Abstract
IntroductionThis review analysed the efficiency of low-level laser therapy in treating breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) in women.Material and methodsDatabases such as Scopus, PEDro, PubMed, Cochrane, and Web of Science were searched for RCTs using low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or photo-bio modulation therapy (PBMT) on BCRL published between 2010 and August 2023. Primary outcomes were arm circumference, volume, and hand grip strength, while secondary outcomes were pain, shoulder mobility, and quality of life.ResultsEleven RCTs with a total of 379 patients were analysed, and 8 studies were included for meta-analysis. We found no significant difference between laser-treated and control groups in any of the trials in terms of arm circumference, arm volume, grip strength, and quality of life post-intervention, and a significant difference between the groups in terms of pain intensity and shoulder mobility.ConclusionsThis review revealed that low-level laser therapy (photobiostimulation) was successful in reducing arm circumference, volume, and pain, as well as enhancing grip strength, life quality, and mobility. However, the meta-analysis did not show any improvement except in pain and shoulder mobility. Further trials are required to assess the long- and short-term efficacy of LLLT in managing lymphoedema secondary to breast cancer.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
