Clinical Research Directory

Early Exercise-Based Rehabilitation in Patients Hospitalized for Acute Pulmonary Embolism

Up to half of patients with pulmonary embolism (PE) suffer from impaired quality of life, reduced physical capacity, and symptoms like shortness of breath even three months after diagnosis, despite standard treatment with anticoagulation (blood thinners). The randomized RehabPE trial investigates whether an early, structured rehabilitation program with physical training and patient education can prevent such long-term effects. The study includes hospitalized patients with acute symptomatic PE who are at increased risk of impaired quality of life three months after diagnosis. After informed consent, patients are randomly assigned to one of two groups: one receives an early 6-8-week, center-based rehabilitation program; the other receives standard follow-up care without rehabilitation. The intervention group completes 16-18 outpatient sessions of endurance and strength training, along with two education sessions covering the condition, treatment, and symptom management. Over 180 days, changes in quality of life, physical exercise capacity, breathlessness, and psychological symptoms, and the time to return to work / usual daily activities will be monitored and compared between groups.

Evaluating the Feasibility of Prehabilitation Delivery Models for Patients Preparing for Ovarian Cancer Surgery

The goal of this clinical trial is to learn whether high-dose multimodal prehabilitation, delivered either in person or remotely with coaching and web application support, is feasible and acceptable for women preparing for ovarian cancer surgery. It will also examine which delivery model patients prefer and the factors influencing patient preferences. The main questions ADAPT-OC aims to answer are: 1. Can participants achieve the prescribed aerobic exercise target of at least 10 MET-hours per week before surgery? 2. Do patients prefer in-person prehabilitation, remote prehabilitation, or education-only care, and what factors influence that preference? The researchers will compare in-person prehabilitation, remote prehabilitation, and education-only care to see which delivery approach is most feasible, acceptable, and practical for patients with suspected ovarian cancer. Participants will: * Choose their preferred study group, or be randomly assigned if they have no preference * Complete physical assessments, questionnaires, and interviews at baseline, 1-3 days before surgery, and 4 weeks after surgery * If assigned to a prehabilitation group, complete aerobic exercise, protein supplementation, and daily breathing exercises before surgery * Attend weekly coaching sessions with a trained prehabilitation coach * Use the KingstonPrehab web application to track exercise, nutrition, breathing practice, and progress toward activity goals

Effects of Wiifit vs Conventional Vestibular Rehabilitation on Dizziness and Balance in Patients With Unilateral Peripheral Vestibular Dysfunction

Unilateral Peripheral Vestibular Dysfunction (UPVD) causes dizziness, imbalance, vertigo, and reduced quality of life. Conventional Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (cVRT) is effective, while WiiFit-based virtual reality training may further enhance motivation and neuroplasticity. This study aims to compare WiiFit-based training with conventional rehabilitation in improving balance and reducing dizziness in UPVD patients. A randomized controlled trial will include participants aged 18-65 meeting specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Participants will be randomly divided into two groups: Group A receiving conventional therapy (40 minutes, 3 sessions/week) and Group B receiving WiiFit-based exercises for 4 weeks. Outcomes will be assessed using DHI, Mini-BESTest, and VADL before and after intervention.

The Effect of Training Frequency on Explosive Strength in Adolescent Tennis Players During a Six-Week Functional Training Program

Adolescence is a period characterized by rapid growth and development, characterized by intense structural, functional, and neuromuscular changes in the musculoskeletal system. The rapid height growth and proportional changes that occur during this period can negatively impact athletic performance by disrupting muscle strength and flexibility. Deficiencies in lower extremity muscle strength, in particular, can lead to decreased performance and increased injury risk in sports requiring high agility, balance, and explosive power, such as tennis. Functional training programs are holistic exercise approaches that aim to improve neuromuscular control, balance, coordination, and muscle strength by simultaneously training multiple muscle groups. This type of training is particularly important in adolescent athletes because it supports the development of strength, endurance, and explosive power. Training frequency, in turn, plays a decisive role in muscle adaptation and performance enhancement by influencing the balance between loading and recovery. Literature contains limited studies directly examining the effects of functional training frequency on explosive power performance in young athletes. Most existing research has focused on adult or professional athletes, and experimental studies comparing the effects of different training frequencies in adolescent tennis players are insufficient. In this context, the aim of our study was to examine the effects of a six-week functional training program implemented at different training frequencies on lower extremity explosive strength parameters in adolescent tennis athletes.

