Effects of Phase 2 of Complex Decongestive Therapy on the subcutaneous fluid volume and quality of life in individuals with lymphedema

Aim: This study was designed to evaluate the effects of Phase 2 of Complex Decongestive Physiotherapy (CDP) on the amount of subcutaneous fluid volume (SFV) and quality of life in individuals with lymphedema. Materials and Methods: The study included 21 individuals (16 with upper extremity and 5 with lower extremity lymphedema) who had completed Phase 1 of Complex Decongestive Physiotherapy (CDP) and progressed to Phase 2 at Pamukkale University Health Research and Application Center. Over an 8-week period, participants received education and follow-up on Phase 2 interventions, including the use of personalized or standard compression garments, skin care, exercise, and self-manual lymph drainage.Circumference measurements were taken using a non-elastic tape measure, SFV measurements were performed with the Moister Meter D-Compact device, range of motion was assessed with a goniometer, and quality of life was evaluated using the Lymphedema Life Impact Scale (LLIS) at three time points, every four weeks. Satisfaction/discomfort related to compression garments was assessed twice, every four weeks, using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Results: Results showed that no significant changes were observed in limb circumference measurements during the Phase 2 stage of CDP (p>0.05), while the subcutaneous fluid volumes were maintained (p>0.05). Although clinically positive changes were observed in LLIS scores, these changes were not statistically significant (p>0.05). The majority of participants reported satisfaction with the compression garment. However, this satisfaction decreased over time, and the level of discomfort increased. Conclusion: Phase 2 of CDP appears to be an effective method for maintaining edema in individuals with lymphedema in the short-term follow-up, as supported by both circumference and SFV measurements. In order for subjective assessments such as quality of life and discomfort/satisfaction to reach statistical significance, future studies are recommended to include longer follow-up periods, larger sample sizes, and consideration of individual differences.