It usually causes swelling, as well as other symptoms.
This article will review arm exercises that can help reduce lymphedema after breast cancer treatment.
You may also be referred to a physical therapist who specializes in lymphedema.
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If you have recently had surgery, wait until yoursurgical drainsand sutures are out before trying these exercises.
If you have lymphedema,always wear yourcompression sleeveon the affected arm while exercising.
Stop exercising if your arm begins to hurt, swell, or turn red.
Verywell / Pam Stephan
Dress in loose, comfortable clothing.
These movements help prevent swelling by moving lymph fluid back into your bodys circulation.
Perform these exercises daily for best results.
Verywell / Pam Stephan
Your exercise ball should not be heavy and should offer some resistance to your grip.
Elbow FlexionSeated Exercise
it’s possible for you to do the elbow flexion exercise with both arms.
Use a one-pound free weight in each hand during this exercise.
Verywell / Pam Stephan
Lie down on your back, keeping your back and neck in a straight line.
To help keep your lower back flat, bend your knees.
Your feet should be flat on the floor, shoulder-width apart.
Verywell / Pam Stephan
Use a one-pound free weight in each hand during this exercise.
Your hands should be shoulder-width apart.
Lie down on your back, with your knees bent.
Verywell / Pam Stephan
Keep your back and neck in a straight line.
Your feet should be flat on the floor, with your feet and knees shoulder-width apart.
Use a one-pound free weight in each hand during this exercise.
Verywell / Pam Stephan
Shoulder FlexionStanding Exercise
it’s possible for you to do the shoulder flexion exercise with both arms.
Shoulder AbductionStanding Exercise
you’re able to do the shoulder abduction exercise with both arms.
The poles should remain behind your stride and always point diagonally backward as you walk.
Verywell / Pam Stephan
Keep your shoulders relaxed and hold the poles near your body.
There are some ways to reduce lymphedema after breast cancer treatment.
Performing daily arm exercises can help the lymph fluid reabsorb back into the bodys circulation.
Often, body image and quality of life are also enhanced.
Talk to your healthcare provider before starting lymphedema exercises.
Thanks to new surgical practices, fewer lymph nodes are being removed during breast cancer surgery.
Today, a less-invasive procedure called asentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB)is frequently being done.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s best to have professional lymphedema therapy with a lymphedema specialist.
There are also things you’re free to do to help the process.
If left untreated, lymphedema can increase the risk of skin and blood infections.
Although you cant prevent arm lymphedema, you might reduce the seriousness of it.
Breastcancer.org.Lymphedema excercises and tips.
American Cancer Society.Exercises after breast cancer surgery.
Nelson N.Breast cancer-related lymphedema and resistance exercise: a systematic review.J Strength Cond Res.
2016;30(9):2656-2665. doi:10.1519/JSC.0000000000001355
