THE EFFECT OF A 10-WEEK YOGA BASED INTERVENTION ON IMPROVING HAND GRIP STRENGTH OF AFFECTED ARM IN WOMEN AT RISK FOR BREAST CANCER RELATED LYMPHEDEMA: A RANDOMIZED CONTROL TRIAL

Abstract

Background: Decrease strength, swelling, pain, and stiffness in the arm caused by breast cancer related lymphedema can make everyday activities challenging and hinder both fine and gross motor skills. This study aims to investigate whether a yoga-based intervention is practical, safe, and potentially beneficial for women who have had surgery and are at high risk of developing lymphedema after breast cancer treatment. Method: A pre – post control experimental random group research design was used. 40 samples (≥ 40 to ≤ 50) years were taken from HCG cancer hospital of Ahmedabad and randomly assigned to control (n=20) and experimental (n=20) group. The experimental group participated in a 10-week yoga-based intervention, with sessions held 5 days a week. Both groups had their hand grip strength of affected arm measured using a GBEX Hand Dynamometer. Results: Collected data were analysed through dependent sample (paired) 't'-test. Result of hand grip strength of affected arm of experimental group was very statistically significant (at p=0.0034) but in control group there was not statically significant (at p =0.5906) among women at risk for breast cancer related lymphedema. Conclusion: Experimental group has shown statistically significant improvement in hand grip strength of affected arm in women at risk for breast cancer related lymphedema.