As you recover from breast surgery, your doctor will tell you when it's safe to start exercising, what kind of exercises you should do, and how much you should do. Your goal is to regain normal arm and shoulder range of motion and use of your arm. The exercises will also help to improve your strength and prevent severe scarring that will keep you from moving normally (scar contracture). For your safety, use this handout only as directed by your doctor or physical therapist.
These are two exercises that may be suggested. Be sure to take deep breaths as you do each exercise. Talk with your surgeon and health care team about other exercises that might be right for you.
|
|
|
|
Follow these steps:
|
Follow these steps:
|
Featured in
Related Articles
Exercises After Breast Surgery: Ball Squeeze and Arm Cross
As you recover from breast surgery, your doctor will tell you when it is safe to begin exercising, what kind of exercises you should do, and how much exercising you should do.
General Nutrition Guidelines During Cancer Treatment
You may have trouble eating or lose your appetite during cancer treatment. Read some tips that may help, including eating small, frequent meals throughout the day.
Nutrition and Cancer: High-Calorie Snacks
To boost your calories, add butter or margarine to puddings, casseroles, sandwiches, vegetables, cooked cereal, breads, and pasta. Add wheat germ to hot cereals, meat dishes, cookie batter, and casseroles.
Get Support During Cancer Treatment
A cancer diagnosis often brings up extreme emotions. Those feelings are often eased as you learn more about your cancer and treatment, and get support from those around you.
