Physiotherapy Services

The physiotherapy department at HNCII aims at providing comprehensive rehabilitative care to improve both function and quality of life of our patients.

Patients with head and neck cancers often have multiple side effects, few of them relate to the surgery whereas few of them relate to chemotherapy and radiation.

Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the comprehensive care of cancer patients, aiming to address physical impairments, functional limitations, and quality of life issues associated with the disease and its treatments. Hospital services for physiotherapy for cancer patients typically encompass a range of interventions tailored to individual needs.

• Assessment and Evaluation: Upon referral from oncologists/ oncosurgeons or other healthcare providers, cancer patients undergo a comprehensive assessment by a physiotherapist to evaluate their physical function, mobility and any specific impairments related to cancer or its treatment. This assessment forms the basis for developing an individualized treatment plan.

• Early mobilisation and chest physiotherapy: Physiotherapy is an important intervention that prevents and mitigates the adverse effects of prolonged bed rest. Rehabilitation delivered by the physiotherapist is tailored to patient needs and depends on the conscious state, psychological status and physical strength of the patient. It incorporates any active and passive therapy that promotes movement and includes mobilization. Early progressive physiotherapy, with a focus on mobility and walking is essential in minimizing functional decline. Often patients develop cough post surgery, chest physiotherapy helps in clearance of secretions and improving lung function.
• Lymphedema Management: Cancer patients at risk of or experiencing lymphedema, a common side effect of cancer treatment involving swelling due to impaired lymphatic drainage. Lymphedema can occur either in the upper limb, lower limb or face. Treatment includes patient education, multi-layer compression bandaging, compression device, compression garment, manual lymphatic drainage and exercise.
• Trismus management: Trismus can occur post surgery or post radiation. Physiotherapy can help restore the natural movement of your jaw and improve your daily function. This is achieved with manual jaw mobilization, mouth opening exercises and with the help of devices.
• General mobility and pain relief: Few patients develop restrictions in range of motion and pain post surgery or radiation. These symptoms can be alleviated with exercises and pain relieving treatment modalities.

By addressing physical impairments, promoting functional independence, and enhancing overall well-being, physiotherapy services in hospitals play a vital role in supporting cancer patients throughout their treatment and recovery journey.