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LymphedemaNCT07919093

Comparison of the Effects of Kinesio Taping and Compression Bandaging on Edema, Range of Motion, Upper Extremity Function, and Grip Strength in Patients With Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema

A study testing lymphedema treatment in people with Lymphedema and Lymphedema Arm, run by Halic University at 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye).

Enrolling by invitation

Enrolling by invitation. The study team selects and invites participants, usually from an existing group of patients.

Sites and contacts
Official record
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Trial summary

This randomized crossover clinical trial aims to compare the effects of Kinesio Taping and compression bandaging on upper extremity edema, shoulder range of motion, upper extremity function, pain, and grip strength in patients with breast cancer-related lymphedema. Read more about this study

Who is it for?
Ages 18 to 75 years, women only
Conditions the study is for
Lymphedema, Lymphedema Arm, Mastectomy
What is being tested?
lymphedema treatment
Could I receive a placebo?
No, everyone receives an active treatment
How many people
44 participants
Where
1 siteTurkey (Türkiye)
Study dates
8 Feb 2026to Apr 2027
Phase
Interventional
Are there results?
Not yet: the study is under way

Key requirements

Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.

  • Ages 18 to 75 years
  • Women only
  • No healthy volunteers
  • Adult, Older adult

Who may be able to join

  • Diagnosis of lymphedema following breast cancer treatment (confirmed by clinical evaluation or objective measurements).
  • Age between 18 and 75 years (adult participants will be included).
  • Willingness to participate voluntarily in the study and provision of written informed consent.
  • Unilateral lymphedema (to ensure standardization of assessments).
  • Lymphedema in the chronic stage (present for more than 3 months).
  • A stable condition in terms of lymphedema treatment (no other lymphedema treatment received within the last month).
  • Sufficient functional capacity to complete physical assessments and measurements (movement limitations should not be at a level that prevents evaluation).

Who cannot join

  • History of advanced-stage cancer or active metastatic disease.
  • Presence of severe cardiovascular or respiratory disease (e.g., heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).
  • History of diabetic neuropathy or peripheral vascular disease (may affect lymphedema management due to circulatory impairment).
  • Presence of severe skin reactions or dermatological conditions (that compromise skin integrity and prevent tape application).
  • Pregnancy or breastfeeding.
  • History of allergic reactions to kinesio tape or compression bandages.
Show all 9Show fewer
  • History of lymphatic drainage surgery or other surgical intervention within the past 6 months.
  • Diagnosis of bilateral lymphedema (only unilateral cases will be included to standardize the assessment process).
  • Inability to actively participate in the study due to mental or cognitive impairment.

Trial locations and contacts

1 site in 1 country. Contact the study team or a site near you to ask about taking part.

Turkey (Türkiye)1 site
  • Istanbul University Cerrahpaşa Faculty of Medicine Hospital

    Istanbul, Bakırköy, 34149

Other trials in Turkey (Türkiye)

About this study

This randomized crossover clinical trial aims to compare the effects of Kinesio Taping and compression bandaging on upper extremity edema, shoulder range of motion, upper extremity function, pain, and grip strength in patients with breast cancer-related lymphedema.

A total of 44 participants will receive both treatment approaches in different sequences. Each intervention period will last 4 weeks, with a 2-week washout period between treatments. Manual lymphatic drainage will be applied three times per week during the intervention periods. Assessments will be performed at baseline, week 4, and week 10.

Read the detailed description

This randomized crossover clinical trial was designed to compare the effects of Kinesio Taping and compression bandaging on upper extremity edema, shoulder range of motion, upper extremity function, pain, and grip strength in patients with breast cancer-related lymphedema.

A total of 44 participants will be randomly allocated to one of two treatment sequences. In the first 4-week treatment period, one group will receive Kinesio Taping combined with manual lymphatic drainage, while the other group will receive compression bandaging combined with manual lymphatic drainage. Manual lymphatic drainage will be administered three times per week during the intervention periods.

After completion of the first 4-week treatment period, a 2-week washout period will be implemented. Following the washout period, participants will cross over to the alternative intervention for an additional 4 weeks. Participants who initially received Kinesio Taping will subsequently receive compression bandaging, whereas participants who initially received compression bandaging will subsequently receive Kinesio Taping.

