Postoperative arm massage: a support for women with lymph node dissection

Area of Science:

• Oncology Nursing
• Surgical Recovery
• Complementary Therapies

Background:

• Lymph node dissection surgery can lead to significant postoperative pain and reduced shoulder function.
• Patient support systems, including significant others, play a crucial role in recovery.
• Exploring non-pharmacological interventions is essential for enhancing patient well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the effectiveness of arm massage administered by a significant other as a postoperative intervention for women undergoing lymph node dissection.
• To evaluate the impact of arm massage on pain, shoulder function, and psychosocial well-being.

Main Methods:

• A randomized clinical trial with a pretest-posttest design was employed.
• Fifty-nine women aged 21-78 undergoing lymph node dissection were recruited.
• Participants were randomized into an intervention group (receiving arm massage from a significant other) and a control group. Data were collected at multiple time points: pre-surgery, 24 hours post-surgery, 10-14 days post-surgery, and 4 months post-surgery.

Main Results:

• Participants in the intervention group reported a notable reduction in postoperative pain.
• Improved shoulder range of motion and function were observed in the massage group.
• The intervention promoted a greater sense of closeness and support between patients and their significant others.

Conclusions:

• Arm massage by a significant other is a beneficial postoperative intervention for women following lymph node dissection.
• This therapy effectively alleviates pain and discomfort, while enhancing emotional connection and support.
• Nurses can integrate postoperative massage therapy as a valuable complementary intervention to standard care, promoting optimal patient outcomes.