Arm and Shoulder Exercises for Breast Cancer

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Some patients with breast lymphedema may experience pain or shoulder tightness after surgery and radiation. In this video, we discuss simple exercises for the arms and shoulders that can be done in the comfort of one's home. These may improve range of motion and lower the risk of swelling.

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Read the full video transcript below:

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This instructional video contains simple exercises you can do at home to improve shoulder range of motion and lower the risk of swelling in the arm or hand, known as lymphedema. You can do these exercises two to three times per day with five to ten repetitions each. If you have any questions about whether you are ready to do these exercises, please consult your surgeon or radiation oncologist.

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Shoulder roll: 

Inhale and bring shoulders up, then back. Exhale and bring shoulders down.

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Arm saw: 

With your arms at the sides, bend elbow 90 degrees, then pull back and bend elbow more, then move forward straightening elbow.

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Shoulder walk-up: 

With your arms straight, use your fingers to walk up the wall until you feel a gentle stretch. If you had breast reconstruction, do not raise your arm above your shoulder until your drains are removed.

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Shoulder rotation: 

With elbows bent to 90 degrees, pinch shoulder blades together and rotate arms out, keeping elbows bent.

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Back scratch: 

Reach behind your back and hold hands together. Gently slide your hands up your back and slowly return to the starting position. If you had tissue expander placement, do not try this exercise until cleared by your plastic surgeon.

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Butterfly exercise: 

Place hands behind your head and gently bring elbows back. After reconstruction, keep elbows below shoulder level until drains are removed.

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These simple exercises may help increase shoulder range of motion and possibly lower the risk of swelling or lymphedema. You can do these exercises two to three times per day with five to ten repetitions each. 

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This is not medical advice. Talk to your doctor before making any medical decisions.

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