Range of Movement Exercises After Breast Cancer Surgery

[@TanKahChoo-s8j]

A very helpful video. Thank you so much! Was afraid to do the 4 exercises taught by my therapist more than 5 t imes a day as instructed. Video gives me more confidence to do more .

[@tiffanytempleton2201]

Just had my double mastectomy last week and had my last drain removed today! Looking to get myself moving and start my life after cancer treatments. Thank you

[@anng.r.687]

This is soooooo helpful. My surgeon is meticulous at what she does but left me in the dark about movement after surgery or what issues are considered ‘normal’.

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Thank you for the lovely feedback Ann! I've launched a Private Group on Facebook 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with free weekly live education sessions and Q&A. There is much more interaction on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity

[@susanwhite6761]

Same here!

[@cristielstone5449]

Thank you so much for all of this info. I had a bilateral mastectomy with 3 lymphnodes removed as well on February 1st, I just passed the 3 week mark and will begin these exercises today.

[@FiLumsden]

Thank you so much for this. I have had so little advice post surgery and felt very lost about what I should and shouldn't be doing. Feel more in control of my recovery.

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Thank you for your lovely feedback! I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity

[@tmp-r2j]

Same here.The surgeon never mentioned exercise.I am just checking things to do after surgery on my own.

[@tmp-r2j]

​​@@TheBreastCancerPhysioI have sent a request to join the group.Appreciate all your videos.Thank you so much.😊

[@emilym8439]

This video was beyond helpful AND came at JUST the right time, though of course I wish I'd found it sooner. Thanks immense for your sweet delivery on such a wild subject. Cheers!

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Thankyou so much for your feedback Emily, I really appreciate it! I've started filming a series of videos on improving range of movement after Breast Cancer so watch out for them! Jen x

[@amylai2123]

Thanks for your help 👍, I just do the surgery on Monday.

[@thelittletrujillo7932]

Thank you! This video is so helpful! It’s hard to say how I feel about my doctors. They do really well but don’t talk, explain and break everything down for you. Just as you said I was worried about injury or damaging my surgery outcome. I also did get major neck and back pain from non movement. At my 3 week appointment when my doctor was making me feel stupid for most ?s I asked….seems common, you can’t say at all you read/heard online w out pretty any much doctor seeming annoyed or dismiss w out hearing what your saying. I My 3rd ? Was physical therapy or stretches and how tight and stiff I was especially on the side w lymph node biopsy under arm. He acted surprised I wasn’t moving more and asked “didn’t anybody show you the wall crawl?”…no?! That’s why I’m asking. He acted like it being hard was stupid and told me no more restrictions but not overdo it I just had a major surgery 3 weeks prior. ….so basically I still don’t know what I can and can’t do. Iv returned to housework but just try to be slower. I have major issues taking any meds since surgery and lidocaine patches have been AMAZING…but he refused to give me any and I don’t want to take any more from my mother in law. He’s my second doc in his field and I have a plastic surgeon too I’m going to try and have him break down things for me better but this video is helping until then! I hate how I have a team of doctors and nurses but feel so uninformed on so much. Thank you thank you again 💖

[@jamaicanradio7963]

Just 3 wks since my mascetomy.was not given any info neither just sent home with some exercises to do hence my searching the web.this was awesome info!

[@mckdi1377]

Thank you! I've been using my arm all along, BUT I was not sure how well I was doing, until I found this video! It's been 4 weeks. I feel good that I can do all these with 20 reps!

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Hi McKDi! Thanks for your lovely feedback. I've launched a Private Group on Facebook 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with free weekly live education sessions and Q&A. There is much more interaction on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity

[@oconnell55]

Fantastic video - I wish I was given these instructions by my care team.

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Thanks again Erin x Really encouraging for me to make more videos for you! x

[@pamjones3377]

I’m having a mastectomy in a few days, and have saved this video to my library as it looks just right. I’m a qualified yoga teacher, and all of these moves are familiar to me. Thank you for this.

