During a needle biopsy of the breast, a needle is inserted directly into the lump. Fluid and cells are withdrawn from the lump so they can be tested. A pathology report is generated to determine whether the breast tissue is normal or cancerous. After a needle biopsy, the mobility in your arm and shoulder may be affected. Exercise can help you regain normal movement.
Preparation
To prepare for exercise, wear comfortable and loose clothing. You may feel some slight discomfort and tingling at the back of the arm or chest when participating in exercise. According to the American Cancer Society, this is normal and you should not discontinue exercise unless you feel a lot of pain or have unusual swelling. Massaging the area with a soft cloth can occasionally decrease discomfort symptoms.
Initial Moves
Full range of motion exercises will help you regain movement of your affected shoulder. Move your arm over your head and side to side. Reach behind you to touch the center of your back. Grasp the back of your neck with your hand. Move your affected arm over your heart. Open and close your hand a minimum of 15 times.
Exercises
About a week after surgery, you can perform more advanced exercises to work the affected arm and shoulder. For instance, during elbow winging, you lie flat on your back with your elbows facing the ceiling. Push your elbows down toward the floor and then return to starting position. For a shoulder roll, sit in a chair and gently roll your shoulders forward and backward. Then, push the shoulders up and down. Repeat each exercise about 10 times.
Time Frame
You may need to wait three to seven days after surgery before exercising. Each exercise you do should be performed two to three times per day. If you do not have full use of your arm three to four weeks after the needle biopsy, your doctor may recommend you meet with a physical therapist. A physical therapist can design an exercise program based on your strengths and weaknesses to help you resume normal activity following the breast biopsy.
