A randomized trial of exercise on well-being and function following breast cancer surgery: the RESTORE trial

Objectives This study aimed to determine the effect of a moderate, tailored exercise program on health-related quality of life, physical function, and arm volume in women receiving treatment for nonmetastatic breast cancer. Methods Women who were within 4–12 weeks of surgery for stage I–III breast cancer were randomized to center-based exercise and lymphedema education intervention or patient education. Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy–Breast Cancer (FACT-B), 6-min walk, and arm volume were performed at 3-month intervals through 18 months. Repeated measures analysis of covariance was used to model the total meters walked over time, FACT-B scores, and arm volume. Models were adjusted for baseline measurement, baseline affected arm volume, number of nodes removed, age, self-reported symptoms, baseline SF-12 mental and physical component scores, visit, and treatment group. Results Of the recruited 104 women, 82 completed all 18 months. Mean age (range) was 53.6 (32–82) years; 88% were Caucasian; 45% were employed full time; 44% were overweight; and 28% obese. Approximately, 46% had breast-conserving surgery; 79% had axillary node dissection; 59% received chemotherapy; and 64% received radiation. The intervention resulted in an average increase of 34.3 ml (SD = 12.8) versus patient education ( p = 0.01). Changes in FACT-B scores and arm volumes were not significantly different. Conclusions With this early exercise intervention after breast cancer diagnosis, a significant improvement was achieved in physical function, with no decline in health-related quality of life or detrimental effect on arm volume. Implications for cancer survivors Starting a supervised exercise regimen that is tailored to an individual's strength and stamina within 3 months following breast cancer surgery appears safe and may hasten improvements in physical functioning.