One of the most substantial issues that my mom has had to deal with after her mastectomy was the loss of strength in her arm. Since mastectomies are radical surgeries that take out the surrounding tissue and any other structure that maybe compromised, many patients are left with stiffness, loss of strength, and loss of mobility.
My mom takes senior circuit training classes to help her rebuild her muscles (which my niece affectionately refers to as geezersize), but if that isn't for you, you might want to check out some other options:
- A trainer's blog about Post Surgery Breast Cancer Strength Building Workout.
- The American Cancer Society also gives some helpful advice about exercise post surgery here.
- Shape.com provides links to Beat Cancer Boot Camp, Livestrong at the YMCA, and the Pink Ribbon Pilates Exercises here.
As discussed in the articles, make sure that you consult your doctor before starting an exercise regimen.
Research shows that the exercise not only helps prevent cancer, but it can also help survivors live longer.