The proposed research training plan in this level 1 application will address the problem of lymphedema following breast cancer treatment. Training plan specific aims are to: 1) describe the physiological and pathophysiological processes relative to lymphedema; 2) critically review and synthesize theory and research related to lymphedema specifically and cancer symptom management more generally; 3) identify valid and reliable lymphedema measurement methods that can be feasibly implemented in outpatient oncology settings; 4) evaluate current treatment modalities for lymphedema; 5) examine biopsychosocial outcomes potentially related to lymphedema (e.g. altered touch, fine or gross motor movement, and sexuality); and 6) perform independent research in this area. The research question is: What is the short-term effectiveness of a multi-modal treatment regimen on reducing lymphedema and improving quality of life (QOL) outcomes when given as a first line treatment for breast cancer survivors? Research specific aims are to: 1) examine the short-term effectiveness of a multi-modal treatment regimen on reducing lymphedema when given as a first line treatment to breast cancer survivors; 2) examine tolerance to the multi-modal treatment regimen when given as a first line treatment to breast cancer survivors; 3) assess QOL outcomes associated with reduction of lymphedema.
| Ridner, Sheila H; Dietrich, Mary S (2015) Development and validation of the Lymphedema Symptom and Intensity Survey-Arm. Support Care Cancer 23:3103-12 |
| Ridner, Sheila H (2009) The psycho-social impact of lymphedema. Lymphat Res Biol 7:109-12 |
| Ridner, Sheila H; Dietrich, Mary S; Deng, Jie et al. (2009) Bioelectrical impedance for detecting upper limb lymphedema in nonlaboratory settings. Lymphat Res Biol 7:11-5 |
| Ridner, Sheila H; Dietrich, Mary S (2008) Self-reported comorbid conditions and medication usage in breast cancer survivors with and without lymphedema. Oncol Nurs Forum 35:57-63 |
| Ridner, Sheila H (2005) Quality of life and a symptom cluster associated with breast cancer treatment-related lymphedema. Support Care Cancer 13:904-11 |
| Ridner, Sheila H (2002) Breast cancer lymphedema: pathophysiology and risk reduction guidelines. Oncol Nurs Forum 29:1285-93 |
