymphia. It’s amazing to see my work recognised and celebrated in this way. Knowing that Lymphia has the potential to improve so many lives and help reduce the stigma around Lymphoedema means so much to me.”
The international top 20 shortlist will be announced on the 15 of October and the international winners on 5 November.
Last year’s overall winner was University of Limerick graduate Olivia Humphreys for Athena, a portable, thermoelectric, patient-managed cooling device for managing hair loss during chemotherapy.
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