Article

Chronic lymphedema occurs frequently in breast cancer patients and is
associated with significant morbidity and reduced quality-
of-life. In this pilot
study, the authors (1) addressed whether conducting a larger randomized
controlled trial of aqua lymphatic therapy (ALT) would be feasible and (2)
estimated the extent to which ALT combined with home-based exercise compared with
home-based exercise alone would reduce arm disability in patients with breast
cancer-related lymphedema. DESIGN: Twenty-five women with breast cancer-related
lymphedema were randomized to either ALT in addition to a home land-based
exercise program (ALT group; n = 13) or to a home land-based exercise program
alone (control group; n = 12). The participants were evaluated before and after a
12-wk intervention period composed of weekly pool exercise sessions. Main outcome
measures were arm volume, arm disability, pain, and quality-of-life. RESULTS: At
follow-up, there was no statistical difference between the control and ALT groups
in any of the outcomes, except for present pain intensity. At the end of the
study period, there was no change in the lymphedematous limb volume in either
group. Grip strength was improved in both groups. Only the ALT group showed a
statistically significant difference with a reduction in pain intensity score and
arm disability. Furthermore, quality-of-life significantly improved only in the
ALT group. CONCLUSIONS: Conducting a larger randomized controlled trial would be
feasible. In comparison with the beginning of the intervention, the participants
in the ALT group showed significant beneficial changes after 12 wks of treatment,
whereas the control group did not improve. ALT did not make the lymphedema volume
worse and therefore may serve as a safe alternative to land-based treatments of
breast cancer-related lymphedema.

Langue : ANGLAIS