Physiotherapy in cancer rehabilitation

ROLE OF PHYSIOTHERAPY IN CANCER

1. Physiotherapy In Cancer Rehabilitation Dr. Shilpasree Saha (PT) Lecturer, Sikkim Professional College Of Physiotherapy, Sikkim Professional University

2. Introduction Cancer can result from abnormal proliferation of any of the different kinds of cells in the body. Cancer is one of the main causes of death worldwide. In 2018, 8% of global cancer death occurs in India alone. Cancer causes around 10% of all deaths in India annually. Singh S. K et al. An epidemiology of self-reported cancer in India: A demonstration analysis based on women in late reproductive age group. Clinical Epidemiology and Global Health.2021; 9: 332-37

3. Cancer Rehabilitation Cancer rehabilitation addresses physical , social, psychological and vocational impairments and progressive disablement at all stages of cancer diagnosis and treatment. Chromes GF Jr. Implementation of interdisciplinary cancer rehabilitation. Rehabil Counseling Bull, 1978; 21: 230-237

4. Patients with cancer can now live longer with early detection with advance screening techniques and with advance treatment protocols. But unfortunately, as a result of the treatment, many of the survivors are living with lifelong impairments. Physiotherapist often helps the patients to improve the physical, psychological and social impairment.

5. Challenges faced after Treatment Side effects of radiation therapy/chemotherapy may include: Fatigue Pain Sleep problem Impaired muscular function Reduced cardiopulmonary function Decreased bone-mineral density Depression, anxiety

6. Rehabilitative goals Preventive Role Restorative Role Supportive Role Palliative Role

7. Physiotherapy in Cancer Rehabilitation Physical activity in the form of: Aerobic exercise, Pilates, Stretching, Tai chi Pattanshetty RB, Chopde C, Role of Physiotherapy in cancer-related fatigue in cancer survivors- A narrative review. J Nov Physiother Phys Rehabil . 2016;3(1):030-034

8. Resistant exercise

9. Acupuncture

10. Relaxation exercise

11. Guidelines for exercise prescription Exercise prescription should be individualized and tailored based on health status, disease trajectory, previous and/or current treatment, current fitness level, past and present exercise prescription and preferences in order to be safe and effective. Mustian KM et al. Exercise recommendation for cancer-related fatigue, cognitive impairment, sleep problems, depression, pain, anxiety and physical dysfunction: a review. Oncol hematol review; 2012; 8(2); 81-88

12. conclusion Physiotherapy can add life to the days of patients surviving with cancer. Regular treatment program can help to improve the QOL of patients.