Effects of Hydrotherapy on Unilateral Lower Extremity Lymphedema

This study included patients, with in the control group and in the intervention group, who applied to the lymphedema outpatient clinic at Health Sciences University Gaziosmanpasa Training and Research Hospital, Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation. The demographic and clinical data of the patients were recorded. Before treatment, limb volume was assessed using the circumference measurement method, quality of life was evaluated with the Lymphedema Quality of Life Questionnaire (LYMQOL), lower extremity functionality was assessed with the Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS), and exercise capacity was measured using the 10-Meter Walk Test. Patients in the control group followed only a home exercise program for 6 weeks, while the intervention group received hydrotherapy combined with a home exercise program for the same period. Hydrotherapy was conducted as 30-minute aquatic exercise sessions in groups of 5-7 participants, in a hydrotherapy pool with a depth of 130 cm and a temperature of 30-31°C, under the supervision of a trained physiotherapist. At the end of the treatment, patients were re-evaluated in terms of volume, functionality, quality of life, and exercise capacity. The two groups were compared regarding volume measurement, functionality, and quality of life