Monteiro, S.E., Resende, L.V., Felicíssimo, M.F., de Araújo, A.R., & Vaz, C.T. (2014). Treatment of upper limb lymphedema with low-level laser: A systematic review. Fisioterapia Em Movimento, 27, 663–674.
STUDY PURPOSE: To analyze the effects of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on lymphedema secondary to breast cancer surgery
TYPE OF STUDY: Systematic review
PHASE OF CARE: Late effects and survivorship
All studies showed positive results of LLLT compared to control groups, which was most evidenced in studies with longer time frames.
The findings suggest that LLLT may be a treatment option for upper limb lymphedema in women with breast cancer; however, more well designed research is needed.
More research with larger samples and comparisons to other effective interventions are needed to determine the role of LLLT for lymphedema treatment. LLLT may be a useful adjunct for lymphedema treatment.