What causes decreased arm mobility in a recovering mastectomy patient?
There can be several causes of decreased arm mobility in a recovering mastectomy patient:
1. Swelling and inflammation: After surgery, the area around the mastectomy site can become swollen and inflamed. This can cause discomfort and make it difficult to move the arm fully.
2. Scar tissue: As the surgery site heals, scar tissue can form. This can lead to tightness and restriction in the movement of the arm.
3. Limited range of motion due to surgical approach: The type of surgical approach used during the mastectomy can also impact arm mobility. For example, a mastectomy that involves removing the axillary lymph nodes (axillary lymph node dissection) can result in decreased arm mobility due to the disruption of lymphatic drainage and nerve damage in the axilla.
4. Muscle weakness: The muscles of the shoulder, arm, and chest may become weak after surgery due to disuse. This weakness can make it difficult to move the arm effectively.
5. Pain: Pain from the surgery can make it difficult to move the arm comfortably.
6. Psychological factors: Some mastectomy patients may also experience psychological factors such as anxiety or depression, which can affect their motivation to move their arm and participate in rehabilitation exercises.
It is important for a recovering mastectomy patient to work closely with their healthcare team, including physical therapists and occupational therapists, to address any impairments in arm mobility. Exercises and techniques can be tailored to the individual's needs to improve range of motion, reduce discomfort, and restore function in the affected arm.