Breast cancer treatment is a physically, emotionally, and mentally taxing journey, not just for the patient but also for their families. While surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and other treatments are essential for eradicating cancer, they can leave patients facing a range of side effects that affect their physical health and mobility. One powerful yet often overlooked tool in the recovery process is physiotherapy.
Physiotherapy offers significant benefits both during and after breast cancer treatment. It helps reduce pain, improve strength, restore mobility, and enhance overall quality of life. Below, we will explore how physiotherapy plays a vital role throughout the breast cancer treatment journey.
During Breast Cancer Treatment
- Managing Pain and Discomfort
Many women experience pain during treatment, especially after surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. This pain can stem from tissue damage, muscle stiffness, or even nerve issues. Physiotherapists employ various techniques such as soft tissue work, stretching, and manual therapy to reduce muscle tightness and alleviate discomfort.
Additionally, physiotherapists can teach patients how to use heat or cold therapy effectively, which can provide significant relief from post-surgical pain and inflammation. - Preventing Lymphedema
Lymphedema, or swelling of the limbs, particularly the arms, is a common side effect of breast cancer treatment, especially after the removal of lymph nodes. Physiotherapists are trained to help manage and reduce the risk of lymphedema through specialized lymphatic drainage exercises, which promote the movement of lymph fluid and reduce swelling.
Early intervention through physiotherapy can prevent the progression of lymphedema and help patients maintain their range of motion.
Did you know at Cotton Mill Rehab we now have a Registered Massage Therapist who specializes in Combined Decongestive Therapy and your lymphatic system? - Improving Mobility and Strength
Surgery and chemotherapy often lead to a decrease in muscle strength and joint flexibility, which can make everyday activities challenging. Physiotherapists create personalized exercise programs to help patients rebuild strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the areas most affected by surgery or treatment, particularly the shoulders, arms, and chest. Strengthening these areas can enhance a patient’s ability to perform daily activities with more ease. - Improving Breathing and Endurance
After surgery or during chemotherapy, patients may experience decreased energy levels and endurance. Physiotherapists use breathing exercises and cardiovascular conditioning to improve stamina and lung function. These activities can help patients regain their strength and energy, allowing them to feel more capable of handling daily tasks.
After Breast Cancer Treatment
- Reducing Long-Term Pain and Stiffness
After the completion of cancer treatment, many patients still struggle with ongoing pain, muscle stiffness, or loss of mobility. Physiotherapy is key in reducing long-term musculoskeletal discomfort through targeted exercises, joint mobilizations, and pain-relieving techniques.
If pain persists, physiotherapists can help design a long-term treatment plan to manage these symptoms and improve the patient’s physical function. - Restoring Range of Motion
Following lumpectomies, mastectomies or breast reconstruction surgeries, patients often experience limited range of motion in the upper body, particularly in the shoulder and arm area. Physiotherapists work with patients to improve the range of motion through stretching, strengthening, and gentle mobilizations. This can greatly enhance functional movement, helping women return to their everyday routines and activities like driving, and lifting. - Psychosocial Benefits
A significant part of breast cancer recovery is addressing mental health. Physiotherapy can be a valuable way of rebuilding confidence. The physical achievements that come from improved strength, mobility, and pain relief can translate into emotional progress, helping patients feel more in control of their bodies and health.
Moreover, physiotherapy can provide a sense of routine and normalcy in a post-treatment world that can sometimes feel foreign. It also provides a platform for ongoing support and a connection with health professionals who can help with any concerns that arise. - Preventing Secondary Health Issues
After treatment, there’s also the risk of developing secondary health issues due to prolonged inactivity or muscle imbalances. These might include osteoporosis (weakened bones), increased risk of falls, or chronic pain from compensatory movement patterns. Physiotherapy helps address these risks by developing targeted strength and stability exercises that reduce the risk of future complications. - Returning to Physical Activity and Exercise
For many women, regaining the ability to exercise and return to a physically active lifestyle is an important aspect of their post-cancer recovery. Physiotherapists guide patients through a gradual process of resuming exercise, ensuring that it is safe and effective. Whether it’s walking, swimming, or returning to yoga, physiotherapists help patients rebuild their endurance while avoiding overexertion or injury.
The Role of Physiotherapists in Your Cancer Journey
A physiotherapist plays a crucial role not just in physical recovery but also in providing education, guidance, and emotional support. They work closely with patients, their families, and the rest of the medical team to develop a customized care plan tailored to the individual’s needs. The holistic approach of physiotherapy focuses on overall well-being, which is essential for both physical and mental recovery.
Physiotherapy, as part of an integrated cancer care plan, can significantly enhance recovery and improve quality of life. Whether it’s managing pain during treatment or restoring strength after cancer therapy, physiotherapists are essential allies in the journey back to health and vitality.
If you or someone you know is undergoing breast cancer treatment, don’t hesitate to reach out to a physiotherapist to explore how their services can complement your overall care and recovery plan. It’s a journey, and with the right support, a better quality of life is within reach.
-Hilary Veenstra, PT