Recovery Optimization: Adding Tissue Flossing to Nerve Glide on Axillary Web Syndrome Post Mastectomy

Select a floss band, typically made of latex, which is about 1-2 inches wide. Ensure the area to be wrapped is clean and dry to prevent slipping. Begin wrapping the floss band around the upper arm, just below the shoulder joint. Start at the deltoid's base. Leave about 2 inches of the band free at the start to tuck in the end when you finish wrapping. Wrap the band tightly but not to the point of causing discomfort or cutting off circulation, the band should be snug but not so tight that it causes numbness or tingling. Aim for about a 50% stretch of the band as you wrap. Continue wrapping down the arm, covering the entire upper arm and ending just above the elbow Overlap each layer by about 50% to ensure even coverage and compression. Once you reach the desired coverage area, tuck the end of the band under the last loop to secure it. Check the tightness to ensure it is snug but not overly constrictive.

With the band in place, perform slow and controlled arm movements. Start with shoulder abduction (lifting the arm sideways) and progress to external rotation (turning the arm outward) this is for axillary nerve glide, (extending your arm and fingers while tilting your head away from the affected side) this for median nerve glide and (Extend your arm out to the side at shoulder height-Rotate the arm so the palm faces upwards-Flex the wrist and fingers back gently-Tilt your head away from the extended arm to increase the stretch) this for radial nerve glide. Ensure movements are within a pain-free range. Stop if any discomfort occurs. Keep the floss band in place for 1-2 minutes while performing nerve glides. Remove the band after the exercise, allowing the skin to recover from compression.