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Evidence regarding the effects of myofascial release (MFR) on clinical outcomes in breast cancer patients is inconsistent, and its effects on muscle viscoelastic properties have not been well established.

To evaluate the effects of MFR on the viscoelastic properties of the pectoralis major (PM) and sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscles and on clinical outcomes in breast cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy.

Thirty-one breast cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy after surgery were randomly assigned to a control group (CG) or an MFR group (MFRG). Both groups performed a home-based exercise program for six weeks, while the MFRG additionally received MFR therapy twice weekly. Shoulder mobility was assessed using a digital goniometer, muscle strength using a handheld dynamometer, pain intensity using the Visual Analog Scale, quality of life using the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy–Breast, and kinesiophobia using the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia. The viscoelastic properties of PM and SCM muscles were evaluated using the MyotonPRO device.

PM muscle tone increased in the MFRG; however, no significant group × time interactions were found for PM or SCM viscoelastic properties (p>0.05). The MFRG showed significant improvements in most clinical outcomes except quality of life. Significant group × time interactions favored the MFRG for shoulder mobility, pain, and shoulder flexion and abduction strength (p<0.05). The addition of therapist-delivered MFR to home exercise was associated with greater improvements in shoulder mobility, muscle strength, and pain, but did not significantly affect PM or SCM viscoelastic properties.

The specific contribution of MFR remains uncertain due to additional therapist contact in the MFRG.

Keywords: breast cancer, myofascial release therapy, pain, radiotherapy, mobility, viscoelastic

In the early postoperative and radiotherapy period following breast cancer surgery, when aggressive stretching and strengthening exercises are generally not feasible, MFR may be considered as an adjunctive treatment method for rehabilitation. When incorporated into a home-based exercise program, the addition of MFR was associated with greater improvements in selected shoulder ROM, muscle strength, and pain outcomes compared with exercise alone. However, no significant between-group differences were observed in the time-dependent changes in the viscoelastic properties of the PM and SCM, kinesiophobia, or quality of life. Given the absence of an MFR-only comparator and the additional therapist contact in the MFR group, the specific contribution of MFR to the observed clinical improvements remains uncertain.