Simple exercises may ease fluid overload in heart failure

NCT ID NCT05834400

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This pilot study tested whether a set of lymphatic exercises could reduce fluid overload symptoms like shortness of breath, leg swelling, and fatigue in people with heart failure. Eighty participants were randomly assigned to either do the exercises twice daily for four weeks or just monitor their symptoms. Researchers compared changes in symptoms, fluid levels, sleep, and quality of life between the two groups.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: lymphatic exercise training
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a simple, drug-free way to reduce fluid buildup and improve quality of life for people with heart failure.
What could go wrong: This is a small pilot study with only 80 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The exercises require daily commitment, and benefits may be modest.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Edema, Cardiac heart failure

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

HEART FAILURE

Contacts and locations

Locations

Cooper University Health Care (Cooper)

Camden, New Jersey, 08103, United States

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