# 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.

## Key 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.