Effects of Tuina Combined With Moxibustion on Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema: A Randomized Cross-Over Controlled Trial

Abstract

The objective of this study is to evaluate the effect of Tuina combined with moxibustion on relieving breast cancer–related lymphedema (BCRL). A randomized cross-over controlled trial was conducted at our institution. All patients with BCRL were assigned to 2 groups: Group A and Group B. In the first period (weeks 1-4), tuina and moxibustion were performed in Group A and pneumatic circulation and compression garment in Group B. The washout period took place from weeks 5 to 6. In the second period (weeks 7-10), pneumatic circulation and compression garment were performed in Group A, and tuina and moxibustion in Group B. Therapeutic efficacy was evaluated by measuring the affected arm volume, circumference, and Visual Analog Scale for swelling. Regarding the results, a total of 40 patients were included, and 5 cases were dropped. After treatment, both the traditional Chinses medicine (TCM) treatment and complete decongestive therapy (CDT) was found to reduce the volume of the affected arm ( P < .05). At the endpoint (visit 3), compared with CDT, the effect of the TCM treatment was more evident than that of CDT ( P < .05). After the TCM treatment, the arm circumference at the elbow crease and proximal 10 cm to elbow crease was reduced, which was statistically different from that before treatment ( P < .05). Post-CDT treatment, the arm circumference at proximal 10 cm to wrist crease and the elbow crease and proximal 10 cm to elbow crease decreased, which was statistically different from that before treatment ( P < .05). At the endpoint (visit 3), the arm circumference at proximal 10 cm to elbow crease of the patients treated with TCM was less than that of CDT ( P < .05). Moreover, the VAS scores for swelling were better after compared with before TCM treatment and CDT ( P < .05). At the endpoint (visit 3), the subjective relief of swelling by TCM treatment was greater than CDT ( P < .05). Ultimately, tuina combined with moxibustion can alleviate BCRL symptoms, which is primarily reflected in reducing the affected arm volume and circumference and relieving swelling. Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (Registration Number ChiCTR1800016498).