Effect of the Complex Decongestive Therapy on Lymphedema Volume in Women with Breast Cancer Treatment-Related Lymphedema

The upper extremity lymphedema is the most common side effect of the breast cancer treatment. The aim of the present study was assessment of the effect of the complex decongestive therapy on the lymphedema volume in women with breast cancer therapy-related lymphedema.
A total of 33 women with the lymphedema participated in the present study. Data gathering instruments included the measurement of lymphedema volume via water displacement. The intervention was performed in two phases: phase 1: for 2-3 weeks, and phase 2: one month after phase 1. Therapeutic techniques in each phase included massage, compression bandage, exercise, and the skin cares. Repeated measures was run for statistical analysis.
The findings showed that complete decongestive therapy resulted in the reduction in lymphedema volume (p The current study showed that complete decongestive therapy is the effective treatment for the reduction of the lymphedema volume in women with breast cancer treatment-related lymphedema.