A Comparison of Yoga and Clinical Pilates Exercise Methods in Women with Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract Purpose: This study conducted a comparison of the benefits of yoga and clinical Pilates exercise methods, both administered with compression stockings, on lymphedema, muscle strength, upper extremity functions, and quality of life in women with BCRL Methods: 28 individuals with breast cancer-related lymphedema were included in the study. The upper extremity lymphedema severity of the individuals was evaluated by circumference and volumeter measurement. Upper extremity muscle strength was measured with an isokinetic dynamometer (HUMAC/NORM Testing & Rehabilitation System, CSMD). The disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) questionnaire was used to evaluate upper extremity functions, and the Breast Cancer-Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire (QLQ-BR23) was used to evaluate the quality of life. Results: In our study, it was determined that compared to pre-treatment, the severity of lymphedema decreased more in the yoga and clinical Pilates groups than in the control group (P4 = .034). In extremity with lymphedema (EwLE), the clinical Pilates group had the greatest improvement in muscular strength for internal rotation (IR) (P3=.016, P4=.037), while the upper extremity functions were shown to be higher in the yoga and clinical Pilates groups compared to the control group (P3=.008, P4=.004). It was found that the quality of life subscale symptom scores, breast symptom (P3=.006, P4=.028) and arm symptom (P2=.004, P3=.008, P4=.002) scores in the yoga group, and arm symptom (P3=.012, P4=.002) scores in the clinical Pilates group showed a positive increase compared to the control group. Conclusion: Both yoga and clinical Pilates exercises, with the use of compression stockings, have demonstrated favorable results in women with BCRL, showing great potential for treatment. Clinical Pilates exercises have been determined to be useful in several physical aspects, including the reduction of lymphedema, and the improvement of muscle strength and upper extremity functions. On the other hand, the emotional components of quality of life can be effectively improved by yoga exercises.