NCT07786467 · Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Optimizing Lymphatic Pumping for Influenza Vaccine Responses in Vulnerable Populations
What this study is about
The investigators are studying if a specific osteopathic manipulative treatment protocol can improve the immune response (antibody titers) to seasonal influenza vaccination in vulnerable populations, including patients with advanced age and/or adiposity.
View original scientific description
The investigators are studying if a specific osteopathic manipulative treatment protocol can improve the immune response (antibody titers) to seasonal influenza vaccination in vulnerable populations, including patients with advanced age and/or adiposity.
Interventions
OTHER
Osteopathic Manipulation
In this intervention, participants will receive 5 minutes of thoracic inlet myofascial release 2 days prior to influenza vaccination, the day of influenza vaccination and 4 days post-influenza vaccination.
OTHER
Osteopathic manipulation
In this intervention, participants will receive osteopathic manipulation 2 days prior to influenza vaccination, the day of influenza vaccination, and 4 days post-influenza vaccination. The OMT will include thoracic inlet myofascial release, pectoral traction, rib raising, doming of the diaphragm, pelvic diaphragm release, popliteal fossa release, plantar myofascial release, passive Miller thoracic pump, liver pump, and spleen pump.
OTHER
Sham
In this intervention, participants will receive no osteopathic treatments
Primary outcome measures
Hemagglutinin inhibition assay
Time frame: baseline and 4 weeks post vaccination
Hemagglutinin inhibition assay assess the antibody titers in patient's blood.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Willing to receive OMT
- Willing to receive influenza vaccine
- Older than 18 years of age
Exclusion criteria
- Younger than 18 years of age
- Pregnancy or lactation
- Unwilling to receive the influenza vaccine
- Unwilling to receive OMT
- Open wounds
- Bone fractures
- Moderate to severe osteoporosis
- Severe COPD
- Current/active infections
- Mononucleosis infection within past 6 months
- Liver cirrhosis
- Cancer or metastatic disease
- History of DVT, PE, or blood clotting disorder
- Individuals taking blood thinning medications, except aspirin
- Having a pacemaker or other thoracic medical devices
Where
- Erie, Pennsylvania
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Sep 23, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations