Contribution of Self-Lymphatic Drainage to Subclinical Lymphedema After Treatment for Breast Cancer

Abstract

Lymphedema is a significant complication of breast cancer treatment. Early treatment of subclinical lymphedema may prevent its related complications. We aimed to evaluate the contribution of applying self-lymphatic drainage (SLD) in subclinical LE patients. One hundred twenty-eight women diagnosed with subclinical lymphedema were enrolled in the study. Patients were allocated into control group 1 (n=64) and SLD group 2 (n=64). Excess volume; the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain, stiffness, heaviness, and tightness; the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QuickDASH) for disability; handgrip strength; Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) for depression were recorded before and after therapy. Statistically significant improvements in the excess volume were observed in both groups; however, there was a substantial change in the SLD group. Also, only the VAS and BDI scores were assessed significantly lower in the SLD group than in the control group. In conclusion, SLD is useful in reducing lymphedema volume, sensations of pain, stiffness, heaviness, tightness, and depression in patients with subclinical LE.