Splinting vs Exercise in De Quervain's Tenosynovitis

De Quervain's disease is a painful tenosynovitis of the abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis muscle tendons located in the first dorsal compartment. The primary treatment for De Quervain's disease is conservative; surgical intervention is rarely required. Currently, there is no standardized treatment protocol supported by strong, up-to-date evidence. The aim of this study is to compare the effectiveness of a static hand-wrist resting splint and exercise therapy in the conservative treatment of De Quervain's tenosynovitis. Patients will be evaluated in terms of pain levels, functional/symptom status, hand-finger strength, pressure pain threshold (PPT), tendon cross-sectional area measured by ultrasound, and the presence of effusion findings (semiquantitative; 0-3), and patient satisfaction.

Feasibility of Integrating Street Racket Into Ambulatory Pulmonary Rehabilitation

This study looks at whether Street Racket is a feasable activity that can be added to pulmonary rehabilitation for people with chronic lung disease. Participants complete short questionnaires at the start and end of the program to rate the feasibility and rate their breathlessness during each session. Attendance is recorded to understand how well the activity is used and whether there are any barriers.

Activity Coaching During Pelvic Radiation Therapy

Research has shown that for women who are undergoing pelvic radiation therapy, fatigue is a common side effect. Fatigue that occurs during radiation therapy can make it harder to perform daily living activities. While there are studies that recommend exercise as a treatment for fatigue in cancer patients and survivors, there are currently no studies that focus on the role of exercise for women undergoing pelvic radiation therapy. The purpose of this study is to see if incorporating an activity coaching program is helpful in improving treatment-related fatigue for women undergoing pelvic radiation therapy for endometrial cancer.

Mat Pilates on Body Awareness and Physical Activity Levels in Sedentary Emerging Adulthood Women

This study investigating the effects of mat pilates on body awareness and physical activity levels in sedentary women transitioning to adulthood, 27 control groups and 27 mat pilates exercise groups will be included. The groups will be compared at the end of an 8-week exercise program. Participants' socio-demographic characteristics, body awareness (using the Body Awareness Questionnaire), and physical activity level (using the Tegner Physical Activity Questionnaire and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire short-form scales) will be assessed.

Improving Cognitive Function Through High-intensity Interval Training in Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy

The purpose of this research is to determine whether a 16-week high intensity interval training (HIIT) exercise program will improve brain health among women undergoing chemotherapy and also improve cardiovascular (heart) function. The names of the study interventions involved in this study are/is: * High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)

Partnered Dance Aerobic Exercise as a Neuroprotective, Motor and Cognitive Intervention in Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a difficult to treat condition that impairs mobility and thinking. It is not fully treated by drugs and surgery. Two priority issues for most people with PD are "OFF-time" and Cognitive impairment. Even under best medical management, 74% of people with PD experience "OFF-time," which is when medications are just not working right. OFF-time severely impacts both quality of life and thinking. Cognitive problems are found even in newly diagnosed people with PD and are very difficult to treat. However, the investigators' research has shown that partnered dance-aerobic exercise (PDAE) reduces OFF-time on the official test for OFF-time of the Movement Disorders Society, the Movement Disorders Society Unified Parkinson Disease Rating Scale-IV, (MDS-UPDRS-IV). PDAE improves other symptoms too. Benefits of the therapy have lasted for at least one-month after PDAE sessions stopped. PDAE provides aerobic exercise during an improvisational, cognitively-engaging physical activity. Cognitive engagement is a critical component of PDAE. Previous research showed PDAE improved spatial cognition, the ability to navigate, to mentally picture shapes and paths in the mind and to know the relationships between objects, people and places. Also, the investigators showed with imaging of the brain using a magnet in a scanner that twice weekly PDAE training increases activity in brain regions used in thinking and decision making. The investigators know that exercise benefits mobility and cognitive problems. The investigators even think exercise might protect brain cells in people with PD. But no one has really been able to show with biomarkers that exercise is protective of brain cells in humans.

