Manual Lymphatic Drainage and Exercises in Management of Secondary Lymphedema Following Mastectomy-Systemic Review

Manual Lymphatic Drainage and Exercises in Management of Secondary Lymphedema Following Mastectomy-Systemic Review - Lymphedema is a chronic and progressive disorder resulting from impaired lymphatic system function. In developed countries, upper extremity lymphedema is mainly the consequence of breast cancer surgery in which axillary lymph node dissection and radiation alter upper extremity lymphatic flow. Diagnosis of lymphedema is made clinically. Nevertheless, there are numerous diagnostic tools available for disease staging. Recently, a new technology namely magnetic resonance lymphangiography has emerged in the medical field to assist in both diagnosis and management. Controversy exists regarding the role of exercise in cancer patients with or at risk for lymphedema, particularly breast. Searching was done using Google Scholar, PubMed, ProQuest, EBSCO, Cinahl Plus, BMJ, Clinical Skills, Clinical Keys, DynaMed Plus, Medline, Nano-Springer, Nature, SpringerLink, Springer, Wiley Online Library. The aim of the study to compare the efficacy of manual lymphatic drainage and exercise in management of secondary lymphedema following mastectomy.