Abstract
[Purpose] Post mastectomy lymphedema is common among breast cancer survivors. It leads to
physical discomfort and functional impairment. Rehabilitation forms the mainstay of
treatment and is multidisciplinary. [Subjects and Methods] Sixty post mastectomy patients
were allocated randomly and assigned to either a conventional treatment group (n=30) or a
complete decongestive therapy (CDT) group (n=30). The conventional treatment group
received manual lymphatic drainage, wore a low elastic compression garment, received
glenohumeral mobilization, and performed deep breathing exercises, and the complete
decongestive therapy group received CDT from a trained physiotherapist and a daily home
program along with the conventional treatment, 5 days a week for 6 weeks. [Results] Arm
circumference measurements were taken at five levels: the wrist, mid forearm, elbow,
mid-upper arm, and axilla. The upper extremity function was evaluated using the
Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire, and pain was assessed
using the visual analogue scale. Measurements were taken at baseline, and at 4th and 6th
weeks after the start of intervention. Within and between group comparisons showed
significant improvements in the CDT group. [Conclusion] Complete decongestive therapy and
a home program assists breast cancer related lymphedema survivors in regaining their lost
functions. It also helps to improve their independence in daily activities, reduce their
need for caregivers, and thereby improving their quality of life. Therefore, the results
of this study showed that the CDT with a home program is an effective treatment for
reducing post mastectomy lymphedema.