Physiotherapy After Breast Reduction Surgery

Overview

Background and Purpose: Breast reduction surgery is a major procedure that can lead to post-operative pain, postural deviations, and a temporary decline in quality of life.This clinical study aims to investigate the efficacy of early-phase physical therapy on pain management, postural alignment, and overall quality of life in female patients following breast reduction surgery. Study Design and Participants: This is a controlled clinical trial involving 40 female participants aged 18 to 50 who have undergone their first breast reduction surgery. Participants are divided into two groups: an intervention group (n=20) and a control group (n=20). The study follows a pre-test and post-test design to evaluate outcomes before and after a three-week intervention period. Intervention Protocol: The intervention group receives a comprehensive physical therapy program starting one week post-operation. The program is conducted three days a week for three weeks, with sessions lasting 40 to 60 minutes The protocol includes: Postural and cervical exercises Scapular stabilization and manual therapy Scar massage and Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) as needed A structured home exercise program. Outcome Measures: Primary and secondary outcomes are assessed through various clinical tools: Pain:Visual Analog Scale (VAS) Posture: New York Posture Test, measurements of scapular protraction and cervical anterior tilt Mobility:Shoulder and cervical Range of Motion (ROM) Quality of Life and Health: SF-12, BREAST-Q, and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) Expected Results: The study anticipates that the early-phase physical therapy group will demonstrate a significant reduction in pain, improved postural alignment, and a higher quality of life compared to the control group.