The Effect of Myofascial Release Technique to Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema: A Literature Review to Inform Clinical Practice

File
Chien-Ju Lin, Yi-Chun Yang
Purpose:

This literature review aims to understand the effect of MFR on patients with breast cancer-related lymphedema.

Methods:

Five electronic databases (Medline, Cochrane Library, PubMed, PEDro, and Airiti Library) were systematically searched in both English and Chinese by two independent reviewers until September 6, 2024. Titles and abstracts were reviewed to identify experimental studies comparing myofascial therapy to general physical therapy in their effects on lymphedema. Full-text articles were included and all studies were appraised by the PEDro scale and rated their level of evidence.

Results:

149 records were identified, but only 2 studies (1 randomized controlled trial (RCT) and 1 randomized cross-over trial) met the inclusion criteria for review. Eighty women diagnosed with breast cancer underwent surgical intervention, with 56 exhibiting lymphedema. The intervention groups in both studies received MFR along with standard physical therapy or CDT. Both studies evaluated lymphedema improvement by measuring changes in arm volume. In comparing the effects of MFR group with the control group, no significant differences were found in arm volume between groups in both studies; however, significant differences were noted within both groups in the crossover study. Furthermore, the MFR group in the RCT demonstrated superior arm volume outcomes at 6 and 12 months follow-up.

Conclusion(s):

MFR combined with standard PT or CDT has no positive impact on patients with breast cancer-related lymphedema. Therefore, more high-quality research is needed, and it cannot be recommended in clinical practice routinely. Future studies should focus on including patients with more advanced stages of lymphedema and standardizing MFR intervention protocols within a parallel randomized controlled design. 

Implications:

Although this study suggests that MFR may not be effective in reducing breast cancer-related lymphedema, its positive effects on pain, ROM, function and QOL should not be underestimated. Physical therapists should conduct a comprehensive evaluation of each patient's unique condition before selecting MFR as an adjunct therapy.

Funding acknowledgements:
Non-funding
Keywords:
Breast Cancer
Myofascial release
Lymphedema
Primary topic:
Women's health
Second topic:
Oncology, HIV and palliative care
Third topic:
Musculoskeletal
Did this work require ethics approval?:
No
Has any of this material been/due to be published or presented at another national or international conference prior to the World Physiotherapy Congress 2025?:
No

Back to the listing