Abstract: Objective To observe the effect of comprehensive rehabilitation on breast cancer related lymphedema. Methods 70 patients with breast cancer related lymphedema were divided into experiment group (n=35) and control group (n=35). Both groups received intermittent pneumatic compression, while the experiment group received comprehensive rehabilitation including manual lymphatic drainage, muscle stretching, expanded the range of motion of shoulder, gradual resistance training, high frequency electrical therapy and health education. They were assessed with Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand Scale (DASH) and development of lymphedema before and 8 weeks after treatment. Results DASH scores and the development of lymphedema improved in both groups after treatment (P<0.05), and improved more in the experiment group than in the control group (P<0.05). Conclusion Comprehensive rehabilitation can further relieve breast cancer related lymphedema, and improve the upper extremity function.

Key words: breast cancer, lymphedema, rehabilitation, upper extremity