A major part of care following breast surgery focuses on returning to activity and fitness as soon as possible. Knowing what to expect will facilitate active participation in the process.
Eastern Rehabilitation Network, in collaboration with The Partnership for Breast Care, manages the rehabilitative phase of breast cancer surgery for Hartford Hospital's Helen and Harry Gray Cancer Center. ERN's physical and occupational therapists with specialized training in breast surgery rehabilitation work with patients and their health care team to determine the appropriate rehabilitation goals. Early detection and treatment of lymphedema (swelling) is also addressed.
The program is conducted in phases - post-surgery, lymphedema management, and exercise and fitness - and patients may enter the program at any point during their care with a physician's prescription (there is also a pre-surgical phase where baseline information and measurements are taken).
Breast cancer rehabilitation is offered in Avon*, Enfield*, Glastonbury *, Manchester *, Meriden *, West Hartford (Bishops Corner, South Main Street), Wethersfield *, and Windsor*.
*includes lymphedema management