CompletedNot Applicable

TECAR and ESWT in Obesity-Related Lower Limb Lymphedema

Egypt45 participantsStarted 2025-10-25

Plain-language summary

This randomized controlled trial evaluates the effectiveness of adding TECAR therapy or extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) to complex decongestive therapy (CDT) in the treatment of bilateral lower-limb lymphedema in severely obese patients. Forty-five female participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups: CDT alone, CDT combined with TECAR, or CDT combined with ESWT. The interventions were applied over a four-week period. The primary outcome was reduction in limb circumference, while secondary outcomes included quality of life, pain intensity, and tissue stiffness. Assessments were conducted at baseline, after 4 weeks of treatment, and at 8 weeks follow-up.

Who can participate

Age range18 Years – 75 Years

SexFEMALE

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AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.

Inclusion Criteria: * Female patients aged 18-75 years with bilateral lower limb lymphedema secondary to severe obesity (BMI ≥40 kg/m²) * Lymphedema duration of at least 3 months * Clinical diagnosis confirmed by an experienced lymphedema specialist with bilateral limb swelling (pitting or non-pitting edema extending above the ankle) * Ability to attend treatment sessions five times weekly for 4 weeks and follow-up assessments Exclusion Criteria: * Secondary lymphedema due to malignancy, radiation, surgery, or infection * Primary lymphedema * Acute deep vein thrombosis or history of recurrent thrombosis * Active infection or cellulitis * Peripheral arterial disease with ankle-brachial index below 0.8 * Uncontrolled cardiac failure or renal insufficiency * Pregnancy or lactation * Contraindications to ESWT or TECAR therapy including pacemaker or implanted electronic devices * Patients receiving concurrent lymphedema treatment or those who had received intensive treatment within the preceding 3 months

What they're measuring

Change in lower limb circumference

Timeframe: Limb circumference measured at standardized anatomical landmarks including ankle, calf, knee, mid-thigh, and upper thigh using a non-stretch tape measure.

Trial details

NCT IDNCT07520942

SponsorApplied Science Private University

Sponsor typeOTHER

Study typeINTERVENTIONAL

Primary completion2026-02-06

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