Exercise programme improves arm function and pain after breast cancer surgery

An exercise programme improved women ' s recovery and upper limb movements after breast cancer surgery. Research found that the programme, introduced 7 to 10 days after surgery, was also safe and cost-effective to deliver. Many women develop problems in their shoulder, arm or hand (upper limb) after having surgery or radiotherapy for breast cancer. This can make everyday tasks, such as getting dressed, writing or lifting everyday objects, difficult. For some women, the problems can go on for years. Researchers, patients and clinical experts developed an exercise programme to help prevent upper limb problems after breast cancer surgery. The team tested the programme in women who had surgery to remove the cancer (but not to rebuild the breast - non-reconstructive surgery). Women in the study were at higher risk of developing problems because, for example, of the type of surgery they were due to have, or because they already had shoulder problems. The study found that women who received the exercise programme as well as information leaflets had fewer upper limb problems than those only given leaflets. Women in the exercise group felt reassured by the physiotherapist, had better quality of life, and reported less pain and arm symptoms than those only receiving leaflets. The team hopes that UK guidance will be updated to recommend the exercise programme after non-reconstructive breast cancer surgery. Training on the content and how to prescribe the programme is 2 External 0...
Source: Current Awareness Service for Health (CASH) - Category: Consumer Health News Source Type: news