Frequency and effective factors on musculoskeletal and upper nervous system problems caused by radiotherapy in women with breast cancer

Abstract

Knowing about the prevalence of upper limb musculoskeletal and nervous system problems caused by radiotherapy in Azerbaijan region as the north-west pole of the country, which includes a large number of patients, can be the basis for preventive measures for these people. Therefore, the present study was conducted with the aim of investigating the frequency of upper limb musculoskeletal and nervous system problems caused by radiotherapy in women with breast cancer. Methods: The present study will be a descriptive study that was conducted with the participation of 100 women candidates for breast radiotherapy. The participants were evaluated by available sampling based on the objectives of the study. Demographic information including age, weight, height, operated side, side involved in musculoskeletal problems, types of treatments performed, history of chemotherapy and number of chemotherapy sessions, number of radiotherapy sessions, diabetes, history of blood pressure, history of thyroid disorders and Smoking history was recorded. Physical tests were used to diagnose musculoskeletal problems, and the positive result of at least one test in each complication means a musculoskeletal problem in that area. Results: Prevalence of musculoskeletal and nervous system disorders of upper limbs was seen in 30% of women with breast cancer undergoing radiotherapy, the number of sessions higher than 6 sessions, chemotherapy increased the risk of shoulder problems by 3.49 times, tennis elbow by 1. 59 times and increases carpal tunnel syndrome by 4.41 times; Also, radiotherapy increases the risk of shoulder problems by 24.5 times, tennis elbow by 3.11 times, and carpal tunnel syndrome by 9.85 times.