Exercise and Compression for Lymphedema

Official Title

Decongestive Progressive Resistance Exercise With Advanced Compression for Breast Cancer Related Lymphedema Management (DREAM): A Randomized Control Trial

Summary:

The purpose of this study is to investigate the benefit of combining resistance exercise with use of a compression sleeve on arm lymphedema. In the study, participants will be taught a resistance exercise that follows the decongestive exercise sequence. This program is called "decongestive progressive resistance exercise" (DPRE). To evaluate the benefit from use of a compression garment on the arm. Some participants will wear their usual compression sleeve during exercise and others will use an adjustable compression wrap. The investigators hope to see if this type of combined program is helpful for women with lymphedema. The investigators also want to see if there are benefits from the addition of use of an adjustable compression wrap during exercise over use of a regularly prescribed compression sleeve.

Trial Description

Primary Outcome:

• Change in Lymphedema Arm Volume

• Change in Extracellular Fluid Volume
• Change in Muscle Strength
• Change in Grip Strength
• Change in Shoulder Range of Motion
• Health-Related Quality of Life (Lymph-ICF)
• Health-Related Quality of Life (SF-36)
• Physical Activity Level
• Exercise and Compression Adherence

View this trial on ClinicalTrials.gov