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Hi Pam! I hope everything went really well with the mastectomy. Your background as a Yoga teacher will definitely come in handy! Movement is gold! Thank you for watching. Jen x

[@Sacredly_sarah]

I’m having a double mastectomy in a couple weeks, I’m grateful for this video

[@ing3666]

Oh my word, thank you! Before my surgery it was information overload. I am just barely over two weeks from having my surgery and I believe I have cording. But I have a lot of range of motion in my arm (not straight out going above my shoulder), neck and shoulder. I’ve been doing as much as I can and have PT tomorrow morning. Thank you again!

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Hi! So sorry again for my slow reply. I hope everything is progressing well following your surgery. Thank you for your comments and positive feedback - really appreciate it! Jen

[@Victorias_Gems]

I’m so thankful that i found you. Your videos are so helpful. Thank you.x

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Thankyou Victoria!! So glad the videos are helping! Jen x

[@bunibabe01]

Thank you very much for uploading this video. I was recently diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer and had a mastectomy done 2 weeks ago. Stumbled upon this video while searching for ways on how best to take care of the surgical drain and post-operative exercises. Drainage is still above 35ml per day after 2 weeks so was very keen to see how to expedite the drainage. Hope these exercises could help to reduce the drainage and eventually have the drain removed.

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Thank you for your lovely feedback! I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity

[@petafavier388]

Such great videos. Straight to the point, easy to follow and very encouraging. Thanks so much,

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

You're so welcome and thank you for the lovely feedback. I have a Private Group on Facebook 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with free weekly live education sessions and Q&A. There is much more interaction on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity

[@fabhabfan1]

Great video! Hello from Canada!! I had a mastectomy 6 days ago and started exercises the next day after my surgery!! It has made a huge difference...even in a few days!! I also started short walks yesterday!!

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Thankyou so much for watching my videos and commenting! So pleased to hear you are doing well after your surgery!! Jen x

[@shellybanks4202]

Thank you! This was so helpful after my double mastectomy.

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Thanks for your lovely feedback Shelly! I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity

[@carolinedourley8250]

This video really helped me. I haven't been doing any exercises and was having more pain which was exactly as you described. This video helped me get moving again.

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Hi Caroline! Fantastic to hear this video helped you. I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity

[@tjones4582]

Hello, thank you so much for leaving the videos up! Some of us justdon't feel comfortable with signing up for another social media platform like Facebook, but this is really valuable information. Your videos have been very helpful, and I have directed other patients here to your site as well. Blessings!!

[@raylenesrhoj1926]

Thank you so much - you explained so much and in a very easy to listen to and understand way. Much appreciated. x

[@desahastie8237]

Thank you. This is great! Thanks for sharing your knowledge 🙏

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Thank you Desa! Appreciate the lovely feedback. I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity

[@MelanieGriffiths-nd3yk]

Very helpful and reinforced other exercises I do!!!

[@miriammagbanua5269]

Great video! Really helps a lot.I just had mastectomy! Thank you so much from Hong Kong!

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

My pleasure Miriam! I've launched a Private Group on Facebook 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with free weekly live education sessions and Q&A. There is much more interaction on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity

[@angiegriessel1570]

Thank you for an informative video.

[@mssdn8976]

Thank you. I do yoga classes which includes lots of stretching. I’m hoping that it will help me post surgery, when I’m able. I’m getting as fit as possible before my surgery in about 10 days

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Yoga is such a fantastic form of Exercise and your goal of getting fit prior to surgery is a very sensible one!! Keep up the good work! Jen x

[@barbarasmith3768]

Hi Jen, thank you for this great information! I just had a lumpectomy and 3 lymph nodes removed 4 days ago, and was wondering what I should be doing for recovery. I will definitely be doing these exercises!

