How physical therapy can help with breast cancer

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month, Agape wants to remind everyone of the benefits of physical therapy before, after and during breast cancer treatment. 

Chemotherapy in particular can have serious side effects on a woman's body including fatigue, nausea, neuropathy, and dyspareunia. If a mastectomy is performed it can leave a woman with painful scar tissue adhesions, loss of shoulder range of motion, lymphedema, and postural changes. 

Physical therapy can help address each of these issues and impairments. Agape features physical therapists that specialize in women’s health services. Physical therapists are trained healthcare professionals that can perform manual therapy techniques which may consist of soft tissue massage, myofascial release, and joint manipulation. Our goal is to improve the function of our patients and reduce the side effects of cancer treatments through manual therapy, postural re-education, and exercises which are prescribed with intent and individualized for each patient. Your privacy and comfort are our main priority and your appointments will be 1 on 1 with the provider and in a private treatment room. 

You do not have to be in pain to attend physical therapy. Many patients come to physical therapy before they have surgery to learn what they need do at home to prevent the negative side effects of surgery and chemotherapy. Education is key to an optimized recovery process. At whatever stage of recovery you may be in, Agape is happy to guide you through what can be a very difficult diagnosis and time of life to help you achieve your goals.