Physical Therapy and Breast Cancer

The American Cancer Society heavily suggests beginning a regimen of exercise and movement to help you heal after breast cancer. The use of a physical therapist after experiencing breast cancer and the various options utilized such as a lymph node biopsy or removal, lumpectomy, breast biopsy, mastectomy, or breast reconstruction allows you to begin these exercises and movements under the close and watchful eye of a professional. The fact of the matter is that your body has experienced an invasive and life changing procedure. The reality is that a physical therapist can prove to be extremely helpful in regaining your strength and mobility skills. Working with a physical therapist is one of the best ways to begin your journey back to health.

When Should Physical Therapy Begin?

While every case should be treated individually, anyone who experiences breast cancer and the many different procedures involved will have the use of their arm, muscles surrounding the area, and tendons affected. Generally as early as three days after surgery it is often recommended that physical therapy begin. Your therapist will begin a specialized routine to start treating the affected areas but with the experience and knowledge of what can and cannot be done at various points of healing.

Physical therapy is an extremely important part of healing after breast cancer because you will quite probably lose or experience a decrease in the ability to use your arm and surrounding areas. Your breathing is even affected following surgery and the procedures involved. However, it is very important not to begin therapy until it is recommended by your surgeon/physician. Once you are given clearance to begin exercising, the exercises will be minimal and more focused in healing before strengthening. Each exercise and movement is created with the idea of healing and returning back to the original condition or even better than when you first had surgery. Simple movements such as lifting your arm for a number of seconds and gently returning the arm back down to your side sounds like something that you can do without a professional; however, utilizing a physical therapist through the entire healing process will give you an extra set of eyes that not only knows and understands the precautions and restrictions you need to take, but also how quickly to progress you without injury.

Why is Live Your Life Physical Therapy the Best Choice?

We have physical therapists who are highly skilled and experienced working with patients with breast cancer. We come to you in the privacy and comfort of your home.

We can help you with the following:

• Reduce swelling with gentle, natural movements of the arm that bring the lymph fluids out of your arm.
• Instruct you on breathing exercises that will help your chest expand naturally without pain as you breathe in and out; eventually working to the point of improved lung capacity
• Help to decrease numbness, stiffness, tingling, burning, and soreness all around the areas that have been affected
• Regain flexibility through gentle stretching
• Restore strength in all areas affected, including the back, shoulder, chest, and more
• Establish an extended exercise & long term treatment plan which can help not only strengthen and bring you back to health but help instill confidence.

As health professionals we not only understand but will accompany you to make you feel at ease with us as we begin putting you on the path of healing. We can help you regain your strength and help you start celebrating your life. You will have a professional companion to take you step by step through the entire healing process; because, we truly want you to Live Your Life!