The impact of different exercise methods on upper limb function and quality of life in breast cancer patients after surgery

OBJECTIVE: To observe the effects of different exercise methods on upper limb function and quality of life in breast cancer patients after surgery. METHODS: 185 patients undergoing unilateral modified radical mastectomy for breast cancer were randomly divided into a Yangko dance group, a Tai Chi group, and a control group. All groups received routine breast cancer rehabilitation training postoperatively. The Yangko dance group and the Tai Chi group received supplementary Yangko dance or Tai Chi exercises 10 days postoperatively, twice daily (morning and evening). Upper limb function and quality of life were assessed using the Constant-Murley Shoulder Function Assessment and the WHOQOL-BREF Quality of Life Summary at 10 days, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months postoperatively. RESULTS: Upper limb function and quality of life gradually improved in all groups over time, with the Tai Chi group showing significantly better results than the other two groups. CONCLUSION: Supplementing routine breast cancer rehabilitation training with Tai Chi exercises can further promote the improvement of upper limb function and quality of life in breast cancer patients after surgery, and is one of the more ideal rehabilitation exercise methods after breast cancer surgery.