How to tape during breast cancer treatment

Managing Seroma Formation After Breast Surgery

One of the most common complications after breast surgery is the formation of a seroma. A seroma is a collection of fluid that builds up near the surgical scar. Typically, the body absorbs this fluid on its own, but when lymph nodes are removed during surgery, this process can be disrupted, leading to complications.

An edema physiotherapist or skin therapist can help manage seroma fluid by using specific drainage techniques. Additionally, applying lymph tape, as shown in photo 1, can aid in fluid drainage and provide relief.

photo 1

photo 2

Radiotherapy and connective tissue damage

Radiotherapy often leads to blockages in the connective tissue, a condition known as fibrosis, where the skin loses its suppleness. For those experiencing swelling in the arm (edema), it’s important to first treat the scar. This involves mobilising the scar and surrounding tissue, draining excess fluid, and then applying kinesiology tape.

To mobilise the chest area, apply a grid of CureTape® strips (photo 2). You can cut the strips yourself, use our CureTape Cutter or get the 1cm pre-cut strips of kinesiology tape. We have them in blue or beige! For the flanks, use narrow strips of CureTape® across the back (photo 1). This taping technique causes a fascial shift in the tissue, enhancing fluid drainage. It also promotes more aesthetic scar healing and softens fibrotic tissue. Even hardened scar tissue from radiotherapy can improve with lymphatic taping.

Lymphatic taping is a continuous treatment method. When tape is applied to stretched skin, it creates “convolutions” in a neutral position. This lifts the skin, creating pressure differences between the various tapes, which stimulates the fascial structures and provides a draining and pain-relieving effect.

Managing Lymphoedema After Axillary Gland Removal

Lymphoedema often occurs in the arm after axillary gland removal, either immediately or later on. You can actively use lymphatic tapge to help remove this excess fluid.

Apply CureTape® kinesiology strips to create a pathway that directs the fluid towards the side of the body where lymph nodes are still intact. These strips guide the oedema fluid along the tape, promoting effective drainage through the natural lymphatic pathways (anastomosis).

Managing pain and restricted movemen after radiotherapy

Many patients experience pain and restricted movement in the shoulder and/or arm following radiotherapy. Therapists can alleviate these symptoms using various kinesiology taping techniques.