Cancer Rehabilitation
For more information about our services, call (260) 435-6143.
Life-saving cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation can affect energy, emotions, cognition and so much more. Cancer rehabilitation helps patients combat fatigue, brain fog, pain, weakness and limited mobility to reclaim a more active lifestyle.
Tailored Exercise Plans
Lutheran Hospital's cancer rehabilitation program, the first of its kind in the area, is part of a survivorship program for cancer patients. Once a patient is referred, therapists specially trained in cancer rehabilitation develop a tailored, medically based exercise plan to meet the unique needs of each patient. Plans are designed to improve strength and endurance and can benefit patients at any stage of treatment or recovery.
Lymphedema Management
Lymphedema occurs when excess fluid collects in the body’s tissues, leading to swelling, firmness and pain. Lymphedema therapy uses special techniques to improve drainage, reducing limb size and pain, while improving function and decreasing the chance of recurrence of lymphedema.
Speech Therapy
Therapists address dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), loss of voice and cognitive changes that can follow cancer treatment. Many cancer patients, especially those treated for cancer of the head and neck, may benefit from speech and language therapy.
Positive Impact
Cancer rehab can have a positive impact on patients before, during or after cancer treatment. Studies show that patients with a cancer diagnosis who are receiving rehabilitation services have fewer side effects, more energy, better preservation of normal daily activity and a more positive mental outlook. Key benefits may include improved:
- Immune system
- Physical function
- Quality of life
- Self-esteem
- Social interactions
- Tolerance of chemotherapy medications
A physician referral is required.
Sources
Lanni, T.B., Brown, E., Kuwajerwala, N., Stromberg, J., Gustafson, G., Wood, R., Parzuchowski, J., Akhtar, A. Implementation of an Oncology Exercise and Wellness Rehabilitation Program to Enhance Survivorship: The Beaumont Health System Experience. The Journal of Community and Supportive Oncology. 12.3 (2014): 87-91.
Ligibel JA, Denlinger CS. New NCCN Guidelines for Survivorship Care. J Natl Compr Canc Netw. 2013;11(5 Suppl):640-644.
Giovannucci EL. Physical Activity as a Standard Cancer Treatment. J Natl Cancer Inst. 2012;104(11):797-799. doi:10.1093/jnci/djs229.
Speck RM, Gross CR, Hormes JM, et al. Changes in the Body Image and Relationship Scale Following a One-Year Strength Training Trial for Breast Cancer Survivors with or at Risk for Lymphedema. Breast Cancer Res Treat. 2010;121(2):421-430. doi:10.1007/s10549-009-0550-7.