Study of High vs. Low Compression Knee-High Stockings to Manage Leg Swelling in Adults with Heart Failure

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the use of knee-high compression stockings in patients with congestive heart failure CHF who experience leg swelling due to fluid overload. The study aims to compare tight compression stockings 20-30 mmHg with soft compression stockings 10-15 mmHg to see if they help prevent swelling, skin changes, and venous disease without worsening heart failure symptoms. This is important because some patients with CHF have limited diuretic effectiveness and risk complications from chronic leg swelling. Participants will be randomly assigned to wear either high compression or low compression stockings for at least eight hours a day, five days a week, over a three-month period. Initial and final in-person visits will include blood tests, vein ultrasounds, medication reviews, physical exams, and health questionnaires. Between these visits, participants will have three virtual check-ins at one week, one month, and two months to monitor symptoms, medications, and weight. During the study, researchers will assess heart failure symptoms, kidney function, venous reflux, leg swelling severity, mobility, and quality of life. They will use questionnaires such as the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire and physical performance tests. Safety will be monitored by tracking adverse events and hospitalizations. The total participation time is three months, with evaluations at baseline, during follow-up, and at the end of the study.

The ROle of Compression StocKings in Heart Failure Patients