Objective To investigate the effect of progressive resistance training on lymphedema status and shoulder joint function in patients with upper limb lymphedema after radical breast cancer surgery. Methods 98 cases of breast cancer patients from June 2022 to June 2024 were divided into control group (n=49) and progressive group (n=49) according to random number table method. Patients in the control group received negative pressure lymphatic reflux promotion system. The progressive group received progressive resistance training on the basis of the control group. The conditions of upper limbs and shoulder joints were compared between the two groups. Results After 2 months of intervention, the upper limb lymph flow in progressive group was higher than that in control group (P<0.05). The difference of upper limb circumference diameter and upper limb volume in progressive group were smaller than those in control group (P<0.05). The upper Limb Dysfunction Rating Scale (DASH) scores in progressive group were higher than those in control group (P<0.05). The motion of shoulder joint in progressive group was higher than that in control group (P<0.05). The shoulder joint function score of progressive group was higher than that of control group (P<0.05). Conclusion Progressive resistance training can improve lymphedema, upper limb function and shoulder joint function and mobility in patients with upper limb lymphedema after radical breast cancer surgery.