Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Why Targeted Physiotherapy Matters in Recovery

Every October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month reminds us of the importance of early detection, treatment, and support for women battling breast cancer. But beyond surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, there’s another crucial part of recovery that often goes unnoticed: targeted physiotherapy and lymphedema management.

As many as 1 in 3 to 1 in 4 women (up to 40%) may develop lymphedema, a chronic,  swelling of the arm, chest, or breast after breast cancer surgery or radiation therapy. Yet, with the right therapy, education, and care, women can significantly reduce the risk of complications and improve their quality of life.

I’m Tanja Kalezic, Certified Lymphedema Therapist and Physiotherapist, and through my work at Joint Space Polyclinic and on Instagram @lymphedemadubai, I see daily how targeted therapy can transform the recovery journey for breast cancer patients.

 

Why Targeted Physiotherapy Is Essential After Breast Cancer Treatment

Breast cancer treatment often saves lives, but it can leave behind physical side effects that impact mobility, comfort, and confidence. Targeted physiotherapy bridges the gap between medical treatment and long-term recovery.

Here’s why it matters:

• Reducing Risk of Lymphedema

Manual lymph drainage (MLD), compression therapy, and exercise guidance are proven to help prevent or manage swelling after surgery and radiation. Early physiotherapy intervention makes a big difference.

• Managing Cording (Axillary Web Syndrome)

Many women experience tight, painful cords under the arm after lymph node surgery. Physiotherapy techniques gently release these cords, restore mobility, and reduce pain.

• Restoring Shoulder & Arm Mobility

Surgery and radiation can cause stiffness, making daily activities like lifting, reaching, or dressing difficult. Physiotherapy focuses on safe, progressive exercises to restore movement.

• Supporting Radiation Therapy Preparation

Physiotherapy can prepare tissue for radiation, reduce skin tightness, and improve outcomes by keeping lymphatic pathways healthier.

• Improving Posture & Reducing Pain

Pain, scar tissue, and protective postures often develop after surgery. Targeted therapy addresses these, preventing long-term musculoskeletal problems.

• Empowering Patients with Knowledge

Education is a huge part of therapy. Patients learn safe exercises, self-massage, skin care, and lifestyle tips that allow them to feel in control of their healing.

 

What Does Breast Cancer–Focused Therapy Look Like?

 

Every patient’s journey is unique, but a comprehensive physiotherapy program may include:

• Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD): Gentle, specialized massage to stimulate the lymphatic system.
• Scar Tissue Release: Techniques to soften scar tissue and restore flexibility.
• Compression Therapy: Fitting and education on compression sleeves or garments if needed.
• Exercise Therapy: Customized mobility, strength, and stretching exercises.
• Breathing & Relaxation Techniques: To support healing and lymphatic flow.
• Education & Self-Care Strategies: Teaching patients how to care for themselves at home.

 

This holistic approach doesn’t just treat the physical body, it supports emotional well-being, confidence, and independence.

 

The Importance of Early Intervention

The best outcomes happen when physiotherapy starts early, ideally right after surgery or even before radiation therapy begins. Patients who receive early guidance are:

• Less likely to develop severe lymphedema
• More likely to regain full range of motion
• Better prepared to complete radiation therapy with fewer complications
• More confident in returning to normal daily life

 

My Mission as a Breast Cancer Recovery Specialist

As a Certified Lymphedema Therapist (Foeldi College, Germany) and physiotherapist with more than a decade of experience, I’ve dedicated my career to helping women in Dubai recover after breast cancer.

At Joint Space Polyclinic, we provide personalized treatment plans combining evidence-based lymphatic care with supportive therapies tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

My mission is clear:

• To raise awareness that physiotherapy is not optional, it’s essential.
• To empower women with tools to protect their lymphatic health.
• To ensure no woman feels alone in her recovery journey.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is more than pink ribbons. It’s about equipping women with knowledge and support systems that make recovery smoother and healthier.

If you or a loved one has gone through breast cancer treatment, don’t wait until complications appear. Seek support from a qualified physiotherapist or lymphedema therapist early on.

Because healing is not just about surviving cancer, it’s about thriving after it.