The effect of acupuncture on breast cancer-related lymphoedema complications: A Systematic Review

Breast cancer (BC) is the second most common cancer and the leading cause of cancer mortality for women. Breast cancer-related upper arm lymphedema (BCRL) is a frequent and devastating complication after surgery. Approximately ۲۰% of breast cancer survivors develop breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL). Acupuncture (AC) has become an alternative treatment for BCRL. This study was conducted with the aim of systematically investigating The effect of acupuncture on breast cancer-related lymphoedema complications. Clinical and experimental studies have shown that acupuncture is able to reduce the expression of inflammatory cytokines, regulate lymphatic system function and improve blood circulation. One study found that manual acupuncture produces a phenotypic switch in macrophages and increases interleukin (IL)-۱۰ concentrations in muscle, reducing pain and inflammation. The antioxidative and immune system regulation of acupuncture have been shown in edema, rheumatic arthritis, and menopause symptoms. On the other hand, from a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) perspective, pain and swelling are due to stagnation of meridians; acupuncture, which promotes chi and circulation, will dredge the clots in blood vessels or lymph ducts, restoring the flow of meridians. Finally, acupuncture leads to a reduction in complications hot flashes, fatigue, pain, dyspnea, psychological well-being, decreased range of motion with lymphedema, and emesis. BCRL remains a challenging complication for breast cancer survivors and current treatments are suboptimal. Acupuncture is safe with minimal adverse effects. Acupuncture may be an effective method for improving the condition of breast cancer-related lymphedema. So far, the therapeutic effect of acupuncture on BCRL make it a low-cost, noninvasive part of lymphedema management. However, due to the limitations of the studies conducted in this field and the conflicting results, it is suggested to conduct more and more diverse researches in this field.

کلیدواژه ها:

Hatha yoga ، Vinyasa yoga ، pregnancy ، childbirth anxiety