Investigation of the Effects of High-Intensity Interval Exercise and Moderate-Intensity Continuous Exercise on Limb Volume, Functional Capacity, and Quality of Life in Patients With Lipedema

This randomized controlled clinical study aims to investigate and compare the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT), when combined with intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) therapy, on limb volume, functional capacity, pain, fatigue, anxiety, depression, sleep quality, and quality of life in women with lipedema. Lipedema is a chronic, progressive adipose tissue disorder primarily affecting women, characterized by abnormal and symmetrical fat accumulation in the lower extremities that does not improve with weight loss or limb elevation. It is often misdiagnosed as obesity or lymphedema, leading to delayed treatment. Lipedema causes pain, swelling, bruising, mobility limitation, and reduced quality of life. Conservative treatment options include compression therapy, manual lymphatic drainage, and exercise. IPC is a non-invasive treatment used to reduce limb volume and pain while improving function and quality of life. Exercise is also a cornerstone of conservative management, but the optimal exercise intensity for lipedema remains unclear. In this study, 69 female patients aged 18-65 years diagnosed with lipedema according to Halk and Damstra criteria will be randomly assigned into three groups: IPC + Home-based walking program IPC + High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) IPC + Moderate-Intensity Continuous Training (MICT) All participants will receive 15 IPC sessions (3 times per week for 5 weeks). The exercise programs (HIIT or MICT) will continue for 10 weeks, supervised by a physiotherapist. The home-based group will be encouraged to walk ≥10,000 steps daily using a pedometer application. Primary outcome: Change in limb volume measured by circumferential measurements and the truncated cone formula. Secondary outcomes: Pain (VAS), functional capacity (6-Minute Walk Test), muscle strength (dynamometry), pressure pain threshold (algometry), physical activity (IPAQ-SF), lower extremity function (LEFS), quality of life (SF-12), sleep quality (PSQI), fatigue (FSS), and anxiety/depression (HADS). Measurements will be taken at baseline (T0), after 15 IPC sessions (T1), and after 30 total sessions or 10 weeks (T2). The investigators hypothesize that both HIIT and MICT combined with IPC will provide superior improvements in physical and psychological outcomes compared to IPC with a home-based walking program alone.

Effects of Education and Exercise on Pain, Psychosocial Factors, and Upper Limb Function in Non-specific Neck Pain.

Pain neuroscience education is currently one of the techniques being explored in physiotherapy for pain management. The benefits of this technique are gradually becoming evident in various published studies. So far, it has been widely studied for its short-term effects, but the education provided has typically been generic, not focused on exercise. However, it is suggested that this technique should be combined with exercise to achieve the expected outcomes. Therefore, pain education should be tailored to the specific physical activities the subject will perform to maximise its effectiveness. The primary aim of this study is to analyse the outcome of combining exercise with tailored pain neuroscience education on aspects such as pain, kinesiophobia, catastrophizing, exercise conceptualization, and upper limb function in subjects with neck pain. The secondary aim is to evaluate the relationship between kinesiophobia and catastrophizing and their impact on the results of various upper limb performance tests. Finally, the effects of therapeutic exercise alone will be compared with those of therapeutic exercise combined with pain neuroscience education, focusing on pain, kinesiophobia, catastrophizing, and exercise conceptualization. A double-blind, randomised clinical trial has been designed, in which three intervention protocols will be applied to 81 subjects with non-specific neck pain: education with exercise, exercise alone, and placebo alone. Subjects with non-specific neck pain who meet the inclusion criteria will be enrolled. Demographic characteristics of the subjects, as well as pain, kinesiophobia, catastrophizing, and upper limb performance test scores, will be assessed. This study aims to explore the potential relevance of a pain neuroscience education session prior to therapeutic exercise, as well as to influence the clinical recommendations made by clinicians during treatment.