Clinical assessments will be performed at baseline, at the end of the first treatment period (week 4), and at the end of the second treatment period (week 10). Upper extremity edema, shoulder range of motion, upper extremity function, pain, and grip strength will be evaluated at these time points.

The crossover design allows all participants to receive both therapeutic interventions and enables within-participant comparison of the effects of Kinesio Taping and compression bandaging. The 2-week washout period is included to reduce potential carryover effects from the first treatment period before initiation of the second intervention.

Being tested
lymphedema treatment
Keywords
Lymphedema, Kinesio taping, Compression bandaging, Edema, Mastectomy
Medical subject headings
Lymphedema, Edema

What participants receive

What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.

  • lymphedema treatmentOther

    MLD will accompany both groups throughout the intervention periods. MLD sessions will be administered by a trained physiotherapist three times per week for a total duration of 4 weeks in each treatment period.

    Kinesio taping: This technique will be applied to the edematous extremity in accordance with lymphatic drainage directions, three times per week. The tapes will remain in place for 2-3 days at each application.

    Compression bandaging: Multi-layer, short-stretch compression bandages will be reapplied after each MLD session (three times per week).

    Due to the crossover design of the study, the applied interventions will be switched between groups after the initial 4-week treatment period. Prior to the second intervention phase, a 1-week washout period will be implemented to minimize potential carryover effects from the previous treatment. No treatment will be administered during this washout period.

Study groups in NCT07919093
Study groupRoleWhat they receive
Kinesiotaping GroupExperimentalPatients with lymphedema who will receive kinesio taping treatment first, followed by compression bandaging.
Receives: Other: lymphedema treatment
Compression BandagingExperimentalPatients with lymphedema who will receive compression bandaging first, followed by kinesio taping treatment.
Receives: Other: lymphedema treatment

What is being measured

The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.

  1. Change in Upper Extremity Edema

    Arm circumference measurement was used as an objective indicator of lymphedema severity. Circumferential measurements were obtained using a non-elastic tape measure at standardized anatomical landmarks along the upper extremity. Measurements were taken at fixed intervals (e.g., every 5 cm) starting from the wrist and progressing proximally toward the elbow and upper arm.

    Values were recorded in millimeters (mm), with higher circumference values indicating greater edema severity. There is no predefined upper limit for arm circumference; therefore, larger measurements reflect increased fluid accumulation, whereas smaller values indicate reduced edema.

    To quantify lymphedema, the difference in circumference between the affected and unaffected extremities was calculated at each measurement point. A greater inter-limb difference represents more severe lymphedema, while a reduction in this difference over time indicates clinical improvement.

    Measured: The assessment measurements will be conducted before the initiation of treatment, after 4 weeks, and at week 10.

  2. Change in Pain Intensity

    The Visual Analog Scale (VAS) is a 10-centimeter horizontal line used to assess pain intensity. Scores range from 0 to 10, where 0 indicates no pain and 10 indicates worst imaginable pain. Higher scores indicate greater pain severity.

    Measured: The assessment measurements will be conducted before the initiation of treatment, after 4 weeks, and at week 10.

  3. Change in Shoulder Range of Motion

    Joint range of motion (ROM) was assessed to evaluate upper-extremity mobility in individuals with lymphedema. Active ROM measurements were obtained using a standard universal goniometer based on anatomical landmarks. Measurements were recorded in degrees (°) for wrist, elbow, forearm, and shoulder movements.

    Higher ROM values indicate greater joint mobility and better functional status, whereas lower values reflect movement limitation. As ROM does not have a single fixed maximum value, results were interpreted relative to anatomical normative values and the contralateral limb.

    A reduction of ≥10° compared with the unaffected side was considered a clinically meaningful limitation, while an increase toward normal values over time was interpreted as a positive treatment response. Each movement was measured three times, and the mean value was used for analysis. ROM assessments were performed at baseline and after each intervention period.

    Measured: The assessment measurements will be conducted before the initiation of treatment, after 4 weeks, and at week 10.

