Specialist Breast Cancer Physiotherapy

At Cancer Centre London we have a specialist breast cancer physiotherapist whose services are available to all patients who have had breast and axilla (armpit) surgery performed as part of their cancer treatment.

This includes:

• mastectomies,
• Latissimus Dorsi Flap reconstructions
• DIEP flap reconstructions
• strattice reconstructions
• axillary node clearances
• lumpectomies
• sentinel node biopsies.

The aim of this service is to restore the normal function of your upper limbs and neck area, and to help you get back to your normal daily activities and sport.

• If your surgery was performed at Parkside Hospital: you will be assessed and treated by the specialist cancer physiotherapist for mobility, respiratory care and early shoulder range of motion exercises. Upon discharge you will be referred to our specialist outpatient cancer physiotherapist for further advice, treatment and rehabilitation.
• If your surgery took place at another hospital and you subsequently have treatment at CCL: you can ask to be referred to the specialist breast cancer physiotherapist for treatment.

How does it work?

We offer individual Physiotherapy sessions and treatment includes myofascial release for cording or scarring in the axilla and at the donor sites. This will be followed by range of motion and strengthening exercises of the shoulder and spine, and an individualised return to sport and general activity programme for each patient.

Patients are encouraged to join the Pilates classes, which provide an excellent way to improve posture and core strength after surgery, and to regain further strength and flexibility during and after chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

The specialist breast cancer physiotherapist at Cancer Centre London also offers lymphoedema advice and, when necessary, a referral to the Lymphoedema service for Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD), bandaging and compressions garments. For more information on lymphoedema services at CCL, please click here.