Thesis (M.Sc.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Physical Therapy - Department of Basic Science

Background & Purpose: Breast cancer-related lymphedema is a long-term health problem that often causes pain, disability and interferes with the activities of daily living. A physical treatment program combining manual lymphatic drainage, compression, skin care and exercise is recognized as the best practice in lymphedema management. Low level laser therapy has been used for lymphedema management and it has been demonstrated that it can greatly influence outcomes and improve quality of life. The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of low level laser versus Decongestive therapy in terms of circumferential measurements and health related quality of life assessment in female patients with post mastectomy unilateral upper extremity lymphedema. Results: Data obtained was analyzed via unpaired t-test, paired t-test, Independent Man-Whiney test and Paired Wilcoxon Z-test. There were statistical significant differences between the 2 groups, where the Combined decongestive therapy group (A) showed greater decrease in circumferential measurement and improvement in quality of life with a p value (P=0.00l). Conclusion: Decongestive therapy was shown to be more effective in reducing the circumference and improve the quality of life, in post mastectomy unilateral upper extremity lymphedema.

Issued also as CD