Exercises after Surgery

Information for people who have lymph nodes removed (axillary dissection) as part of their treatment for breast cancer.

​This information should not be used to diagnose yourself or in place of a doctor's care.

Revised February 2022.

Exercise after lymph node surgery

For most people, aerobic exercise, like walking, and strength training (lifting weights) is safe and recommended.  Exercising can help with treatment side effects and joint stiffness.

Before exercising, you should check with your health care team.  Some people may not be able to do certain types of exercise.

Watch Exercises for Individuals with Breast Cancer Overview 

What type of exercise to do

First, follow the advice from your health care team.

For most people, the exercises in the handouts and videos below are safe.

Videos

Handouts

More information