October is...

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Breast Cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States, aside from skin cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 192,370 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed among women in the United States this year. Today there are about 2.5 million breast cancer survivors living in the U.S.

What is Breast Cancer

The term "breast cancer" refers to a malignant tumor that has developed from cells in the breast. Usually breast cancer either begins in the cells of the lobules, which are the milk-producing glands, or the ducts, the passages that drain milk from the lobules to the nipple. Less commonly, breast cancer can begin in the stromal tissues, which include the fatty and fibrous connective tissues of the breast.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is beneficial to the cancer patient before and after surgery. An initial evaluation determines baseline shoulder function, circumferential limb measures, posture and flexibility, and fitness/activity level. The physical therapist monitors participation in a supervised and progressive exercise program, allowing the woman to take an active role in her physical recovery. A therapist's goal is to accelerate healing and improve functional use of the arm and return to function in every aspect of life.