Progressive Gait Training After First-time Deep Venous Thrombosis: Clinical Effectiveness and Involved Mecanisms (The DVT-Cph RCT)

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating whether adding progressive gait training to standard care improves quality of life for patients experiencing their first episode of lower extremity deep venous thrombosis (DVT). This randomized controlled trial also aims to understand how gait training may affect disease progression, late complications like post-thrombotic syndrome, and the severity of venous thromboembolism. The study is supported by Hvidovre University Hospital and is linked with related feasibility and cohort studies to enhance research insights. Participants will be assigned to one of two groups: an intervention group receiving progressive gait training plus standard care, or a control group receiving standard care alone. The progressive gait training involves a 14-day introductory period with moderate intensity walking exercises guided by a physiotherapist, followed by telephone guidance for muscle-strengthening activities over the next weeks. Standard care includes ultrasound diagnostics, anticoagulant medication, compression stockings, and outpatient clinic visits during the first 90 days after diagnosis. During the study, participants will complete quality of life questionnaires at baseline, 3, 12, and 24 months after discharge, including the VEINES-QOL/Sym and EQ-5D-5L instruments. Researchers will monitor pain weekly during the first 3 months, assess edema, post-thrombotic syndrome development, and count DVT-related hospital contacts. The study begins in November 2025 and lasts up to 24 months post-discharge, with ongoing safety monitoring and long-term follow-up to evaluate outcomes.

Progressive Gait Training After First-time Deep Venous Thrombosis: Clinical Effectiveness and Involved Mecanisms (The DVT-Cph RCT)