The main thing that a physical therapy post-mastectomy program will do is help in the overall recovery process by focusing on helping you get your strength back and increase the range of motion of your shoulder and arm. We will teach you how to get back to all your normal activities pain-free with a full range of motion. Your program is always tailored to each of your specific needs.
After your mastectomy surgery, you will probably experience tightness in your shoulder, chest, and around the surgical site. This is caused by scar tissue formation. Scar tissue can become very dense tissue under the incision, which can be painful and can restrict your range of motion. This can put you at risk for a painful condition known as frozen shoulder. We will do everything to prevent this condition for you.
Numbness and/or nerve sensitivity around your surgical site can develop. We will perform manual therapy to help restore your sensation and relieve your nerve pain.
Occasionally, your doctor will need to perform an Axillary node dissection. This can lead to a condition known as cording or axillary web syndrome. Cording presents as a moderate to painful tightening from your armpit down your affected arm. It can look like you have a string of pearls under your skin down your arm. Cording will restrict your range of motion and arm function. Manual therapy, therapeutic stretching, and exercise will help to resolve this condition quickly.
Benefits of physical therapy include:
- Improved shoulder range of motion and reduce the chances of getting a frozen shoulder
- Improved shoulder strength and flexibility
- Improved functional mobility
- Improved posture and body mechanics with daily activities especially lifting
- Decreased pain, swelling, and bruising at your surgical site, chest, shoulders, and arms
- Eliminate cording (Axillary Webbing Syndrome)
- Improved sensation
- Decrease scar tissue formation
- Assist you with post-mastectomy bra and clothing fitting
- Develop your specialized exercise program
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.
- Cupping and IASTYM may also be performed
- 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.