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It Takes a Lot of Strength and Stamina to Be a Cancer Survivor

Physical Therapy for Cancer Rehabilitation

Many treatments aimed to rid your body of cancer cells can wreak havoc on other systems, including the musculoskeletal system.

Physical therapy complements your cancer treatment, helping you before, during and after your cancer diagnosis. For example, pelvic and abdominal physical therapy can aid with gastrointestinal symptoms during treatments and improve continence after genitourinary cancers, and shoulder rehabilitation is often needed after mastectomy and again after breast reconstruction to regain full mobility and strength of the shoulder, and lymphedema treatment may also be needed after surgery.

Physical therapy can play an important role in your cancer treatment:

  • Be prepared. A physical therapist can create an exercise program to help you be your strongest self going into cancer treatments. Ask your doctor for a referral to physical therapy before you start your care. Mindful movements, like yoga and Pilates, have an additional benefit of reducing anxiety and stress.
  • Harness your energy. Energy conservation and restorative techniques can help you direct energy toward healing and recovery.
  • Keep moving. Combat fatigue and other side effects during the course of treatments.

Don’t let cancer stop you from moving

Discuss with your doctor the role physical therapy can play in your cancer treatment program, from managing side effects of treatment to restoring your health and vitality.

If you have a doctor’s referral, schedule your first by appointment by calling our Chicago office at (773) 907-3599 during regular business hours, or use our appointment form.