Exercises after surgery
- Normal use of your arm is important. If you have problems moving your arm after surgery, your doctor can refer you to a physiotherapist in the Breast Centre.
- Begin the following exercises one day after surgery. The exercises should be done 3 times a day until you have full movement in your arm(s).
- If pain stops you from doing your exercises, use your pain medication 30 minutes before you exercise.
- It is normal to feel a gentle stretch while exercising but you should not feel a sharp pain. Slowly bend your elbow while making a fist at the same time.
1. Arm lifts
- Sit or stand.
- Lift your arm up, letting the thumb lead the way.
- Repeat 10 times
2. Sideways arm lifts
- Sit or stand.
- Lift your arm up sideways with the thumb leading the way.
- Repeat 10 times.
3. Shoulder circles
- Sit or stand.
- Roll your shoulders forwards and backwards.
- Repeat 10 times in both directions
4. Shoulder Blade Squeeze
- Sit with your back straight and feet firmly on the floor.
- Pull your shoulder blades together while turning your palms forward.
- Hold for 5 seconds, repeat 5 times.
* The exercises in this guide have been adapted from the booklet Exercises after Breast Surgery, Canadian Cancer Society, 2015.