A device to help manage low blood pressure when standing in older adults

Automated Abdominal Binder for Orthostatic Hypotension

['FUNDING_R01'] · VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-10753526

This study is testing a special belt that helps older adults with neurogenic orthostatic hypotension, a condition that makes them feel dizzy or faint when they stand up, by giving gentle support to improve their blood flow and keep their blood pressure steady.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorVANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NASHVILLE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10753526 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing an automated abdominal binder designed to assist elderly patients suffering from neurogenic orthostatic hypotension (nOH), a condition that causes significant drops in blood pressure when standing. The device uses an accelerometer to detect when a patient is upright and applies controlled compression to improve blood flow and stabilize blood pressure. Unlike traditional drug therapies, this device aims to address the underlying causes of nOH without causing adverse effects when the patient is seated or lying down. Preliminary results indicate that the binder can enhance blood pressure and tolerance to standing in affected patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults diagnosed with neurogenic orthostatic hypotension who experience significant blood pressure drops upon standing.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have neurogenic orthostatic hypotension or those with other unrelated medical conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the quality of life for elderly patients by reducing the risk of falls and enhancing their ability to stand safely.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results with similar mechanical approaches to managing blood pressure in patients with orthostatic hypotension, indicating potential for success in this novel device.

Where this research is happening

NASHVILLE, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.