Klonizakis, M. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8864-4403, Tew, Garry ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8610-0613, Gumber, A., Crank, H., King, B., Middleton, G. and Michaels, J.A. (2018) Supervised exercise training as an adjunct therapy for venous leg ulcers: a randomized controlled feasibility trial. British Journal of Dermatology, 178 (5). pp. 1072-1082.

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Abstract

Venous leg ulcers (open sores) can be caused by a blockage or breakdown in the veins of the leg. Compression, using bandages or hosiery (stockings), can help heal ulcers, however, they do not always work. Venous ulcer patients are often encouraged to exercise, but little is known about the effects and safety of exercise training in this population. This study therefore tried out supervised exercise training in people in the U.K. who are being treated with compression for a venous leg ulcer. Participants were randomly allocated to receive usual care, or usual care plus a 12-week supervised exercise programme. The exercise programme involved three sessions per week, with each session involving a combination of walking, cycling and strength and flexibility exercises for the leg muscles. Participants were followed for up to 1 year, with data collected on ulcer healing, quality of life and healthcare use (e.g. visits to GP). Thirty-nine people were recruited, with 18 being allocated to the exercise group. All but two participants completed the study. The overall exercise session attendance rate was 79%, with 13 participants (72%) completing all sessions. There were no serious adverse events (unwanted side effects). The average ulcer healing time was shorter for the exercise group: 13 versus 35 weeks. These findings support the feasibility of supervised exercise training in people being treated with compression for a venous leg ulcer. A larger study is needed to confirm the effects on ulcer healing and if exercise is cost-effective.

Item Type:	Article
Status:	Published
DOI:	https://doi.org/10.1111/bjd.16089
School/Department:	School of Science, Technology and Health
URI:	https://ray.yorksj.ac.uk/id/eprint/7000

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