Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema [Infographic]
Breast cancer-related lymphedema can develop in 1 in 5 breast cancer survivors. Lymphedema is a buildup of fluid under the skin due to inadequate drainage of the lymphatic system that leads to swelling in the affected area. Lymphedema after breast cancer can result from damage or removal of lymph nodes, whether through surgical removal of the lymph nodes of the underarm or due to radiation that damages and scars the lymph nodes. Breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) commonly manifests in swelling in the arm from which the lymph nodes were removed, although it can occur in the breast, trunk, or back as well.
The lymphatic system collects lymph fluid (excess fluid, proteins, and other substances) from the tissues of the body and carries it back to the bloodstream. Lymph fluid moves slowly through lymphatic vessels and passes through the lymph node as it returns to the bloodstream. When normal drainage of the fluid is disrupted, the lymph fluid accumulates in the body tissues and swelling occurs. Other symptoms of lymphedema include a feeling of aching, tingling, heaviness, tightness, or pressure in the affected area, pitting in the tissues of the limb, reported infections in the limb, and difficulty moving or bending a joint.
Working with a certified lymphedema physical therapist before and after breast cancer surgery can help improve range of motion and strength, address lymphedema, and reduce pain. Physical therapists provide education about lymphedema as well as proper diet and skincare instruction. A therapist can also fit you for a preventative compression garment and adjust it throughout treatment and create a home exercise program.
At Mangiarelli Rehabilitation, our certified lymphedema specialist, Sue, provides complete decongestive therapy (CDT), which is considered the gold standard for lymphedema treatment. Complete decongestive therapy involves four components; all or some of these four components may be used to treat a patient with lymphedema depending on their specific condition and needs.
Complete decongestive therapy includes:
Manual lymphatic drainage to remove excess fluid from the affected area
Compression bandaging to prevent fluid from returning
Customized decongestive exercise program to improve lymph circulation and maximize functional ability
Education about the condition, ways to reduce risk, and self-management techniques
Studies have shown that CDT is effective in reducing the volume of swelling in the affected limb as well as enhancing the function of the limb, improving quality of life, and greater mobility. A study focused on breast-cancer-related lymphedema revealed that CDT was effective in reducing pain and heaviness, improving arm and shoulder mobility, and reducing the volume of the swelling in the patients.
Another study assessed 1,217 women diagnosed with unilateral breast cancer who underwent tumor resection and axillary lymph node dissection who were divided into 3 groups for various treatments. Group 1 received no education or physical therapy after surgery, Group 2 received education on BCRL the first week after surgery, and Group 3 received education on BCRL in the first week post-surgery and subsequent physical therapy. Of the 1,217 women, 188 developed lymphedema: 77 in Group 1, 101 in Group B, and 10 in Group C. The study shows that patient education on BCRL and targeted physical therapy is effective in reducing the risk of BCRL in women with breast cancer.
Are you a breast cancer survivor or are currently undergoing treatment for breast cancer? Our lymphedema therapist is here to help you prevent and address lymphedema early on and safely support your physical recovery from cancer.