  4. Change in Upper Extremity Function

    Upper-extremity functioning was assessed using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) Functioning Scale, a self-reported questionnaire designed to evaluate physical function and symptoms related to upper-limb disorders. The QuickDASH consists of 30 items, each scored on a 5-point Likert scale ranging from 1 (no difficulty) to 5 (unable to perform or extreme difficulty).

    Item scores are combined and transformed into a total score ranging from 0 to 100, where 0 indicates no disability and 100 represents the most severe functional limitation. Higher scores therefore reflect worse upper-extremity functioning and greater disability.

    A decrease in QuickDASH score over time indicates functional improvement, whereas an increase reflects worsening functional status. The QuickDASH has no absolute clinical cut-off; however, changes of 10-15 points are generally considered clinically meaningful.

    Measured: The assessment measurements will be conducted before the initiation of treatment, after 4 weeks, and at week 10.

  5. Change in Grip Strength

    Grip strength was assessed using a Jamar hand dynamometer, a widely accepted and reliable instrument for measuring isometric hand grip strength in clinical and research settings. Measurements were recorded in kilograms (kg), with higher values indicating greater muscle strength and better functional capacity, and lower values reflecting reduced grip strength.

    Participants were seated in a standardized position with the shoulder adducted and neutrally rotated, the elbow flexed at 90 degrees, the forearm in a neutral position, and the wrist positioned between 0-30° extension and 0-15° ulnar deviation. Participants were instructed to squeeze the dynamometer with maximal effort for a few seconds. Each hand was tested three times, with adequate rest between trials to minimize fatigue, and the mean value was used for analysis.

    Measured: The assessment measurements will be conducted before the initiation of treatment, after 4 weeks, and at week 10.

Timeline

From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.

  1. First posted5 Nov 2026
  2. Study start8 Feb 2026
  3. Primary completionDec 2026 (estimated)
  4. Study completionApr 2027 (estimated)

Resources

More details

For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.

Study design
Study type
Interventional
Phase
Phase N/A
Primary purpose
Treatment
Allocation
Randomised
Intervention model
Crossover
Masking
None (open label)
Enrolment
44 participants (estimated)
IDs, dates and publications
ClinicalTrials.gov ID
NCT07919093
Sponsor's protocol ID
400
Status last verified
Feb 2026
First submitted
23 Feb 2026
Last updated
5 Nov 2026
Results posted
No
Data monitoring committee
No
FDA-regulated drug
No
FDA-regulated device
No
Individual data sharing
Yes: All data obtained from the assessment scales used in the study will be shared; however, patients' personal information, including names, surnames, and contact details, will be kept confidential. These personal data will only be shared on an individual basis if specifically requested.

Publications

  • Zuther, J. E. (2013). Lymphedema Management: The Comprehensive Guide for Practitioners (3rd ed.). Thieme Medical Publishers.

  • Selcuk Yilmaz S, Ayhan FF. The Randomized Controlled Study of Low-Level Laser Therapy, Kinesio-Taping and Manual Lymphatic Drainage in Patients With Stage II Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema. Eur J Breast Health. 2023 Jan 1;19(1):34-44. doi: 10.4274/ejbh.galenos.2022.2022-6-4. eCollection 2023 Jan.

    PubMed 36605467
  • Yang, J., & Lim, E. J. (2023). A Systematic Review of Kinesiology Taping in Patients With Lymphedema. Physical Therapy Korea, 30(4), 288-305.

  • Vignes S, Porcher R, Arrault M, Dupuy A. Long-term management of breast cancer-related lymphedema after intensive decongestive physiotherapy. Breast Cancer Res Treat. 2007 Mar;101(3):285-90. doi: 10.1007/s10549-006-9297-6. Epub 2006 Jul 7.

    PubMed 16826318
  • Tsai HJ, Hung HC, Yang JL, Huang CS, Tsauo JY. Could Kinesio tape replace the bandage in decongestive lymphatic therapy for breast-cancer-related lymphedema? A pilot study. Support Care Cancer. 2009 Nov;17(11):1353-60. doi: 10.1007/s00520-009-0592-8. Epub 2009 Feb 8.