Comparative Effects Of Exergaming And Otago Exercise On Anticipatory Postural Control And Sensory Integration In Older Adults

This study explores whether non-immersive, interactive Exergaming using Xbox Kinect can go beyond conventional exercise by actively training the brain and body to react faster, balance smarter, and move more confidently. Through dynamic games like Reflex Ridge and 20,000 Leaks, we aim to stimulate internal perturbations and real-time Sensory Integration, something Otago doesn't directly target. In this randomized controlled trial, 36 older adults (aged 55+) will be assigned to either the Exergaming or Otago group. Both groups will receive 6 weeks of supervised balance training (3x/week, 30 mins/session). Primary outcomes include Sensory Integration, measured using modified Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction and Balance (mCTSIB) and Anticipatory postural control assessed through Limits of Stability (LOS) test. Timed up and Go (TUG) will capture functional mobility, which will serve as the secondary outcome in this study. Both mCTSIB and LOS will be administered using the Postural Stability System of Biodex, a reliable and valid computerized platform designed to objectively quantify postural control under varying sensory conditions. With evidence-based outcome tools and rigorous analysis, this project doesn't just aim to compare two programs, it's about challenging tradition, modernizing rehab, and making balance training smarter, safer, and more engaging for the elders we serve. This research could be a leap forward in community-based fall prevention and a step toward a more responsive, personalized future in Neurological Rehabilitation.

Exercise Prescription in Cardiac Rehabilitation Mediated by Autonomic Function

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is an essential secondary prevention component in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases and one of the most cost- effective clinical interventions. Exercise training (ET) in CR programs (CRP) has unequivocal benefits in the reduction of cardiovascular adverse events, by decreasing the overactivated sympathetic tone. This ET added value can be measured by variables that express autonomic control using indirect (standard) or direct (experimental) methodologies. Direct autonomic assessment (ex. Microneurography) is accurate but unusable in daily practice, whereas standard indirect autonomic assessment using clinical parameters is imprecise, resulting in underprescription to safeguard patient safety, with less benefit to the patients. In this project, we aim to apply Machine Learning models to a set of indirect and direct variables, to make a multivariate correlation analysis and so define a normalization factor for exercise prescription.

Smartphone-based Remote Symptom Monitoring to Improve Postoperative Rehabilitation Exercise Adherence After Video-assisted Thoracic Surgery (VATS) for Lung Cancer

Brief Summary: This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate whether active remote symptom monitoring and management via a smartphone app utilizing electronic patient-reported outcomes (ePRO) can improve adherence to prescribed outpatient pulmonary rehabilitation exercises among postsurgical lung cancer patients. Eligible patients will use the app for perioperative care and be randomized to an intervention group receiving ePRO-based symptom monitoring with clinician feedback or a control group receiving ePRO without feedback. The primary outcome is rehabilitation exercise adherence rate over 1 month after discharge. If proven effective, the app-enabled remote rehabilitation model can be scaled up to enhance recovery for more postoperative patients. Due to slower-than-expected recruitment, an interim analysis was introduced through a protocol amendment. The amendment was approved by the Ethics Committee before conducting the analysis, and the plan was incorporated into the updated study record. The interim review evaluated feasibility and informed the addition of mean weekly exercise duration as a co-primary endpoint with adjusted statistical thresholds.

Schroth and Scapular Muscle Activation in Hyperkyphosis

This randomized controlled trial aims to investigate the effects of Schroth exercises on scapular muscle activation in children with thoracic hyperkyphosis. A total of 56 participants will be randomly assigned to either the Schroth exercise group or the control group receiving postural education. The intervention group will complete an 8-week supervised Schroth program focusing on three-dimensional correction, rotational breathing, and postural awareness. Primary outcome is scapular muscle activation measured by surface EMG. Secondary outcomes include muscle strength, scapular endurance, kyphotic appearance, posture, and pain. The results will guide clinical management and preventive strategies for children with postural thoracic hyperkyphosis.

