Clinical Research Directory

Aerobic Training in Lower Extremity Lymphedema

This randomized controlled study aims to evaluate the effects of aerobic exercise training on gait, postural control, lower extremity muscle strength, and functional status in individuals with bilateral lower extremity lymphedema. A total of 24 participants aged between 20 and 60 years with a diagnosis of bilateral lower extremity lymphedema will be randomly assigned to either an aerobic exercise group or a control group. The aerobic exercise group will receive aerobic exercise training in addition to Complex Decongestive Therapy (CDT), while the control group will receive CDT alone. Lower extremity edema will be assessed using circumferential measurements taken from the ankle to the inguinal region. Gait function will be evaluated through angular and spatiotemporal analysis using Kinovea software, including parameters such as step length, walking speed, and double support time. Postural control will be assessed using the Balance Error Scoring System (BESS) and the Timed Up and Go Test. Lower extremity muscle strength and endurance will be evaluated using Manual Muscle Testing and the 30-Second Sit-to-Stand Test. Functional status of the lower extremities will be assessed using the Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS).

Assessment of the Efficacy of the Dynamic Decongestive System in the Maintenance Phase of Lower Limb Lymphedema

The trial aims to determine whether the dynamic compression device, used in combination with elastic compression garments, is non-inferior to currently available compression devices (CACD) during the maintenance phase of lower-limb lymphoedema treatment. This is a two-arm, parallel-group trial. Both groups will include patients being discharged after the inpatient intensive treatment phase for lower-limb lymphoedema. Eligible participants will be enrolled on the afternoon of their final inpatient treatment day, prior to discharge. Participants will be allocated to one of the following groups: DDS group: elastic compression garment worn at least during the day and as often as possible during the night, according to patient preference and expert advice, plus DDS use for a minimum of 2 hours at the end of the day, used alone without an elastic garment. Control group: elastic compression garment worn at least during the day and as often as possible during the night, according to patient preference and expert advice, plus currently available compression devices, including multicomponent bandages, pneumatic compression devices, and compression wraps, according to patient preference and the center's recommendations. Manual lymphatic drainage will be permitted in both groups. Patients will undergo three assessment visits: Visit 1 / Baseline-Inclusion (V1): afternoon of the final inpatient treatment day, prior to discharge from intensive treatment; Visit 2 (V2): end of week 6, ± 7 days; Visit 3 (V3): end of week 12, ± 7 days.