Women with lumpectomies tend to have the shorter times and those with mastectomies the longer. However, when radiation is given following a lumpectomy, long- term arm mobility is better after a mastectomy. Muscles become weak fairly quickly when they are not used and strengthened gradually with increased use. Avoid even trivial injuries to the hand and arm, e.g., wear gloves when gardening. These can be ready made or custom fitted.
Elastic gloves are also available.
If numbers 1 and 2 are not sufficient, your doctor may recommend the addition of a compression pump which ia a pneumatic sleeve that squeezes out the edema each day. Elastic sleeves and pneumatic sleeves are available at stores that sell breast prothesis. Some women have tingling, prickling or the sensation of an open sore or burn along the arm. Click here to access the breast tutorial or here to access the breast problem clinic for patients.