Physical Therapy in Patients with Cancer

Abstract

Physical therapists often treat cancer patients. Cancer treatment includes chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery, which are being continuously developed and thus increase survival of patients with each cancer diagnosis. More speciically, 5-year survival rates increase with each cancer diagnosis. Cancer patients have many problems including muscle weakness, pulmonary dysfunction, fatigue, and pain. In the end, patients with cancer tend to have a decline in activities of daily living (ADL) and quality of life (QOL). Additionally, cancer patients often have progressive disease, depression, and anxiety. Physical therapy often helps patients regain strength and physical function and improve their QOL and independence of daily living that they may have lost due to cancer or its treatment. Physical therapy has an important role in increasing physical function of cancer patients, cancer survivors, and children with cancer. In the future, physical therapy may be progressively needed for management of cancer patients.

Myofascial Induction Therapy Improves the Sequelae of Medical Treatment in Head and Neck Cancer Survivors: A Single-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Randomized Cross-Over Study

“…Multiple body systems (cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, joints or nervous system) could be affected by cancer itself and medical treatment. In this sense, physical therapy is helpful and could contribute to address these harmful effects [ 16 ]. In particular, manual therapy has been associated with improved blood circulation, reduced muscle spasms, increased ROM, the release of connective tissue adhesions, reduced pain and restoring mobility [ 17 , 18 ].…”

A Combat Journey With Pulmonary Rehabilitation and Palliative Care in a Patient With Pleural Effusion, Secondary to Metaplastic Breast Carcinoma

“…Palliative care is the most effective therapy for cancer patients. It aids in the improvement of the patient's and their family's quality of life [ 8 ]. Anesthetic care focuses on symptoms that arise from cancer and can be managed with both pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches [ 9 ].…”

The Role of Physical Therapy in Enhancing the Well-being of Elderly Patients

“…Mental health is described as a condition of well-being in which each individual realizes his or her potential, can manage typical life stresses, can work creatively and fruitfully, and can contribute to his or her community [84]. Physical therapists work with patients who may have mental health concerns in addition to other longterm health issues, and exercise is an evidence-based treatment for persons with mental health issues [85,87]. The prevalence of depression, anxiety, and other mental diseases needs a coordinated, multi-sectoral approach.…”

“…Not only should public awareness be raised, but treatment and prevention techniques must also be developed to lessen this enormous and growing health problem, as well as the economic losses associated with it. The links between poor mental health and an increased prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders, different types of pain, and chronic and avoidable diseases highlight the importance of an effective and holistic interdisciplinary approach to managing these conditions [86,87]. Physiotherapists, as health care practitioners, are also involved in the prevention and promotion of health, including mental health.…”