After being diagnosed with cancer, more people have lived longer because of advances in treatment. In spite of this, many patients experience a decrease in their quality of life during and after treatment. The role of physical therapists in the cancer care team is unique because they are equipped to deal with the functional challenges associated with cancer and cancer treatment. During the cancer experience, physical therapists evaluate these issues and provide effective treatment strategies to restore physical function to a person.

The physical therapist plays a critical role in the cancer care team by intervening at all stages. In addition to providing detailed assessments and interventions, physical therapists also provide functional training, strengthening, fatigue-fighting interventions, complete decongestive therapy (CDT), and relaxation techniques. Among this patient population, physical therapists provide a unique level of support. The goal of oncology physical therapy is to create an environment that is motivating, encouraging, and positive.

Globally, cancer ranks among the most prevalent illnesses. It is common for cancer patients to feel weak and exhausted after undergoing treatment. Maintaining social connections, getting up in the morning, and keeping up with the kids can often seem like herculean tasks, let alone the physical challenges of exercising regularly. While recovering, it is vital to maintain muscle activity. 

A cancer rehabilitation plan should include physiotherapy if you have been diagnosed with cancer or are undergoing treatment. In addition to helping with general pain management, physiotherapy can counteract de-conditioning caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, residual nerve damage caused by chemotherapy, and other health issues associated with cancer. Rehabilitation clinics that understand the special needs of cancer patients can improve the patient’s health and recovery prospects.

The effects of cancer treatments vary from person to person, which is why it is important to find a physiotherapist who can create an individualized treatment plan for each patient.

It is common for cancer patients to experience intense and debilitating pain after treatment. Hands-on tissue release, modalities, stretches, and strengthening can all be used in physiotherapy to positively and gently treat your soft tissues. The intensity and duration of pain can be reduced by physiotherapy. As part of your self-care routine at home, your physiotherapist can also recommend some pain management strategies. As far as your overall well-being is concerned, anything that can ease the pain associated with cancer treatment is a good thing.

During and after cancer treatment, cardiovascular performance can be greatly affected. You can regain endurance and monitor your cardiovascular status with the help of an experienced physiotherapist and other health professionals at your rehabilitation clinic. A physiotherapist can identify fatigue and stress signs and will educate you on how to recognize them and will develop safe and achievable cardiovascular fitness goals with you.

It is common for cancer patients to suffer from severe and incapacitating fatigue during and after treatment. Moderate, supervised exercise and stretching can reduce fatigue and malaise significantly, according to medical research. You can get back to your more energized and happier self with the help of an experienced physiotherapist at your rehabilitation clinic.

For all types of cancer diagnoses and survivorship stages, the virtues of cancer rehabilitation are strongly supported by research. Cancer or cancer treatments can lead to a variety of issues, which are addressed through our program.

With proven therapeutic methods, our team will customize a treatment plan to meet your unique needs. The treatment may include exercise and conditioning, manual therapy, massage therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, lymphedema education and management, stress reduction and coping strategies, dizziness and vertigo reduction techniques, and other specialized methods. Physical therapy for oncology rehabilitation is available at Progressive Physical Therapy. For more information, contact us today or book an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 15 Spinning Wheel Road Ste. 24 Hinsdale, IL 60521. We serve patients from Hinsdale IL, Chicago IL, Oak Park IL, Lombard IL, Downers Grove IL, Bridgeview IL, and Oak Lawn IL.