Evaluation of The Spurgeon Method® as a Manual Therapy Protocol to Improve Shoulder Range of Motion and Function for Postmastectomy Patients

Abstract

Study design: A single-group pretest–posttest interventional mixed-methods study with longitudinal follow-up.

Introduction: After breast cancer surgery, women often experience reduced range of motion in the shoulder and chronic pain that negatively affect mental and physical quality of life and ability to complete daily activities.

Purpose: To assess The Spurgeon Method® for improving shoulder range of motion and performance of activities of daily living in postmastectomy women.

Methods: Women recovering from breast cancer surgery were recruited from local oncology clinics, cancer centers, and breast cancer support groups. Participants had The Spurgeon Method® performed once a week for 6 weeks. This manual therapy involves a protocol to improve lymphatic drainage and address fascial restrictions in the muscles of the back, neck, shoulders, and chest. Before and after each session, shoulder abduction, external rotation, and flexion were measured. The Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QuickDASH) questionnaire was used to assess perceived changes in ability to complete daily activities and pain. The range of motion and QuickDASH outcomes were compared between the first and last sessions.

Results: Thirty-three women participated in the study: mean (standard deviation) age = 54.1 (10.2) years, range 35–78 years. Participants demonstrated improved range of motion in all planes of motion (all p < 0.03). QuickDASH scores for perceived ability to complete daily activities and pain also improved from the first session to the last (both p < 0.001).

Conclusions: Results suggest The Spurgeon Method® improved the ability of women post mastectomy to complete activities of daily living with less pain and difficulty. Given this preliminary evidence, this supports the use of targeted techniques to address restrictions commonly experienced by patients after breast cancer surgery. Occupational and physical therapists, massage therapists, and other rehabilitative professionals should consider the use of this protocol to restore range of motion of the shoulder to improve the patient’s quality of life.