4 Stretches To Soothe Pain Caused By Breast Cancer Treatment, From A PT

One of these common lingering side effects is pain. In an American Society of Clinical Oncology study, researchers found up to 40% of cancer survivors continue to experience pain well after treatment. For breast cancer survivors, in particular, this pain usually manifests in the breast, chest, shoulder, or underarm regions.

How long to hold each stretch when you do start depends on individual comfort levels, as well as the timing of your most recent surgery. Here's a breakdown:

As for the best stretches to try? These four exercises are a good place to start.

How to: Lie on your back with both hands reaching toward the sky. Keep elbows straight. Slowly lower both arms over your head until they nearly touch the floor. Complete 3 to 10 repetitions.

How to: Lie on your back with your hands behind your head and your elbows pointed toward the sky. Slowly lower elbows down and out to the side until they nearly touch the floor. Complete 3 to 10 repetitions.

How to: Lie on your back; extend your arms down by your sides. Keep your elbows straight and palms facing upward. Slowly begin to stretch your arms out to the side, while keeping them connected to the floor. Continue until your arms are stretched entirely overhead. Complete 3 to 10 repetitions.

Adding these simple yet effective stretches to your routine may be just the thing to support a more pain-free recovery.