Exercise and Compression for Lymphedema
(DREAM Trial)

Recruiting in Palo Alto (17 mi)

Age: 18+

Sex: Female

Travel: May Be Covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Academic

Waitlist Available

Sponsor: AHS Cancer Control Alberta

No Placebo Group

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?

The purpose of this study is to investigate the benefit of combining resistance exercise with use of a compression sleeve on arm lymphedema. In the study, participants will be taught a resistance exercise that follows the decongestive exercise sequence. This program is called "decongestive progressive resistance exercise" (DPRE). To evaluate the benefit from use of a compression garment on the arm. Some participants will wear their usual compression sleeve during exercise and others will use an adjustable compression wrap. The investigators hope to see if this type of combined program is helpful for women with lymphedema. The investigators also want to see if there are benefits from the addition of use of an adjustable compression wrap during exercise over use of a regularly prescribed compression sleeve.

Research Team

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for women with a history of breast cancer who have undergone surgery and have mild to moderate unilateral arm lymphedema for at least 3 months. They must use a compression sleeve daily and agree not to use other lymphedema treatments during the study. Excluded are those currently receiving cancer treatment, with limb infections, deep vein thrombosis, active metastatic disease, or conditions that could affect participation.

Inclusion Criteria

Is able to read and understand English

I agree to stop any special lymphedema treatments for 12 weeks.

I use a new compression sleeve daily for at least 12 hours.

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Exclusion Criteria

I am currently receiving or scheduled for chemotherapy or radiotherapy.

I have an infection in my limb, a blood clot, or cancer that has spread.

You have a medical condition that could affect your ability to take part in the exercise program, such as a problem with your brain or thinking, being pregnant, using a pacemaker, or having another health issue that is not under control.

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Treatment Details

Interventions

Adjustable Compression (AC) garment, worn during exercise (Device)
Compression sleeve, worn during exercise (Device)
Decongestive Progressive Resistance Exercise program (Behavioral Intervention)
Home exercise program (Procedure)

Trial OverviewThe study tests if resistance exercise combined with wearing a compression sleeve can benefit women with arm lymphedema after breast cancer surgery. Participants will follow a 'decongestive progressive resistance exercise' program while using either their usual compression sleeve or an adjustable wrap during workouts.

Participant Groups

3Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Active Control

Group I: DPRE + compression sleeve during exerciseExperimental Treatment3 Interventions

Group B. Decongestive Progressive Resistance Exercise + compression sleeve use during exercise + daytime use of a compression sleeve (12 hours per day)

Group II: DPRE + AC garment during exerciseExperimental Treatment3 Interventions

Group C. Decongestive Progressive Resistance Exercise + Adjustable Compression (AC) garment use during exercise + daytime use of a compression sleeve (12 hours per day).

Group III: Standard of CareActive Control2 Interventions

Group A (Control). Home decongestive exercise regimen + daytime use of a compression sleeve (12 hours per day)