The efficacy of complex decongestive therapy in the treatment of lymphedema associated with endometrial and cervical cancer - evaluation of sensation and balance

Q: What was the main purpose of this study on complex decongestive therapy?

To assess the impact of complex decongestive therapy (CDT) on proprioception, balance, light touch sensation, and two-point discrimination in patients with lower extremity lymphedema after endometrial and cervical cancers.

Q: How were patients assigned to the CDT and control groups, and how many were included?

Seventy-two patients were randomly assigned using block randomization into a study group receiving CDT (n=36) and a control group receiving no intervention (n=36).

Q: What improvements did CDT show after treatment?

Knee flexion proprioception at 15°, 45°, and 60° improved significantly in the CDT group versus control. Two-point discrimination also improved, while single-leg balance and light touch sensation did not differ significantly between groups.

Sep 23, 2026

Uploaded by Finn

Study assessed how complex decongestive therapy (CDT) affects proprioception, balance, light-touch sensation, and two-point discrimination (2PD) in patients with lower extremity lymphedema after endometrial and cervical cancers. Seventy-two patients were randomized to CDT (n=36) or no intervention (n=36) and evaluated before and after treatment using digital goniometry, single-leg balance tests, and functional chair-stand testing, alongside Semmes Weinstein monofilaments and an aesthesiometer for sensation outcomes.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryHealthcare

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Pages10

Reading Time25 min

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Abstract

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Methods

Results

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Supportive Care in Cancer (2026) 34:113 [https://doi.org/10.1007/s00520-026-10330-9](https://doi.org/10.1007/s00520-026-10330-9) The efficacy of complex decongestive therapy in the treatment of lymphedema associated with endometrial and cervical cancer: evaluation of sensation and balance Emine Cihan1 · Cansu Sahbaz Pirincci2 Received: 14 June 2024 / Accepted: 7 January 2026 / Published online: 22 January 2026 © The Author(s) 2026 Abstract Purpose This study aimed to assess the impact of complex decongestive therapy (CDT) on proprioception, balance, light touch sensation, and two-point discrimination (2PD) in patients with lower extremity lymphedema (LLL) post-endometrial and cervical cancers. Methods The study included 72 patients diagnosed with LLL, who were randomly assigned using a block randomization method into two groups: a study group (n = 36) receiving CDT and a control group (n = 36) receiving no intervention. Patients were assessed before and after treatment using a digital goniometer for proprioception at 15°, 45°, and 60° knee flexion angles, a single-leg balance test with eyes open and closed, and a 30-s chair-stand test for balance assessment. Sensation was evaluated using Semmes Weinstein Monofilaments for light touch sensation and an aesthesiometer for 2PD. Results Significant improvements were observed in knee flexion at 15°, 45°, and 60° in the study group compared to the control group (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, and p < 0.001, respectively). Although there was no difference between groups in single-leg balance with eyes open (p = 0.074) and closed (p = 0.919), improvements were noted within the study group before and after treatment (p < 0.001) . There was no significant difference between groups in light touch sensation, while the 2PD parameter improved in the study group (p = 0.012) . Conclusions CDT may not fully address sensory deficits in patients with LLL. Balance issues appear to worsen with lymphedema progression regardless of treatment. However, CDT shows promise in improving kinesthesia. Clinical Trial Registration This is listed with study ID: NCT06204510 . Keywords Lower extremity lymphedema · Kinesthesia · Two-point discrimination · Balance · Light touch sensation Introduction Lymphedema (LE) is a pathological condition characterized by the accumulation of water, salt, electrolytes, high molecular weight proteins, and other compounds in the interstitial space due to inadequate lymphatic drainage. This condition may be attributed to congenital abnormalities or acquired factors [1] . Affected patients often exhibit * Emine Cihan [pteminecihan@gmail.com](pteminecihan@gmail.com) 1 Department of Therapy and Rehabilitation, Selcuk University, Vocational School of Health Sciences, Physiotherapy Program, Konya, Turkey 2 Gulhane Faculty of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, University of Health Sciences, Ankara, Turkey increased transepidermal water loss, skin induration, and elevated water content. Hyperkeratotic tissue is a common finding in these individuals. The compromised skin in LE is susceptible to damage, resulting in diminished skin barrier function. This impaired barrier can predispose patients to heightened skin irritation, sensitization, and an increased risk of infection in the affected limb [2] . Affected skin can cause changes in various functions, oneof which is proprioception. Proprioception refers to the flow of signals from muscles, tendons, and joints, encompassing both the sense of movement and the ability to position joints (kinesthesia). Loss of proprioceptive or tactile sensory receptors in the extremity leads to a reduction in kinesthetic sensation, thereby impairing the functional capacity of the affected limbs [3] . Balance is a crucial parameter influencing the functionality of the lower extremities. Factors such as cancer diagnoses, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy contribute to reduced mobility and increased clumsiness in the lower extremiti

FAQs

What was the main purpose of this study on complex decongestive therapy?

To assess the impact of complex decongestive therapy (CDT) on proprioception, balance, light touch sensation, and two-point discrimination in patients with lower extremity lymphedema after endometrial and cervical cancers.

How were patients assigned to the CDT and control groups, and how many were included?

Seventy-two patients were randomly assigned using block randomization into a study group receiving CDT (n=36) and a control group receiving no intervention (n=36).

What improvements did CDT show after treatment?

Knee flexion proprioception at 15°, 45°, and 60° improved significantly in the CDT group versus control. Two-point discrimination also improved, while single-leg balance and light touch sensation did not differ significantly between groups.

Sep 23, 2026

Uploaded by Finn