Lymphedema Management After Breast Cancer Treatment

Breast cancer recovery is a journey, and Warren General Hospital’s RehabWorks team is here to support you every step of the way. One important part of recovery may include understanding and managing lymphedema, a condition that can cause swelling after breast cancer treatment.

What Is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema is swelling that can occur when lymph fluid builds up in the body. For breast cancer patients, this swelling may appear in the arm, chest, breast, or back after surgery, lymph node removal, radiation therapy, or other cancer treatments.

Lymphedema does not happen to everyone, but many breast cancer patients may be at risk. It can develop soon after treatment or even years later, which is why it is important to know the signs and seek care early.

Signs and Symptoms

You should talk with your doctor if you notice:

  • Gradual swelling in your arm, chest, breast, or back

  • Tightness in clothing, bras, sleeves, rings, or jewelry

  • Heaviness, aching, or discomfort in the affected area

  • Difficulty moving your arm or shoulder

  • Skin that feels tight, firm, or different than usual

How RehabWorks Can Help

Our lymphedema management program uses gentle, personalized care to help reduce swelling, improve comfort, and support your mobility.

Treatment may include:

Manual Lymph Drainage
A soft, hands-on technique that helps encourage lymph fluid to move through the body.

Compression Therapy
Compression garments or bandaging may be used to help reduce swelling and prevent fluid from building up.

Therapeutic Exercise
Specialized exercises can help improve movement, strength, and overall function.

Skin Care Education
Proper skin care is important because lymphedema can increase the risk of infection. Our team helps you learn how to protect and care for your skin.

Compassionate Care Close to Home

At RehabWorks, our goal is to help you feel supported, informed, and confident throughout your recovery. We work with you to create a treatment plan focused on your comfort, mobility, and long-term wellness.

You do not have to manage lymphedema alone. Our caring team is here to help you understand your symptoms, reduce swelling, and get back to living your life with greater comfort and confidence.

Meet Your Therapist

Alisa Wagner, MOT, OTR/L
Alisa has been a member of the Warren General Hospital RehabWorks team since 2017 and has more than seven years of experience treating breast cancer patients.

To learn more about lymphedema management services,
call RehabWorks at (814) 726-4070.