Physiotherapy in Cancer Care

The term Cancer describes a multitude of complex diseases each with its own distinct nature and course. Traditionally the focus of cancer treatments have been primarily medical, with the strive to increase survival from the disease being the main driver. Whilst survival and longevity are no doubt the focus for everyone who has a diagnosis of cancer, survivorship and rehabilitation are also very important. These 2 words encompassing what it means to live with the consequences of the disease or its treatment and for life to return to a semblance of normality. People who have been diagnosed with cancer often present with a myriad of complex problems which occur as a direct result of the disease itself or of the treatments which they have undergone. Physiotherapy has a key role to play in the management of people with cancer throughout all stages of the disease, from diagnosis, through medical treatment, into remission and even in the later stages of the disease.
Within the context of cancer care, the primary goal of physiotherapy is to assist the cancer survivor to be able to live their life as fully as possible, by assisting them to achieve their goals whatever they are and to enable them to have a degree of control over their lives and a greater quality of life.
Research Studies have shown that Exercise and activity is effective in alleviating many of the longer term side effects of cancer treatment, such as fatigue, reduced function, depression and anxiety, decreased fitness and strength etc.  Also, those cancer survivors who are physically active can reduced their risk of the cancer recurring, and hence the risk of dying from the cancer by up to 50%.
People who have cancer may present with some of the following common problems as a result of their disease or as a consequence of the treatment they have undergone:

• Reduced mobility, for example difficulty climbing stairs or getting out of a chair
• Reduced exercise tolerance and general fitness, maybe not able to walk to the local shop anymore
• Joint stiffness and pain
• Weakness, for example struggling to lift a kettle or to pick something from the floor
• Shoulder or neck problems following treatment for breast cancer or head and neck cancer
• Lymphoedema and swelling
• Problems with breathing control
• Neurological dysfunction, for example altered balance, problems with feeling or touch or difficulty getting a body part to work properly for you
• General fatigue and lethargy
• Reduced independence or a greater dependence on others for everyday activities
• Reduced confidence
• Increased fear and anxiety
• A worry about finding the balance between how much to push themselves and how much to rest

All of the above can be helped by undergoing an assessment and treatment from a physiotherapist who is experienced and knowledgeable in cancer care.   See my website www.homephysio.ie for more info!