Virtual Reality-Based Rehabilitation in Chronic Low Back Pain: Effects on Muscle Architecture, Balance, and Satisfaction (VR-LBPREHAB)

Chronic low back pain is a common musculoskeletal disorder that causes pain, disability, and reduced quality of life. It is often related to changes in trunk muscle function, thoracolumbar fascia morphology, and impaired balance control. Although conventional motor control exercises are effective, patient motivation and adherence can be limited. Virtual reality (VR)-based rehabilitation offers interactive and engaging environments that may improve compliance and provide additional therapeutic benefits. This study is a randomized controlled trial designed to investigate the effects of VR-based rehabilitation compared with conventional motor control exercises in individuals with chronic low back pain. A total of 40-50 participants aged 18-65 will be recruited and randomly assigned to one of two groups: (1) VR-based rehabilitation or (2) conventional exercise therapy. Both programs will last 8 weeks, delivered three times per week for 40 minutes per session. The primary outcomes include muscle architecture assessed by ultrasound imaging, thoracolumbar fascia morphology, and postural balance control measured by force platform tests. Secondary outcomes include pain intensity, disability, fear-avoidance beliefs, quality of life, and patient satisfaction. The findings of this study are expected to provide new insights into the role of VR in rehabilitation and contribute to evidence-based strategies for managing chronic low back pain. By exploring the effects on both physical and patient-reported outcomes, the study may highlight innovative approaches to improve adherence, reduce pain, and enhance daily function in affected individuals.

The Effects of Pilates-based Exercises on the Posterior Leg Muscles

This randomized controlled study aims to investigate the effects of a pilates-based exercise program on hamstring flexibility, plantar pressure sensation, and dynamic balance in university students aged 18 to 24 years. Participants diagnosed with hamstring tightness through the Sit and Reach test will be randomly assigned to an exercise group and a control group. The intervention group will undergo an 8-week pilates-based home and supervised exercise program. Outcomes will be evaluated before and after the intervention using Sit and Reach, monofilament sensory testing, and the Y Balance Test. The study seeks to identify whether a non-invasive physical activity like pilates can improve neuromuscular and sensory parameters in young adults.

Videoconferencing Adapted Physical Activity in Anorexia Nervosa: a Pilot Study

The primary objectives of the APAREXIM'Pilot study are to evaluate the short- and medium-term effects of a live supervised Adapted Physical Activity (APA) program via videoconferencing on: * Feasibility and acceptability of APA via videoconferencing by the patients. * The primary symptoms of Anorexia Nervosa (AN). The secondary objectives are to evaluate the impact of this program on : * Mental health * Physical condition * Sleep-wake cycle (sleep disturbance and physical hyperactivity) The patients will first undergo an inclusion visit (T0) at the University Hospital of Caen, then a first evaluation session (T1) at the COMETE laboratory in Caen (physical tests, questionnaires, sleep diary, actimetry). They will then be randomly divided into 2 groups: 15 patients who will follow an APA program supervised by videoconference for 8 weeks (AM-APA) at their home, in addition to the usual outpatient treatment, and 15 patients who will benefit only from the classic outpatient treatment (AM-T). All patients will undergo two additional evaluation sessions at one week post-program (T2) and at 3 months post-program (T3).

Paraffin Wax and Exercise Prospective

This study is being done to test if paraffin wax can be used to improve the range of motion and function for scars across joints when used in combination with scar rehabilitation therapy sessions. For those randomized to receive it, the paraffin wax will be used alongside the participants' exercise therapy treatments. Currently, treatments that are used in addition to rehabilitation therapy for increasing range of motion across joints in the burn population are limited. By getting more information about how paraffin wax may or may not work, patients in the future that have scars may be able to be helped.

