Share article
What is a cancer remission with physiotherapy?
Nowadays, more and more individuals are surviving cancer due to extensive advancements in medicine, more effective treatments as well as substantially earlier detection. According to the Canadian Cancer Society, over 60% of individuals diagnosed with cancer will live for up to 5 years following their initial diagnosis. As such, cancer rehabilitation has become a growing area in modern medicine.
Treatments against cancer
Whilst cancer treatments such as surgery, radiation, hormone and chemotherapy leave individuals free of cancer, they each come with their own set of challenges. Many individuals find it difficult to deal with these challenges; this is where cancer rehabilitation can come in handy. Scientific evidence shows that conservative management of cancer-treatment related symptoms through physiotherapy is an effective way of dealing and managing the physical trauma that cancer treatments leave on the body, either during or after the treatment. Physiotherapists specialized in this field can help alleviate your symptoms by creating a personal evaluation of your physical condition which will ultimately help you build an individual and specific exercise plan in order to regain your physical health.
Physiotherapy & cancer
Below are a few of the many complications of cancer treatment, as well as the methods a physiotherapist can use to manage and overcome them:
- Cancer-related fatigue – energy conservation techniques, individualized aerobic and strength programs.
- Lymphedema (swelling) – manual lymph drainage, bandaging, massage, mobility and aerobic exercises.
- Pain – pain relief strategies, modalities, massage, stretching and strengthening.
- Lack of mobility – mobility and stretching exercises, manual therapy.
- Lack of strength – strengthening exercises.
- Nerve damage – mobility exercises, stretches.
- Incontinence – pelvic floor muscle strengthening.
It is never too late to utilize the services of a physiotherapist during your cancer recovery. Whether it is before, during or after your cancer treatments, a physiotherapist can help you accomplish your goals and improve your physical function in order to be the best you can possibly be throughout your journey.
If you have any questions pertaining to cancer treatments and physiotherapy, or if you’re looking for a professional’s advice on your path to recovery, come see a physiotherapist at Kinatex Sports Physio.
References
Alfano, C. M., Ganz, P. A., Rowland, J. H., & Hahn, E. E. (2012). Cancer Survivorshop and Cancer Rehabilitation Revitalizing the Link. Journal of Clinical Oncology. no 9. 904-906. Société Canadienne du Cancer. Repéré à http://www.cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/diagnosis-and-treatment/rehabilitation/?region=on. Image repérée à https://www.healthcitycaymanislands.com/clinical/medical/oncology/
Share article
