Why Consult an Oncology Physical Therapist Specialist?

  • Approximately 2/5  (almost 50%) of Canadians will develop cancer in their lifetime
    • Women: 1/9 Canadian women will develop breast cancer (42% lifetime chance)
    • Men: 1/8 Canadian men will develop prostate cancer (45% lifetime chance)
  • Early diagnosis, medical advancements, combination of therapies and specialized individualized treatment options increase long-term survival rates for individuals living with cancer
  • Although many  individuals that survive a cancer diagnosis continue to live productive and rewarding lives, most are left with physical challenges influencing their physical, social and professional life
  • Physiotherapists in cancer rehabilitation are able to address many of these long term physical challenges including and not limited to:
    • Pain management
    • Skin and Scar management
    • Generalized weakness and fatigue (from chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatment)
    • Decreased range of motion of upper and lower extremities
    • Neurological dysfunctions/impairments
    • Chemotherapy Induced Peripheral Neuropathy  (nerve changes)
    • Lymphedema education, prevention, management and treatment
    • Breast cancer rehabilitation; Axillary Web Syndrome
    • Radiation Fibrosis Syndrome
    • Joint pain
    • Musculoskeletal difficulties
    • Impairments in activities of daily living
    • Impaired gait/ ambulation
    • Functional abnormality
    • Return to work difficulties from cancer related treatment