Lumpectomy, or breast conservation surgery, involves cutting out a cancerous lump from the breast. The surgery can cause side effects such as discomfort, inability to take deep breaths, pain, swelling, and either toughness or tenderness at the point of incision. You may feel painful stretching or stinging sensations in your arm and chest on the side of the lumpectomy as you increase your amount of physical activity after surgery.
Considerations
Exercising after lumpectomy surgery is an ideal way to recover your arm's range of motion and return your strength for performing daily activities. The American Cancer Society recommends that you talk to your doctor before beginning an exercise routine after lumpectomy. Your doctor may refer you to a physical therapist or an occupational therapist who can help develop a specialized exercise program for your physical needs. The stiffness in your armpit and chest may decrease as your body accustoms to exercise. Tell your doctor if the pain increases or if you develop new swelling or heaviness in your arm.
Beginning to Exercise
Begin simple exercises between three and seven days after your surgery, advises the American Cancer Society. Raise your affected arm above your heart. For example, raise your left arm if the lumpectomy was on the left breast, then open and close your hand between 15 and 25 times while bending and extending your elbow. Perform this exercise three to four times a day to help relieve swelling by forcing lymph fluid out of your arm.
Lying Down
Lie on your back and place your hands behind your neck with both elbows pointed toward the ceiling. Slowly move your elbows downward until they touch the floor, then return to your starting position. Perform this exercise between five and seven times, twice a day, to strengthen your shoulder and the front of your chest. You may be unable to touch your elbows to the floor at first because your body needs time to recover its range of motion.
Sitting and Standing
Sit and join your hands together on your lap. Slowly lift and straighten your arms over your head. Bend your upper body toward your right side, then return to your starting position. Repeat the exercise toward your left side.
Stand with your toes between 8 and 10 inches from a wall. Place your palms flat against the wall and use your fingers to slowly pull your hands up the wall until you feel a stretch. Return to your starting position.
The American Cancer Society recommends performing five to seven repetitions of each of these exercises twice a day.
