Belmonte, R., Tejero, M., Ferrer, M., Muniesa, J.M., Duarte, E., Cunillera, O., & Escalada, F. (2011). Efficacy of low-frequency low-intensity electrotherapy in the treatment of breast cancer-related lymphoedema: A cross-over randomized trial. Clinical Rehabilitation, 26(7), 607–618.
To compare efficacy of low-frequency, low-intensity electrotherapy and manual lymphatic drainage in treatment of upper-limb lymphedema
Patients were randomized to two groups. Group A underwent electrotherapy therapy for 10 sessions followed by 10 sessions of manual drainage. Group B underwent manual drainage first and then received electrotherapy. There was a month washout period between treatments. Patients were assessed after every 10 treatment sessions. Electrotherapy was delivered with a system that provides massage with low-frequency electrical stimulation.
The study took place in an outpatient setting in Spain.
The study has clinical applicability for late effects and survivorship.
The study used a randomized crossover trial design.
There were no significant differences in outcomes between the two treatments.
There was no difference in benefits from manual lymphatic drainage and low-frequency, low-intensity electrotherapy.
Findings suggest there is no difference in efficacy of these two treatment approaches for management of arm lymphedema in patients with breast cancer.