Breast Cancer Rehabilitation and Lymphedema Therapy

Lovelace Women’s Hospital’s Breast Cancer Rehabilitation Program benefits women during or after breast cancer treatment.

The therapy program is designed to assist patients to:

  • Improve range of motion, strength and endurance
  • Decrease risk of lymphedema, chronic pain, and Axillary Web Syndrome
  • Improve ability to perform activities of daily living
  • Decrease risk of scar and soft tissue adhesions following a lumpectomy or mastectomy
  • Reduce fatigue and joint pain during chemotherapy
  • Decrease skin adhesion and cording during radiation

Lymphedema Program

Lymphedema is swelling that can occur due to a blockage in the lymphatic system. The therapists at Lovelace Women’s Hospital Outpatient Rehabilitation are certified in lymphedema therapy and treat patients with lymphedema including:

  • Primary lymphedema (present at birth)
  • Secondary lymphedema (result of surgery, trauma, cancer)
  • Post-surgical lymphedema
  • Lymphedema related to breast cancer
  • Chronic venous insufficiency (i.e. long-standing varicose veins)

Lymphedema treatment may consist of:

  • Special massage techniques to move the lymph fluid and instruction on self lymph massage
  • Compression garment consultation and recommendations
  • Instruction in compression bandaging techniques
  • Therapeutic exercise
  • Education in self-management and home program

Call 505.727.4628 for more information or to schedule an appointment.