Treatment to the chest and axilla for breast cancer can lead to secondary complications in the arm like pain, reduced movement of the shoulder joint, muscle weakness, swelling (lymphedema) and difficulty to carry out activities of daily activities. The problems can persist for many years after treatment. Guidelines state that when indicated patients with breast cancer should be referred to physiotherapy early, however this is not a routine practice.
There is a need for a proactive model of care which encourages early exercise-based rehabilitation.
PT treatment includes mobility exercises and myofascial release for improving mobility and tissue extensibility. Early mobility exercises are given to prevent the development of or treat restricted arm movement and lymphedema. Muscle groups that should be targeted include the rotator cuff, serratus anterior, trapezius, rhomboids, biceps, and pectoralis muscles.
Research shows that physical exercise helps in reducing mortality and improving overall quality of life.
Aerobic exercise (walking, cycling, or swimming) has been shown to decrease tiredness, improve quality of life, reduce cognitive impairments associated with various cancer therapies, improve cardiovascular outcomes, and improve sleep issues.
CDT combines many different treatment approaches and can effectively reduce the volume of lymphedema, improve patients’ mobility and increase quality of life
It consists of:
The end of treatment does not mean the end of the journey with breast cancer.
Common side effects of chemotherapy are fatigue and a phenomenon called ‘chemo brain’ which are mental changes such as memory deficits and the inability to focus.
A Physical Capability Assessment is carried out to assist the patient with her plans to return to work. This includes workplace assessment and then an adjustment of duties is recommended to the patient.
