Myofascial release for women undergoing radiotherapy for breast cancer: A pilot study

Abstract

Aims: Following breast cancer surgery some patients proceeding to adjuvant radiotherapy experience restricted upper limb mobility, which may only be evident at the time of radiotherapy simulation. Myofascial release (MFR), a form of physiotherapy, may be of benefit to improve upper limb mobility for some patients undergoing radiotherapy. There is no research specifically on the use of MFR during radiotherapy. The aim of the study was to investigate the effectiveness of MFR to improve upper limb mobility during the radiotherapy period. Methods: 24 patients were recruited and randomized to receive MFR (n = 14) or usual care (n = 10). Outcome measures for range of movement, pain, disability and function, anxiety and depression were taken on three occasions, over a 4-month period. Results: Four ranges of movement at the shoulder improved in the MFR group, this improvement was statistically significant for abduction (p = 0.001) and combined abduction/flexion/external rotation (p < 0.001). Conclusion: MFR was well tolerated and may be beneficial for some women receiving radiotherapy who are experiencing difficulty or discomfort with upper limb movement. Further research into the optimal timing and frequency of MFR treatments for women undergoing radiotherapy for breast cancer is warranted.

Key words::

• Function
• massage
• physiotherapy
• shoulder
• soft tissue

Acknowledgements

The authors wish to thank Breast Cancer Campaign, the radiotherapy staff at the Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre, Dr Diana Ritchie and Danny Rafferty for his technical support.

Declaration of interest: This pilot study was funded by Breast Cancer Campaign (grant number 2008NovSP30). Conflict of interest: none to declare.