An Executive Summary of the APTA Academy for Oncologic Physical Therapy Clinical Practice Guideline: Interventions for Breast Cancer–Related Lymphedema

Abstract

Background: Breast cancer–related lymphedema (BCRL) is a sequela of cancer treatment that can impact quality of life. Interventions to address this impairment should be tailored for each lymphedema stage throughout the trajectory of care, from diagnosis of cancer throughout survivorship. Methods: Studies were included in this clinical practice guideline if the purpose was to investigate interventions intended to reduce lymphedema risk, interstitial fluid, or upper extremity volume in individuals during and after breast cancer treatment. This executive summary presents the recommendations on interventions developed from the evidence review, according to stage of BCRL to allow for clinical implementation based on patient presentation.