The effects of upper versus lower extremity resistance training in patients with breast cancer: a systematic review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.2340/1651-226X.2025.44387Keywords:
Breast Cancer, Resistance Training, Upper Extremity, Lower Extremity, Quality of Life, Muscle Strength, Exercise Capacity, Adverse EffectAbstract
Purpose: The aim of this systematic review was to analyze the effects of upper, lower and upper-lower extremity combined resistance training (RT) in breast cancer survivors.
Methods: A systematic literature search was performed using ClinicalTrials.gov, Cochrane Library, PubMed, Scopus, EBSCO, and Web of Science databases. Randomized controlled trials published between 1970 and April 30, 2025 comparing upper extremity RT, lower extremity RT and combined upper and lower extremity RT; comparing upper extremity RT and/or lower extremity RT in the experimental group and no RT in the control group or the sham group in the control group were examined.
Results: We included 16 studies with 1,207 participants. Upper extremity RT training programs reduce shoulder pain, arm disability and improve upper limb muscle strength. Lower extremity RT training programs improve maximum strength, level of physical activity (PA), 6-minute walking test (6MWT) distance, muscle fatigue indicators and maximal voluntary isometric contraction values. Combined upper-lower extremity RT trainings enhance 6MWT distance, muscular strength, walking speed, body image, and reaction time.
Interpretation: Upper, lower, and combined upper-lower extremity RT programs can be beneficial rehabilitation therapies for breast cancer survivors. As the effects of the type of RT are different from each other, the specific needs of each patient should be considered while designing the ideal RT in breast cancer survivors.
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