Thesis (M.Sc.)-Cairo University - Faculty of Physical Therapy- Department of Physical Therapy for Women’s Health

Bibliography: p. 85-92.

Purpose : The current study was undertaken to determine the effect of low level laser therapy on axillary web syndrome post mastectomy. Methods: Forty female patients who underwent modified radical mastectomy and often occurs 2 - 8 weeks after surgical treatment was participated in this study and received their treatment in Tagamoo branch of National Cancer Institute . Their ages ranged from 40 to 55 years with body mass indecies from 25 to 30 .The patients are randomly divided into two equal groups: group (A): Composed of 20 patients with breast cancer surgeries had axillary web syndrome and they received low level laser therapy for one month plus Physical Therapy treatment (Active ROM ex, Stretching techniques and Soft tissue mobilization) for 4 weeks ( Three sessions/week ) , in addition to medical treatment following the defined surgery according to the case and it’s histopathology together with the guidelines of the National Cancer Institute and group (B): Composed of 20 patients received Physical Therapy treatment (Active ROM ex, Stretching techniques and Soft tissue mobilization) for 4 weeks ( Three sessions/week ), in addition to medical treatment, assessment was carried out by standardized goniometer and visual analogue scale for both groups . Results: The results of this study revealed that group A and group B showed significant improvement by 93% in shoulder mobility (Flexion, Abduction and External rotation) and decrease of pain but by comparison the two groups we found that group A showed greater improvement than group B. Conclusion: Low level laser in addition to traditional therapy and medical therapy can improve shoulder mobility and decrease pain more than using only traditional and medical therapy . The result of this study supported the expectation that Low Level Laser had a position effect on axillary web syndrome