Minimizing Shoulder Pain After Radiation

Is it uncomfortable to sleep?

Heaviness or pinching in your chest?

Is it becoming more uncomfortable to wear a sports or regular bra?

Are you slowly losing flexibility or strength in the arm affected by radiation or surgery?

Is yoga or other classes becoming more difficult when stretching, or more difficult to stay in the poses?

Radiation fibrosis syndrome is generally a late complication of radiation treatment, and tissue continues to change for months to years following radiation treatment. As individuals age and experience changes in health, tissues undergo ongoing remodeling, potentially thickening and becoming harder months or years after radiation exposure.  It may progress gradually.  Symptoms may include a decrease in trunk, neck, or arm flexibility, feeling full or heavy in the lateral chest, breast or upper arm area, discomfort with reaching out the side, overhead, or behind. 

Effects may occur either during or immediately after treatment, or they can be delayed, appearing months or even years after the completion of the treatment.

Physical therapists who specialize in cancer rehabilitation understand the many variations of cancer treatments that happen and can develop a specific treatment plan to manage symptoms including manual, and soft tissue mobilization, and develop an exercise prescription. 

Specializing in both orthopedics and lymphedema, Anne has the expertise to address whether the issue is more related to joints, muscles, soft tissue, or edema. If you've consulted with a general physical therapist, they might not have addressed any underlying soft tissue components.

Experiencing these symptoms? Schedule an appointment today.