Improving Function in Chronic Lower Extremity Lymphedema Through Clinical Pilates: A Case Study

Abstract

Background: Chronic lower extremity lymphedema is a progressive condition characterized by persistent swelling, discomfort, heaviness, impaired mobility, and functional limitations. These symptoms may substantially affect balance, gait, physical activity, and quality of life. Although exercise is increasingly recognized as an important component of lymphedema management, evidence regarding the use of individualized Clinical Pilates in patients with chronic lower extremity lymphedema remains limited.

Objective: This case study aimed to evaluate the effects of a supervised Clinical Pilates intervention on edema-related symptoms, lower extremity function, functional mobility, balance, pain, and overall physical well-being in a patient with chronic lower extremity lymphedema secondary to breast cancer.

Methods: A case study design was used to document the patient's response to an individualized Clinical Pilates program. The intervention consisted of six one-on-one sessions performed once weekly under professional supervision. Exercises were individually adapted to the patient's clinical presentation and included controlled lower extremity movements, muscle activation, diaphragmatic breathing, postural alignment, balance training, core control, and progressive functional movements. Clinical observations and patient-reported changes in symptoms and physical function were documented throughout the intervention.

Results: Following completion of the six-session intervention, the patient demonstrated improvements in lower extremity mobility, balance, walking ability, and overall physical comfort. The patient also reported reduced swelling-related discomfort, improved perception of lower extremity circulation, and greater ease during functional movement. Improvements in physical confidence and tolerance for movement were also observed. No adverse events were reported during the intervention.

Conclusion: This case study suggests that individualized Clinical Pilates may be a feasible adjunctive exercise approach for addressing functional limitations and symptoms associated with chronic lower extremity lymphedema. The findings support further investigation of structured Clinical Pilates interventions using larger samples and controlled study designs to determine their clinical effectiveness and potential role within multidisciplinary lymphedema rehabilitation.

Keywords: Lymphedema; Lower Extremity; Clinical Pilates; Functional Mobility; Balance; Breast Cancer

Citation

De la Fuente-Reynoso AL, Dyall J, Peña-Zermeño LV, Menna A, Adamyk T. Improving Function in Chronic Lower Extremity Lymphedema Through Clinical Pilates: A Case Study. WebLog J Phys Med. wjpm.2026.i1005. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.22851660