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For women battling breast cancer, physical therapists are often able to help soothe complications. At Mount Auburn Hospital in Cambridge, a teaching hospital of Harvard Medical School, a trained specialist in the Rehabilitation Services outpatient clinic deals with some of the common side effects of cancer treatment.

Common complications include reduced range of motion, loss of strength and overall discomfort. Physical therapists are able to work with patients to help them return to normal function. “An aspect of physical therapy for cancer patients, especially those with breast cancer, is treatment for limited movement,” says Lynn Dreyfus, Physical Therapist and Lymphedema Management Specialist at Mount Auburn Hospital. “In addition to loss of strength and range of motion in the shoulder, breast cancer patients may encounter an abnormal swelling in the arm called lymphedema.”

After breast cancer treatment, a woman’s oncologist or surgeon will refer her to Ms. Dreyfus for an assessment. “I spend time educating my patients about the risks of lymphedema and precautions they can take to minimize its effects,” says Ms. Dreyfus. She uses light touch massage techniques, relaxation and gentle therapeutic exercise to help patients regain motion and alleviate pain and discomfort that may result from cancer surgery, chemotherapy or radiation.

Lymphedema occurs when the lymph system is not working properly and fluid collects under the skin, which causes abnormal swelling. Cancer patients are at risk for developing the condition when lymph nodes are removed, which may be the case when treating breast cancer. In addition to being a complication of cancer, the condition is sometimes caused by other factors including birth defects and vascular problems.

When patients come into physical therapy with active lymphedema, a specialized treatment called Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) is implemented, which helps the affected area return to its normal size. “In addition to exercise and education about skin care, CDT consists of compression wrapping and specialized massage to drain lymph fluid,” says Ms. Dreyfus. Patients are also advised on obtaining properly fitting compression garments, which can be worn daily to maintain a healthy limb once treatment ends.

While wearing compression garments, most lymphedema patients are able to participate in exercise and normal activity after treatment. “I encourage people to return to their previous level of activity,” says Ms. Dreyfus. “However, patients need to take certain precautions to help lessen the risk of recurrent swelling. Once they understand the underlying reasons for lymphedema and the potential side effects, I advise them to do what they are comfortable with.”

Ms. Dreyfus says many patients benefit from the therapy and see improvements after a few sessions. “Patients come to physical therapy to learn how to carefully progress their activity levels and range of motion,” she says. “I incorporate breathing techniques and teach them about the interaction between pain and fear. This helps patients feel more comfortable, confident and in control.”

Along with the other physical therapists at Mount Auburn Hospital’s Rehabilitation Services outpatient clinic, Ms. Dreyfus also treats patients with varied conditions ranging from pain and orthopedic injuries to neurological impairments.

For a free Mount Auburn Hospital physician directory, please call us at 617-499-5094.