The primary purpose of this research was to investigate the feasibility and safety of
delivering an early supervised physical therapy intervention to women after sentinel lymph node
biopsy (SLNB); furthermore, we aimed to provide explorative data on its effects. This was a
single-site feasibility study. Pre- and post-evaluation was conducted from baseline to follow-up
at 6 months. Primary outcomes were participant recruitment, participant retention, compliance
with the intervention, and safety. Secondary outcomes were shoulder range of motion, handgrip
strength, upper limb pain and disability, scar recovery, quality of life, and the incidence of axillary web
syndrome (AWS) and/or lymphoedema. A total of 43 participants (mean age 55.37 years) completed
the trial and the follow-up period. A total of 91% of women who met the inclusion criteria agreed
to participate, and the adherence rate was 80%. No adverse events were reported. Incidence of
AWS was 9.3%, and there was no incidence of lymphoedema at 6 months. Our results support that
this intervention is feasible and safe. The results presented in this study also provide preliminary
evidence for the use of a rehabilitation program as a supportive intervention after SLNB, but future
research on effectiveness is needed.
