Choosing a mastectomy or breast reconstruction is a courageous decision that many women make every day. But it can be a daunting choice, especially if you don’t know what the healing process will look like after surgery. Today, I want to talk to you about the benefits of physical therapy and how this incredible tool can help women recover from mastectomies faster, reduce pain, and restore optimal function and movement. Keep reading to learn why you should consider physical therapy as an integral part of your journey after breast surgery.
What Happens During Breast Surgeries
During mastectomy or breast reconstruction surgeries, skilled surgeons make incisions into the skin and tissues of the chest. While these procedures are essential for medical reasons, the healing process creates scar tissue that can potentially limit movement and function of the arms and chest. Additionally, there is a risk of nerve damage that can lead to pain or discomfort in the chest and surrounding areas. Even in a textbook perfect mastectomy or breast reconstruction, there can still be lingering discomfort or reduced mobility long after you’ve healed.
Why Physical Therapy Is Vital for Recovery from Mastectomy
Physical therapy plays a crucial role in mitigating the challenges women face after mastectomy and breast reconstruction. This is because PTs are movement specialists who understand the complex structures of the body and know how to significantly impact the recovery process through:
- Pain reduction. Physical therapists use proven techniques to manage and alleviate post-surgical pain and promote a more comfortable recovery.
- Scar tissue management. Through specialized exercises and manual therapy, physical therapy helps minimize scarring and tightness to enhance mobility and range of motion.
- Strength restoration. With any surgery, your muscles can get weak from disuse while you’re healing. We teach you simple exercises designed to rebuild strength in the chest and surrounding area to ensure you can gradually regain your strength and return to normal activities.
- Improved circulation. Physical therapy interventions focus on enhancing blood circulation, which aids in the healing process by reducing swelling.
- Range of motion enhancement. Through simple stretches and manual therapy techniques, physical therapists help you restore your full range of motion, reduce stiffness, and enhance flexibility.
Common Questions About Mastectomy and Breast Reconstruction
Here are some common questions that physical therapy patients often ask about mastectomy and breast reconstruction:
Can physical therapy help with post-mastectomy pain?
Absolutely. Physical therapy interventions can effectively manage and reduce post-surgical pain to improve your overall comfort during the recovery period.
Will I regain full mobility after breast surgery?
With the right physical therapy regimen, many women experience significant improvements in mobility and range of motion that allow them to resume daily activities with greater ease.
How soon can I start physical therapy after surgery?
The timing for starting physical therapy varies, but it’s generally recommended to begin as soon as your surgeon gives the green light. Early intervention can positively impact the recovery process.
Call Rebound to Get Back in Action
If you’ve undergone a mastectomy or are scheduled for one, don’t hesitate to reach out to Rebound Physical Therapy. Our dedicated women’s health specialists are here to support you on your journey to a faster and more effective recovery. Call Rebound at (785) 271-5533 if you have any questions or if you’d like to schedule an evaluation, and we’ll help you get back in action.
