SIG Oncology

Physiotherapy treatment

The proposed exercises help restore normal arm and shoulder function. They prevent the development of more disabling problems.

If treatments (surgery or radiotherapy) have been combined with a lymph node dissection in the armpit, physiotherapy is essential. The patient should not hesitate to seek advice during their hospital stay.

The goal of physical therapy is to prevent or reduce shoulder stiffness on the side of the operated breast. It is important to begin physical therapy the day after surgery if possible.

The proposed exercises help restore normal arm and shoulder function and prevent the development of more disabling problems.

Initially, the exercises are performed with the physiotherapist. Then, the patient repeats them alone once a day so that the shoulder can move better and better. Physiotherapy sessions are continued for at least two months.

In cases of lymphedema, the physiotherapist uses an appropriate technique: manual lymphatic drainage. Its purpose is to evacuate the stagnant lymph that is responsible for lymphedema. After measuring the extent of the lymphedema, the physiotherapist performs lymphatic drainage on all swollen areas.

The physiotherapist may combine lymphatic drainage with other techniques (bandaging). Depending on the extent of the lymphedema, the physiotherapist may recommend wearing a custom-made sleeve.

Massaging the scar can be helpful; it improves its condition. It is recommended that these massages be performed away from surgery or radiotherapy. Your physiotherapist will know the best time to perform them.

Documentation mise à la disposition des patients par le GIS Oncologie

Breast cancer

Patient brochures to download

• Cancer Foundation
• Luxembourg Association of Oncology Sports Groups (ALGSO asbl)

The aim of the "ALGSO" (Lëtzebuerger Kriibs-Sportgruppen) is to help people treated for cancer quickly regain their pre-illness quality of life, both physically and psychologically. It is worth noting that numerous scientific studies have highlighted the positive effects of adequate group physical activity beyond oncological treatment and individual physiotherapy rehabilitation. In addition, the association raises awareness of the importance of physical exercise in reducing the risk of recurrence.

To this end, the association currently offers five weekly sports groups for adults in various locations across the country: Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Ettelbruck, and Mondorf-les-Bains. For children undergoing cancer treatment, it offers a weekly sports group at the "Fondatioun Kriibskrank Kanner" in Strassen.

Participation in an oncology sports group, which takes place upon recommendation from the attending physician, is free for association members. The number of participants in all sports groups, currently just over 100 people, continues to grow. Regular participation is not required: everyone is free to participate as often as they wish.

The activity of these sports groups aims to improve endurance to moderate physical effort and coordination of movements. It also includes flexibility and muscle strengthening exercises specific to each individual's pathology. The sports groups are supervised by sports activity and/or physiotherapists.