The breast cancer journey can be challenging. Treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy can be lifesaving, but they often come with lasting side effects. Breast cancer treatments can have a range of side effects, and these often depend on the type of treatment.
These side effects might include:
- Treatment-induced fatigue
- Muscle weakness and deconditioning
- Shoulder movement limitations and/or pain
- Lymphedema
- Scar tissue
- Rounded shoulder posturing
- Cording or Axillary Web Syndrome
- Neuropathy and balance issues from chemotherap
Some of these effects— like pain, stiffness, scaring, swelling, and fatigue—may not be the initial focus during active treatment- but they matter deeply in recovery. Our occupational & physical therapists with specialty certifications and advanced training can provide personalized care to help you move better, feel stronger, and restore quality of life.
Targeting Stiffness and Pain
- Post-Surgery Pain: After surgeries like mastectomy or lumpectomy, it’s common to feel discomfort at the surgical site. This can range from general soreness to more localized sharp pain. If lymph nodes are removed during surgery, pain or stiffness in the arm or underarm area is also common. We offer gentle, effective strategies for relief and healing.
- Stiffness in the Shoulder/Arm: After surgery, especially if lymph nodes were removed, you might experience stiffness in the shoulder or arm due to scarring and limited range of motion. This is common in the first few weeks after surgery but can persist without proper rehabilitation. Our team helps restore movement, reduce tension, and prevent long-term complications.
- Nerve Damage: In some cases, nerve injury during surgery (such as axillary nerve damage) can lead to persistent numbness, tingling, or sharp pain. We address these symptoms with skilled manual therapy, desensitization techniques, and customized exercises.
Targeting Lymphedema
Lymphedema is a common condition that can develop after breast cancer treatment, particularly if lymph nodes were removed or irradiated during surgery. It occurs when there is an accumulation of lymph fluid in the tissues, causing swelling and discomfort, usually in the arm, breast, or underarm. Breast cancer survivors often find this impacts their overall quality of life.
Our specialized breast therapy team provides individualized care tailored to the cancer patient and survivor. We are dedicated to reducing current symptoms while minimizing the risk of long-term complications. Our therapy team collaborates closely with referring providers to ensure we provide personalized care to meet each patient’s needs and goals. From home exercise programs to compression garment fittings, we want to ensure you move and feel your best throughout your journey.
Targeting Scarring
Scarring is also common, particularly after surgery and radiation. We understand that it is an important part of recovery for functional movement, comfort and cosmetic reasons. Scars can lead to tightness, pain, reduced range of motion, and emotional distress. Our advanced scar management techniques focus on improving tissue flexibility and appearance to help patients along their healing journey.
