Undergoing treatment for breast cancer can weaken the muscles in your chest, arms and shoulders. Cancer treatment procedures like a breast biopsy, mastectomy, lymph node removal or radiation therapy can affect your chest, arms and shoulders, notes the American Cancer Society. Performing stretching and strengthening exercises can help improve flexibility and range of motion in your upper body. Get clearance from your doctor before starting an exercise program after breast cancer treatment.
Shoulder Stretch
Stretching the shoulder increases the flexibility in the shoulder, armpit and chest. Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Lace your hands behind your head with your elbows out to the sides. Slowly move your elbows in toward your ears. Hold this position for five seconds and slowly open your elbows out to the sides until you feel a stretch. Repeat this movement seven times.
Chest Stretch
Performing stretches for your chest muscles helps improve the range of motion in your arms and shoulders. Stand with your feet shoulder width apart and arms at your sides. Slowly move your arms together behind you. Hold this for 10 seconds. Slowly return your arms to your sides. Repeat this exercise seven times.
Wand Exercise
The wand exercise helps increase the forward range of motion in your shoulders, according to the American Cancer Society. Grab a yardstick or broomstick to use as a wand. Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet planted on the floor. Hold the wand with your palms up and hands spaced shoulder width apart. The wand should be resting on your hips. Keep your arms straight while slowly moving the wand up toward your chest. Try to stretch your arms above your head. Slowly lower your arms down to the starting position. Repeat for seven repetitions.
Dumbbell Side Raises
Doing side raises strengthens the muscles in the shoulders. Stand with your feet shoulder width apart with your arms at your sides. Hold a dumbbell in each hand. Slowly raise the dumbbells straight out to your sides until your arms are even with your shoulders. Your palms should be facing down. Lower your arms back down to the starting position. Repeat for 10 repetitions.
