In hospital:
Those having breast cancer surgery on Vancouver island with an Axillary Node Dissection should have a physiotherapist visit prior to your discharge in order to review exercises with you.
You can learn about exercises to do after breast cancer surgery on the Canadian Cancer Agency website.
Out-Patient Physiotherapy:
The Out-Patient Physiotherapy department at the Royal Jubilee Hospital offers expert care for those who develop problems with shoulder motion, pain, discomfort or swelling in their affected arm after surgery for breast cancer.
To be referred, your doctor needs to complete a Professional Services Referral form (71-05-0151-0) and fax it to the Out-Patient Physiotherapy department.
Out-Patient Physiotherapy
Adanac Building
Royal Jubilee Hospital
1952 Bay Street
Victoria, BC V8R 1J8
Phone: (250) 370-8264
Fax: (250) 370-8031
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Patients outside of the Greater Victoria area may be able to access private physiotherapy services for assistance with post-breast surgery issues.
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A post breast surgery education class is offered for women 2-5 weeks following axillary node dissection surgery. Instruction is provided by a physiotherapist from the Vancouver Island Health Authority. This is an information session and not an exercise class.
Topics include potential complications of shoulder stiffness and swelling, care and protection of the affected arm, specific exercises and general activity level as well as Lymphedema awareness, prevention, and risk reduction.
Although the classes are offered to women only, a physiotherapist will also see men who have had this type of surgery on an individual basis.
The surgeons and physicians associated with the Vancouver Island Cancer Centre support these classes and a physician referral is not required, but registration is necessary.
These sessions are currently offered at:
Adanac Building, Royal Jubilee Hospital
1952 Bay St.
Victoria, BC V8R 1J8
Phone: (250) 727-4070
Fax: (250) 727-4075
Physiotherapy Department
Cowichan District Hospital
3045 Gibbins Road
Duncan, BC V9L 1E5
Phone: (250) 709-3000 Local 4240.
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