Advances in the fight against breast cancer (The Record and Herald News)- Weight Loss News

When Joan Petrelli, 64, had breast cancer eight years ago, surgeons removed 21 lymph nodes and three nerves under her left arm, leaving her with a painful swelling in the upper arm known as lymphedema. Many breast cancer survivors develop lymphedema, an uncomfortable and sometimes painful swelling in the upper arm or hand that can be debilitating and disfiguring. The 12-week small-group program — free to cancer survivors — teaches patients how to build muscle mass, increase flexibility and endurance and prevent or ease symptoms of lymphedema. At a recent workout, Lisa Torsiello, a 42-year-old Glen Rock resident, lifted weights to prevent lymphedema after breast cancer surgery. read more

[Tags]cancer, program, arm, lymphedema, breast, swelling, weight loss news[/Tags]