Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer among women, and when detected early, the success rate of treatment is significantly high. However, just as important as the treatment process itself is helping individuals regain their quality of life afterward. This is where physiotherapists and rehabilitation practices play a vital role.
The most effective way to combat breast cancer is through early detection. Regular breast examinations, mammography screenings, and awareness initiatives enable the disease to be identified at an early stage. Early diagnosis not only extends life expectancy but also makes the treatment process less traumatic.
In Türkiye, it is recommended that women aged 40–69 undergo mammography screening every two years. In addition, women are advised to perform self-breast examinations starting from the age of 20, as recognizing possible changes early can be life-saving.
Breast cancer treatment may involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and hormone therapy. These procedures can make the treatment period physically and psychologically challenging for patients.
Post-surgical complications such as pain, limited range of motion, postural disorders, and particularly lymphedema (swelling caused by lymph fluid accumulation) are commonly observed. These complications can affect not only physical function but also emotional well-being and social life.
Physiotherapy plays a key role in helping individuals return to a healthy and active life following breast cancer treatment.
Physiotherapy interventions contribute significantly in the following areas:
Lymphedema Management: Manual lymph drainage, compression bandaging, and exercise programs help control lymphedema.
Improving Shoulder and Arm Mobility: Exercises targeting restricted movement after surgery help increase joint flexibility and muscle strength.
Postural Correction and Muscle Balance: Rehabilitation programs address postural deformities caused by changes in breast tissue.
Pain Management: Physiotherapists use manual therapy and exercise techniques to help reduce pain.
Psychosocial Support: Physical activity and exercise enhance motivation, supporting patients’ psychological recovery.
Through these approaches, physiotherapists provide not only physical recovery but also a holistic rehabilitation experience.
As the Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation at Istanbul Gelisim University, we encourage our students and graduates to take the lead in raising public awareness during this important month.
Enhancing the quality of life of individuals who have undergone breast cancer treatment, restoring their functional independence, and preventing long-term complications are among the core professional responsibilities of physiotherapists.
Each physiotherapy student trained with this awareness becomes an integral part of the healthcare system, actively contributing to both preventive and rehabilitative healthcare services.
The fight against breast cancer should not be limited to a single month; awareness, early diagnosis, and practices that enhance quality of life after treatment must continue throughout the year.
At Istanbul Gelisim University’s Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, our primary goal is to contribute to public health, raise awareness among our students, and lead initiatives that positively impact the lives of individuals.
Let us remember: Early diagnosis saves lives — physiotherapy improves quality of life.
