Effect of Topical Cryotherapy on Lymphedema Symptoms among Breast Cancer Survivors with Mastectomy

Abstract

Background: Lymphedema is a common complication post mastectomy. Breast cancer survivors with lymphedema experience multiple symptoms such as feeling of tightness and heaviness during the initial development of lymphedema. Early symptom management is crucial for clinicians and researchers to control the early stages of lymphedema and prevent its progression to late chronic stages. Cryotherapy is one of the nonpharmacological interventions that has been shown to be promising in controlling the lymphedema and improving its symptoms. So, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of topical cryotherapy on lymphedema symptoms among breast cancer survivors with mastectomy. Method: Quasi experimental design with a purposive sample of 80 breast cancer survivors with lymphedema stage 0 & 1 was enrolled in this study. Data were collected using three tools: Structured Interview Questionnaire, Lymphedema Tracking Tool and Numerical Pain Rating Scale. Results: The present study revealed a significant improvement in all self-reported lymphedema symptoms among the study group compared to the control group (p value <0.05). Conclusion: The study concluded that the topical cryotherapy was effective in improving the lymphedema symptoms among breast cancer survivors with lymphedema.