What Can I Do About Tightness After Breast Cancer Surgery?
Community Member
2 years agoGoodmorning I was dx with breast cancer 7/2023. Had a bilateral mastectomy/expander 9/2023. Also had a second surgery on 10/2023 to remove the expander. My question is: upper body (muscle) in certain area is tight(left side). Im doing exercise. No improvement. What to expect??
Accepted Answer
Muscle tightness after mastectomy and reconstruction surgeries is a common concern that many people experience during recovery. The surgical process can affect the chest, shoulder, and upper body muscles, and healing takes time - sometimes longer than expected. Physical therapy specifically designed for post-mastectomy recovery might be worth discussing with your medical team, as specialized techniques can often help address persistent tightness more effectively than general exercises alone.
3+ patients found this helpful
Community Member
6 months agoI'm wondering if a specific type of massage would help? A friend with BC many years ago had some pain issues and she did massage and Said it helped her. But it was specific for get issues
Community Member
6 months agoThank you
Community Member
6 months agoI'm in same boat as you are. Make Sure, you tell your plastic surgeon.
Community Member
6 months agoThank you. I will.
Community Member
6 months agoHad bilateral mastectomies 5/23. Currently finished PT. Therapist showed me how to massage breasts and it has helped me a lot!
Community Member
2 months agoMuscle tightness after mastectomy and reconstruction surgeries is a common concern that many people experience during recovery. The surgical process can affect the chest, shoulder, and upper body muscles, and healing takes time - sometimes longer than expected. Physical therapy specifically designed for post-mastectomy recovery might be worth discussing with your medical team, as specialized techniques can often help address persistent tightness more effectively than general exercises alone.
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