Study of Osteopathic Pedal Pump Treatment to Reduce Leg Swelling in Older Adults with Chronic Lymphedema

What this Trial Is About

Chronic lymphedema in the lower limbs is a common issue among older adults, often leading to complications such as cellulitis, poor wound healing, and venous ulcers. Current standard treatment involves compressive therapies, but these can be uncomfortable and only moderately effective for older patients. This trial investigates whether the osteopathic pedal pump, a manual therapy using rhythmic pumping motions to move fluid, can reduce leg swelling in older adults with chronic lymphedema. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups. One group will receive a 5-minute session of the osteopathic pedal pump technique along with myofascial release for the thoracic inlet, aiming to help move lymphatic fluid. The control group will receive a light touch treatment designed to mimic the pedal pump without actually affecting lymphatic flow. Both treatments involve the participant lying on a table while the operator applies the respective techniques. During the single treatment session lasting about 30 to 45 minutes, researchers will measure leg volume before and after the intervention using water displacement to assess changes. Participants will be monitored for safety and treatment effects during this time. The study will help determine if the osteopathic pedal pump is a viable alternative manual therapy for managing leg lymphedema in older adults.

Pedal Pump and Leg Lymphedema