Extracorporeal Shock Wave and a Tailored Exercise Program on Axillary Web Syndrome

The Combined Effect of Extracorporeal Shock Wave and a Tailored Exercise Program on Axillary Web Syndrome After Breast Cancer Surgery With Axillary Dissection: A Comparative, Controlled Clinical Trial.

A total of 93 suitable patients will be randomly allocated into three groups: Group A will receive both low-energy extracorporeal shock wave therapy and a tailored exercise program, Group B will receive only low-energy extracorporeal shock wave therapy, and Group C will receive only the tailored exercise program.

Patients were randomly assigned to one of three groups: Group A, which received a low-energy extracorporeal shockwave treatment and a tailored exercise program; Group B, which received only a low-energy extracorporeal shockwave treatment; and Group C, which received only the tailored exercise program. The randomization process was done using a computer-generated table of random numbers concealed by sealed opaque envelopes. The patients' shoulder range of motion, pain intensity, upper extremity activities, and echogenicity, thickness, and disorganization were assessed using a digital inclinometer, visual analogue scale, quick DASH scale, and diagnostic ultrasound, respectively. The randomization process was overseen by a professional physical therapist who was not involved in the study procedures.

All outcomes were measured at the baseline and four weeks post-intervention. The outcomes were collected by a well-experienced investigator who was blind to the group assignments and considered as part of the research team.

Inclusion Criteria:

• female
• between the ages of 40 and 65 years

Exclusion Criteria:

• metastases of any kind
• lymphedema,
• a traumatic injury to the targeted upper extremity
• a musculoskeletal disorder
• taking any anticoagulants
• had undergone bilateral breast cancer surgery
• experienced locoregional recurrence
• had vascular problems in the affected upper extremity