When people think about breast cancer treatments, physical therapy probably isn’t their first thought. However, physical therapy can play an important role in recovery from a mastectomy or lumpectomy.
A potential side effect of breast cancer surgery is lymphedema, a painful swelling of the breast, chest, shoulder, arm or hand. A specialized type of physical therapy, known as lymphedema therapy, can help manage this condition.
Rita Ator, physical therapist at ATI’s Bolingbrook West location, says lymphedema therapy is a medical necessity for many patients.
“When left stagnant, the condition will worsen, and complications can arise,” says Rita. “Infection can cause patients to be hospitalized.”
How can PT help?
At ATI, many of the lymphedema-trained therapists practice Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) which includes:
- Manual Lymph Drainage: a technique which is used to empty and decompress fluid-filled areas to allow limb to return to normal or near-normal size
- Compression Therapy: using layers of low-stretch bandages to prevent area from refilling with fluid
- Decongestive Exercises: activation of muscle and joins to increase lymph flow and minimize swelling
- Skin and Nail Care: to increase hygiene and eliminate bacterial and fungal growth in order to avoid infection
This treatment not only manages the conditions, but teaches the patient self-care options as well.