Physical therapy does not extend solely to injured athletes or accident victims. A number of groups, including cancer patients, can benefit from physical therapy. Cancer patients deal not only with the debilitating effects of the disease, but also with the effects of cancer treatments, such as balance issues, swelling, fatigue and endurance difficulties. Through careful evaluation, physical therapists can address these issues while being sensitive to a cancer patient's individual needs.
Edema
Edema, or swelling, of body tissues is common in cancer patients whose lymph nodes have been removed as part of the cancer treatment process. This is often the case for breast cancer patients. Removing lymph nodes from anywhere in the body can affect a person's ability to drain fluids, which can result in fluid accumulation and swelling in a limb or the entire body. Edema is a concern from a physical therapy standpoint because it affects a patient's range of motion and comfort level. A physical therapist may address this through massage, wrapping or electrical stimulation to minimize swelling.
Fatigue
Cancer and its treatment affect a patient's energy levels, which can influence a patient's ability to complete a physical therapy session. Also, fatigue can cause a cancer patient to stop performing movements that retain strength and mobility in the body. A physical therapist must work to restore these, all while keeping in mind that a cancer patient may experience a high level of fatigue that can cut a session short.
Stress and Mood Changes
Cancer puts stress on a patient's body and mind. Physical therapists must be prepared to work with patients who may not be enthusiastic or supportive of physical therapy processes. This makes encouragement and support a vital part of the cancer physical therapy treatment process. Physical therapists for cancer patients should be trained to recognize signs of depression in patients and recommend mental health professionals when appropriate.
Increased Injury Risk
Cancer and its treatments affect a person's body in different ways. Both can weaken the bones and muscles, which makes a physical therapy patient at increased risk for injury. Physical therapists typically conduct evaluations and consult with physicians to determine a patient's injury risk. Preventing muscle strains and sprains, as well as bone fractures, is an aspect of treating cancer patients that physical therapists must be prepared for.
References
- Mission Health System: Physical Therapy
- National Cancer Institute: Follow-Up Care After Cancer Treatment
- Yale Cancer Center; The Benefits of Physical Therapy for Cancer Patients; Lou Friedman, PT, and Scott Capozza, PT; Jan. 10, 2010
- Physical Therapy at Briarcliff & Jefferson Valley, P.C.: The Benefits of Physical Therapy for Cancer Patients
