By Dr. Courtney Sproat, PT, DPT, CLT
Physical therapist Dr. Courtney Sproat shares information on cancer rehab and how it can help you before, during, and after your breast cancer treatment.
Cancer rehab is a fairly new and growing specialty in the therapy world. It is not widely known about, nor is it utilized enough. One of the first statements I often receive from patients on their first visit is, “I’m not sure why I am here, but my surgeon recommended it so I came.” A popular question from other healthcare providers is, “This may seem like a silly question, but what exactly do you do?” Even during my two years of working in a well-known healthcare system in a big city, coworkers within our own building did not know about cancer rehab or where we were located. It was quite frustrating, especially when it is a much-needed service.
Individuals recently diagnosed with cancer, going through cancer treatment, or navigating survivorship can all benefit from cancer rehabilitation. Studies have shown that rehabilitation has a positive impact on these patients and it should be implemented from the point of diagnosis. Even if your physician or oncologist does not recommend physical therapy, do yourself a favor and ask for it! Be an advocate for yourself. Being educated from the beginning of treatment can improve the effectiveness of your treatment, make you feel better during and after your treatment, and decrease your chance of recurrence.
Cancer treatment takes a major toll on your body—physically, mentally, and emotionally. Some potential physical side effects from cancer treatment may include:
decreased movement
decreased strength
chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy
fatigue
decreased balance
scar tissue
axillary web syndrome
muscle tightness
A physical therapist specialized in cancer rehabilitation can help guide you in safe exercises throughout your entire cancer experience and can provide hands-on techniques to reduce or treat these potential symptoms and side effects.
Physical therapy is not just about exercise, but research has shown that exercise has many positive impacts for those diagnosed with cancer, including:
improving your physical function
improving your quality of life
providing you with a sense of control
decreasing anxiety
decreasing depression
reducing cancer-related fatigue
reducing your risk of developing lymphedema
These benefits are great, but some patients feel lost on where to begin or what is considered safe. A specialized cancer rehab therapist—whether it be a physical therapist, occupational therapist, speech therapist, or massage therapist—can help educate and empower you. A therapist can help prevent or lessen some side effects and maintain your strength and motion for work or everyday tasks. For those in survivorship, working with a therapist can help you regain strength and mobility after completing treatment.
I could go on about cancer rehab and its benefits, but simply put, this therapy can be used before, during, and after cancer treatment. Physical therapy looks different for every individual, but having someone specialized in your cancer on your team is a big benefit to you.
If you have been diagnosed with cancer, ask about physical or occupational therapy. If you know someone recently diagnosed with cancer, share this blog with them and encourage them to reach out to a physical therapist or occupational therapist, even if they just have questions. I recommend seeking help from a therapist who has experience working with the cancer population or one who has received additional education in cancer rehab. You never know how your treatment may affect you or when it will have an impact on your life. I encourage taking action before treatment and learning as much as you can. Having a specialized physical therapist on your cancer team can make a world of a difference.
Note: This article offers general information and does not replace professional medical advice. Make sure to discuss your options with your healthcare provider.
About the Author: Dr. Courtney Sproat
I am a physical therapist in cancer rehabilitation currently specializing in breast cancer rehab. I jumped into this specialty right after graduation and have been working in cancer rehab for over 2 years now. After one day of shadowing during my clinical rotation, I realized my passion and calling was in cancer rehab. After starting my career, I received additional education to become a certified lymphedema therapist and a certified breast cancer rehabilitation therapist. I recently joined Auburn Massage & Wellness Centre in Auburn, Indiana, to offer my services as an out-of-network provider.
Read More:
On the Podcast: Breast Cancer Conversations
The Importance of Physical Therapy in Breast Cancer Recovery
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