Common sequelae after breast cancer surgery

The scary thing about cancer is not only its high mortality rate and difficulty in curing, but also that even if the surgery is successful, it will inevitably leave some sequelae, such as breast cancer. In recent years, the incidence of breast cancer has been increasing. Although there are more and more treatments for it, some sequelae cannot be avoided.

Joint stiffness

It is often caused by reduced activity after surgery, coupled with pain that causes fear of movement. The degree of activity can be maintained through positioning techniques and joint range of motion exercises. When joint stiffness and atrophy have occurred, heat therapy from the superficial to the deep layer, deep friction massage and some traction exercises can be used to soften the stiff fibers and connective tissues.

Lymphedema

Because the lymph nodes in the affected area are affected, lymphatic return is blocked, which in turn causes pain and swelling in the affected upper limb, and even affects the movement of the joints. Clinically, it can be measured simply by measuring the arm circumference. If the increase reaches two centimeters, it means that it is significant and requires active intervention treatment in the form of rehabilitation.

In the early stage of symptoms, the affected limb can be raised, or the patient can be instructed to massage the centripetal direction and cooperate with muscle pump activities. When the swelling intensifies, elastic bandages or air pump pressure can be used to promote the return of lymph fluid. However, when the affected area has secondary infection or tumor cells have spread, this type of treatment is absolutely contraindicated, so the root cause should be carefully evaluated by the doctor before this type of treatment can be adopted.

pain

After breast surgery, paresthesia, pain and discomfort on the same side are common, and there may even be postoperative phantom limb pain. If the symptoms persist, local massage or desensitization and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation can be used to solve them. In addition, attention should be paid to whether there are local soft tissue lesions, such as supraspinatus biceps tendinitis and frozen shoulder on the affected side, which are common problems. In addition, some superficial venous thrombosis and thromboembolism, as well as neuropathy caused by radiation therapy, can all cause pain. Therefore, for patients with persistent pain, it is necessary to determine the cause through diagnosis and treatment by a doctor.

Muscle weakness and poor posture

Due to the partial tissue removal and reduced activity, muscle strength often decreases. You can gradually train muscle strength by doing some activities. If the patient's weakness persists, it is also necessary to rule out whether the brachial nerve is injured, so as not to delay the patient's treatment or even cause secondary injury.

In short, after surgery, patients should start various exercises to maintain muscle strength and joint mobility. If the affected area feels pulled or painful, you should relax and then continue the exercise, gradually moving from simple to complex movements. Generally speaking, light activities are the main thing before discharge. Moderate activities are the main thing in the first month after discharge, and weights should not exceed three to five pounds. After one month, heavier activities can be carried out. If you suspect that sequelae will occur, you must consult a doctor to avoid delaying the condition.