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Hi Barbara, so sorry for my delayed reply. Thank you for your lovely comments. I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity

[@sheiladunnell3942]

Thank you for this information

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

You're very welcome Sheila! If you'd like more support I have a Private Group on Facebook 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with free weekly live education sessions and Q&A. There is much more interaction on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity

[@helengauperaa4319]

I've watched several of your videos and have found them enormously helpful, explaining to me things I can do to help ease cording and increase ROM, almost a year after surgery with I have to say, poor follow up and little in the way of advice. I'm hoping that even at this later stage I'll be able to shed the "octopus" feeling I have in my chest after mastectomy and lymph node removal. Thank you

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Thankyou so much for your lovely comments Helen! I really appreciate your feedback. Let me know if the octopus doesn't go away and I'll see if I can help! Jen x

[@donnaeiler8945]

I was surprized I wasn’t given anything to do after surgery. I just had my post op and my surgeon mentioned the crawling up the wall but nothing else. I have radiation next so I need to regain motion. Ty 💕

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Thank you for your lovely feedback Donna! I've launched a Private Group on Facebook 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with free weekly live education sessions and Q&A. There is much more interaction on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity

[@sc5233]

Great information! Thank you!

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Hi S C, Thank you for your lovely feedback! I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity

[@cotter9751]

Thanks for the variety of videos you've posted. I've reached out to join the FB group you run.

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Awesome! Hope you enjoy The Compass Community! Jen

[@elizabethnewton2217]

Just had a mastectomy and I'm stiff, have swelling under the arm etc. I know I have to get moving but you kind of worry you're going to damage something if you do too much too soon. Wasn't given much advice about exercises but thankfully people like you are here to help and I appreciate it very much, thank you

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Hi Elizabeth, thanks for your lovely comments. So many women tell me the same thing - that they are genuinely not sure what they can do regarding exercise and movement. I hope this video has helped! I've launched a Private Group on Facebook 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with free weekly live education sessions and Q&A. There is much more interaction on this platform. If you would like to join please click on this link: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity

[@elizabethnewton2217]

@@TheBreastCancerPhysio thank you I’ll check it out now. And fyi, after just one day doing more exercises, I feel like I’ve hit a turning point and everything is improving

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

@@elizabethnewton2217 fantastic!!

[@sandylee1717]

Excellent information

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Thank you for your lovely feedback! I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity

[@sitalinawaqa77]

I love this video as I m a breast cancer patient n I really need guidance to improve physically as I sometimes have. Pains alotfor awhile I m concerned but feel better.

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Thanks so much for watching Sitalina! Great that you found the video helpful! Jen x

[@chriswalton1523]

Your videos are great and really helped me. Could you extend your advice to the after effects of the diep flap surgery on the abdominal wall muscles? How to strengthen them and when?

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Hi Chris! Sorry for my slow reply. Thanks so much for your lovely comment. Definitely can do a video on DIEP Flap Reconstruction and Post Op Recovery - super video topic! I will get onto this ASAP! Will try to get this up in around 3 weeks for you. Jen x

[@Elaine-w2s]

very informative!

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Thank you Elaine! I have a Private Group on Facebook 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with free live education sessions and Q&A. There is much more interaction on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity

[@Elaine-w2s]

@@TheBreastCancerPhysio i will follow

[@mitatrivedi6497]

Good explanation

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Thankyou for your lovely feedback! I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity

[@MelanieGriffiths-nd3yk]

Very good

[@GeorgieWesterman-m6m]

Haw can I exercise after sarcoma aspiration

[@hawasattar2241]

Thx for this vid. Very informative. I will heed.

[@susanhenthorne3539]

Thank you

[@Sunsetimel]

Still do them months after takes time to get full movement

[@kaydsmith757]

Great article. I learned things I was never told.

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Thank you Kay! Appreciate the feedback. I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity

[@nicolemontesinos6866]

I love all your videos and I am still nervous about the required pt routine. I have been walking daily. Still in pain.

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Hi Nicole, thanks for your lovely feedback! I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity

[@esthermora9127]

thank you.

