October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This month we’ve already talked about the causes and symptoms of breast cancer, as well as the importance of regular self-examination. In this article, we are honing in on the various stages of breast cancer. We’ll briefly discuss the symptoms of and treatment options for each stage.
Stage 0 & 1 Breast Cancer
These are the preliminary stages of breast cancer wherein the cancer is in its early stages and relegated to a very small area within the breast. Cancer that is caught at this stage in development is very easily treated.
Stage 2 Breast Cancer
Stage 2 breast cancer is still contained within the breast, but is showing signs of expanding into the surrounding breast tissue. Cancer at this stage in development can still be treated very effectively. Another reason to perform regular self-exams at home so you can catch breast cancer before it progresses to the next stage.
Stage 3 Breast Cancer
Stage 3 breast cancer is quite serious. In this stage, the cancer begins to attack tissues surrounding the breast. It’s important to take action quickly in this stage before the cancer evolves into Stage 4.
Stage 4 Breast Cancer
Stage 4 is the most severe stage of breast cancer, and indicates that the cancer has spread beyond the breasts and into other areas of the body such as the brain, bones, lungs, or liver.
OrthoRehab Specialists provides physical therapy and rehabilitation care to patients throughout the Twin Cities and greater Minnesota. Our physical therapists specialize in shoulder, knee, back, ankle, and breast cancer patients (among others). We have been working in Minnesota for over twenty-five years, and have established relationships with many doctors and surgeons who routinely trust us with the continued rehab care of their patients. Contact our physical therapy clinics in Minneapolis or Edina today to set up your appointment. We offer direct access to physical therapy so you can make an appointment without a prior prescription from your doctor.