Oncology Rehabilitation

Oncology rehabilitation includes a wide range of therapies designed to help you to gradually return to your normal daily life.

It will help you build strength and endurance, regain independence, decrease the impact of side effects, reduce stress and regain the energy to participate in daily activities that are important to you.

Pia has a special interest in oncology rehabilitation and has completed multiple post graduate courses relevant to this topic.

Aspire Physiotherapy Bunbury offers the following treatment options to assist you during the management and in the recovery of your cancer:

Physiotherapy 

As part of your cancer treatment, Pia may help you design an individualised exercise program that combines range-of-motion training with light resistance exercises. These therapeutic exercises aim to reduce fatigue and improve physical function, safety and well-being.

Stress and Anxiety Management

First and foremost, physiotherapists are not trained councilors or psychologists. We can however teach you management strategies that are often shown to be beneficial in the management of stress and anxiety. This can include teaching of breathing techniques and exercises; fatigue management strategies such as activity pacing and an exercise routine tailored to your needs and level of energy helping you get back to YOU!

Lymphoedema prevention and treatment 

Lymphoedema is a condition in which excess lymphatic fluid collects in the interstitial tissue and causes swelling in specific areas of the body, usually in the arms or legs. Swelling may also occur in other parts of the body, such as the breast or chest wall.

Lymphoedema may develop as a result of cancer, cancer treatment (e.g., surgery, radiation), infection, trauma, scar tissue or anything that changes, blocks or interrupts the flow of lymph fluid through the lymphatic system. While it is most often associated with breast cancer, lymphoedema may result from treatment for other cancers, such as prostate, ovarian, lymphoma and melanoma.

The greater the number of lymph nodes removed, the higher the risk for developing lymphoedema. Early diagnosis and treatment for lymphoedema is important in helping managing symptoms and preventing the condition from progression. Untreated lymphoedema may lead to decreased function and mobility in the affected limb, skin breakdown, infection and other complications.

With proper care and treatment, lymphoedema may be prevented or controlled. Lymphedema treatments vary from person to person, depending on the severity and cause. Click Here to find out more.

Oncology rehabilitation is such an important facet of any patient’s cancer journey. Pia has done her PINC certification in the oncology care of Women and is soon to compete her STEEL training in the oncology care of Men. For more information and details, see our PINC and STEEL Cancer Rehabilitation page.