Axillary Cord Syndrome, also referred to as Axillary Web Syndrome, is a very common condition that is often experienced by breast cancer survivors and patients who have undergone surgery to remove a sentinel lymph node under the arm. This condition is so incredibly easy and quick to treat, but while it exists, it can be extremely limiting for patients.
If you have recently undergone surgery for breast cancer and have since experienced a loss in your range of motion, are having trouble using your arm, or are experiencing pain, know that Partners in Physical Therapy has your back. Our physical therapists are trained experts and know how to treat cases just like yours.
What is ACS and how does it form?
Healthline explains how Axillary Cord Syndrome forms:
“Axillary web syndrome (AWS) is also called cording or lymphatic cording. It refers to the rope, or cord-like areas, that develop just under the skin [beneath] your arm. It may also extend partially down the arm. In very rare cases, it can extend all the way down to your wrist. AWS can also be caused by scar tissue from breast cancer surgery in the chest area without the removal of any lymph nodes. AWS may appear days, weeks, or months after your surgery.”
Symptoms of this condition are not hard to find. Normally, people can see and feel the “cords” under their arm, and describe them as resembling a spider web. These cords limit range of motion and cause pain and tightness when you try to lift your arm, which can make daily activities extremely difficult to do.
How can physical therapy eliminate my pain?
If you’re living with this condition, have no fear. As previously stated above, Axillary Cord Syndrome is treatable at Partners in Physical Therapy in Lake Charles and it normally doesn’t take that long for patients to experience pain relief!
Upon arriving at our clinic in Lake Charles, your physical therapist will examine you and measure your range of motion. They’ll take into account your pain symptoms and any restrictions or movement limitations you may have.
After creating a custom physical therapy treatment plan for you, they’ll work with you during your daily appointments to help relieve pain and manage any lingering pain at home.
Physical therapy treatment is one of the safest, most effective methods of pain management for ACS. Treatment for this condition usually consists of stretches, heat therapy, exercises to restore flexibility and range of motion, lymphatic massage therapy, and laser therapy which is used to break up scar tissue that has formed.
If at any time you’re unable to perform certain activities or exercises, make sure to let your therapist know. They’ll never push you past what your body can handle, and it’s always their number one priority to make sure you leave feeling better than when you came in!
Contact our Lake Charles clinic today
Are you or a loved one dealing with Axillary Cord Syndrome after surgery for breast cancer? Contact Partners in Physical Therapy in Lake Charles today to learn more about how we can help in the recovery journey and help you reclaim your movement abilities once again.
