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Build arm strength after sentinel node biopsy?

Page last modified on: October 7, 2008

Question from Sue: Having had a sentinel node biopsy, how do I reconcile the need/desire to build arm strength with the admonition to avoid lifting with the affected arm?: Answer —Julie Gralow, M.D.: If just a sentinel node procedure has been done, the long term consequences with respect to risk of lymphedema, restricted arm motion and neuropathy are much, much less than for patients who have had an axillary lymph node dissection. It's not zero, but it's much less. So neither I nor a breast surgeon would recommend any restriction in arm activity post sentinel node biopsy, or for most women after an axillary dissection. Of course, post-op we will recommend common sense. But long-term, no limitations.

On Wednesday, January 18, 2006, our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Physical Activity and Breast Cancer. Miriam Nelson, Ph.D., Julie Gralow, M.D., and moderator Judith Sachs answered your questions about the many issues related to physical activity and breast cancer.

The materials presented in these conferences do not necessarily reflect the views of Breastcancer.org. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before using any therapeutic product or regimen discussed. All readers should verify all information and data before employing any therapies described here.

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Meet the Experts

Miriam Nelson, Ph.D. is the author of the international best-sellers Strong Women Stay Young; Strong Women Stay Slim;Strong Women, Strong Bones; and other titles. She is Director of the John Hancock Center for Physical Activity and Nutrition and Associate Professor of Nutrition at the Gerald J. and Dorothy R. Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University.

Julie Gralow, M.D. is associate professor of medical oncology specializing in breast cancer at the University of Washington and the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center and director of breast medical oncology at Seattle Cancer Care Alliance.

Judith Sachs is a health educator, writer, speaker, and former member of the Breastcancer.org editorial team.

Breastcancer.org is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing information and community to those touched by this disease. Learn more about our commitment to providing complete, accurate, and private breast cancer information.

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