WHAT IS CANCER REHABILITATION?

By Jennifer Nus, DPT Oncology Rehabilitation Specialist,
​Taylor Physical & Occupational Therapy

When a person is diagnosed with cancer they will have a variety of treatment options which may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and targeted therapies. The disease itself, as well as the treatment options, can cause a wide range of side-effects which can include fatigue, pain, decreased range of motion, weakness, fibrosis, incontinence, lymphedema,
cognitive changes, swallowing /speech issues, and impaired balance/gait.

Cancer rehabilitation can include physical, occupational, or speech therapy and is designed to address the functional impairments that can be associated with cancer. Therapy can be helpful to address the specific needs of individuals who are undergoing or have completed treatment for cancer.

Therapists use a variety of techniques to treat these symptoms including manual therapy, exercise, manual lymph drainage, balance and gait training. One specific side effect that can be very prevalent is cancer-related fatigue. This is described as a persistent ongoing fatigue that is not proportionate to activity level. It is not likely to be relieved by rest and interferes with normal daily activities.

Patients may often describe a feeling of general weakness, heaviness in their arms and legs, and fatigue lasting hours after completing an activity. Exercise has been found to be beneficial at treating cancer-related fatigue. Exercise helps decrease loss of muscle mass, reduce fatigue, and improve physical performance and functional independence.

Another common side effect of chemotherapy can be chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy. This is a set of symptoms caused by damage to the nerves that carry sensations to the brain and control movements in the arms and legs. Many chemotherapy drugs are linked with neuropathy. Patients may experience pain, loss of sensation, numbness, trouble using fingers or grasping objects, and balance problems. Therapy can help with desensitization techniques, sensory retraining, education on fall prevention, and exercises to improve balance and walking.

Radiation fibrosis can occur as a result of radiation treatments. Tissue trauma and inflammation can lead to the formation of scar tissue which can contribute to tightness and loss of mobility in the area of radiation. A patient going through treatment for breast cancer may develop tightness and difficulty moving their arm, which may in turn cause them pain.

Manual therapy techniques and exercises can be helpful to improve tissue flexibility, range of motion, strength, and postural control to restore function and decrease pain. Radiation, chemotherapy, and antiestrogen medications can cause incontinence and sexual dysfunction.

Both can have a huge impact on a person’s life. Pelvic floor disorders can occur when the muscles that support the pelvic organs becomes weak or damaged. This can lead to issues with incontinence and pelvic pain. Our staff includes physical therapists that specialize in treating these issues through pelvic and core stabilization exercises, manual therapy, postural education, and functional training.

It is important to discuss any side effects or concerns with your healthcare provider to find out if cancer rehab may be appropriate. The goal of cancer rehab is to improve function and quality of life for patients throughout the continuum of their cancer diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.


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