Author(s):
Meena, Kamali Kiruba, Jebakumari Sudha, Nandhini, Grace Jebakani Sweety
Email(s):
gracesweety196@gmail.com
DOI:
10.52711/ijnmr.2026.30 
Address:
Meena1, Kamali Kiruba2, Jebakumari Sudha3, Nandhini4, Grace Jebakani Sweety5
1M.Sc. (N) II Year Student, Ganga College of Nursing, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India.
2Vice Principal, Ganga College of Nursing, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India.
3Principal, Ganga College of Nursing, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India.
4Professor, Research and Developmental Cell, Ganga College of Nursing, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India.
5HOD, Research and Developmental Cell, Ganga College of Nursing, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India.
*Corresponding Author
Published In:
Volume - 5,
Issue - 3,
Year - 2026
ABSTRACT:
Chronic and progressive condition frequently observed in women after breast surgery. Lymphedema is defined as the accumulation of protein-rich fluid in the interstitial tissues, resulting in swelling, pain and reduced mobility, which may lead to impairments in quality of life. Massage-based interventions, particularly Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD), have become a significant part of the conservative treatment of lymphedema. Breast cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancer around the globe. Surgical management and adjuvant therapies have contributed to improved survival, however lymphedema remains a late complication significantly compromising long-term quality of life. Massage-based interventions, especially Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD), have emerged as essential components in the conservative management of lymphedema. Breast cancer-related lymphedema develops due to disruption of lymphatic drainage following mastectomy, lymph node removal, or radiotherapy. Studies report prevalence rates ranging from 10% to 40% among breast cancer survivors. Lymphedema manifests as arm swelling, tightness, pain, heaviness, impaired shoulder mobility, recurrent infections, and emotional distress. Since there is no definitive cure, management focuses on symptom reduction and functional improvement. Massage-based therapies have gained increasing attention as non-invasive and supportive rehabilitation interventions. Among these, Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is the most extensively studied technique. The findings consistently demonstrate that massage-based interventions, particularly when combined with Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT), significantly improve clinical outcomes. Physiological benefits include enhanced lymphatic drainage, reduced fibrosis, and improved tissue elasticity, while psychological benefits include reduced anxiety and improved quality of life. This review highlights the importance of early intervention, multidisciplinary care, and patient education in optimizing treatment outcomes. Massage-based therapies are safe, effective, and should be integrated into standard lymphedema management protocols.
Cite this article:
Meena, Kamali Kiruba, Jebakumari Sudha, Nandhini, Grace Jebakani Sweety. A Comprehensive Review on Massage-Based Interventions for Lymphedema Management in Post-Mastectomy Patients. A and V Pub InternationalJournal of Nursing and Medical Research. 2026; 5(3):139-2. doi: 10.52711/ijnmr.2026.30
Cite(Electronic):
Meena, Kamali Kiruba, Jebakumari Sudha, Nandhini, Grace Jebakani Sweety. A Comprehensive Review on Massage-Based Interventions for Lymphedema Management in Post-Mastectomy Patients. A and V Pub InternationalJournal of Nursing and Medical Research. 2026; 5(3):139-2. doi: 10.52711/ijnmr.2026.30 Available on: https://www.ijnmronline.com/AbstractView.aspx?PID=2026-5-3-10
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