3 reasons PT should be a key part of your cancer rehab

Cancer rehabilitation programs are offered at every stage of a cancer patient’s treatment plan — before, during and after. Cancer rehab helps patients stay active and independent. It can also give them opportunities to maintain and restore their physical and emotional well-being.

Many types of specialists have to work together to provide a comprehensive cancer rehab program. Physical therapists are essential to this team. After all, research shows that exercise can increase a patient’s chances of surviving cancer. Physical therapists can work with patients one-on-one to address a variety of their concerns. Despite the benefits of physical therapy, it is often underutilized in cancer rehab.

Why PT should be the center of your rehab plan 

Both cancer and cancer treatments can impact all systems of the body. They cause many health problems and side effects, including:

• Chronic pain.
• Lymphedema.
• Fatigue.
• Tingling in the limbs.
• Loss of strength.
• Balance issues.

Many common symptoms in cancer patients are musculoskeletal — a physical therapist’s specialty. Physical therapists can help a patient address their symptoms, increase their range of motion and manage their pain. Oncology physical therapists work specifically with cancer patients, since their needs can be wide ranging.

There are several benefits to prioritizing physical therapy in cancer rehab, including:

1. The availability of virtual options — Between doctors’ appointments and medications, rigorous treatment plans can make cancer patients feel like they do not have control over their daily schedule. Thankfully, some physical therapy programs offer virtual sessions. These can help patients perform exercises in the comfort of their home. A live specialist can answer patients’ questions during sessions, which gives patients more control over their treatment plan. 

2. The use of personalized plans — Individualized care from physical therapists is a game changer. Physical therapists are often involved in every stage of the patient’s treatment process. As a result, they can continuously assess the patient’s strength, mobility and pain management goals. Of course, those goals can evolve, and a physical therapist can change their plans accordingly. Tailored exercises and recommendations can help optimize a patient’s healing and increase their quality of life. 

3. The one-on-one attention patients receive — Patients can quickly feel overwhelmed by the number of people on their cancer rehab team. They might also feel overwhelmed by their treatment plan and have specific, detailed concerns that they don’t feel they can express to their doctor. Physical therapists can help be that bridge. In a one-on-one environment, patients can ask questions specific to their range of motion, fatigue and pain. A physical therapist can also use relaxation techniques that help ease patients’ anxiety about their rehab plans.

Advent Physical Therapy can help you get the most out of your cancer rehab

Physical therapy is not just for athletes. It’s essential in a patient’s cancer rehab journey, throughout every stage of treatment. Advent Physical Therapy offers free screenings, virtual sessions, and personalized cancer rehab plans. Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.