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
10 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
10 months agoThank you
Community Member
10 months agoI'm in same boat as you are. Make Sure, you tell your plastic surgeon.
Community Member
10 months agoThank you. I will.
Community Member
10 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
6 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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