LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE – after breast surgery

During breast cancer surgery or a mastectomy, nearby lymph nodes are often removed, which disrupts the flow of lymph and can lead to swelling – lymphoedema.

When some or all of the lymph nodes under the arm are removed, the person is at a higher risk of lymphoedema for the rest of their life. During breast cancer treatment, some or all of the lymph nodes under the arm are often treated with radiation, which causes scarring and blockages that increase the risk of lymphoedema. It can appear immediately after surgery or radiation, but also months or even years later.

Lymphoedema causes a feeling of discomfort, interferes with bodily function and reduces quality of life.

Early symptoms of lymphoedema are:

• Reduced function of the arm;
• A feeling of heaviness or weakness in the arm;
• Mild swelling that goes away after the arm is raised.

At this early stage lymphoedema can be cured; however, it often goes unrecognised. If left untreated, lymphoedema can progress to a stage in which changes occur that can no longer be cured – pronounced swelling of the arm that does not go down.

THERAPY

In addition to lymphatic drainage, for clients who come to us after breast surgery or a mastectomy, we also use the MSTR technique for treating scars, which helps restore blood flow in the treated scar area, visibly reduces the scar and restores sensation!

To round off the therapy completely, in addition to scar treatment and lymphatic drainage, we also place an emphasis on targeted therapeutic exercises that restore full range of motion!

If you have had breast surgery, or any other surgery in which lymph nodes were removed, start lymphatic drainage to treat and prevent possible complications!