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Thank you Esther! I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity

[@LondonMusicPsychology]

Great tips thanks a lot

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Thankyou! 🙏

[@malikalalji]

Hi, this was so useful.. after recovery. Can I go back to my normal workouts weights and exercises.

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Hi Malika, thanks for your lovely feedback. I will put another KZbin Video link below re weights and exercise. I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/bHe8iGObrdWIitE

[@kathirito6852]

This video was great. I was doing well but radiation has really set me back. I have to start working hard because I have been not moving at all due to pain and the large burns under and on the side of my breast.

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Thank you for your lovely feedback! Were you provided a barrier cream for Radiation treatment, such as StrataXRT? And have you been prescribed healing creams to allow the burns to settle? If not, ask your Radiation Oncologist / Nurses about these options. If you can reduce the discomfort with the burns it will make movement much easier. I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity

[@christinaprearis1787]

How soon can I start arm excersises?? I was released the 12th of December 2024 from a mastectomy surgery. I have an expander implant andnj am slowly going to have it filled this Monday

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Hi Christina, I would check with your Breast Surgeon as to how soon they are happy for you to start exercise. Typically we wait until around 4 weeks before commencing any exercise following breast surgery and expanders. I have a Private Group on Facebook 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with live education sessions and Q&A. There is much more interaction on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity

[@dianeneault6251]

When you say early, before or after removal of drains ??

[@sadikikobe7674]

Tank you sooo much

[@SheliaOlive-yx8bp]

Is it possible to have cording 8+ years after breast cancer surgery?

[@dmaniax2817]

Can I do this even 3 years after surgery

[@susanwarren3834]

11 wks ago..lumpectomy!! TY..!

[@MicheleKWilliams]

Thank you for all your helpful videos. I am 6 weeks out from a bilateral mastectomy, with axillary node dissection, and am preparing to start radiation therapy in 2 weeks. I just recently started physical therapy due to cording and tight range of motion. My question to you is focused on my pectoral muscle tightness (not necessarily shoulder) bilaterally. When I went for my CT Simulation for my markings, I was EXTREMELY tight and had difficulty getting into and holding position. Are there stretches you could recommend that target the pectoral muscles?

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Hi Michele, here is my video on my top 5 stretches after Breast Cancer which includes the pectoralis stretches. It is very common to become tight through pectoralis: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oH6upYl5f9qggc0

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Also, I've launched a Private Group on Facebook 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with free weekly live education sessions and Q&A. There is much more interaction on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity

[@alicias312]

Michele …,You literally described a lot of what I am going through right now. However, from the time I left the hospital after my mastectomy, I started the recommended exercises. However by the third week, cording started. So disappointed as it is so painful. I’m four weeks out now and started PT as I cannot start radiation until this arm gets out of the way. I pray these exercises help. Lifting this arm has me in tears just about when trying to lift the arm straight up. I’m so thankful I found this video. Thank you for providing this information. So helpful.

[@maggiemerrill3721]

Do you recommend seeing someone like your self before a lumpectomy?

[@Barbara-k8o]

Thank you I have been doing the exercises and now have good movement I just want to mention I am 85 and maybe you could keep in mind us older women listening cheers Barbara

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Great job! Thank you for your lovely feedback! I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity

[@robertsandraflanagan6707]

I am a physio who has just had a lumpectomy, with a double sentinel removal a few days ago ago.. I will be receiving radiation radiation in time. This unfortunately is my dominent side. Approximately when would l be able to return to work?

[@jamiewarkentine7108]

You did mention the slumping exercise will help the rib area and I was wondering what other tips you might have for tender a rib that also seem to be flared out after a single mastectomy and two axillary surgeries ?

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Hi Jamie, thanks for your question. When you say flared out do you just mean the shape of the rib? As in the appearance of the rib seems flared? Jen

[@CarinBotha-t5c]

I had a Lumpectomy about a year ago. My Surgeon did not give me any exercises after I had my operation. I have Fibrosis in my armpit as well as in my breast as well as scar tissue, which causes pain. What can I do to help reduce the pain or reduce the hardness I am from South Africa. Thank you in advance.

