Cancer Rehabilitation

Why Physiotherapy in Cancer Care?

After diagnosis, patient’s life is centered around life-saving treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and hormonal therapy. However, these necessary treatments come with life altering side effects and have a huge impact on quality of life. Physiotherapists specializing in cancer rehabilitation play a critical role in management of the side effects and improve quality of life in survivorship.

At New Age Physio we work with patients who have been diagnosed with Cancer such as:
\

Breast cancer

\

Prostate cancer

\

Bladder cancer

\

Colorectal cancer

\

Gynaecological

Common side effects addressed by Physiotherapists are:
\

Pain

\

Chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy

\

Reduced mobility of shoulder (breast cancer)

\

Lymphedema

\

Fatigue

\

Urinary and bowel dysfunction (incontinence, constipation)

\

Sexual dysfunction (pain with intercourse, erectile dysfunction)

\

Pain

\

Chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy

\

Reduced mobility of shoulder (breast cancer)

\

Lymphedema

\

Fatigue

\

Urinary and bowel dysfunction (incontinence, constipation)

\

Sexual dysfunction (pain with intercourse, erectile dysfunction)

When should I see a Physiotherapist?

PREHAB:

You can start physiotherapy as soon as you are diagnosed with cancer and do some Prehab if there is enough time between diagnosis and surgical intervention. Prehab will help improve mobility, strength and function and help you understand what to expect right after surgery and the do’s and dont’s in the early recovery days.

Recent study “The Case for Prehabilitation Prior to Breast Cancer Treatment” by Daniel Santa Mina et al. in 2017 advocates for Prehab.

POST-SURGERY:

You can start physiotherapy after having the surgery because with any surgical intervention there is a risk of pain, restricted motion and reduced strength and endurance. Physiotherapy treatments post- surgery will entail scar tissue work, mobilization of restricted joints, management of swelling, increasing strength and education on topics such as 20min daily walks, lymphedema prevention, pain management, stress and anxiety management.

DURING ADJUVANT TREATMENT:

If you require additional treatments such as radiation, chemotherapy, hormone therapy then you may experience side effects such as fatigue and chemo brain (forgetfulness, mental fogginess). Physiotherapists can help you through these side effects by educating you on types of exercises and tools on energy conservation while still working on any pain or limitations you may be experiencing post- surgery. Studies indicate that participating in a slow and gradual exercise program during chemotherapy is effective in management of chemo related fatigue.

AFTER MEDICAL TREATMENT IS FINISHED:

After all the medical treatments are done the quality of life may not be back to normal and patients may still experience weakness, fatigue, and lymphedema. Continuing physiotherapy after cancer treatment can help patients maintain their mobility, increase strength and confidence. This also offers patients another check-in point so we can monitor and refer if we notice any new signs and symptoms.

 

What does a physiotherapy appointment for cancer rehab look like?

  • Thorough history taking to determine patients current complaints and goals
  • Objective examination to assess scar tissue, lymphedema, mobility, balance, strength, and functional activities
  • Recommendation of treatments such as scar mobilization, manual therapy, slow and progressive exercise, yoga therapy and mindfulness strategies. The treatment plan is unique to each patient.
  • Assessment findings and treatment plan is shared with your medical team (family doctor, surgeon, oncologist, radiologist)
  • Booking your plan of care

Are my appointments covered under insurance?

Yes! Cancer rehab treatments are billed under physiotherapy and is covered by insurance companies.

Please contact us for more information! Our clinics are located near Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital and near Alderwood Plaza Etobicoke.

Other Services:

Bracing

Bracing

cancer-rehabilitation1

Cancer Rehabilitation

Chirpractic

Chiropractic Care

Cupping

Cupping Therapy

Tapping

Kinesio Taping

laser

Laser Therapy

Life-Coaching

Life Coaching

Massage Therapy

Massage Therapy

Mens-Health2

Men’s Health

Chirpody

Orthotics

pelvic-health1

Pelvic Health

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy

Shockwave-therapy

Shockwave Therapy (SWT)

traction

Traction And Decompression

VESTIBULAR REHABILITATION

Vestibular Rehabilitation

Hassle FREE ONLINE appointment booking

You may book your appointment online with us. Please note that confirmation may take up to 24 hours.

Acupuncture

BRACING

Cancer Rehabilitation

Chiropractic Care
Cupping Therapy
Kinesio Taping
Laser Therapy

Life Coaching

Massage Therapy

Mens Health
Orthotics
Pelvic Health
Physiotherapy
Shockwave Therapy SWT
TMJ Rehabilitation
Traction and Decompression
Vestibular Rehabilitation