For Many Breast Cancer Survivors, Pain PersistsA new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that nearly half of breast cancer survivors report ongoing pain after treatment. ![]() Researchers reviewed questionnaires filled out by 3,253 women who had undergone breast cancer treatment in Denmark between 2005 and 2006. The women were asked:
Nearly Half of Breast Cancer Survivors Experience PainThe research participants had undergone breast-conserving surgery or surgery to remove the breast 13 to 41 months prior to taking the survey. Additional possible treatments included radiation, chemotherapy, and removal of lymph nodes. In all, 47 percent of the women surveyed reported pain in one or more areas of the body. Of those, 52 percent reported severe or moderate pain. Pain was reported in the breast area, armpit, arm, and side of the body. Among those with severe pain, 77 percent said that they had it daily. For those who reported their pain as light, 36 percent had it every day. Women younger than 40 were more than three times as likely to have chronic pain as older women. Research volunteers who had radiation therapy were more likely to report pain than those who had chemotherapy. How to Manage PainCancer pain can range from mild to severe. But it can almost always be relieved. Your medical team can work with you to develop a pain control plan designed for you and your body. Here are some things you can do to get the best results from your plan:
Always consult your physician for more information. Online Resources(Our Organization is not responsible for the content of Internet sites.) Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) National Breast Cancer Coalition National Breast Cancer Foundation National Cancer Institute — Pain Control: Support for People with Cancer - Pain Control Record National Cancer Institute (NCI) |
February 2010Physical Therapy a Boon to Breast Cancer SurvivorsThe research is clear: Exercise, such as walking three to five hours each week, helps breast cancer survivors live longer and enjoy life more. But breast cancer treatment -- surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy -- can be exhausting. During and after treatment, women may not view exercise as a priority or they may be too tired to participate in a standard exercise program. That's where physical therapy (PT) comes in. PT especially designed for breast cancer survivors can help women safely regain their energy, range of motion, and strength. Fatigue, one of the most common side effects of breast cancer treatment, keeps many women from exercising. A physical therapist can suggest coping strategies to help you feel energized. Breast cancer or its treatments, such as the surgical removal of lymph nodes or radiation therapy, may result in lymphedema, a condition in which excess fluid collects in the arm next to the treated breast, causing swelling and soreness. Other symptoms include:
Exercise may reduce the symptoms of lymphedema. Other PT care for lymphedema includes massage and bandaging. Always consult your physician for more information. |