Lymphoedema Functioning, Disability and Health questionnaire (Lymph-ICF): reliability and validity.

Background: Lymphedema occurs frequently after axillary dissection for breast cancer and causes significant physical and psychosocial problems. To plan the treatment for lymphedema and monitor the patient's progress, arm swelling and arm function need to be assessed.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the reliability (test-retest, internal consistency, measurement variability) and validity (content and construct) of data obtained with the Lymphoedema Functioning, Disability and Health questionnaire (Lymph-ICF).

A new device to measure upper limb circumferences: validity and reliability.

Aim: The aim of this paper was to examine the reliability and validity of a new measurement device that counters the disadvantages of the traditional method of arm circumference measurements.

Methods: We measured the arm on the non-operated side of breast cancer patients. Sixty-four patients were measured twice by the same assessor and 48 patients were measured twice by two different assessors.

Physical activity levels after treatment for breast cancer: one-year follow-up.

Among patients with breast cancer, few studies have examined the pattern of change of physical activity levels over time or the predictive factors for this change. Particularly sparse are studies comparing pre-surgical physical activity levels with those 12 months post-surgery. Patients with a primary operable breast cancer (N = 267) filled in the Physical Activity Computerised Questionnaire before breast surgery and 1, 3, 6 and 12 months post-operatively.

Different physical treatment modalities for lymphoedema developing after axillary lymph node dissection for breast cancer: a review.

The purpose of this article is to provide a systematic review of Combined Physical Therapy, Intermittent Pneumatic Compression and arm elevation for the treatment of lymphoedema secondary to an axillary dissection for breast cancer. Combined Physical Therapy starts with an intensive phase consisting of skin care, Manual Lymphatic Drainage, exercises and bandaging and continues with a maintenance phase consisting of skin care, exercises, wearing a compression sleeve and Manual Lymphatic Drainage if needed. We have searched the following databases: PubMed/MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, PEDro and Cochrane.