Linfedema secundario a cáncer de mama: una revisión narrativa del papel del ejercicio físico

Abstract

The role of exercise in breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) is not clearly defined. The main target of this review is to describe the effects of the different types of exercises on this kind of patient. Bibliographic research was done through the databases of PubMed and PEDro. Controlled trials published between 2017 and 2023 in both Spanish and English, were included. Article selection was carried out separately by 2 researchers using the PICO strategy. Forty-three articles were selected and, after the authors´ review, 19 were included, the majority focused on strength exercises. Strength physical exercise in women with BCRL or at risk of developing it, proved to be safe, even with heavy loads and even during taxanes treatment. Furthermore, it has a beneficial effect on the patients quality of life, in lymphedema symptoms, extremities functionality, and strength gain, although it could not prove its positive role in the prevention or treatment of BCRL. There are no specific protocols for the strength exercise. Other types of exercises such as water sports, pilates, and yoga are considered adequate for these patients.