ENERGY2MOB STUDY: OBESITY MANAGEMENT IN BERGUEDÀ

Background: Obesity is a prevalent multifactorial disease worldwide and has become a significant public health concern. The latest data from the 2022 Catalonia Health Survey show that 56.2% of men and 43.7% of women are overweight or obese, and 39% of children aged 6 to 12 years have excess weight. Excess adiposity poses a health risk as it is associated with various chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and dyslipidaemia, all of which affect quality of life and increase mortality risk. Hypothesis: The Energy2MOB obesity management programme in Berguedà is a group-based intervention incorporating nutrition education and physical activity. It aims to reduce excess body weight and the risk of chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes mellitus, dyslipidaemia, and hypertension, through a multicomponent approach that enhances dietary habits, physical activity, and emotional eating regulation. Objectives * Assess the effectiveness of the Energy2MOB programme in reducing body weight by 5-10% among adults with obesity in the Berguedà health region. * Measure lifestyle modifications, including dietary habits, physical activity, and emotional eating. Methodology: A randomised clinical trial with two groups (control and intervention) over one year, including individuals aged 18-65 years in the Berguedà health region with overweight grade II (BMI 27-30 kg/m²) or obesity (BMI 30-40 kg/m²). Exclusion criteria include significant language barriers, previous bariatric surgery, moderate to severe cognitive impairment, and severe psychiatric disorders preventing participation in sessions. Participants must attend at least 80% of the programme. Measurements * Sociodemographic factors: sex, age, education level, marital status, employment status. * Lifestyle factors: alcohol and tobacco use, dietary habits, physical activity, emotional eating, health-related quality of life. * Anthropometric parameters: body weight, height, BMI, waist circumference. * Blood pressure, medication use, biochemical parameters (fasting glucose, glycated haemoglobin, lipid profile, liver and kidney function markers, C-reactive protein). Statistical Analysis: Accepting an alpha risk of 0.05 and a statistical power above 0.8 in a bilateral contrast, 68 subjects per group are required to detect a difference of at least 2.5 kg. A common standard deviation of 4.77 is assumed, with an estimated 15% dropout rate. Sample size calculations were performed using GRANMO version 8.0 (https://www.datarus.eu/ca/aplications/granmo/; consulted in November 2024). Expected Outcomes, Applicability, and Relevance: This study aims to generate scientific evidence on the effectiveness of multicomponent group-based interventions focused on improving nutrition, physical activity, and psychological well-being in obesity and chronic disease management. It seeks to create an environment that facilitates behavioural changes, leading to weight reduction and improved quality of life. The findings will also contribute to the development of a practical guide for addressing excess weight in primary healthcare settings. Keywords (maximum 6): Adult obesity, primary health care, group interventions, dietary interventions, multicomponent interventions, Mediterranean diet.

Personalized Physical Back Training Program to Improve Physical Functioning in People With Non-specific Low Back Pain

Personalized medicine and individualized therapeutic approaches are prominent in current research. But are these approaches also effective for treating non-specific low back pain (NSLBP)? NSLBP is one of the most common musculoskeletal issues, which can impair physical well-being, reduce the quality of life, and limit physical functioning. Additionally, it contributes to substantial direct and indirect healthcare costs, such as frequent doctor visits and work absences. Despite NSLBP being a significant burden for both individuals and society, effective alleviation methods remain unclear. The investigators' research project therefore aims to investigate whether personalized therapy, specifically a personalized physical back training program, can effectively address NSLBP. Within the context of NSLBP, the investigators' specific aim is to improve physical functioning as this outcome is considered relevant from all perspectives, including those of patients, clinical professionals, researchers, and guidelines.

PAH Exercise Study

Ten patients with PAH who are stable and eligible to initiate sotatercept therapy will participate in a 26 week study that consists of a 24-week intervention period where patients will receive complimentary sotatercept as prescribed, plus a tailored, progressive home exercise program with wrist-worn fitness tracker and oxygen saturation monitoring.

Effect of Otago Exercise Program in Comparison With Dual Task Training on Balance and Postural Control in Elderly Population

Balance and postural control are major concerns in reduction of risk of fall among older adults. Otago Exercise Program and dual task training program are commonly used approaches to improve balance, functional mobility and postural control. However, limited studies have compared the efficacy of Otago Exercise Program and dual task training program in improving balance and functional mobility. One-third to one-half of the population over age 60 reports injuries due to fall because of the high incidence of balance and mobility disorders in older adults, interventions are necessary that optimize the performance of balance- and mobility-related activities among older adults. The aim of the current study to find out better intervention which will benefit the clinicians and physiotherapists in clinical decision making of managing the geriatric population, suffering fear of fall, going to effect on their daily livings, with evidence.