Systematic review of exercise therapy in the management of post-thrombotic syndrome

Abstract

Objectives: Exercise improves haemodynamic parameters in patients with chronic venous disease. There is a paucity of evidence on its effect in post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS). The aim of this systematic review is to assess the impact of exercise in PTS. Methods: Adhering to PRISMA guidelines and following PROSPERO registration (CRD42021220924), MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, EMBASE database, and trial registries were searched on 19th May 2022. Results: One article met the inclusion criteria and a narrative synthesis was carried out. The included randomised controlled trial reported a between-group mean difference of 4.6 points (p =.027) in the VEINES-QOL score and −2.0 points (p =.14) in the Villalta score, in favour of exercise therapy. The statistical significance threshold was not reached. Conclusion: Data on exercise in PTS remains sparse but exercise appears to be a safe intervention. In the context of this literature, a potential future trial and outcome reporting measures are suggested.