Shoulder Movement Drops After Breast Cancer Surgery Even With Rehab

Shoulder joint movement reduces sharply within one month after breast cancer surgery, even when patients receive regular inpatient rehabilitation. A study from Japan found that more than 80 percent of patients had limited shoulder motion shortly after surgery. This early loss affects daily life and slows overall recovery if not handled carefully.

The findings highlight a quiet but serious recovery challenge many patients face.

Why Shoulder Range Of Motion Matters After Surgery

Shoulder movement is essential for simple tasks like dressing, combing hair, reaching shelves, or lifting the arm overhead. When motion drops, even small daily actions feel difficult and tiring. This can affect confidence, independence, and emotional wellbeing too.

Early shoulder stiffness often decides how smooth or hard recovery will feel in the coming months.

What The Japan Study Looked At

Researchers in Japan reviewed medical records of breast cancer patients who completed inpatient rehabilitation after surgery. The study covered cases from May 2014 to April 2020 at a university hospital.

They compared shoulder movement before surgery and again one month later. The focus was on passive shoulder flexion and abduction, which show how freely the joint can move.

How Much Shoulder Movement Was Lost

Out of 258 patients studied, 210 showed clear shoulder range of motion limits at one month. That is about 81 percent of all patients.

On average, shoulder flexion dropped by over 31 degrees. Shoulder abduction dropped by nearly 36 degrees. These are large reductions, especially considering rehab was already part of care.

Rehabilitation Did Not Fully Prevent Early Stiffness

All patients received routine inpatient rehabilitation, yet early shoulder restriction still appeared widely. This shows that standard rehab alone may not be enough for every patient.

Some bodies react more strongly to surgery, healing, and tissue changes. Pain, swelling, and scar formation also play a role during early weeks.

Who Is At Higher Risk Of Shoulder Limitation

The study found three clear factors linked to higher risk. Older patients had more shoulder restriction. Patients with more lymph nodes removed also showed greater limits. Total mastectomy patients faced higher risk compared to partial surgery.

These factors help doctors predict who may struggle more during early recovery.

Why Lymph Node Removal Affects Movement

Removing more axillary lymph nodes can increase tissue trauma and swelling. This may lead to stiffness around the shoulder and chest area.

The body needs more time to adapt, and movement can feel tight or painful even with guided exercises.

Impact On Daily Life And Recovery

Limited shoulder motion can slow return to normal routines. Simple tasks take longer. Some patients avoid movement due to fear or discomfort.

If stiffness continues unchecked, long term shoulder problems may develop. Early attention matters a lot.

What This Means For Rehab Planning

Patients who are older, had total mastectomy, or extensive node removal may need closer follow up. Rehab plans may need adjustment based on individual risk.

Slower pacing, realistic goal setting, and continued monitoring after discharge can support better recovery.

Important Takeaway For Patients And Care Teams

Early shoulder stiffness after breast cancer surgery is common, even with rehab. It is not a failure by the patient. It is part of healing for many.

Knowing the risks early helps plan better care. With attention and support, shoulder function can improve steadily over time.