After breast cancer treatment, whether through mastectomy, lumpectomy, lymph node removal, or radiotherapy, many women notice changes in their shoulder and arm. Stiffness, pain, and reduced range of motion are common, making everyday tasks more difficult.

The good news? Physiotherapy plays a key role in restoring mobility, reducing pain, and preventing long-term complications.

Why Arm Mobility Is Affected

Surgery: scar tissue, nerve irritation, and muscle changes can restrict shoulder movement.
Lymph node removal: increases the risk of swelling and tightness.
Radiotherapy: can cause fibrosis (hardening of tissue) and stiffness in skin, fascia, and muscles.
Protective posture: many women unconsciously guard the chest or shoulder after surgery, creating secondary stiffness.

👉 Without support, these issues can lead to frozen shoulder, postural changes, or chronic pain.

Common Mobility Issues After Treatment

Difficulty lifting the arm overhead (reaching for shelves, hair care, dressing)
Tightness across the chest wall or underarm
Pulling or pain around scars
Weakness in the shoulder and upper back
Risk of lymphedema if mobility is reduced

How Physiotherapy Helps

1. Gentle Range of Motion Exercises

Physios guide you through safe, progressive stretches to restore flexibility without straining healing tissue.

2. Scar Tissue & Soft Tissue Techniques

Manual therapy to release scar adhesions
Education on gentle self-massage techniques

3. Strengthening & Posture Work

Targeting shoulder stabilisers and upper back muscles
Correcting protective patterns (rounded shoulders, stiffness)

4. Radiotherapy Fibrosis Management

Mobilisation and stretching of affected tissues
Breathing and rib mobility exercises to reduce chest tightness

5. Education & Self-Management

Guidance on safe return to activity
Lymphedema prevention tips (avoiding excessive strain, monitoring swelling)
Individualised home exercise programs

What the Evidence Says

Research shows early physiotherapy after mastectomy or radiotherapy significantly improves shoulder mobility and reduces pain.
Gentle, progressive exercises are safe, and reduce the risk of long-term stiffness or frozen shoulder.
Scar and soft tissue management can improve both mobility and comfort.

Arm mobility problems are common after breast cancer treatment, but they don’t have to be permanent. With physiotherapy, scar care, and tailored exercises, women can regain comfort, movement, and confidence in their daily lives.

✨ Recovering from breast cancer treatment? Book a consultation with our physiotherapists at Renard Clinic for evidence-based support to restore mobility and function.