TECAR and ESWT in Obesity-Related Lower Limb Lymphedema

Lymphedema associated with severe obesity is a chronic and progressive condition characterized by bilateral lower-limb swelling, pain, reduced mobility, and impaired quality of life. Complex decongestive therapy (CDT) is considered the standard treatment; however, its effectiveness may be limited in patients with severe obesity due to underlying fibrosis, inflammation, and adipose tissue accumulation.

Adjunctive therapies such as transfer energy capacitive and resistive (TECAR) therapy and extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) have been proposed to enhance treatment outcomes. TECAR therapy uses radiofrequency energy to improve microcirculation and promote lymphatic drainage, while ESWT may stimulate lymphangiogenesis and reduce tissue fibrosis.

This prospective randomized controlled trial aimed to compare the effectiveness of CDT alone with CDT combined with TECAR or ESWT in severely obese patients with bilateral lower-limb lymphedema. A total of 45 female participants were randomly assigned into three groups: CDT alone, CDT plus TECAR therapy, and CDT plus ESWT. All interventions were administered over a four-week period.

Outcome measures included limb circumference as the primary outcome, and quality of life (LYMQOL), pain intensity (VAS), and tissue stiffness (tonometry) as secondary outcomes. Assessments were conducted at baseline, after 4 weeks of treatment, and at 8 weeks follow-up.

The findings of this study aim to provide evidence on the effectiveness of adjunctive therapies in improving clinical outcomes in obesity-related lymphedema and support clinical decision-making in this population.

Inclusion criteria

• Female patients aged 18-75 years with bilateral lower limb lymphedema secondary to severe obesity (BMI ≥40 kg/m²)
• Lymphedema duration of at least 3 months
• Clinical diagnosis confirmed by an experienced lymphedema specialist with bilateral limb swelling (pitting or non-pitting edema extending above the ankle)
• Ability to attend treatment sessions five times weekly for 4 weeks and follow-up assessments

Exclusion criteria

• Secondary lymphedema due to malignancy, radiation, surgery, or infection
• Primary lymphedema
• Acute deep vein thrombosis or history of recurrent thrombosis
• Active infection or cellulitis
• Peripheral arterial disease with ankle-brachial index below 0.8
• Uncontrolled cardiac failure or renal insufficiency
• Pregnancy or lactation
• Contraindications to ESWT or TECAR therapy including pacemaker or implanted electronic devices
• Patients receiving concurrent lymphedema treatment or those who had received intensive treatment within the preceding 3 months