Purpose: This review will provide an overview of the current state of knowledge by 1) evaluating the feasibility and safety of exercise as a treatment for patients with breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL), and 2) exploring the effects of different exercises on patients with BCRL.
Method: A systematic literature review of relevant studies published before 30 June 2022 was performed using three scientific databases PubMed, Embase, and Scopus.
Result: A total of 611 articles were found. Eventually, 15 articles fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were used for this literature review. A total of 5 different exercises, consisting of yoga, Pilates, resistance exercise, aquatic-based exercise, and complex exercise of aerobic and resistance training are included.
Conclusion: The review shows that these exercises are safe for patients with BCRL. Some measurable effects of exercises on lymphedema and some possible reasons/theories are shown.
Implications for Cancer Survivors: Although only yoga, Pilates, and resistance exercise may improve the severity of lymphedema based on the measurement of limb volume, all 5 exercise modes can help improve lymphedema symptoms to some extent. The improvement of symptoms may cause the increased quality of life (QoL) in symptom and physical functioning domains, leading to increased emotional and social function.