PURPOSE: to assess the efficacy of Qigong exercise on microcirculation in postmastectomy lymphedema patient. BACKGROUND: Qigong is a mind-body integrative exercise originating from traditional Chinese medicine and is used to improve health and energy levels through regular training, yet its effects are not empirically assessed. Qigong may be a potentially beneficial exercise for survivors of breast cancer and could be used to regulate upper limb blood flow and decrease lymphedema. There is lack in knowledge and information in published studies about the efficacy of Qigong exercise on microcirculation in postmastectomy lymphedema patient. So, this study will be designed to provide a guideline about the efficacy of Qigong exercise on microcirculation in postmastectomy lymphedema patient. HYPOTHESES: It will be hypothesized that: It was hypothesized that Qigong exercise has no or limited effect in microcirculation in postmastectomy lymphedema patient. RESEARCH QUESTION: Does Qigong exercise an effect on microcirculation in postmastectomy lymphedema patient?
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Inclusion Criteria: * age from 25-40 years * with or without adjuvant chemotherapy/ radiotherapy * had completed conventional treatments of breast cancer * medically stable * had lymphedema, defined as a circumference difference greater than 2 cm at any point between the surgical-side upper limb and the contralateral upper limb * had no known neurological deficit resulting from breast cancer treatment. * Participants were also able to perform 18 Forms Tai Chi Internal Qigong independently. Exclusion Criteria: Participants were excluded if they: * had significant neurological, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, peripheral vascular, or kidney disorders. * had recurrent breast cancer or cancer in another organ during the study period. * did regular exercises other than qigong * smokers * received lumpectomy but not mastectomy * pregnant during the study period.