Prevalence of Myofascial Dysfunctions in Breast Cancer Survivors

Abstract

Background: After breast cancer treatment, many complications are seen in breast cancer survivors (BCS). In that musculoskeletal dysfunctions are common. These dysfunctions are one of the common sources of pain and disability. A recent study states that extreme pain after breast cancer treatment is often. Severe pain can be a source of a lot of limitations and psychological distress. Before the time assessment and rehabilitation can be inserted to reduce pain level, improve strength and mobility which will be helpful in minimize restrictions in daily living and improve quality of life (QOL). The objectives of the study were as follows: To determine the prevalence of myofascial dysfunctions in BCS. To study the association of myofascial dysfunctions and demographic variables in BCS. Methods: A total of 74 females who underwent breast cancer surgeries along with chemotherapy or radiotherapy or hormone therapy, were included based on inclusion criteria. Subjects were assessed for pectoralis tightness, postmastectomy pain syndrome (PMPS), rotator cuff diseases, adhesive capsulitis, lymphedema and axillary web syndrome (AWS) by using Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Musculoskeletal Assessment and pectoral tightness test. Results: Primary outcomes used for the result were Musculoskeletal Assessment, Visual Analogue Scale, posture Assessment, pectoral tightness test. The most common type of myofascial dysfunctions were Pectoral tightness (p= 0.1344), post-mastectomy pain syndrome (p=0.0116), rotator cuff disease (p= 0.1344), adhesive capsulitis (p= 0.9388) and axillary web syndrome (p= 0.9193) and the result was extremely significant. Conclusion:The major postoperative myofascial dysfunctions above the age of 50 years are pectoralis tightness, rotator cuff, and then by adhesive capsulitis and that of below 50 years was adhesive capsulitis followed by lymphedema and the by rotator cuff disease.

Analysis of Spinal Dysfunction in Breast Cancer Survivors with Lymphedema

“…The muscle supporting the spine (abdominals and extensors) can be trained along with the treatment of lymphedema.Also strengthening the weak muscles and stretching of tight muscles after surgery. Physiotherapy will help to correct posture, improve mobility, strength, endurance, decrease pain,avoidance of secondary complications due to lymphedema and reduce the lymphedema (Bani et al, 2007;Kim et al, 2017;Jare et al, 2019;Jaju and Shinde, 2019).…”

Challenges and Opportunities for Breast Cancer Survivorship Care in India during Covid-19 Pandemic

“…Again this pandemic presents a unique opportunity to test the feasibility of applying e-health procedures for breast cancer survivors on a much larger and more rapidly deployed scale than previously anticipated. In India, for breast cancer survivors Qualitative work to overcome stigma, barriers to knowl- ↑ Post-operative myofascial dysfunctions (Jare et al, 2019;Jaju and Shinde, 2019;Alande et al, 2017) Availability and supply of life-saving drugs like antihypertensive, antiplatelet etc 3.…”

Estimation of Neural Tissue Mobility in Breast Cancer Survivors with Lymphedema

“…Injuries to the nerve have been reported with axillary dissection which maybe a result of positional tractioning, forceful retraction, direct laceration or contusion of neural tissue during surgery. Nerve injury can also be due to entrapment or compression related to post-operative or radiation-induced fibrosis and scarring (Jare et al, 2019;Shinde 2020;Macdonald et al, 2005). Peripheral nerves when they are subjected to trauma they become "sensitized" less tolerant to the physical stresses (compression and stretch), imposed upon them during movement.…”