Looking for mastectomy recovery treatment? RED Physiotherapy in Milton Keynes & Northampton offers expert mastectomy recovery treatment to help restore mobility, manage pain, and improve post-surgical healing.
Introduction
Are you struggling with mastectomy recovery treatment? Recovering from a mastectomy can be both physically and emotionally challenging. Whether you’ve undergone surgery due to breast cancer, risk reduction, or another medical condition, proper mastectomy recovery treatment and rehabilitation physiotherapy play a crucial role in restoring movement, reducing pain, and preventing complications.
At RED Physiotherapy in Milton Keynes & Northampton, we specialise in mastectomy recovery treatment, offering tailored treatment plans that focus on scar management, mobility restoration, and strengthening exercises to help women regain confidence and function in their daily lives.
Understanding Mastectomy & Its Impact on the Body
A mastectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of one or both breasts, often as part of mastectomy recovery treatment for breast cancer or prevention. The extent of the surgery varies depending on the diagnosis, and it may include:
- Total mastectomy – Removal of the entire breast.
- Modified radical mastectomy – Removal of the breast and lymph nodes.
- Double mastectomy – Removal of both breasts.
- Skin-sparing or nipple-sparing mastectomy – Where some breast tissue is preserved for reconstruction.
While a mastectomy can be life-saving, it can also cause shoulder stiffness, pain, lymphatic complications, and postural changes. Mastectomy recovery treatment through physiotherapy can significantly aid in recovery by helping patients regain mobility, strength, and confidence.
Common Post-Mastectomy Challenges
Women recovering from a mastectomy often face several physical challenges, including:
- Restricted shoulder and arm movement – Due to scar tissue, muscle tightness, and protective postures.
- Postural changes – Especially in those who have had a unilateral mastectomy.
- Pain and tightness in the chest and shoulders – Common due to muscle imbalances and surgical trauma.
- Lymphoedema (swelling in the arm or chest area) – Caused by impaired lymphatic drainage.
- Fatigue and weakness – As the body heals and adjusts.
- Scar adhesions – Which can cause pulling sensations and further restrict movement.
How Can Physiotherapy Help with Mastectomy Recovery Treatment?
Physiotherapy is an essential component of mastectomy recovery treatment, promoting healing, mobility, and strength. At RED Physiotherapy, we provide evidence-based treatments designed to ease pain, restore movement, and prevent complications.
1. Scar Tissue & Soft Tissue Mobilisation
- Gentle massage techniques to improve scar flexibility and reduce tightness.
- Myofascial release therapy to break down adhesions and restore natural movement.
- Kinesiology taping to support tissue healing and minimise swelling.
2. Shoulder & Arm Mobility Exercises
- Passive and active stretching exercises to regain full range of motion.
- Shoulder blade stabilisation exercises to promote posture correction.
- Assisted exercises for overhead movement restoration.
3. Strengthening & Functional Exercises
- Postural strengthening exercises to maintain shoulder balance.
- Core stability training to support movement without compensatory strain.
- Gradual resistance training to regain strength in the upper body.
4. Lymphoedema Management & Prevention
- Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) to reduce swelling.
- Compression therapy guidance to support the lymphatic system.
- Breathing and circulatory exercises to promote fluid drainage.
5. Pain Management & Relaxation Techniques
- Cold therapy and hydrotherapy for pain relief.
- Gentle yoga and stretching to ease muscle tightness.
- Guidance on sleeping positions to improve comfort.
Recovery Timeline & What to Expect
Recovery from a mastectomy varies from person to person. However, a structured mastectomy recovery treatment programme can accelerate healing. Here’s a general timeline:
First 2 Weeks Post-Surgery:
- Focus on wound healing and pain management.
- Gentle arm and shoulder movements to prevent stiffness.
- Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity.
2-6 Weeks Post-Surgery:
- Start light physiotherapy exercises to regain mobility.
- Introduce scar management techniques.
- Gradual return to light daily activities.
6-12 Weeks Post-Surgery:
- Increase range of motion exercises and gentle resistance training.
- Focus on postural correction and rebuilding strength.
- Work on lymphoedema prevention techniques.
Beyond 3 Months:
- Full engagement in strength training and functional rehabilitation.
- Gradual return to previous activities and hobbies.
- Focus on long-term mobility and prevention of postural imbalances.
Preventing Long-Term Complications
While a mastectomy is a critical step toward recovery, long-term mastectomy recovery treatment is essential to prevent complications. Here are key preventative measures:
- Continue physiotherapy exercises regularly.
- Wear properly fitted bras or prostheses to maintain balance.
- Practice good posture to avoid shoulder imbalances.
- Seek ongoing lymphoedema monitoring to detect swelling early.
When Should You See a Physiotherapist for Mastectomy Recovery Treatment?
Seek mastectomy recovery treatment if you experience:
- Persistent shoulder or chest tightness beyond six weeks post-surgery.
- Limited range of motion affecting daily activities.
- Swelling in the arm or chest area, suggesting lymphoedema.
- Scar discomfort or restriction in movement.
- Postural imbalances causing pain in the neck, shoulders, or back.
Why Choose RED Physiotherapy for Mastectomy Recovery Treatment?
At RED Physiotherapy Milton Keynes & Northampton, we provide:
- Comprehensive post-mastectomy assessments tailored to your needs.
- Expert-led mastectomy recovery treatment programmes to restore strength and mobility.
- Specialist techniques for pain relief, scar management, and lymphoedema care.
- Supportive and holistic care to guide you through recovery with confidence.
We are dedicated to helping women reclaim their mobility and strength after mastectomy surgery.
Conclusion
Mastectomy recovery treatment is essential for long-term mobility, strength, and comfort. At RED Physiotherapy, we offer specialist post-mastectomy rehabilitation to help women heal physically and emotionally.
If you are recovering from a mastectomy, contact RED Physiotherapy Milton Keynes & Northampton today to book an appointment and start your mastectomy recovery treatment journey with expert support.
Contact us now to schedule your consultation!