Study regarding the functional level of the upper limb after mastectomy

Abstract

The complex treatment applied to breast cancer patients consists of mastectomy, chemotherapy and local radiation therapy and affects the functional level of the upper limb on the side of the mastectomy. Physical therapy plays an important role in increasing the functionality of the upper limb after treatment. The purpose of the study is to verify the effectiveness of an individualised therapeutic exercise programme aimed at increasing the range of motion of the upper limb. Five participants who had undergone mastectomy surgery 6 months earlier were included in the study and each received an individualised rehabilitation programme that was performed twice a week for 6 months. The patients were assessed using three functional tests: test 1 - bringing the hand to the back of the neck, test 2 - touching the scapula with the hand by performing flexion, adduction and internal rotation, and test 3 - touching the scapula with the hand by performing extension, adduction and external rotation. These tests are quantified on a scale of 0 to 4. Early application of an individualised kinetic programme improves the functional capacity of the upper limb on the side of the surgery and contributes to reintegration into daily and socio-professional activities. We consider it important to train patients through educational monthly sessions that address issues such as: maintaining body weight, allowed food and nutritional management for side effects during adjuvant treatment, prevention of chronic diseases.