Effects of lymphedema on posture, upper extremity functions, and quality of life in patients with unilateral breast cancer

Abstract

Study aim: This study aimed to examine the effects of lymphedema on upper extremity function, posture and quality of life in patients with upper extremity lymphedema after unilateral breast cancer. Material and methods: Twenty-seven women (46.65 ± 3.44 years) were included in this study. Upper extremity circumference and range of motion measurements were performed on the unaffected and affected sides. New York Posture Analysis (NYPA) was used for posture evaluation. Upper extremity functions and quality of life were assessed by the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) and the Lymphedema Functionality, Disability and Health Questionnaire (Lymph-ICF), Upper Extremity Lymphedema-27 (ULL-27) and Quality of Life Measure for Limb Lymphedema - Arm (LYMQOL-Arm), respectively. Results: The results showed a significant positive correlation between the DASH and Lymph-ICF, ULL-27, and LYMQOL-Arm (r = 0.618, r = 0.637, r = 0.529, p < 0.05). Furthermore, there was a significant correlation between ULL-27 and LYMQOLArm (r = 0.557, p < 0.05). No significant correlation between posture and upper extremity functions (DASH, Lymph-ICF) and quality of life was found (ULL-27, LYMQOL-Arm) (r = -0.205, r = -0.087, r = -0.238, r = -0.122, p > 0.05). Conclusions: Upper extremity lymphedema can affect upper extremity functions and quality of life. Addressing lymphedema-specific quality of life and related measures is essential for the management of lymphedema.