SHARES
Physiotherapy after breast surgery is an essential part of the recovery plan. People frequently ask questions about the role of physiotherapy after breast surgery, and how it can be helpful in their recovery.
Physiotherapy after breast surgery
Answers to these questions will give you a better sense of why you should undergo physiotherapy after breast surgery. Here in this article, I will attempt to answer some of the commonly asked questions:
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Is post-surgery physiotherapy applicable for all types of breast surgery?
Not all kinds of breast surgery require post-surgery physiotherapy. For instance aesthetic procedures usually do not require physiotherapy. On the other hand, surgical breast procedures would usually require physiotherapy. These include removal of a lump (lumpectomy), a breast (mastectomy) or both breasts (double mastectomy), with removal of lymph nodes, breast reconstruction or breast cancer treatments involving surgery.
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How does physiotherapy help?
Often, patients experience side effects after breast surgery. Side effects include pain, reduction in range of arm motions, as well as localised swellings due to abnormal accumulation of lymph (lymphedema). Physical therapy helps in all three areas. Your physiotherapist will tailor the physiotherapy treatment and exercise programme to match each patient’s condition and needs.
Pain – As expected, pain, tightness in the chest and under the arm can happen after any type of breast surgery. The pain and tightness are usually due to bruising, stretching or injury to nerves during surgery or even by formation of scar tissue. The tightness can cause chronic pain at a later stage. Physiotherapy aims to ease both the pain and the tightness that causes pain.
Range of arm motion – After surgery, patients experience difficulty to lift their arms above the head or behind the back. Physiotherapy exercises build up strength to restore these arm movements.
Lymphedema – Due to fluid build up when lymph nodes are removed or damaged, these swellings cause pain and is uncomfortable and infection may set in. Physical therapy reduces the swelling by improving the drainage of the lymph fluid back into the lymph system.
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What is the best time, after surgery, to start physiotherapy?
Usually the surgeon advises on the best time to start physiotherapy depending on a patient’s status. Generally, you can start physiotherapy within a week, although some people may need more time before starting therapy.
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Do I need to prepare for physiotherapy?
There is not much preparation required. However, do come in loose and comfortable clothing for your sessions.
For some, it could be helpful to practise self-help techniques such as relaxation, meditation and deep breathing exercises. These are helpful in easing pain symptoms and improve general well being.
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Besides the sessions with the physiotherapist, should I continue to do more at home?
Yes, generally, that would be helpful. Nonetheless, upon assessment, do follow physiotherapist’s advice on an appropriate home exercise programme .
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What may I expect from physiotherapy?
You can expect pain relief, increased mobility and return to baseline functional status.
Physical therapy tips
- Talk to your doctor or physiotherapist first. Don’t start an exercise plan or physical therapy without consulting your doctor and physiotherapist.
- Be patient and adhere closely to the exercises. Do not rush it as results are attained only after exercise efforts over time.
- Start moving as soon as possible after surgery. Do regular walks, walking is good for overall health and blood circulation, good for healing.
- Good hydration,.drink lots of water when you exercise.
Acknowledgment
We thank Ms Thilaga G, Physiotherapist from Virar’s Physiotherapy for contributing towards the article.
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by Aditi Upadhyay
View all articles by Aditi Upadhyay.
