Caring for Breast Cancer Related Lymphedema (BCRL)
Taking an alternative approach to BCRL.
Breast cancer related lymphedema (BCRL) is a possible side effect of lymph node removal or radiation damage in breast cancer patients. The symptoms include heaviness and soreness of part or the entire arm, decreased range of motion, recurrent infections and skin thickening. Standard treatment involves exercise, physical therapy, massage therapy, lymphatic drainage and acupuncture. Although there is no cure for BCRL, a 2019 systematic review acknowledged acupuncture’s safety and effectiveness in the management of BCRL.
From a Chinese medical standpoint, lymphedema is caused by a congestion of dampness. Managing BCRL through standard care should include dietary considerations which limit damp causing foods such as dairy, refined sugar, and processed grains. According to Chinese medicine, these foods impair the spleen and its ability to transform and distribute fluids evenly throughout the body. Additionally, the following foods may be added to the diet to detoxify the system: bitter melon, kiwi, fig, watermelon, eggplant and radish.
Reference: Chien, T. J., Liu, C. Y., & Fang, C. J. (2019). The Effect of Acupuncture in Breast Cancer-Related Lymphoedema (BCRL): A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Integrative cancer therapies, 18, 1534735419866910. doi:10.1177/1534735419866910
