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Breast surgery and neural tissue mechanosensitivity.
Susannah Kelley1, Gwendolen Jull
1Mater Misericordiae Adult Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
The Australian Journal of Physiotherapy
|October 26, 2001
Summary
Breast cancer surgery may increase nerve sensitivity in the arm, potentially causing pain. This study found reduced shoulder movement and altered arm symptoms after surgery, suggesting both local and central nervous system changes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Neurosurgery
- Physical Therapy
Background:
- Arm pain is a common complication after breast cancer surgery.
- Nerve mechanosensitivity can be affected by surgical procedures.
- Understanding these changes is crucial for post-operative rehabilitation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of breast surgery on the mechanosensitivity of upper quadrant neural tissues.
- To assess changes in neural tissue response using a clinical provocation test.
- To evaluate the relationship between surgery and arm pain post-breast cancer treatment.
Main Methods:
- Twenty patients undergoing breast surgery were evaluated.
- The Upper Limb Neurodynamic Test 2a (ULTT 2a) was administered pre-operatively and six weeks post-operatively.
- Measurements included glenohumeral abduction range, and the area, nature, and intensity of symptoms in the operated arm.
Main Results:
- A tendency towards increased neural tissue mechanosensitivity was observed post-surgery.
- A significant reduction in glenohumeral abduction range was noted.
- Variance in symptoms within the operated arm indicated altered neural response.
Conclusions:
- Breast cancer surgery appears to increase neural tissue mechanosensitivity.
- Reduced abduction range and symptom changes suggest both peripheral and central nervous system involvement.
- These findings highlight the need for targeted post-operative care for arm pain.