Physiotherapy considerations on Fatigue and Movements Post Modified Radical Mastectomy

Abstract

Shoulder flexion, abduction, and external rotation at 90 degrees of abduction are affected after breast cancer surgery. Rehabilitation is often customised to the individual needs of every patient. Not every patient experiences the same rehabilitation, and as such, physiotherapists are able to support patients with a variety of symptoms. When selecting a type of procedure, duration, location and the type of mastectomy are essential considerations. Exercises can be recommended as early as 24 hours after surgery to maintain the shoulder range of motion and arm mobility. In restoring strength and promoting good circulation, these exercises are important. These activities can be changed to achieve new objectives as recovery progresses. In previous years, the preferred treatment for all stages of breast cancer was complete removal of the breast or radical mastectomy. Currently, various forms of mastectomy are tactically performed on the patient, based on age, menopausal status, cancer stage, and other variables. The present case report is of a 55-year-old female who was operated with Modified Radical Mastectomy of her right breast 2 months back and she is under 5th cycle of Chemotherapy. She was referred for Physiotherapy to alleviate her levels of fatigue and improve shoulder function. We gave 2-week protocol to improve her Right Shoulder function and decrease her level of fatigue. After two weeks there was considerable increase in range of right shoulder joint and also there was increased ease of transition related activities.