Posture is a term used to describe how your body is positioned when you are standing, sitting or lying down. Posture can change after injury, surgery or other treatments such as radiation. A research study in which a post-mastectomy group was compared to a control group found a significantly higher incidence of faulty body postures which was observed among women after treatment for breast cancer. Faulty posture puts more stress on your muscles, tendons and ligaments. Poor posture after breast cancer treatment can lead to increased discomfort and injury. Good posture allows your joints to have less stress and work more effectively while helping your vital organs remain in the best position and your nervous system to be able to function effectively. Being aware of good posture is the first step to breaking poor postural habits and reducing stress and strain on your body.
Malicka I, Barczyk K, Hanuszkiewicz J, Skolimowska B, Wozniewski M. Body posture of women after breast cancer treatment. Ortop Traumatol Rehabil. 2010 Jul-Aug;12(4):353-61
