|
|
Article: How effective are physiotherapy techniques to treat established secondary lymphoedema following surgery for cancer? A critical analysis of the literature.
- Article from:
- New Zealand Journal of Physiotherapy
- Article date:
- November 1, 2005
- Author:
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 2005 New Zealand Society of Physiotherapists. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
|
ABSTRACT
This review examines the use and effectiveness of individual and combined physiotherapy techniques to treat established secondary lymphoedema. Secondary upper limb lymphoedema from axillary lymph node dissection is a debilitating potential sequela of surgery for breast cancer. Lymphoedema causes swelling of the affected limb(s) and affects the physical and psychosocial wellbeing of the patient. Physiotherapeutic techniques have been used to treat lymphoedema with some success, but the optimal interventions and regime remain unclear. Evidence supports the use of the Complex Physical Therapy (CPT) approach to treatment, but there is disagreement about the ...