Lymphatic System Stimulation in Heart Failure

Summary

The goal of this pilot clinical trial is to obtain preliminary data on the effects of lymphatic exercise training in patients with heart failure. The main question\[s\] it aims to answer are: 1. Does performing lymphatic exercise decrease fluid overload symptoms (shortness of breath, lower legs swelling, fatigue), thoracic fluid content, and body fluid level? 2. Does performing lymphatic exercise improve sleep and quality of life (QOL)? Participants with heart failure will be randomly assigned into two groups: Group 1 will receive training on lymphatic exercises, and will perform these training for 4 weeks. This group will also be trained to monitor daily their weight, heart rate and blood pressure, and fluid overload symptoms. Group 2 will be trained to daily monitor their weight, heart rate and blood pressure, and fluid overload symptoms. This group will not perform the lymphatic exercises. Researchers will compare the two groups at the baseline and after delivering the 4 week-interventions to see 1. if lymphatic exercise helped decrease symptoms associated with fluid overload like shortness of breath, lower leg swelling, and fatigue. 2. if lymphatic exercises decreased thoracic fluid content and total body fluid level . 3. if the lymphatic exercise helped improve sleep and quality of life (QOL).

Eligibility

Inclusion Criteria:

* Clinical diagnosis of HF with New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class II, III, or IV
* Willing and able to complete the home-based TOLF program upon discharge from the hospital to home

Exclusion Criteria:

* Severe liver or kidney insufficiency or malignant tumors
* A terminal condition with a life expectancy of \< 6 months
* Received or waiting for heart transplantation
* Pregnancy
* Cognitive impairment (e.g., dementia)
* Severe psychiatric condition (psychotic disorder, severe depression, suicidal intent)
* Inability to converse in English

Conditions2

Locations1 site

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