Does Inclusion of Diaphragmatic Breathing Exercises in Complete Decongestive Therapy Provide Further Benefits in Patients With Breast Cancer Related Lymphedema

Complete decongestive therapy is proven to be effective in reducing lymphedema related symptoms such as swelling and pain. Breathing exercises, on the other hand, may also help managing lymphedema symptoms. Deep breathing creates a pressure change in the abdomen, which creates a vacuum effect in the thoracic cavity and helps to empty the lymphatic vessels. Thus, we aimed to investigate whether addition of diaphragmatic breathing exercises to physical exercise component of complete decongestive therapy provides further benefits on lymphedema volume, pain and quality of life in patients with breast cancer related lymphedema.

Inclusion Criteria:Diagnosis of arm lymphedema after being treated for unilateral breast cancer with axillary node dissectionCompletion of the treatments for the disease including chemotherapy and radiotherapy after breast surgeryExclusion Criteria:Having recurrent cancerHaving cognitive disabilityHaving any concurrent diseases that may interfere with the measurement of lymphedema