Effectiveness of a group intervention protocol for individuals with lymphedema in the maintenance phase in clinical, functional, and quality of life improvement
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.25758/set.2253Keywords:
Lymphedema, Self-management, Compression, Physical exerciseAbstract
Introduction – Lymphedema, estimated to affect 140 to 250 million people worldwide, is a chronic and progressive condition that can result in considerable disability and decreased quality of life. Despite the efficacy shown by instituted treatment in Portugal, it is common to note that the results obtained are transient and short-lived. Objective – To evaluate the effectiveness of the Group Intervention Protocol for Individuals with Lymphedema in the Maintenance Phase in improving clinical, functional, and quality of life measurements, contributing to the introduction of new health technology in Portugal, to increase adherence to self-treatment and self-management in individuals with lymphedema. Methods – A quasi-experimental quantitative study was carried out without a control group, with a pre- and post-intervention evaluation that took place during 24 sessions based on education, self-measurement, self-bandaging, and compression associated with physical exercise. Clinical evaluation (perimetry and weight measurement), functional evaluation (6-minute walking test; FICSIT-4 static balance assessment scale; 30-second squat test; 30-second forearm flexion test; international physical activity questionnaire – IPAQ), and quality of life evaluation (SF-6D health gains assessment questionnaire) instruments were assessed. Results – In the first year of intervention, 22 individuals underwent this protocol, of which: 17 with lymphedema of the lower limb(s), four with lymphedema of the upper limb, and one drop-out. The intervention was effective in reducing the perimeter in the lower limbs in all the evaluated points (p’s<0.05), reducing weight (p<0.0001), increasing the distance covered in the 6-minute walking test (p<0.0001), increasing the FICSIT score (p<0.0001), in increasing muscle strength/endurance in both members (p’s<0.0001), in increasing total physical activity levels (p=0.002) and in the subjective perception on the quality of life (p=0.001). Conclusion – Since it’s not possible to extrapolate the data to the general population, the results described suggest that this type of intervention, based on a chronic care model centered on patient education and self-management, may be beneficial for individuals with lymphedema in Portugal.
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