Heart failure is a major global health issue requiring effective interventions to enhance patients' physical function and quality of life. Cardiac rehabilitation, particularly when started early during hospitalization for acute decompensated heart failure, has been shown to improve cardiovascular function, reduce hospital readmissions, and boost recovery. In-hospital exercise training enhances physical capacity, strengthens heart function, and alleviates physical limitations. On the other hand, lymphatic dysfunction in heart failure may also contribute to fluid retention, worsening the symptoms including lower extremity edema. Manual lymphatic drainage is considered a safe method to reduce edema and support fluid balance. This study aims to evaluate effects of in-hospital cardiac rehabilitation and manual lymphatic drainage on fluid overload symptoms and functional capacity in patients with acute decompensated heart failure.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
40
Specific manual lymph drainage techniques including stationary circles, rotary circles, pumping, and scooping will be applied to both lower extremities using gentle, rhythmic skin movements in accordance with the direction of the lymphatic flow.
An individualized program consists of progressive, low-intensity exercises including respiratory exercises, range of motion exercises for major joints, postural exercises, flexibility exercises, and gradual mobilization exercises such as sitting and walking will be applied.
Istanbul University- Cerrahpasa, Cardiology Institute
Istanbul, Turkey (Türkiye)
Lower extremity edema
Lower extremity edema will be evaluated by circumference measurement
Time frame: At baseline and at hospital discharge, up to 14 days after admission
Lower extremity edema
Lower extremity edema will be evaluated by pitting test
Time frame: At baseline and at hospital discharge, up to 14 days after admission
Functional capacity
Functional capacity will be measured using 6-min Walk Test.
Time frame: At baseline and at hospital discharge, up to 14 days after admission
Health-related quality of life
Health-related quality of life will be evaluted using Short-Form 12 Questionnaire. It is scored between 0-100 and higher scores indicate better quality of life.
Time frame: At baseline and at hospital discharge, up to 14 days after admission
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.