A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment journey can bring significant physical and emotional challenges. Whether you’ve recently been diagnosed, are recovering from surgery, or are experiencing swelling, cording, pain or reduced movement, we’re here to support you at every stage of your recovery and survivorship journey.
Breast cancer rehabilitation is a specialised physiotherapy service that supports people preparing for (pre-habilitation), undergoing, or recovering from breast cancer treatment.
Our team supports those who are:
Physiotherapy can be beneficial before treatment begins, during active treatment, and throughout recovery for long-term ‘thrivership’
Every recovery journey is different, however some common concerns following breast cancer treatment include:
Early physiotherapy support can help address these concerns and support improved recovery outcomes.
At Hunter Rehab Hub, we provide specialised, one-on-one physiotherapy care tailored to your presentation, goals, and stage of recovery.
We understand that recovery is not just physical. Our team aims to create a supportive and welcoming environment where you feel heard, informed, and empowered throughout your rehabilitation journey.
Swelling in the breast, chest wall, underarm, and/or arm can occur after breast cancer treatment, particularly following surgery (mastectomy, lumpectomy, reconstruction), lymph node removal, and/or radiation therapy.
While some temporary swelling can be expected during initial recovery, ongoing, worsening, or fluctuating swelling is not a normal part of recovery and may be a sign of lymphoedema developing. Persistent swelling can cause discomfort, tightness, movement restriction and changes in daily function.
Early assessment and management can make a significant difference in symptom management, preventing progression, minimising infection risk and optimising quality of life.
Your breast cancer rehabilitation questions answered
Ideally, physiotherapy care should start prior to breast cancer treatment commencing (at diagnosis) to perform baseline assessments, education and SOZO readings. However, physiotherapy can be beneficial at any point in the breast cancer care journey.
Early intervention after breast cancer treatment can help manage side effects before they become more severe, supporting better recovery, mobility, strength, and quality of life.
Early detection of associated lymphoedema is especially important, as when identified and treated in the early stages, the condition may be reversible or more effectively controlled. Prompt intervention can also help limit condition progression, reduce the risk of secondary complications, and support better long-term outcomes.
In most cases, you do not need a referral to access our breast cancer rehabilitation services. However, some funding pathways (e.g. Medicare, DVA) may require one. Contact our team to learn more.
While some temporary swelling can be expected during initial recovery after breast cancer treatment, ongoing, worsening, or fluctuating swelling is not normal and may be a sign of lymphoedema developing. Persistent swelling, heaviness, tightness, or discomfort in the breast, chest wall, armpit or arm should be assessed early to limit progression.
Yes, cancer treatment-related fatigue is one of the most common side effects of treatment. Physiotherapy and tailored exercise rehabilitation can help improve energy levels, physical function, strength, endurance, and overall quality of life during and after treatment.
Cording, also known as axillary web syndrome, can develop after breast cancer treatment. It may feel like tight ‘cords’ under the skin through the armpit or arm and can restrict shoulder movement or cause discomfort. Physiotherapy can help improve mobility, reduce tightness, and minimise discomfort.
The SOZO is a device using bioimpedance spectroscopy technology to monitor fluid changes associated with lymphoedema.
The device helps identify early signs of lymphatic changes, even before visible swelling develops, allowing earlier detection and intervention to maximise patient outcomes. It is also used long-term for ongoing monitoring.
No, appropriately prescribed exercise is considered safe and beneficial for most people with or at risk of lymphoedema. Exercise can support lymphatic flow, improve strength and mobility, and assist with long-term symptom management when guided by a trained health professional.
Yes, lymphoedema can develop weeks, months or even years after breast cancer treatment. This is why ongoing awareness, monitoring, and early assessment of symptoms is so important.
Yes, lymphoedema can also develop in the breast, chest wall, armpit and trunk after breast cancer treatment. Swelling is not limited to the arm alone.
In many cases, yes. Physiotherapy can often be safely modified around your treatment schedule, symptoms, fatigue levels, and medical recommendations to help support physical function and wellbeing during active treatment.
Yes, breast cancer rehabilitation is not limited to the immediate recovery period. We also support individuals to improve strength, mobility, swelling, pain, and fatigue as part of long-term ‘thrivership’.