Physiotherapy in the prevention and treatment of upper limb complications in women with breast cancer

Abstract

Breast cancer is the one that most affects the female population in Brazil and the world. Upper limb complications are common after cancer treatment, including conservative procedures. Old studies have already shown the effectiveness of physiotherapy in the rehabilitation of these complications. However, currently, physiotherapeutic care must be initiated from the diagnosis of the disease. Pre-rehabilitation prepares the patient to receive cancer treatment and promotes a reduction in rehabilitation time. Rehabilitation decreased the axillary cord by 57%, increased the range of motion (ROM) by 45º for flexion and 70º for shoulder abduction, the incidence of lymphedema was 11%, and there was a decrease of 3.4 points concerning pain on the Visual Scale Analog (EVA). The physical therapist should work with breast cancer to diagnose, prevent, and rehabilitate after cancer treatment, promoting functionality and quality of life for patients with breast cancer.

Keywords

• Breast cancer
• Physiotherapy
• Prevention
• Rehabilitation