The Role of Physical Therapy in Cancer Care
byKim de Versterre, Physical Therapist

There are many experiences an individual faces when addressing and receiving treatment for cancer. Common reports include fatigue, an increase in fluid especially in the arms and legs, pain, difficulty sleeping, difficulty performing life's daily activity, decreased range of motion and strength, loss of balance, difficulty walking, and a diminished self-image. All of these factors alone could lead to depression.

Physical therapists utilize exercise, lymphatic drainage, compression garments, soft tissue mobilization, myofascial release, ambulation re-training, balance re-education, energy conserving techniques and patient education. We focus on the individual’s goals to achieve functional mobility, the return of independence and an improved self-image. All of these factors will result in a better quality of life.  A physical therapist will develop an individualized treatment program that focuses on a patient's specific needs and the potential effects of treatment with other comorbid conditions. This promotes the best outcomes, confidence, and goal achievement possible.

Physical therapy addresses pain with hands-on tissue mobilizations and/or exercise. Fatigue is minimized by the use of gentle exercise, energy conserving techniques and patient education. Often the lymphatic system is damaged during radiation therapy resulting in lymphedema. There is a better prognosis anticipated in achievement of the individual’s goals when the lymphedema is identified early and addressed immediately. Physical therapy will ensure the individual understands what is lymphedema, the lymphatic system, nutritional considerations that may assist in discouraging increased fluid, effects of heat and cold on the fluid, and effects of barometric pressure, such as flying/scuba diving/weather changes, on the affected regions.

Physical therapy will utilize manual lymphatic drainage techniques and compression garments to minimize edema and promote an improved self-image and reduce pain. An exercise program will be developed to encourage fluid drainage to be performed at home to promote independence. The
exercise program will also permit the muscles in the body to lengthen or strengthen to provide maximal activity and continued independence at home. Ultimately, physical therapy can assist an individual on multiple levels depending on their needs and goals. We provide the skills and knowledge that is required for independent management which will lead to a better quality of life.

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