Effects of Core-Focused Exercise Training and Kinesiology Taping in Women With Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema

The aim of the present study is to investigate the effects of trunk‐ focused exercisetraining and kinesiology taping, in addition to standard lymphedema treatment (complexdecongestive therapy‐CDT) on posture, pain, functionality and quality of life in womenwith breast cancer related lymphedema. This study is designed as a randomizedplacebo‐controlled trial.Lymphedema negatively affects the musculoskeletal system, leading to shoulder girdlemuscle imbalances, cervical and thoracolumbar pain, scapular dysfunction and spinalpostural alterations. Although CDT is considered the gold standard for edema management,its effects have primarily been evaluated in terms of edema reduction and symptomcontrol, and there is limited evidence regarding its impact on posture, musculoskeletalsymptoms, and quality of life, as well as the potential effects of prolonged compressionbandaging applied during the intensive phase on these systems.Trunk‐focused exercise training is expected to improve spinal stability, mobility andpostural control, while kinesiology taping may help alleviate musculoskeletal symptoms byproviding proprioceptive input and mechanical support. By combining these interventions,this study aims to provide a comprehensive rehabilitation approach targeting bothphysical and functional impairments. If additional improvements in posture, pain,function, and quality of life are observed compared to a control group receiving CDTcombined with lower extremity exercise and placebo taping, these findings will supportthe added value of a multimodal rehabilitation approach beyond standard care.The findings of this randomized placebo‐controlled trial are expected to contribute tothe literature by providing evidence for a comprehensive and holistic treatment approachin breast cancer‐related lymphedema and to support the integration of trunk‐focusedexercise training and kinesiology taping into routine clinical practice. To the best ofour knowledge, there is currently no randomized placebo‐controlled study investigatingthe effects of trunk‐focused exercise training and kinesiology taping in addition to CDTon posture, pain, functionality, and quality of life.