Exercise and Compression for Lymphedema (DREAM)

This is an interventional treatment trial for Breast Cancer Related Lymphedema focused on measuring Decongestive Progressive Resistance Exercise, compression sleeve during exercise, adjustable compression garment Read More

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Is a female with a history of breast cancer;
2. Has undergone surgery, including sentinel lymph node biopsy or axillary lymph node dissection;
3. Has unilateral mild to moderate BCRL of at least 200 ml inter-limb volume difference or regional lymphedema: defined as a minimal volume difference of 100 ml in a segment of the arm (e.g. hand and forearm region, elbow and upper arm);
4. Has chronic lymphedema, defined as lymphedema that has been present for at least 3 months;
5. Is in the lymphedema maintenance phase of conservative treatment;
6. Uses a well fitted compression sleeve (not older than 1 month) and is agreeable to wear the sleeve for a minimum of 12 hours per day (providing a minimum of 30 mm Hg of pressure);
7. Is agreeable to discontinuing other lymphedema treatments that are beyond standard care, including manual lymph drainage and intermittent pneumatic compression during the 12-week RCT period of the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Are undergoing or are scheduled to receive chemotherapy, radiotherapy or biological therapy
2. Presents with limb infection/ cellulitis, deep vein thrombosis, or have active metastatic disease;
3. Has any neurological or cognitive deficit, is pregnant, uses a pacemaker, or has other uncontrolled health condition that may interfere with assessment and/or the progressive resistance exercise training intervention;
4. Has any contraindications related to wearing compression on the limb, including arterial insufficiency or congestive heart failure;