Shoulder Pain & Stiffness After Breast Cancer Treatment

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Led by Dr. Sara Acheson, this workshop offers evidence-based exercises to restore shoulder mobility and comfort after breast cancer.

Shoulder pain, tightness, and limited mobility are common after breast cancer treatment—but they are not simply something you have to live with. Whether you've undergone surgery, radiation, reconstruction, lymph node removal, or other breast cancer treatments, this interactive 90-minute workshop will help you better understand the "why" behind these symptoms and give you practical tools to move with greater confidence.

Together, we'll explore how breast cancer treatment can affect the muscles, joints, nerves, scar tissue, and connective tissues of the chest and shoulder. You'll learn why pain and stiffness develop, what changes are common after treatment, and how breathing, posture, rib mobility, and shoulder blade movement all play an important role in restoring comfortable, functional movement.

Through guided demonstrations and gentle movement, you'll practice evidence-based exercises designed to improve mobility, reduce stiffness, and build confidence with everyday activities like reaching overhead, lifting, exercising, gardening, or returning to the activities you love. We'll also discuss why strength training is an important part of long-term recovery and how movement can be one of your greatest tools for healing.

We'll cover common concerns such as radiation fibrosis, axillary web syndrome (cording), frozen shoulder, lymphedema-related issues, and persistent pain after treatment, including when it's appropriate to seek care from a physical therapist.

Participants will leave with a simple 10-minute home mobility routine, a better understanding of how their body is adapting after treatment, and practical strategies they can begin using right away to improve movement, function, and quality of life.

About the Educator:

Dr. Sara Acheson, PT, DPT, OCS, CLT-UE, CES is the founder of Athena Wellness in Alexandria, Virginia, and a board-certified orthopedic physical therapist specializing in pelvic health, pregnancy and postpartum care, breast cancer rehabilitation, and lymphedema. She earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Emory University and completed both an orthopedic residency and an Upper Extremity Athlete Fellowship. Sara is passionate about helping people feel informed, prepared, and confident through every stage of life by combining evidence-based care with practical education. Through Athena Wellness, she is committed to empowering patients with the knowledge and tools they need to move well, recover fully, and advocate for their health.