A lumpectomy is the removal of a tumor and a surrounding margin of tissue in the breast that is often used to treat early-stage breast cancer. It can cause limited flexibility in your arm on the side of surgery and weakness. Doing specific exercises can help reduce surgery side effects and maintain your mobility. Before doing any exercises, even minor ones, ask your physician if they are safe for you to do.
Step 1
Rest your arm on pillows so your hand stays higher than your wrist and your elbow is higher than your shoulder. Do this 45-minutes a day to help reduce swelling. Slowly open and close your hand 15 to 25 times, then bend and straighten your elbow; repeat this three to four times a day.
Step 2
Lie down on your bed or the floor, and hold a wand-like object, such as an unattached broom handle, in both hands with your palms up. Lift the wand up as far as is comfortably possible, until you feel a stretch in your affected arm. Stay in that position for five seconds; lower your arms and repeat five to seven times.
Step 3
Stand in front of a wall, and put your palms flat on the wall. Bend your head forward slightly, then slowly take small steps backward, away from the wall, keeping your hand on it. You should feel a slight stretch in your shoulders.
Step 4
Stand normally, and bend your affected arm at the elbow. With your other hand, slowly pull your affected arm over your head. Stay in this position for five seconds; you should feel this stretch in your side.
Step 5
Sit in a stable chair with your feet on the floor. Clasp your hands in front of you, and slowly lift them over your head, keeping your arms straight. When your hands are above your head, slowly bend from your waist to the right, keeping your arms above your head. Return to the starting position and repeat on the left side. repeat this process five to seven times.
Tips and Warnings
- Working with a physical or occupational therapist can help you do the exercises correctly and minimize risk of injury. Start out slowly to avoid overdoing it.
- Do not start any exercises until your surgeon and treatment team tell you it is safe to do so. Follow their instructions.
Things You'll Need
- Pillow
- Broom handle or other stick
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