Effectiveness of compression therapy along with exercise to reduce upper limb lymphedema in breast cancer patients

Abstract

Objectives: Lymphedema is a communal issue in breast cancer patients. This study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of compression therapy and exercise in the treatment of lymphedema in breast cancer patients. Materials and Methods: Thirty patients were randomly assessed in a randomized controlled study trial at the Department of Oncology, Mayo Hospital Lahore. Patients were divided into two groups. Fifteen patients were selected in Group 1 (compression therapy), and 15 patients were selected in Group 2 (compression therapy along with exercise). Both groups received eight sessions for 4 weeks followed by one session in each week. Limb circumferential measurements were used to assess the limb volume reduction and pain numeric rating scale for pain and shoulder pain and disability index scale for the pain and disability. Data were collected at baseline and after 4 weeks. Results: Statistically significant improvement was found in both groups (P > 0.05). However, no group difference was insignificant. However, clinically, the compression bandage along with exercise and skin care is more effective in reducing lymphedema in breast cancer patients. Conclusion: This study concluded that both the treatment techniques, compression bandage and compression bandage along with exercise are effective in reducing lymphedema and pain; but, clinically, compression bandage along with exercise is more effective.