Resistance exercise for people with lower-limb lymphedema
Official title: The Effect of Resistance Exercise in Patients With Lower Limb Lymphedema - With and With-out Compression - a Randomized Controlled Trial (the LymphEx Study)
Run by Herlev and Gentofte Hospital · NCT07558317 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether short periods of supervised resistance exercise, with and without compression garments, change swelling or symptoms in people with lower-limb lymphedema.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 36 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Herlev and Gentofte Hospital Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Herlev) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | May 5, 2026 |
| Main results expected | March 2027 |
| Study ends | March 2027 |
| Registry record updated | September 18, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07558317 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates have a verified diagnosis of lower-limb lymphedema, have completed compression bandaging, wear daytime compression garments most days (about 5–6 days/week), and have calf circumference between 35 and 75 cm.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with severe lower-leg neuropathy, active skin wounds or cellulitis, recent DVT or acute injury within 2 months, or ongoing adjuvant cancer treatment are unlikely to benefit or be eligible for participation.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
Participants wear a calf circumference sensor under a compression garment and an activity tracker at the thigh while taking part in three monitoring periods: two 2-week supervised resistance exercise periods (2–3 sessions per week, one with compression and one without) and one control period. The study measures immediate limb responses at 2 hours and 24 hours after exercise and compares short-term effects over each 2-week period. Assessments are done before and after each 2-week period and participants keep a digital or paper diary of lymphedema symptoms and any issues with sensors or the app. The protocol focuses on objective sensor data combined with clinical measurements to characterize how resistance exercise and compression interact in the short term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the findings could support using short, supervised resistance programs (with appropriate compression) to reduce swelling or symptoms and offer a practical management option for people with lower-limb lymphedema.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research—especially in upper-limb lymphedema after breast cancer—shows progressive resistance training is generally safe and can help symptoms, but short-term sensor-based trials in lower-limb lymphedema are limited.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * verified diagnosis of lymphedema of the lower limb * completed compression bandaging * adherence to compression garment in daytime (minumum 5-6 days per week) * calf circumference \> 35 and \<75 cm Exclusion Criteria: * severe neuropathy of the lower leg * severe skin problems or wounds at the lower leg * cellulitis, DVT or acute injuries of the lower limb \< 2 months prior to inclusion * ongoing adjuvant treatment for cancer
Where it's running
-
Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, Department of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy
Herlev, Denmark Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Merete C Wittenkamp, PhD student
- Email: merete.celano.wittenkamp@regionh.dk
- Phone: 93911784
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.