Physiotherapy and breast cancer: treatment
Physiotherapy and breast cancer should go hand in hand, as it can help to recover the quality of life as soon as possible, after having undergone a intervention.
Physiotherapy and breast cancer: lymphedema
Lymphedema does not usually develop suddenly. first symptoms They may be:
- the feeling of heaviness or stiffness in the arm of some areas of the same, mainly those that support pressure such as the front of the arm and the elbow region.
- Inflammation that does not subside with rest;
- less flexibility in the joints;
- changes in skin texture, etc.
Knowing these early symptoms can prevent the subsequent worsening of lymphedema, as it allows for the establishment of a early treatment Complex decongestive physiotherapy.
Physiotherapy and breast cancer: complex decongestive therapy
One of the most accepted treatments from Physiotherapy to treat breast cancer patients is 'complex decongestive therapy'.
This comprehensive approach includes:
- manual lymphatic drainage,
- compression of the inflamed limb,
- physical exercise,
- shoulder rehabilitation,
- deep breathing exercises to promote venous and lymphatic flow,
- scar treatment,
- skin care
- and patient education in self-care.
Complex decongestive therapy occurs in two phases:
La Phase It is intensive, and the therapist aims to reduce inflammation and symptoms. This phase can last from 1 to 4 weeks and can range from 2 to 20 treatment sessions.
Once a plateau of improvement is reached, the second phase Self-care and risk reduction. As various scientific studies have shown, physical exercise, physiotherapy, and breast cancer are a positive alliance for improvement, both in terms of prevention and ongoing medium- and long-term treatment. Therefore, another activity to cope with the cancer process is physical activity, which improves pain and fatigue, two very common side effects of treatments.
Physiotherapy and breast cancer: approaches
It is advisable to start with the physiotherapy treatment Once the oncological treatment is complete, we will be in the first phase of 'complex decongestive therapy' and, after assessing each case, the following approaches will be carried out:
- Manual lymphatic drainage: A massage technique performed on the skin with the hands, using slow, rhythmic, harmonious, and very gentle movements. These movements should be performed following the flow of the lymphatic ducts, repeatedly, to promote lymphatic movement and thus reduce inflammation in the area being treated.
- Multilayer bandage: A bandage designed to improve venous and lymphatic return in the treatment of venous ulcers. Inflammation control with a cuff and glove.
- Exercises: Respiratory, diaphragmatic, upper and lower thoracic, and movement-related exercises are used to promote shoulder mobility and prevent pectoral muscle retraction, as well as reduce edema. These exercises aim to increase range of motion, especially in abduction and external rotation, as well as muscle strength, while always avoiding pain as much as possible and facilitating active and/or passive mobilization. Gentle, consistent physical activity is important, as it will prevent the onset of muscle atrophy caused by chemotherapy and help maintain a good quality of life.
- Scars: This will be treated with massage and mobilization to provide elasticity and prevent adhesions. Stretching and hydration of the scarred area is recommended to improve circulation. Axillary scars often present adhesions that can be treated with massage and ultrasound, which will also improve shoulder mobility. Movement restrictions and/or loss of sensation in the breast are usually temporary and progressive in terms of recovery period.
Tips to reduce the risk of lymphedema
- Protect your arm from injuries such as cuts, burns, punctures, etc., which can cause infections.
- Avoid both extreme cold and heat in the treated area.
- Keep your arm slightly elevated and do not wear tight clothing.
- Always maintain hygiene and hydration in the area.
Other changes to take into account are:
Nervous system disorders
Chemotherapy causes in certain cases peripheral neuropathy, a disorder of the nervous system that causes difficulties in handling the hands.
Another of the consequences of chemotherapy treatments is dysesthesia or alteration of the sensitivity of the senses, especially touch. Patients may experience an exaggerated reaction to pain, touch, temperature changes, and so on, and we also treat this with physical therapy.
Respiratory system disorders
Due to surgery or chemotherapy toxicity. These are exercises designed to restore breathing capacity.
Pelvic floor disorders
The cancer treatments They can cause vaginal dryness and atrophy. They also treat sexual dysfunction.
Article published by Immaculate Nightgown Duke, physiotherapist at the Women's Unit of the Ruber International Hospital.
If you found this article interesting and would like to be seen by a professional expert in Gynecology and Obstetrics, the Women's Unit at Ruber International Hospital has a specialized unit in this area. You can request more information by calling the following numbers: 91 387 51 72/73/74 or make an appointment for an in-person consultation, always with the best specialists.
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