Breast Cancer

Breast Cancer Support

Recovery from breast cancer treatment, particularly if surgery has been performed, can take some time.

Physiotherapists play an integral role in improving shoulder function & exercise prescription to help combat cancer related fatigue.

At Kin Physio we are pelvic health trained and can also address other symptoms related to hormone therapy such as hot flashes, stress incontinence, dyspareunia (painful penetrative sex), constipation and more.

Who will benefit from seeing our physiotherapist?

  • If you have had a mastectomy

  • If you have had a Wide Local Excision

  • If you have had radiotherapy

  • If you are experiencing any changes to your pelvic floor i.e. stress incontinence, painful sex

  • If you are experiencing cancer related fatigue

What are the common issues facing people who have had or undergoing breast cancer treatment?

As part of breast cancer treatment patients may need to undergo a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and hormonal therapy. As a result, it is common to experience side effects of these treatments including:

  • pain

  • scar tissue formation

  • reduced movement and strength into arm and trunk

  • cording/axillary web syndrome

  • lymphedema (please know we are not lymphedema trained physiotherapists but aware of signs and symptoms and understand when to refer)

  • changes in pelvic floor function

  • fatigue and reduced muscle strength & endurance

So why should I see a physiotherapist?

Not to use the common cliche but we really want you to not just survive but thrive. Survivorship after breast cancer is increasing which is great news. However the impact on your shoulder function, trunk function as well as sexual health can be significant. We want to help you live the best life that you can.

When should I review with a physiotherapist?

Ideally we review prior to your surgery to address any underlying issues prior to surgery. If we can optimise your shoulder function prior to surgery it puts you in a better position post surgery. Otherwise we will be guided by your surgeon on when to review following surgery/radiation.

Our appointment types:

We have two initial appointment types available to our breast cancer clients.

  • Initial breast cancer appointment (without pelvic floor assessment): If you do not have any pelvic floor concerns you wish to address

  • Initial breast cancer appointment (with pelvic floor assessment): You are also experiencing pelvic floor concerns that you wish to address in your appointment.