The Role of Physical Therapy in Breast Cancer Recovery
Breast cancer treatment is a challenging journey. After treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation, many people experience physical side effects such as pain, lymphedema, fatigue, and restricted movement, particularly in the shoulder, neck, abdominal, and chest areas. If you or a loved on is experiencing any of these difficulties, physical therapy (PT) can play a vital role in helping people during and after treatment to regain strength, mobility, and confidence in their daily activities.
A PT specializing in pelvic health and/or oncology can create a personalized program to help ease any limitations and improve quality of life. This may include gentle stretching exercises, strength training, compression garment fitting, and hands on techniques like manual lymphatic drainage or non-painful myofascial release. PT also provides education on safe movement and activity levels, empowering patients to gradually return to their daily activities and hobbies.
The psychological benefits are equally important. PT supports emotional healing by fostering a sense of control and progress, reducing feelings of anxiety and depression often associated with the recovery process.
Incorporating PT into breast cancer recovery can significantly enhance both physical and emotional well-being, helping people regain strength and confidence. By addressing specific physical challenges and providing tailored support, PT empowers others to navigate the recovery journey with comfort and resilience.
Contact us to schedule your initial evaluation today!