    PubMed 19199105
  • Torres-Lacomba M, Navarro-Brazalez B, Prieto-Gomez V, Ferrandez JC, Bouchet JY, Romay-Barrero H. Effectiveness of four types of bandages and kinesio-tape for treating breast-cancer-related lymphoedema: a randomized, single-blind, clinical trial. Clin Rehabil. 2020 Sep;34(9):1230-1241. doi: 10.1177/0269215520935943. Epub 2020 Jun 24.

    PubMed 32580577
  • Thomaz JP, Dias TDSM, de Rezende LF. Effect of taping as treatment to reduce breast cancer lymphedema: literature review. J Vasc Bras. 2018 Apr-Jun;17(2):136-140. doi: 10.1590/1677-5449.007217.

    PubMed 30377423
  • Thelen MD, Dauber JA, Stoneman PD. The clinical efficacy of kinesio tape for shoulder pain: a randomized, double-blinded, clinical trial. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2008 Jul;38(7):389-95. doi: 10.2519/jospt.2008.2791. Epub 2008 May 29.

    PubMed 18591761
  • Tidhar D, Katz-Leurer M. Aqua lymphatic therapy in women who suffer from breast cancer treatment-related lymphedema: a randomized controlled study. Support Care Cancer. 2010 Mar;18(3):383-92. doi: 10.1007/s00520-009-0669-4. Epub 2009 Jun 3.

    PubMed 19495810
  • Taradaj J, Halski T, Zdunczyk M, Rajfur J, Pasternok M, Chmielewska D, Piecha M, Kwasna K, Skrzypulec-Plinta V. Evaluation of the effectiveness of kinesio taping application in a patient with secondary lymphedema in breast cancer: a case report. Prz Menopauzalny. 2014 Mar;13(1):73-7. doi: 10.5114/pm.2014.41082. Epub 2014 Mar 10.

    PubMed 26327833
  • Stanton AW, Northfield JW, Holroyd B, Mortimer PS, Levick JR. Validation of an optoelectronic limb volumeter (Perometer). Lymphology. 1997 Jun;30(2):77-97.

    PubMed 9215977
  • Smykla A, Walewicz K, Trybulski R, Halski T, Kucharzewski M, Kucio C, Mikusek W, Klakla K, Taradaj J. Effect of Kinesiology Taping on breast cancer-related lymphedema: a randomized single-blind controlled pilot study. Biomed Res Int. 2013;2013:767106. doi: 10.1155/2013/767106. Epub 2013 Nov 27.

    PubMed 24377096
  • Sibbald, B., Roberts, C., & Moore, L. (2019). Principles of randomised controlled trials. In J. M. Bland (Ed.), An Introduction to Medical Statistics (4th ed., pp. 123-140). Oxford University Press.

  • Pekyavas NO, Tunay VB, Akbayrak T, Kaya S, Karatas M. Complex decongestive therapy and taping for patients with postmastectomy lymphedema: a randomized controlled study. Eur J Oncol Nurs. 2014 Dec;18(6):585-90. doi: 10.1016/j.ejon.2014.06.010. Epub 2014 Jul 21.

    PubMed 25066648
  • Opuchlik, A. M., Biskup, M., Solakiewicz, M., Kamińska-Gwóźdź, E., Ridan, T., Włoch, A., & Lipińska, A. M. (2014). A comparison of the effect of the application of kinesiology taping to the use of upper limb compression products in the second phase of treating lymphoedema in patients after mastectomy. Medical Studies/Studia Medyczne, 30(3), 188-195.

Questions about this trial

What is this clinical trial studying?

A study testing lymphedema treatment in people with Lymphedema and Lymphedema Arm, run by Halic University at 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye).

The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.

Who may be eligible to take part?

The sponsor lists 7 inclusion and 9 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.

Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?

The record says: enrolling by invitation, as of the sponsor's last update on 5 Nov 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.

Where is the study taking place?

The record lists 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye). Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.

What are the possible benefits and risks?

They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.

Are results available for this study?

This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.

How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?

The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.

What does the primary outcome measure?

Change in Upper Extremity Edema (time frame: The assessment measurements will be conducted before the initiation of treatment, after 4 weeks, and at week 10.). The study lists 5 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.

Where can I read the original study information?

On the ClinicalTrials.gov record for NCT07919093, which also lists 39 linked publications.

Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?

No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.

How often is this information updated?

AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 5 Nov 2026.

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