The study examines the effects of leg thermal therapy (LTT) on patients with chronic heart failure (CHF), conducted by a team aiming to identify practical alternatives to systemic thermal therapy (STT). STT is known to provide cardiovascular benefits but is limited by the need for specialized facilities and trained staff. In this study, twenty CHF patients underwent LTT at 45°C for 20 minutes, leading to a significant increase in core temperature and notable improvements in several cardiovascular markers. Specifically, LTT resulted in an increase in cardiac output and a decrease in pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, indicating enhanced heart function. Additionally, LTT improved flow-mediated vasodilatation and reduced oxidative stress, as evidenced by lower levels of DNA damage markers.
The findings suggest that LTT offers similar benefits to STT, enhancing vascular function and reducing oxidative stress in CHF patients without adverse effects. The significant improvement in flow-mediated vasodilation points to potential enhancements in vascular health, which could be crucial for managing CHF. While the study emphasizes the acute benefits of LTT, further research is needed to explore its long-term effects. The practicality of LTT positions it as a promising therapeutic option, potentially improving daily care for patients with CHF and expanding treatment accessibility.
