After you undergo surgery for breast cancer, you may run into a range of challenges. Movements that used to be simple – like washing your hair or reaching for something high up in a cabinet – may be painful, not to mention frustrating. It’s these everyday motions and a deep desire to get back to a normal quality of life that sends many breast cancer patients to Spooner.
Find Your Sense Of “Normal” Again
We know that breast cancer is a complex, overwhelming process – an experience that impacts you for a lifetime. If you’re like many of our patients, you may be heads down in the process of survival and recovery, with the non-stop doctors appointments, chemo and so on. It may not occur to you that you can (and probably should) undergo physical therapy as well until after you get home from surgery and it becomes painfully obvious: it’s hard to lift your child; you may want to aid your lymphatic drainage; you want to get rid of that nagging tight feeling in your chest.
While some patients get referred to Spooner from their doctor, many find us on their own. It may be just after surgery or 15 years later – maintaining your health and increasing your range of motion can be an ongoing process.
How Physical Therapy Can Help You Get Back To The Activities You Enjoy
The great news is that physical therapy can help you with a range of issues. Here at Spooner, the therapists that treat breast cancer patients are certified in addressing women’s health. Unlike other therapists who apply their general training to your specific challenges, Spooner therapists have studied a series of coursework and have undergone intensive training. We are educated, prepared and experienced in treating breast cancer related issues like lymphedema, limited range of motion, radiation scarring and more.
Physical therapy will look different for every patient. Spooner approaches every patient individually – there is no “standard” form of care for breast cancer recovery. Some patients may see us a few times of year to treat issues that crop up. Others may come and see us once – and years may go by until they see us again (or, they may never see us again!) We take a whole-body approach to every patient, addressing your range of motion, flexibility and pain from head to toe.
Take Control Of Your Health
You don’t have to live in pain. There are many options for you – outside of the OR – to take control of your health and minimize pain.
Learn more about Breast Cancer Rehabilitation at Spooner Physical Therapy. Ready to schedule an appointment? Schedule an appointment or complimentary movement screen with a Spooner physical therapist at one of our locations throughout the valley.