Role of Physiotherapy in Breast Cancer Recovery
Treatment to the chest and axilla for breast cancer can lead to secondary complications in the arm like pain, reduced movement of the shoulder joint, muscle weakness, swelling (lymphedema) and difficulty to carry out activities of daily activities. The problems can persist for many years after treatment. Guidelines state that when indicated patients with breast cancer should be referred to physiotherapy early, however this is not a routine practice.
There is a need for a proactive model of care which encourages early exercise-based rehabilitation.