Post-Mastectomy & Breast Surgery Care

Because women going through breast cancer treatment have unique healthcare needs, we provide specific physical therapy treatment to you, no matter where you are in the journey. We can provide specialized treatment for you after surgery, during chemotherapy and radiation, during reconstruction, and beyond to achieve :

• Improved shoulder and arm range of motion
• Elimination of Cording (Axillary Webbing Syndrome)
• Decreased pain in the breast, chest, shoulder, and arm
• Specialized exercise programs
• Fittings for post-mastectomy bras and camisoles
• Fittings for breast prosthesis (memory foam, silicone, and swim forms)
• Evaluate, educate and treat for post-mastectomy lymphedema
• Compression garment fittings (sleeves, bras, vests)
• Education in proper body mechanics.

Typical treatments from your physical therapist may include:

• Self-help techniques for pain management and mobilization.
• Hands-on treatment such as soft-tissue work, massage, gentle mobilization and stabilization exercises.
• Instruction in proper posture.
• Instruction in specific body mechanics for routine activities such as housework, job performance, and sleeping.
• Instruction in a home exercise program.

Remember, while discomfort is fairly common during cancer treatment, it should definitely not be accepted as just part of the process. To help make your recovery as pleasant as possible and facilitate a strong quality of life, pain should always be addressed and managed as quickly as possible.

Lymphedema

Lymphedema is a persistent swelling of the arm or leg, trunk or neck. Lymphedema typically occurs when lymph nodes are damaged or removed during surgery, or following infection or scar formation which blocks the lymphatic fluid flow. A person may be at risk for developing lymphedema following cancer surgery, radiation or some other form of trauma that affects the lymph nodes. Lymphedema may occur weeks, months or years after the initial injury. Therapeutic exercise, instruction in prevention, specialized massage, compression bandaging and custom made compression garments are among the treatment choices.