Women suffering from Post-Mastectomy Pain Syndrome may have elements of reduced mobility, flexibility, and strength, that contribute to the cycle of pain. Focused physical therapy may reverse these effects and help reduce scar tissue formation around injured nerves, which can also play a role in the syndrome.
Pre-operative physical therapy is recommended to optimize the body’s condition prior to surgery. It is an important part of recovery after any surgery. Aerobic activity, stretching, and strengthening help decrease recovery time, improve functional ability, and may help reduce the incidence of chronic pain after surgery.
Post-surgery physical therapy is prescribed for women recovering from breast cancer for several reasons:
- soft tissue mobility (muscle, fascia, tendons, ligaments)
- scar tissue minimization and release
- muscle strengthening
A physical therapist dedicated to breast cancer treatment administers therapy as part of the multi-specialty team.