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Purpose: To compare the effects of scapulothoracic stabilization exercises (SSE) in addition to complex decongestive physiotherapy (CDP) on scapular function, posture, and balance compared to CDP alone in women with lymphedema after mastectomy. Methods: The patients were randomly divided into two groups as CDP (n:12) and CDP+SSE (n:13). While only CDP (3-week treatment phase and 5-week maintenance phase) was applied in the CDP group, CDP (3-week treatment phase and 5-week maintenance phase) and SSE (8 weeks) were applied in the CDP+SSE group. Scapulothoracic muscle strength, scapular endurance, scapular dyskinesia, thoracic kyphosis, general posture, and balance were evaluated before the treatment phase (TP), after the TP, and after the 5th week of the maintenance phase (MP).Results: Improvements in the lower trapezius muscle strength were found in both groups after the TP (pConclusion: In upper extremity lymphedema patients, incorporating additional SSE in CDP may contribute to the improvement of posture and scapular functions. |
