Investigation of the effect of Low‐Level LaserTherapy on arm lymphedema in breast cancer patients: A noninvasive treatment for an intractable morbidity

Health Sci. Rep., 2023 · DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.1261 · Published: May 1, 2023

Cardiovascular Science Oncology Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study investigates the use of Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) to treat arm lymphedema in breast cancer patients. Lymphedema is a common complication after breast cancer treatment that causes swelling in the arm. Patients received laser treatment three times a week for two 4-week cycles, separated by an 8-week break. Measurements were taken to assess changes in arm size and mental symptoms (pain, stiffness, etc.). The study found that LLLT can help reduce arm swelling and improve mental symptoms in breast cancer patients with lymphedema. Patients also showed great enthusiasm to continue treatment.

Study Duration

14 months

Participants

23 breast cancer patients

Evidence Level

Phase-2 clinical trial

Key Findings

1
The average reductions in the circumference and volume of the affected limb were about 16% and 21.7%, respectively.
2
The study observed improvement in the patient's mental symptoms was about 32%.
3
LLLT in patients with fewer removed lymph nodes and lesser degree of lymphedema, is more significant.

Research Summary

This article aims to study the effect of Low‐Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) on arm lymphedema in patients who have breast cancer. We noted that the average reductions in the circumference and volume of the affected limb, as compared with the unaffected limb, were about 16% and 21.7%, respectively, and improvement in the patient's mental symptoms was about 32%. LLLT can, at least in association with current standard methods, be used for arm lymphedema to introduce further reductions in pain and volume.

Practical Implications

Clinical Practice

LLLT can be used in conjunction with standard methods to manage arm lymphedema, leading to further reductions in pain and volume, and improving patient satisfaction.

Future Research

More comprehensive studies are needed to determine the ideal laser settings and confirm the efficacy of PBMT for lymphedema.

Patient Care

LLLT can be considered a valuable tool in managing the long-term effects of breast cancer treatments, offering promising results in reducing lymphedema symptoms.

Study Limitations

1
The study did not have a control group.
2
The lack of a comparison cohort and the small sample size does not allow to draw definitive conclusions.
3
A quality‐of‐life assessment was not performed.

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