Exercise Before & After Mastectomy & Breast Reconstruction
What movement can you do to prepare for breast cancer surgery, and what may help once you leave hospital?
In this episode of Rewritten Me, Luan speaks with Anna-Louise Bradley, senior exercise physiologist the director of Balanced Bodies Lifestyle Clinic. Anna works across oncology, women’s health and complex conditions, supporting people to use movement in practical and individualised ways.
They talk about exercise before and after mastectomy and breast reconstruction. Anna explains what an exercise physiologist does, how the role differs from physiotherapy, and where movement can fit before surgery, in hospital, after discharge and once you’re cleared to return to exercise.
This conversation looks at prehab, early movement, the grey area before exercise clearance, cancer-related fatigue, rebuilding strength and fitness, and finding free or lower-cost support in Australia.
Anna also talks about how movement can meet you where you are, rather than needing to be an hour at the gym.
Listen to this episode
In this episode we talk about
what an exercise physiologist does
exercise physiology vs physiotherapy
prehab when surgery is close
early movement in hospital
the grey area before exercise clearance
adapting movement after different surgeries
cancer-related fatigue
rebuilding strength, fitness and confidence
Medicare rebates and subsidised programs
finding an oncology exercise physiologist
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Link to BCNA exercises before and after breast reconstruction surgery
Link to the Cancer Council’s arm and should exercises after breast cancer surgery
Subsidised ‘CAN-B Fit’ program by the Prostate & Breast Cancer Foundation
Links:
Balanced Bodies Lifestyle Clinic website
Balanced Bodies Lifestyle Clinic on Instagra
Find an exercise physiologist specialising in oncology here
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If you’ve found any of the content upsetting, please reach out and get help. Breast Cancer Network Australia has a free confidential helpline – 1800 500 258. Beyond Blue has a range of free resources online, or you can call them 24/7 on 1300 224 636.