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Hi, thanks for your question and sorry for my slow reply. I'm sorry to hear you were provided no information on treating scar tissue. I would suggest watching my other videos on How to Treat Radiation Fibrosis, and How to Treat Scar Tissue. If you would like to do a on-one-one Telehealth with me you are welcome to email me: [e-mail] I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity

[@suzanneturley4433]

Pre cancer diagnosis I was having back and shoulder massages as my shoulders and upper back knot frequently. As this means that I lie on my front, when can I restart this treatment again please? I had a mastectomy three weeks ago.

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Hi Suzanne, just double check with your medical team that you are cleared for shoulder / upper back massage but around the 4 week mark I would suggest you could return. Jen

[@IreneWilliams-y3n]

Just had my drain removed but I have fluid trapped causing me destress. Is this normal?

[@imankarrar4925]

How long does the soreness take to go away? How can avoid a seroma? Does early post operative exercising result in its formation?

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Hi Iman, so sorry for my delayed reply. Can you go into more detail as to where your soreness is? e.g. scar, chest wall, shoulder. Then I can assist further. Seroma's are difficult to avoid but yes early exercise post operation can potential increase your chance of getting a seroma. Do you think you have a seroma? Jen x

[@imankarrar4925]

@@TheBreastCancerPhysio it's now been nearly 4 weeks since i had my lumpectomy with sentinel biopsy.I have redness and soreness in the medial aspect of my breast away from the scar which is under the areola.the skin is firm and reddish and the swelling is generalised doesn't look like a seroma though.

[@nicolemontesinos6866]

Time is 18:49pm Today Is my 7th day after my second cancer breast double mastectomy surgery

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Hope you are recovering steadily Nicole. It's a big thing to go through x Jen

[@nicolemontesinos6866]

Thank you so much. I will join. 🙏🏻❤️

[@juliealexander9361]

Have just had second chemotherapy, 1st one has hardened up veins in my arm, that was found about 10 days after when nurse went to draw blood. Different vein yesterday. Are there any exercises I can do to encourage my veins to get more blood flow?

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Hi Julie, it sounds like you may have venous collapse from chemotherapy. You may find one of my other videos on Venous Cording useful: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qWWtiISplJ2Ug9k

[@joanneedwards9364]

Are these exercises valid for those of us who've had a reconstruction at the same time as our macectomy?

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Great question Joanne. What type of reconstruction have you had? Jen x

[@joanneedwards9364]

@@TheBreastCancerPhysio Hi Jen it was a skin sparing mascectomy.

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Sorry Joanne, just to clarify before I answer the question, did you have mastectomy with expanders and implants or mastectomy with fat grafting (eg DIEP Flap reconstruction) or another type of recon?

[@joanneedwards9364]

@@TheBreastCancerPhysio it was with an implant, no skin expander. I am doing the exercises and so far so good. :)

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Thanks for clarifying Joanne! Yes you can start these exercises following double mastectomy with immediate implant reconstruction.

[@lilianoluka7690]

Hi. Iam having difficulty moving my good arm after masectomy. Interestingly I can move the arm on the side of masectomy with much

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Hi Lilian, thanks for your comment and sorry for my slow reply. I'm assuming you had a single mastectomy? Did you have any procedures done on the opposite arm, such as lymph node biopsy or removal of lymph nodes on the opposite arm? Let me know and I'll see if I can help! Jen x

[@sallysmith2467]

Can you please tell how I can purchase the Modiderm breast sponges in the Uk. Thank you

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Hi Sally! So sorry for my slow reply. It might be better to try this link to a company called Brightlife - they stock Medi Lymph Pads which are a very similar product to Mobiderm. Let me know if you can have this shipped to the UK. If not then I can ship you Mobiderm from Australia if you're happy to cover postage. Jen x www.brightlifedirect.com/products/mediven-lymph-pads

[@dianarego1799]

I have been doing therapy for 7 months I am still getting stuck how much longer ?

