Τhe role of exercise in the breast cancer related lymphedema

Abstract

The upper extremity breast cancer related lymphedema is a result of the surgery and /or radiation in the 
axillary lymph node due to interference of the lymphatic drainage of the affected area. Lymphedema is 
presented as a chronic swelling of the limb followed by pain, changes in the appearance of the skin, 
difficulty in moving of the joints and infections. These symptoms significantly affect the quality of life of 
the patient. The main risk factors for developing lymphedema include stage of cancer, the type of 
surgery, the surgical removal or/and radiation of axillary lymph nodes, the number of retrieved lymph 
nodes, the exposure to high temperatures and obesity. Lymphedema is irreversible so it is imperative to 
inform patients about risk factors and how to prevent and control it when is installed. In this point 
exercise can have significant benefits for breast cancer survivors during and after treatment. 
Furthermore participation in an upper body exercise program caused no changes in arm circumference 
or arm volume in women with lymphedema after breast cancer and exercise generally encourages 
skeletal muscle contractions to provide the primary pumping mechanism for lymphatic and venous 
drainage and therefore stimulates the contraction of lymph vessels.