Effect of Thera-Band Versus Swiss Ball Exercises on Postural Stability in Post Mastectomy Lymphedema

Participants in the first experimental group performed a Thera-Band exercise program 3 sessions weekly, for 8 weeks with progressive resistance, divided into four 2-week phases. Each 60-minute session included a 10-min warm-up (walking, jogging, and calisthenics), 45-min Thera-Band exercises, and 5-min cool-down. Phase 1 focused on major muscle groups (e.g., shoulder press, biceps curl). Phase 2 included trunk and leg-focused moves (e.g., reverse flies, lunge). Phase 3 added advanced resistance (e.g., chest press, deadlift). Phase 4 targeted core and lower body (e.g., diagonal chop, squat). Exercises changed every phase to progressively strengthen different muscle groups.

Participants in the second experimental group performed Swiss ball exercises 3 sessions weekly, for 8 weeks. Exercises included warm-up (15-5 mins), core Swiss ball training (progressing from 1 to 4 sets), and cool-down. Each session focused on abdominal, back, leg, trunk, and balance training using varied exercises performed for 30 seconds with rest. Exercise intensity ranged from 80-95% of max effort, increasing weekly. The Swiss ball size was selected based on patient height to ensure proper posture. Sessions gradually increased in duration and difficulty, ending with breathing and stretching for recovery.

Participants in both experimental groups performed a traditional physical therapy program in the form of complex decongestive physical therapy(CDPT), including (manual lymphatic drainage, compression, exercise and skin care) and balance training, 3 sessions weekly, for 8 weeks.