Standardization of upper limb exercises to improve radiation therapy for breast cancer, a conceptual literature review

Abstract

Introduction: Many patients with breast cancer are left with upper arm mobility dysfunction following surgery. Despite the beneficial effects of upper limb exercises on shoulder dysfunction, radiation therapists still do not widely encourage patients to participate in arm exercises after surgery. This conceptual literature review synthesizes evidence on how patients with breast cancer that participate in upper limb exercises after surgery have improved arm mobility which could result in a more consistent arm position during radiation therapy.

Methods: A literature search was performed in the PubMed, Athabasca University Library, and Google Scholar databases to identify articles that evaluated the effect of upper limb exercises on patients' arm mobility and range of motion after breast cancer surgery, and the impact of arm position on anatomy during radiation therapy. Sixteen studies were included in the conceptual review synthesis.

Results: The studies were heterogeneous in terms of the utilized exercise methods and the upper limb related outcomes measured. Twelve studies demonstrated that upper arm exercises are an effective intervention in restoring arm mobility and decreasing pain in women with breast cancer. Additionally, four studies showed that differences in arm rotation affect the breast region's anatomy, which could result in set-up errors during radiation therapy.

Conclusion: The effectiveness of radiation therapy for breast cancer treatment relies on women to reproduce their shoulder position each day. Any inability to replicate the arm position due to mobility issues can affect the accuracy of the dose delivered and, ultimately, the treatment outcome. Therefore, upper limb exercises should be recommended by radiation therapists to their patients before or during radiation therapy to improve patient comfort and the accuracy of treatment. Additionally, upper limb exercise standards need to be developed for patients with breast cancer and implemented by radiation therapists.

Keywords: Arm mobility; Breast neoplasms; Radiotherapy; Upper extremity; Upper limb exercises.