Breast Cancer Physical Therapy
After being diagnosed with breast cancer, it will likely be recommended to either receive a lumpectomy or mastectomy. Both procedures will likely come with side effects such as limited range of motion, pain or possibly lymphedema. The Iowa Clinic Physical Therapy team is equipped with multiple dedicated Pink Ribbon Program physical therapists to help any and all breast cancer patients looking to get strength and mobility back.
Post-Mastectomy and/or Lumpectomy Physical Therapy:
PLEASE NOTE: It is important to receive approval from your doctor prior to starting physical therapy after a lumpectomy or mastectomy.
If you have received a lumpectomy or a mastectomy it’s likely that you may be experiencing a limited range of motion in your shoulder and arm(s) due to pain and tightness. Because of this, range of motion will be a big focus in therapy. Range of motion therapy could include exercises of the arms or non-weighted movement to re-familiarize your body with the standard range of motion.
Breath work may be another area of focus. By focusing on slow deep breaths while on your back, it can help to boost and promote lung function.
Lymphedema is another condition that our physical therapy team works to eliminate. Lymphedema is caused by damaged or removed lymph nodes. If removal or damage has occurred there can be an excess of lymph build up which is supposed to help the body eliminate waste. If there is excess, it can end up causing pain and discomfort or possibly even an infection.
As you tackle physical therapy after a lumpectomy or mastectomy, it’s important to be patient with yourself. Recovery takes time. Daily movement, such as a walk, will be encouraged and it’s also important to stay hydrated.
If you or someone you know would benefit from post lumpectomy or mastectomy physical therapy, call the Iowa Clinic Physical Therapy team at 515.875.9706 or schedule an appointment online.