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Understanding Cancer Treatment and Rehabilitation: A Physical Therapist's Guide to Recovery

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the U.S. It encompasses a range of diseases where normal cells transform into cancerous ones, multiplying uncontrollably and spreading to other parts of the body. With various types of cancer and treatment options available, it's crucial to understand how to manage symptoms and aid in recovery.

woman holding flower over her collar bone

Breast Cancer: A Significant Concern

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the U.S. In 2021, there were 272,454 new cases, translating to 134 new cases per 100,000 women. This statistic highlights the importance of awareness and early intervention.


Common Cancer Treatments

Cancer treatments aim to eliminate cancerous cells and improve quality of life. These methods include:

  • Surgery

  • Chemotherapy

  • Radiation

  • Immunotherapy

  • Hormone Therapy

  • Rehabilitation Therapy


As a physical therapist, supporting patients through various cancer treatments involves understanding the rehabilitative options available for recovery and quality of life.


Common Rehabilitation Challenges

Cancer and its treatments can lead to several physical impairments, such as:

  • Shoulder and neck pain and stiffness

  • Rotator cuff impingement

  • Frozen shoulder

  • Weakness in the shoulder and arm

  • Altered sensation and increased nerve pain

  • Fibrosis and axillary web syndrome

  • Swelling and soft tissue restrictions in the chest wall

  • Joint pain and stiffness (often due to radiation or hormone therapy)

  • Lymphedema, causing swelling, pain, and infection risk


These issues can impact daily activities like bathing, grooming, dressing, cooking, cleaning, and driving.


Effective Rehabilitation Treatments

To address these impairments, several rehabilitation treatments can be beneficial:


Manual Therapy: Techniques like myofascial release, soft tissue mobilizations, nerve glides, and Kinesio-taping help relieve muscle, tendon, and tissue restrictions, improve mobility, and reduce swelling.


Therapeutic Exercises: These include:

  • Improving shoulder, thoracic, and cervical spine range of motion

  • Stretching and strengthening the upper body, core, and shoulder

  • Enhancing cardiovascular endurance and overall conditioning


Important Considerations

If you are currently undergoing cancer treatment or are in remission, always consult your primary oncologist before starting any new treatment regimen. Each individual's journey is unique, and personalized guidance is essential for effective recovery.


By understanding these aspects of cancer treatment and rehabilitation, you can better navigate your path to recovery and improve your quality of life. At IVY Integrative, you can work with one practitioner or build your own team of holistic practitioners! Reach your optimum health in-person or online. Check out our Get Started page to learn how to work with us!






References 

  1. https://gis.cdc.gov/Cancer/USCS/#/AtAGlance/

  2. Algeo, N., Bennett, K., & Connolly, D. (2021). Rehabilitation interventions to support return to work for women with breast cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Cancer, 21(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12885-021-08613-x

  3. De Sire, A., Losco, L., Cisari, C., Gennari, A., Boldorini, R., Fusco, N., Cigna, E., & Invernizzi, M. (2020). Axillary web syndrome in women after breast cancer surgery referred to an Oncological Rehabilitation Unit: which are the main risk factors? A retrospective case-control study. European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences, 24(15), 8028–8035. https://doi.org/10.26355/eurrev_202008_22486

  4. Effects of Breast Cancer Treatment on Shoulder Function:  What to Expect and How to Treat? (2018). International Journal of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation.

  5. Hasenoehrl, T., Keilani, M., Palma, S., & Crevenna, R. (2019). Resistance exercise and breast cancer related lymphedema – a systematic review update. Disability and Rehabilitation, 42(1), 26–35. https://doi.org/10.1080/09638288.2018.1514663


Disclaimer: This information is generalized and intended for educational purposes only. Due to potential individual contraindications, please see your primary care provider before implementing any strategies in these posts.

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