Jaime Angus Physiotherapy
Cancer Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation after cancer depends on several factors, treatment for the cancer may include one or more surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation and hormone treatment.
These treatments are necessary to treat the cancer but can have side effects that can have a large effect on the quality of the life a person is now living.
Commonly Treated Conditions
Physiotherapists working in oncology rehabilitation can help to reduce pain, manage scar tissue secondary from surgeries and radiation, improve mobility and strength, increase participation in activities of daily living and your ability to exercise.
Oncology rehabilitation can be for patients with any form of cancer. The most common ones I see include breast, endometrial, cervical, ovarian, throat and neck, and colon cancer.
What to Expect at Your Visit
Your assessment will commence with hearing your story and journey.
Review of the specific treatment you underwent and medications you may be on will be reviewed.
Discussion of your primary concerns and rehabilitation goals is of utmost importance to ensure the most optimal and safe treatment plan.
The Physical Examination
The physical exam includes a whole-body assessment with the area of your cancer examined more specifically.
Components of the assessment may include:
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Postural assessment
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Breathing evaluation
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Scar tissue assessment
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Range of motion of the affected areas of the body
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Strength assessment
If cancer or treatment affected the urological or reproductive system, it may be recommended you have a pelvic floor examination.
An individualized treatment plan is developed based on assessment findings.
Treatment may include education regarding posture, breathing, a global strengthening program, relaxation and stretching exercises, pelvic floor exercises, myofascial release, visceral manipulation, and manual therapy or mobilization techniques to address any tight or restricted joints, muscles and scar tissue