Acupuncture to reduce symptoms of lymphoedema in women recovering from breast cancer

INTERVENTION: Acupuncture. Twelve treatments will be administered over 8 weeks. Twice weekly for four weeks and weekly for four weeks. Treatment wll be administered over 45 minutes. The acupuncture points used include a selection of three points from Ren 12, 3, 2, LI15, TH4, LU5, LI4. ST36, SP9, SP6, and additional points from the subjects differential diagnosis. CONDITION: Lymphoedema following breast cancer PRIMARY OUTCOME: Arm circumference will be measured from the ulnar styloid at 10 cm intervals. Volume of extracellular fluid will be assessed using bioimpedance spectroscopy. SECONDARY OUTCOME: Change in lymphoedema symptoms will be assessed using a scale developed by Norman (adapted from the Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale). Lymphoedema Symptom Intensity and Distress Survey‐Arm and Trunk. Quality of life assessed using the self report MYMOP questionnaire. INCLUSION CRITERIA: Stable unilateral intransient lymphoedema is present for at least 6 months for women with a history of breast cancer, and: No intensive therapy (ie decongestive therapy) within the past 3 months. No infections in the lymphoedematous limb within the past 3 months requiring antibiotics, and no exacerbation that led to change in daily activities. The BIS inter‐limb threshold (determined in a healthy age‐matched cohort accounting for limb dominance for at least one 10cm segment (commencing from the ulnar styloid and proceeding up to the axilla) will be exceeded. Are available for two months –(i.e. not planning to travel or move in the next 6 months) and are able to attend an acupuncturist at least 3 times per week.