Breast Cancer Physiotherapy
Abstract
Breast cancer survivors can experience multiple neuromuscular, musculoskeletal, pain, and functional disorders as a result of their cancer and its treatment. Common disorders include shoulder dysfunction, postmastectomy syndrome, chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, axillary cording, lymphedema, and a host of others. Cancer rehabilitation is a process that helps breast cancer and other survivors to obtain and maintain the highest possible physical, social, psychological, and vocational functioning within the limits created by cancer and its treatments. There are good data supporting the safety and efficacy of cancer rehabilitation in the treatment of many breast cancer−related impairments, including shoulder dysfunction and lymphedema, among others. Despite the goals and efficacy of cancer rehabilitation, there is a marked underuse of services. The reasons for this phenomenon are many, but broadly result from a lack of knowledge about cancer rehabilitation on the part of patients and referring clinicians, limited access to services, and suboptimal adherence. This article explores underutilization of cancer rehabilitation in breast cancer survivors and provides an opportunity to consider ways to improve this gap in care.
Full Article: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1934148217306585
Also check out our previous article on Breast Cancer Physiotherapy and how Physiotherapists can assist with Cording post Breast Cancer
Check out an article by Positive Health Wellness on: Everything You Need to Know About Your Breasts Before and After Pregnancy
Contact us today on 0479 080 800 to make a booking. Alternatively you can email us on [email protected]. Our Physiotherapists are Medicare, NDIS, DVA and Work Cover approved, specialising in injury management and rehabilitation to get you back to full function.