A mastectomy is a life-changing procedure, often accompanied by physical pain, emotional stress, and challenges in regaining mobility. While traditional post-surgical care focuses on wound healing and physical therapy, therapeutic massage plays a crucial role in helping women recover from both the physical and emotional aspects of mastectomy.
At Elite Recovery, we specialize in neuromuscular therapy, myofascial release, lymphatic drainage, and Frederick Stretch Therapy (FST) to aid in post-mastectomy healing. Let’s explore how massage therapy can support the recovery journey after a mastectomy.
1. Reducing Post-Surgical Pain and Tightness
After a mastectomy, scar tissue can cause discomfort, stiffness, and a pulling sensation in the chest, shoulders, and arms. Myofascial release therapy helps break down scar tissue, improve flexibility, and restore natural movement patterns.
2. Lymphatic Drainage for Swelling and Fluid Retention
Many women experience swelling, especially if lymph nodes are removed during surgery. Lymphatic drainage therapy encourages the natural movement of lymph fluids, reducing swelling, detoxifying the body, and promoting immune function.
3. Restoring Mobility and Preventing Frozen Shoulder
Restricted arm and shoulder movement is common after mastectomy. Frederick Stretch Therapy (FST) gently guides the body through deep stretches to restore mobility, prevent complications like frozen shoulder, and improve overall flexibility.
4. Emotional Healing and Stress Relief
A mastectomy can take an emotional toll, causing anxiety, depression, and body image concerns. Massage therapy activates the parasympathetic nervous system, helping reduce stress hormones, improve mood, and promote a deep sense of relaxation and self-connection.
5. Softening and Improving Scar Tissue
Scar massage techniques help soften fibrotic tissue, increase circulation, and prevent adhesions, leading to smoother and more pliable skin. This can help improve comfort, reduce pain, and enhance the appearance of scars.
What to Expect During a Post-Mastectomy Massage
At Elite Recovery, our approach is customized based on your healing stage and comfort level. Here’s what a session may include:
Gentle lymphatic drainage to reduce swelling and inflammation.
Scar tissue release techniques to improve tissue mobility.
Neuromuscular trigger point therapy to relieve compensatory pain in the shoulders, neck, and back.
Guided stretching and mobility work to restore full range of motion.
Relaxation techniques to promote emotional well-being.
Is Massage Safe After Mastectomy?
Yes! Always consult with your doctor before starting massage therapy, especially if you are undergoing chemotherapy, radiation, or experiencing lymphedema.
Let’s work together to unlock the body’s full potential.
Tiffany Sandoval with Elite Recovery
📍 Locations: San Juan Capistrano, CA & Lake Elsinore, CA
📞 Phone: 949.444.2154
📧 Email: info@tiffanysandoval.com
🌐 Website: www.tiffanysandoval.com
📸 Follow on Instagram: @elite_bodywork
The Healing Timeline: What to Expect & When to Start Soft Tissue Therapy
Understanding the phases of healing is crucial in determining the right type of soft tissue therapy at each stage.
Understanding the phases of healing after a mastectomy is crucial for effective recovery. Here's an overview:
1. Hemostasis (Immediate Response):
Duration: Begins immediately post-surgery.
Process: Blood vessels constrict to stop bleeding, and clot formation occurs to stabilize the wound.
2. Inflammatory Phase:
Duration: Approximately 1 to 4 days post-surgery.
Process: White blood cells migrate to the wound site to eliminate bacteria and debris, leading to signs like redness, warmth, and swelling.
3. Proliferative Phase:
Duration: From day 4 up to 3 weeks post-surgery.
Process: Development of granulation tissue, new blood vessels, and re-epithelialization occur to cover the wound.
4. Maturation (Remodeling) Phase:
Duration: Can last from several months up to a year.
Process: Collagen fibers reorganize, and the wound gains strength, though it may not reach the original tissue's tensile strength.
Integrating specialized massage therapies during these phases can significantly enhance recovery:
Neuromuscular Trigger Point Therapy: Addresses muscle tightness and discomfort resulting from post-surgical compensatory movements.
Myofascial Release Therapy: Assists in breaking down scar tissue and improving tissue flexibility.
Lymphatic Drainage Therapy: Reduces swelling and supports the immune system by facilitating lymph fluid movement.
Frederick Stretch Therapy (FST): Enhances overall flexibility and prevents complications like frozen shoulder.
Collaborating with Medical Professionals for Post-Mastectomy Recovery
1. Comprehensive Rehabilitation: Tiffany is Certified Manual Lymph Drainage Therapist (CMLDT) and currently working on Breast Cancer Rehabilitation certification to manage the complexities of post-mastectomy recovery, providing treatments that reduce pain, improve mobility, and promote overall well-being.
2. Integrated Care Plans: Tiffany works collaboratively with medical professionals to develop cohesive rehabilitation strategies, ensuring that our massage therapies complement existing medical protocols for optimal healing.
3. Patient Empowerment: I educate patients on self-care techniques to prevent excessive scar tissue formation and manage pain effectively, fostering active participation in their recovery journey.
Referring patients to Elite Recovery ensures they receive specialized support tailored to their unique needs, enhancing their recovery experience and overall quality of life.
Video Resources
Lymphatic Drainage Routine to Breast and Chest after Lymph Nodes Surgery
Lumpectomy and Mastectomy Recovery: Everything You Should Know
Breast Surgery Recovery Items- What to get for Mastectomy or Lumpectomy Recovery
Resources Post-Mastectomy Recovery
Please note that the following information is based on individual patient experiences and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before trying any new treatments or therapies. If you have suggestions or additional experiences to share, please contact us at info@tiffanysandoval.com.
Wound & Scar Care
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Drain Sites
Reconstruction Recovery :
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Makes Resting & Sleep Easier
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Post Surgery & Injury Recovery Supplement
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Ready to Optimize Your Recovery?
If you’re preparing for shoulder surgery—or struggling with post-op stiffness and pain—Elite Recovery can help.
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Let’s work together to restore your movement, reduce your pain, and get you back to full strength—faster! 🚀
Tiffany Sandoval
Hi I'm Tiffany Sandoval, Elite Pain Relief & Mobility Expert with over 13 years. I specialize in soft tissue therapy for professional and youth athletes, post-surgery recovery (shoulder, hip, and knee), and mobility restoration, using neuromuscular therapy, myofascial release, lymphatic drainage, and FST to optimize performance, accelerate healing, and prevent injuries. Let's work together to unlock your body's potential, regain mobility, and pave the way for a pain-free, active lifestyle. Connect with her here or on LinkedIn.
Why Choose Elite Recovery Sports Therapy?
✅ Over 13 years of experience in neuromuscular therapy
✅ Specialized techniques for prolong sports careers and chronic pain relief
✅ Convenient locations in Lake Elsinore and San Juan Capistrano
✅ Personalized care tailored to your specific needs
If you're ready to prioritize your health and recovery, schedule your appointment today and experience the Elite Recovery difference!
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