The Role of Physical Therapy in the Rehabilitation of Patients with Mastectomy and Breast Reconstruction

Issue title: Breast Reconstruction

Guest editors: C. Scott Hultman

Article type: Research Article

Authors: McAnaw, Maire B.^{a; *} | Harris, Kaye W.^b

Affiliations: [a] University of North Carolina Hospitals, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA | [b] University of North Carolina Hospitals, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA | University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA

Correspondence: [*] Corresponding author: Maire B. McAnaw, MPT, PT, University of North Carolina Hospitals, Dept. of Occupational/Physical Therapy, 101 Manning Drive, Campus Box #7600, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA. Tel.: +1 919 966 3670/2056; Fax: +1 919 966 0348; E-Mail: MMcAnaw@unch.unc.edu

Abstract: Women faced with breast cancer may develop musculoskeletal impairments following mastectomy and breast reconstruction. The purpose of this review is to highlight physical therapy considerations with these surgeries. Our experience at a large medical center is described, and suggested exercise guidelines are provided. Close communication between physician and physical therapist is emphasized. Physical therapists facilitate patient education, skillfully evaluate and treat musculoskeletal dysfunctions, and provide individualized patient exercise prescriptions. Physical therapists also serve as valuable members of a multidisciplinary breast cancer team.

DOI: 10.3233/BD-2002-16122

Journal: Breast Disease, vol. 16, no. 1, pp. 163-174, 2002