MedStar National Rehabilitation Network

The Breast Cancer Rehabilitation Program offers services provided by physical and occupational therapists that have been extensively trained in skilled treatment procedures for lymphedema management and breast cancer rehabilitation. Our rehabilitation program has been developed based on our therapists’ training and working knowledge of current medical management of breast cancer, including local and systemic treatments and reconstructive procedures.

Program Highlights

Services by physical and occupational therapists are brought together to develop an individualized treatment plan to restore the patient to the highest level of functioning. A major focus of our program is to educate and instruct the patient in self-help techniques to begin to manage the condition independently. Our services are available at multiple sites for patient convenience.

Our breast-cancer specialty services include scar management, range of motion, and instruction on techniques to reduce the risk of lymphedema for women who have undergone mastectomy, axillary dissection or reconstructive surgery. For women with lymphedema, treatment may include instruction in skin care and limb health, lymph drainage massage and bandaging techniques, and ordering compression garments and lymphedema pumps. Treatment for all patients include exercise, gentle conditioning, and stretching to improve strength and restore function. An evidence-based strength training program called Strength After Breast Cancer might also be implemented for those patients interested in gaining back their strength to their fullest potential.

Aspects of the treatment program include any or all of the following, based on the patient’s need as determined by the patient and physician.

Pre-Surgical Assessment:

• Baseline information on daily level of function, needs and goals
• Posture analysis
• Baseline flexibility and strength assessments
• Baseline limb girth measurements
• Patient education on post-operative shoulder mobility exercises, breathing exercises, posture, lymphedema precautions and daily activity guidelines

Post-Operative Assessment:

• Shoulder motion, upper extremity strength and girth measurement
• Cardiovascular assessment when tolerated
• Functional limitations

Lymphedema Management

When lymphedema presents, the patient is offered a comprehensive approach to restoremaximum level of function. Treatment may include:

• Manual lymphatic therapy
• Gradient compression bandaging of the limb
• Fitness programs for flexibility and strength
• Posture and breathing exercises
• Aerobic and conditioning exercises
• Therapy for frozen or weakened shoulder or other muscle imbalances

Other Specialty Services:

• Psychological Counseling
• Pain Management/Acupuncture
• Integrative Medicine
• Nutrition Counseling
• Stress Management
• Prosthetic, Clothing and Personal Image Options