This study aims to explore the effects of Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) on breast cancer-related lymphedema when utilized in conjunction with Complex Decongestive Therapy (CDT) when compared to CDT treatment alone. The investigators hypothesize that the addition of LLLT to CDT will result in statistically significant improvements and greater long-term benefits as measured by changes in arm volume and quality of life when compared to the benefits of CDT alone for the treatment of breast cancer-related lymphedema.
unilateral breast cancer with ipsilateral lumpectomy or mastectomy and lymph node dissection (sentinel biopsy or axillary dissection) stage II or III unilateral secondary upper extremity lymphedema (as defined by the International Society of Lymphology) girth ≥ 2 cm circumferential difference and/or volume ≥ 200 mL compared to the uninvolved upper extremity at any 4 cm segment able to commit to a long term follow-up schedule
Exclusion Criteria:
active cancer/metastatic cancer currently receiving or have plans for adjuvant radiation or chemotherapy pregnant presence of other extremity lymphedema (primary or secondary) pacemaker artificial joints in the upper quadrants renal failure arterial insufficiency congestive heart failure chronic inflammatory conditions history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the lymphedematous upper extremity previous treatment with Low Level Laser (regardless of indication) medication(s) known to affect body fluid balance body mass index (BMI) > 40 (morbid obesity)
