Breast cancer patients may face the many hurdles when it comes to surgical recovery. The body needs to heal from the removal of tissue or perhaps even a foreign object, such as an implant or expander. While your doctor may recommend a variety of treatment options, you should know breast cancer physical therapy may be an effective treatment option for you!

How breast cancer physical therapy can help speed recovery

You may not think immediately think of physical therapy as a natural part of your treatment plan. The recover challenges can be similar to orthopedic surgery patients therapists see every day. The commonality is patients choosing physical rehab to accelerate their recovery efforts by dealing with tissue healing and regaining a normal level of functionality. The big difference with breast cancer patients is the additional treatments being received, such as radiation and chemotherapy.

Breast Cancer Physical Therapy treatment plans will be customized for your unique needs. For example, if you are undergoing radiation or chemotherapy, physical therapy would then focus on tissue mobility, joint motion, strength, posture and pain management, just to name a few. Physical therapy is even beneficial in battling fatigue, general deconditioning and numerous other side effects.

Breast Cancer Physical therapy helps:

  • Regain functional movement
  • Regain strength and flexibility
  • Reduce chemotherapy-related fatigue and nausea
  • Improve tissue and scar tissue pliability
  • Improve overall quality of life
  • And much more!

You’re your #1 health advocate

For some, their doctors may not recommend breast cancer physical therapy as part of the treatment plan. That doesn’t mean it won’t be beneficial. In Arizona, patients do not require a physician referral to undergo physical therapy, unless insurance explicitly requires it. At Spooner, we offer free screenings to all members of our community, giving you a chance to ask questions and see if breast cancer physical therapy is the right fit for you.

Signs you may need physical therapy include not being able to open or close things like a door or jar, trouble lifting heavy objects such as picking up your child or a basket of laundry, or being able to reach for your seatbelt to buckle when driving, etc. These are all signs that you may need physical therapy to help you return to your previous normal quality of life.

When should I start physical therapy?

Beginning breast cancer physical therapy varies for all patients, but a general rule of thumb is that the earlier the better. Skilled physical therapists know and understand the tissue healing process, and can assist with facilitating proper healing to prevent scar tissue development, swelling and loss of strength. Typically, Spooner therapists like to see patients about one to two weeks post-op for their initial visit.

If you’re interested in learning more, including making an appointment for a complimentary screen, please contact Spooner today. We have convenient locations throughout the Valley and are here to help you in your recovery journey.

Learn more about Breast Cancer Rehabilitation at Spooner Physical Therapy. Ready to schedule an appointment? Click here to schedule an appointment or complimentary movement screen with a Spooner physical therapist at one of our locations throughout the valley.