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Updated: May 31, 2025

Ultrasonographic Evaluation of Breast Cancer-related Lymphedema
Published on: January 12, 2017
Impact of Physical Exercise on Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema and Non-Invasive Measurement Tools: A Systematic
Marta Arias-Crespo1, Rubén García-Fernández2, Natalia Calvo-Ayuso3
1Department of Nursing and Physiotherapy, Campus de Ponferrada, Universidad de León, 24401 León, Spain.
Abstract:
Background/Objectives: Breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) is a chronic disease with lasting effects, making it one of the most feared sequelae of breast cancer with significant personal and social impacts. Therapeutic exercises play a fundamental role in its treatment. This systematic review aims to provide the most up-to-date findings on the impact of physical exercise on the management of BCRL. Methods: Following the PRISMA statement guidelines, searches were conducted in the Web of Science, Scopus, and Science Direct databases. Results: Sixteen studies published between 2019 and 2024 were analyzed in detail. The combination of strength and aerobic exercises emerged as an effective strategy for both the treatment and prevention of lymphedema, also highlighting the innovative potential of virtual reality. Conclusions: It is essential to emphasize tailoring exercise programs to each patient individually. Additionally, the promising role of thermography as a non-invasive and safe tool for evaluating lymphedema progress is underscored.

