Exercise and Compression for Lymphedema

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Is a female with a history of breast cancer;
2. Has undergone surgery, including sentinel lymph node biopsy or axillary lymph node dissection;
3. Has visible and palpable unilateral mild to moderate BCRL of at least 200 ml inter-limb volume difference (full limb) or regional lymphedema: defined as a minimal volume difference of 100 ml or 5% in a segment of the arm (e.g. hand and forearm region, elbow and upper arm) after correcting for arm dominance;
4. Has chronic lymphedema, defined as lymphedema that has been present for at least 3 months;
5. Is in the lymphedema maintenance phase of conservative treatment;
6. Uses a well fitted compression sleeve (not older than 1 month) and is agreeable to wear the sleeve for a minimum of 12 hours per day (providing a minimum of 30 mm Hg of pressure);
7. Is agreeable to discontinuing other lymphedema treatments that are beyond standard care, including manual lymph drainage and intermittent pneumatic compression during the 12-week RCT period of the study.
8. Is able to read and understand English.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Are undergoing or are scheduled to receive chemotherapy or radiotherapy
2. Presents with limb infection/ cellulitis, deep vein thrombosis, or have active metastatic disease;
3. Has any neurological or cognitive deficit, is pregnant, uses a pacemaker, or has other uncontrolled health condition that may interfere with assessment and/or the progressive resistance exercise training intervention;
4. Has any contraindications related to wearing compression on the limb, including arterial insufficiency or congestive heart failure;