Breast Cancer Rehabilitation
There are approximately 2.8 million breast cancer survivors in the United States. Science has allowed health care professionals to focus more on the survivorship of breast cancer than just treatment of the disease. Physical therapy can help improve quality of life after breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. We will focus treatment in areas of concern and help teach new strategies to allow improved function in all aspects of your life.
You might be a candidate for physical therapy services if you experience any of the following during or after breast cancer treatment:
- Shoulder pain, stiffness or weakness
- Poor posture
- Difficulty grooming
- Swelling in the arm or chest wall
- Scar tissue tightness or poor appearance
All treatment will take place in a private treatment room with a therapist specialized in the treatment of:
- Breast cancer rehabilitation
- Shoulder dysfunction
- Soft tissue mobility
- Lymphedema
The physical therapy evaluation will include a complete history and reconstruction discussion, thorough exam of the affected quadrant to include the upper extremity, chest wall and lymphatic flow. We will assess strength, range of motion, swelling, soft tissue mobility, movement patterns and pain.
Treatment may include:
- Education on management of limitations, postural re-education
- Manual therapy to include joint mobilizations, stretching, massage, instrument assisted manual therapy for myofascial release, lymphedema therapy
- Individualized stretching and strengthening program
- Undergarment fitting and prescription