Exercise program for children with hemophilia

Development Of a haemophiLia PHysiotherapy INtervention for Optimum Musculoskeletal Health in Children (DOLPHIN-II) - a Randomised Controlled Trial

NA · East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust · NCT05895032

This study tests whether a special exercise program can help boys aged 6-12 with hemophilia build muscle strength and improve their joint health and activity levels compared to regular care.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment132 (estimated)
Ages6 Years to 12 Years
SexMale
SponsorEast Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust (other gov)
Locations1 site (Canterbury, Kent)
Trial IDNCT05895032 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This trial investigates the effects of a specially designed exercise program aimed at increasing muscle strength in boys aged 6-12 with hemophilia. The study involves a single-blinded, two-arm randomized controlled trial comparing the exercise intervention to usual care over a 12-week period. The goal is to determine whether this exercise can improve joint health, reduce pain, and enhance participation in physical activities. The program was developed with input from children with hemophilia, their parents, and physiotherapists to ensure its relevance and acceptability.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are boys aged 6-12 years diagnosed with severe or moderate hemophilia A or B.

Not a fit: Patients with von Willebrand disease, recent lower limb injuries, or those unable to follow instructions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve the physical health and quality of life for children with hemophilia.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited robust evidence on this specific approach, preliminary findings suggest that exercise programs can be safe and acceptable for children with hemophilia.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

• Children aged 6-12 years, with severe or moderate haemophilia A or B

Exclusion Criteria:

* von Willebrand disease
* past history of fracture or trauma to the lower limb
* orthopaedic surgery
* acquired brain injury or any other disturbance of the central nervous system; joint or muscle bleed in the lower limb in the past 6 weeks
* presence of lower limb pain or unable to fully comply with verbal instructions.

Where this trial is running

Canterbury, Kent

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Hemophilia, Child, Only, Musculoskeletal Diseases or Conditions, Physical Therapy, Exercise, Muscle strength

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.