Feasibility and Impact of 6-Month Rowing on Arm Lymphedema, Flexibility, and Fatigue in Breast Cancer Survivors

TL;DR

A 6-month rowing program improved arm lymphedema and flexibility in breast cancer survivors without causing harm.

Contribution

This is the first study to investigate sculling as a rehabilitation tool for breast cancer survivors.

Findings

Sculling reduced arm lymphedema by 78.9 cm³ in the operated limb over 6 months.

Flexibility improved with a 2.7 cm increase in the back scratch test for the operated limb.

No adverse effects or worsening of lymphedema were observed during the program.

Abstract

Dragon boating and rowing are reported to be safe and provide physical benefits for women with breast cancer. Sculling, characterized by a distinct biomechanical technique, may serve as a potential tool to mitigate the adverse side effects of cancer treatments. This study investigated the feasibility and impact of a 6-month integrated physical activity program in breast cancer survivors. A longitudinal intervention study was conducted involving 20 women with breast cancer (age: 55.8 ± 6.1 yrs; BMI: 24.6 ± 3.3 kg/m2, stages I-III; surgery performed 6 months to 20 years prior) who participated in a 6-month exercise program consisting of three weekly one-hour sessions of adapted physical activity, walking, and sculling, with assessments conducted at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months. Physical activity, arm lymphedema, flexibility, and fatigue were tested. The program did not lead to the development or worsening of pre-existing lymphedema. A reduction of 78.9 cm3 was observed in the operated limb over 6 months (p = 0.005). An improvement in flexibility was also observed with a 2.7 cm increase in the back scratch test for the operated limb (p < 0.001). However, no significant change in fatigue-related variables was recorded. This is a novel study, as sculling has not previously been investigated in the context of breast cancer rehabilitation. The findings suggested that, when integrated into a structured exercise program, sculling is not only a safe and accessible activity but also effective in promoting physical and health-related improvements, with no adverse events reported. Therefore, it should be considered as part of a comprehensive rehabilitation plan for breast cancer survivors.

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