The association between upper limb function and variables at the different domains of the international classification of functioning, disability and health in women after breast cancer surgery: a systematic review

Abstract

Purpose

To investigate the variables per International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF)-domain that are associated with upper limb (UL) function in women after breast cancer surgery.

Materials and Methods

PubMed and Web of Science were searched until 7 January 2020. Eligibility criteria were: prospective investigation of an association between one or more variables of the ICF model and UL function in women after breast cancer surgery. PRISMA guidelines were used to conduct and report the systematic review. The Quality In Prognosis Studies tool (QUIPS) was used to evaluate risk of bias.

Results

Twelve studies were included (2244 participants). Risk of bias of the included studies was low to moderate. Variables at the ICF-function level that were systematically associated with decreased UL function across multiple included papers were: increased UL pain, decreased shoulder range of motion, decreased handgrip strength and a higher number of comorbidities. Results on the association between UL function and variables at other ICF-domains were conflicting.

Conclusion

UL function was associated with certain variables at the ICF-function level. Variability in disease stages, treatment and measurement methods might explain inconsistent associations with other variables. Only limited studies investigated associations between UL function and psychosocial factors.

IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION

• This paper gives an overview of associations between different variables of the ICF model and UL dysfunctions in women after breast cancer surgery.

• Identified associated factors are situated at the ICF function level, i.e., UL pain, decreased handgrip strength and shoulder (abduction) ROM.

• These factors are modifiable and should be monitored, prevented and treated in physical therapy practice.

• UL dysfunction is not consistently associated with treatment-related variables.

• The role of psychosocial personal factors in UL dysfunctions should be considered and further explored.

Keywords:

• Breast cancer
• dysfunction
• association
• upper extremity
• upper limb

Acknowledgements

Support statement: ADG is a post-doctoral research fellow of the FWO-Flanders.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).