Introduction: Breast cancer survivors (BCS) often experience significant physical impairments, particularly in the upper limb, following treatments such as mastectomy, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. These impairments can affect daily activities, strength, and quality of life. Modified Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) exercises and breathing exercises are potential interventions that may improve physical function, strength, flexibility, and aerobic capacity in BCS.

Aim: To evaluate the combined effect of Modified PNF exercises and breathing exercises on physical function in breast cancer survivors.

Methods: Study was a randomized controlled trial which included 30 BCS, mean aged 50 and above. Participants were randomly assigned to an experimental group (n=15) received modified PNF exercises and breathing exercises, or a control group (n=15) received only conventional exercise. The intervention lasted for 3 times in a week for 4 weeks. Outcomes were Physical function, Functional arm strength, Upper quarter flexibility, Aerobic capacity and Chest wall mobility were assessed to evaluate changes in Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire, Arm Curl Field Test, Apley’s Scratch Test, 6-Minute Walk Test, and Chest wall mobility measurement. The outcomes were assessed at baseline and post intervention.

Results: The experimental group demonstrated significant improvements in physical function, strength, flexibility, aerobic capacity, and chest wall mobility. The DASH score decreased from 50.08 ± 12.35 to 40.10 ± 10.42 (p = 0.001), arm strength increased from 13.00 ± 2.61 to 21.73 ± 3.99 (p = 0.00), and ipsilateral flexibility improved significantly (p = 0.001). In comparison, the control group showed minimal changes. These findings suggest that the combined PNF exercises and breathing exercises were more effective than conventional therapy alone.