TO PREVENT LYMPHEDEMA (SWELLING) OF THE UPPER EXTREMITY (HAND, FOREARM AND ARM) ON THE MASTECTOMY SIDE:
Different degrees of lymphedema in left upper extremity
Avoid injury, especially open wound, to the hand, forearm and arm on the side of mastectomy.
If not avoided, clean meticulously with soap and water.
Do range of motion exercises of upper extremity (shoulder, elbow and wrist - particularly shoulder) regularly - daily, at least twice a day, at least 5 minutes per exercise.
Avoid heavy lifting with the operative arm – particularly with the arm in a dependent (hanging down) position.
After doing any activity, rest and elevate the arm affected by the surgery for a period of time equal to the activity time.
ROJ@20apr23