The effects of post-mastectomy lymphedema on balance, Kinesiophobia and fear of falling.

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of post-mastectomy lymphedema on balance, kinesiophobia and fear of falling. A cross-sectional study with a control group. Seventy patients and 62 healthy volunteers were included. After determining the stage and limb volumes of the patients, all participants were evaluated with scales. There was a statistically significant difference in all scales compared to the control group (p < .001). There was a correlation between the stage of lymphedema and limb volume difference, balance, kinesiophobia, fear of falling (p < .001). In proportion with its stage and severity, lymphedema causes balance disorder, kinesiophobia and fear of falling.