The impact of lymphedema severity on shoulder joint function and muscle activation patterns in breast cancer survivors: a cross-sectional study.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the impacts of breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) severity on shoulder function including range of motion, strength, muscle activation patterns, and patient-reported disability.

Methods

A cross-sectional, observational study design was utilized. Seventy-five women with unilateral BCRL were recruited and categorized into mild, moderate, and severe groups based on limb swelling severity. Outcomes included shoulder range of motion, isometric strength, Disabilities of Arm Shoulder and Hand (DASH) scores for disability, and surface electromyography (EMG) of shoulder muscles. Data were analyzed using parametric and nonparametric tests.

Results

Increasing lymphedema severity was associated with progressive declines in shoulder mob

SUBMITTER: Mohamed MH 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11652595 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature