Physiotherapy in Post Operative Mastectomy

WHAT IS BREAST CANCER?
Breast cancer is a type of cancer that occurs when there is an uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the breast. Breast Cancer according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is the most common cancer in women following skin cancer. Less frequently, breast cancer can also occur in men.
Normally, old or damaged cells in the breast will stop dividing and die. These cells are then replaced by healthy young cells. Breast cancer occurs when old or damaged cells divide and multiply uncontrollably. This process results in the development of a malignant mass of tissue (tumor) in the breast.
If left untreated, breast cancer cells can continue to multiply and spread to other parts of the body, a process called metastasis. As breast cancer progresses, it interferes with vital processes of the body and functions of the organs where it has spread, such as the liver, bones and lungs.
Prognosis of breast cancer varies depending on the type of breast cancer and the stage of advancement; age, medical history, coexisting conditions or diseases, and other factors.

MASTECTOMY
This is the surgical removal of breast tissues to prevent the spread of breast cancer or as a treatment remedy of breast cancer

BENEFITS OF PHYSIOTHERAPY POST MATSECTOMY
Improved shoulder range of motion: There are possibilities of decreased shoulder movement owing to pain and following the mastectomy. Physiotherapy will help in improving the joint movements
Improved shoulder strength: Loss or reduction in the shoulder muscles strength is very common in patients post mastectomy. With physiotherapy, muscles strength can be restored or improved.
Improved functional mobility: ability to perform normal functions of the shoulder may be reduced. Physiotherapy can help regain these functions
Improved posture: Compensatory movements to pain or spasm may occur thereby leading to abnormal posture. Physiotherapy will help train the use of the right muscles for movements thereby correcting any abnormal posture.
Decreased pain at the surgical site: Pain is usually present at incision or surgery sites following a mastectomy either for a short or long period of time. These pain can be managed with physiotherapy
Decreased edema on the affected side: Physiotherapy can help reduce the swelling that occurred
Improved sensation at the surgical site: Loss of sensations on surgery sites is a common report of people who had mastectomy. Physiotherapy can help improve sensation in these areas