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Breast cancer op left Julia Bradbury unable to lift arms
1 Nov
Summary
- Julia Bradbury shared her post-mastectomy struggle with followers.
- She found lifting arms above her head incredibly difficult.
- Simple tasks like drying her hair became a major challenge.

Julia Bradbury, diagnosed with breast cancer in 2021, has candidly discussed the profound physical and emotional challenges she continues to face after her mastectomy and reconstruction surgery. The former Countryfile presenter recently shared insights into her recovery, focusing on an aspect she hadn't anticipated: the difficulty in lifting her arms.
Bradbury described the arduous 'spider exercise' to regain arm mobility, explaining how she initially couldn't lift her arms above her shoulders. This limitation significantly altered daily routines, making tasks like getting dressed and showering a struggle. Simple activities, such as drying her hair, became nearly impossible due to the weight of her hairdryer.
To support her recovery, Bradbury found comfort and aid through practical measures. She recommended front-fastening clothing to avoid overhead movements and suggested using a heart-shaped pillow for arm support during sleep. For hair drying, she advised using a lightweight appliance or seeking assistance from a trusted person.