Physiotherapy Services

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 or other healthcare providers, cancer patients undergo a comprehensive assessment by a physiotherapist to evaluate their physical function, mobility, strength, flexibility, and any specific impairments related to cancer or its treatment. This assessment forms the basis for developing an individualized treatment plan.

• Exercise Prescription and Rehabilitation: : Physiotherapists design personalized exercise programs to address specific needs and goals of cancer patients. These programs may include:
  • Strength Training: Exercises to improve muscle strength, endurance, and overall physical fitness.
  • Flexibility and Range of Motion Exercises: Stretching and joint mobility exercises to maintain or improve flexibility and functional mobility.
  • Balance and Coordination Training: Activities to enhance balance, coordination, and fall prevention, which may be particularly important for patients experiencing neuropathy or other neurological side effects of cancer treatment.
  • Pain Management Techniques: Modalities such as manual therapy, therapeutic ultrasound, or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) may be used to alleviate pain and discomfort associated with cancer or its treatments.
• Lymphedema Management: Cancer patients at risk of or experiencing lymphedema, a common side effect of cancer treatment involving swelling due to impaired lymphatic drainage, may receive specialized physiotherapy interventions, including:
  • Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD): Gentle massage techniques to promote lymphatic fluid movement and reduce swelling.
  • Compression Therapy: Application of compression garments or bandaging to manage lymphedema.
  • Exercise Programs: Specific exercises to encourage lymphatic flow and improve muscle pump function.
  • Education and Self-Management: Teaching patients techniques for self-care, skin hygiene, and precautions to minimize the risk of lymphedema progression or exacerbation.
• Functional Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy focuses on enhancing cancer patients' ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) and functional tasks essential for independence and quality of life. This may involve:
  • Assistive Devices and Mobility Aids: Prescription of mobility aids, orthoses, or adaptive equipment to support safe and independent mobility.
  • Home Exercise Programs: Providing patients with customized home exercise routines to complement in-clinic therapy and promote continuity of care.
• Education and Support: Physiotherapists offer education and emotional support to cancer patients and their caregivers, empowering them to actively participate in their rehabilitation process and manage physical challenges associated with cancer and its treatment. This may include guidance on energy conservation, pacing strategies, and self-care techniques.

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.