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Hi Diana, if you're still experiencing restricted range of movement my advice would be to see a therapist if you haven't already. I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity

[@elsiemosala8768]

I am also done total mastectomy and suffering lymphedema, I'm seeing a physio therapist every month but the swelling goes down slowly

[@yvette6837]

Can I start these right after double mastectomy with immediate expanders?

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Hi Yvette, I would check with your Plastic Surgeon (or Breast Surgeon) before commencing these exercises just in case they want a delayed start to mobility work after your mastectomy and reconstruction. Jen

[@catherinerussel7199]

I was about 2 weeks post op after MRM of left breast. Days after surgery I wasn’t advised yet to exercise my shoulder.. Now I think I have a stiff shoulder and axilla muscles

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Thanks for commenting Catherine. It is likely that without early range of movement exercises after your surgery, that your shoulder and axilla are tight. If you can access a Physiotherapist / Physical Therapist to assess and treat your shoulder / axilla that would be very worthwhile. Jen

[@shriyaraj676]

I had my lumpectomy 1 week ago...I m doing exercises 2-3 times daily the day after my surgery bt still I have numbness and pain around my arm...still can't up my shoulder straight...plz reply how many days It will take to free from these things...

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Hi Shriya, so sorry for my slow reply. You'll be 4 weeks or slightly more since you sent me this message. How is your shoulder movement now? The reason your shoulder is restricted can be for different reasons. I've launched a Private Group on Facebook 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with free weekly live education sessions and Q&A. There is much more interaction on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity

[@shriyaraj676]

@@TheBreastCancerPhysio Now hand movements are normal bt there is pain at my back shoulder n can't sleep at that side... strech feel when I up my hands straight and numbness is still there...

[@jessiestaggs3094]

What if you have not been doing any exercises til you were 4 weeks out from double mastectomy

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Hi Jessie, if you are asking whether you can start doing exercises 4 weeks after your mastectomy then the answer is yes. Let me know if there is any medical reason or other reason as to why no exercises were able to be started as soon as you came out of surgery though. If that's not the question you were asking then let me know. Jen x

[@ellenfrance7004]

Hi! I just had a mastectomy two days ago. How soon should I start this exercise?

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Hi Ellen, as long as you have clearance from your medical team, these exercises are designed to be commenced immediately post surgery. Jen

[@madhumitha.s7595]

Hi mam...left side post mastectomy patient have right side shoulder and pain limited range of motion mainly internal rotation ...this would be to due to mastectomy related problem??

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Hi Madhu, so sorry for my slow reply. It is possible the Right shoulder restriction could be indirectly related to the Left mastectomy. A lot of patients will compensate by over-using their "good" side (the non-cancerous side) and notice symptoms. Whenever diagnosing you just have to make sure you don't assume that the non-cancerous side is a compensatory issue. It could be an isolated issue on the Right. Jen

[@madhumitha.s7595]

@@TheBreastCancerPhysio so sweet of u mam....I luckiest to c ur reply...tnq god❤️ok mam ....tnq

[@jessiestaggs3094]

Sorrowful but i did not understand i was to start immediately i thot surgeon would tell me when an he never did.

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

That's ok Jessie! You can get started now. You might be stiff because you are starting a bit later than I'd normally recommend, but even more reason to start mobilization exercises as soon as you can. Jen x

[@07734KAT]

How many days after mastectomy can we do these exercises? Thanks

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Hi! Thanks for your comment. Unless your Medical Team state otherwise you should be able to start these exercises immediately after surgery. Jen :)

[@07734KAT]

@@TheBreastCancerPhysio thank you. Appreciate it much.

[@07734KAT]

You have a great advocacy. God bless you

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

@@07734KAT Thank you! x

[@cynthialang1845]

😊

[@TheBreastCancerPhysio]

Thanks for your emoji Cynthia! I have a Private Group on Facebook 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with free weekly live education sessions and Q&A. There is much more interaction on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity