Oncology blog
October was National Breast Cancer Awareness month. Here at Active Health Riverina, we are passionate about rehabilitation following all types of cancer and have a PINC accredited oncology physiotherapist. Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting women and it is estimated that 1 in 7 women before the age of 85 will have a diagnosis of cancer. Approximately 57 patients A DAY are diagnosed with breast cancer in Australia. The good news is that cancer treatments are improving and that most women now survive breast cancer. In recent years, there has been increasing evidence regarding exercise during cancer and cancer treatments, and improved rehabilitation outcomes for patients remaining active throughout their diagnosis and treatment.
Breast cancer surgery has common side effects, as do most surgeries. One of the most commonly reported post operative concerns is a stiff shoulder or arm. Others may experience sensitivity around their scars and tissues. Sensations such as heaviness and tight feelings, pain, numbness and swelling are often reported immediately post surgery and are expected after breast cancer related surgeries. Such symptoms however, do not need to last beyond the healing phase.
Most people following a cancer diagnosis and cancer treatment want to get back to doing the things they enjoy and love as soon as possible. This is where physiotherapy can be helpful in restoring general range of motion, as well as helping to manage fatigue and side effects of cancer related treatment.
An oncology trained physiotherapist has increased knowledge and expertise in this area to help you understand what your body is going through so that you can best manage your symptoms and move beyond cancer. Your physiotherapist will sit with you and discuss what your goals from treatment are and what techniques and options are suitable for you. An essential part of an oncology based physio assessment is screening for lymphoedema, particularly if lymph nodes have been removed. This assessment is quick and non invasive to perform.
Some of the options for treatment following cancer diagnosis and associated interventions include
Postural realignment and strengthening of the postural support muscles
Pacing strategies for the management of fatigue as well as improving your understanding of cancer related fatigue
Scar and soft tissue management around surgical sites
Strengthening muscles and supporting joint health.
Of course our priority is helping those recovering from cancer to achieve their functional or fitness related goals. Rest assured that your oncology physiotherapist will have a holistic approach to your assessment and management. We are here to listen to any concerns you may have. The approach to your rehabilitation will be collaborative and ensure that appropriate referrals are made when necessary. Physiotherapists are registered through a National Board to ensure your safety during treatment. If you have any symptoms lasting beyond the initial post operative and treatment phase, or if you are going through treatment and wish to seek some physiotherapy advice to improve your outcomes and rehabilitation, please do not hesitate to contact us. You can get in touch by calling us on 6925 7734, or emailing mail@activeriverina.com.au or checking out our website https://activehealthriverina.com.au