Resource: Basic Expectations Post-Surgery
Breast Cancer Movement • 4m 20s
Always, always check with your surgeon. These are generalized expectations.
• Lumpectomy or Partial Mastectomy (with or without sentinel node removal). No activity that jostles breasts for 2 weeks. Range of motion as tolerated beginning 1-2 days post-surgery.
• Axillary Node Dissection. Elevate your arm to decrease swelling for at least 2 weeks. Avoid repetitive lifting for at least 2 weeks. Avoid heavy lifting (>2-5 lbs) for at least 4 weeks.
• Mastectomy without Reconstruction. Range of motion as tolerated even with drains in. Low impact as tolerated. Avoid heavy lifting 4-6 weeks.
• Mastectomy with Reconstruction. Do not lift shoulders higher than shoulder level or 90 degrees until cleared by surgeon. Low impact for at least 4-6 weeks. Avoid heavy lifting for at least 4-6 weeks
• Recommendations vary greatly depending on surgeon and type of reconstruction.
Up Next in Breast Cancer Movement
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Resource: Helpful Insights
Helpful Things After Mastectomy
(Lots of options… these are on Amazon )Healing Chair
https://www.healingchair.org/copy-of-volunteerWalking Sticks
https://a.co/d/2iKAzpUPort Cover for Seatbelt
https://a.co/d/3tVvHYbMastectomy Pillow for Driving
https://a.co/d/fnTcnCLMastectomy Pillow fo...
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Resource: Lymphedema
Lymphedema
-30-70% of women experience this after breast cancer treatment
-Lymphatic system is like our circulatory system for our immune system
Lymph nodes act as filters and are not able to do their job due to being removed, damaged by radiation, tumor pressing against the node, cancer cells in... -
Resource: Lymphedema Exercises
Make sure you are cleared by your surgeon to exercise. Use 1-2 lb weights, or no weights if it increases discomfort.
-Ball Squeezes with Arm Extended
-Biceps Curl (sit or stand)
-Lying Triceps Extension
-Lying Shoulder Fly
-Standing/Sitting Shoulder Flexion (Front shoulder raises)
-Shoulder Abdu...
