Resistance exercise and breast cancer-induced lymphedema: a qualitative study

Introduction: Lymphedema is a common side effect of breast cancer treatment, which is associated with decreased physical functionality and quality of life in this population. Exercise may play a role in managing this condition. In this study a group of experts were brought together in a multidisciplinary focus group to discuss home-based exercise prescription for these patients Method: this is a qualitative study using focus group discussion method. Eight participants with different expertise were gathered. We had a moderator and two assistant moderators. Results: the group members came from different fields of expertise including exercise physiology, lymph therapy, internal medicine, surgery and general medicine. After analyzing the literature, resistance exercise and breast cancer treatment-associated lymphedema emerged as one theme. Some experts maintained that resistance exercise could exacerbate or even lead to development of lymphedema. Others, however, argued that resistance exercise may prevent or reduce lymphedema. A review of literature showed that weight training in breast cancer patients not only does not intensify lymphedema, but it can indeed reduce its incidence and intensity (1-3). In those trials, the first 13 or all training sessions were completely supervised, with gradual increase in workload, using free weights or machines. Conclusion: we found some degree of disagreement over prescribing resistance exercise in breast cancer patients at risk for lymphedema. Studies, however, show that weight training can be applicable and beneficial to patients, provided that the initial sessions are supervised, and training intensity increases gradually and safe and appropriate devices are used.