Post Breast Surgery Exercise Guide Is there a need to exercise after breast surgery? Simple shoulder range of motion exercises after surgery:
promote tissue healing
reduce swelling and tightness
prevent
lymphoedema and frozen shoulder
When do I start exercising? You can begin simple shoulder exercises immediately after your surgery. However, you may find it hard to exercise initially. While doing your exercises, respect your pain and do not overdo them. Do your exercises three times a day. You should be able to regain flexibility of your shoulder by 2-4 weeks post-surgery. When in doubt about your progress and condition, please do not hesitate to consult your physiotherapist.
What else can I do beside these exercises? After your surgery, you should do deep breathing exercises to keep your lungs healthy. In addition, you should start walking as soon as possible. What should I avoid? Avoid carrying heavy loads of more than 1.5kg for the duration recommended by your physiotherapist. You may start swimming 6-10 weeks after your surgery. Freestyle, back stroke and butterfly stroke should be avoided for 2 months after your surgery.
Disclaimer: Exercises illustrated and instructed in this handout are strictly for designated patients based on the assessment and instruction of the therapist. If you have any doubts, please contact your therapist.
Yishun Health is a network of medical institutions and health facilities in the north of Singapore, under the National Healthcare Group. Admiralty Medical Centre • (65) 6807 8000 • www.admiraltymedicalcentre.com.sg Khoo Teck Puat Hospital • (65) 6555 8000 • www.ktph.com.sg Yishun Community Hospital • (65) 6807 8800 • www.yishuncommunityhospital.com.sg The information is correct at the time of printing and subject to revision without further notice.
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