Do patients benefit from physiotherapy for shoulder dysfunction following neck dissection? A systematic review

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Neurosurgery
• Physical Therapy

Background:

• Neck dissection can lead to accessory nerve palsy, causing shoulder dysfunction and pain.
• Physiotherapy is a potential intervention for managing these post-operative complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the evidence supporting post-operative physiotherapy for shoulder dysfunction after neck dissection.
• To evaluate the efficacy of rehabilitation interventions for shoulder and upper limb issues post-neck dissection.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review of prospective trials was conducted.
• Included studies investigated physiotherapy for shoulder/upper limb dysfunction and pain following any neck dissection type.
• Seven trials (3 RCTs, 4 non-randomized) met the inclusion criteria.

Main Results:

• Five of the seven included trials demonstrated statistically significant benefits from physiotherapy.
• Physiotherapy interventions were effective in improving shoulder function and reducing pain.
• Progressive resistance training showed particular promise.

Conclusions:

• Current evidence supports the use of physiotherapy for shoulder dysfunction post-neck dissection.
• Progressive resistance exercises may offer superior benefits compared to other physiotherapy modalities.
• Further research is needed on long-term benefits and cost-effectiveness.