Oncology
We have a dedicated physiotherapist based at the Cancer Centre London to assist patients through their cancer treatment journey and improve quality of life.
The service provides support for cancer related symptoms (for example pain, weakness, stiffness, respiratory problems and general treatment fatigue) and empower patients through various activity programmes to regain and maintain a balanced lifestyle and help integration back to everyday life and occupation.
Patients are assessed on an individual basis and treatment goals are set in accordance with the patients’ needs and where they are in the cancer treatment.
Individual treatments for musculoskeletal or orthopaedic related problems are offered as well as exercise programmes and stretches for weakness, stiffness, pain and general wellbeing.
Patients can also join the Pilates classes offered on a group or individual basis and there is an opportunity to attend hydrotherapy treatment in the heated pool, if appropriate.
Breast cancer: Our service is available to all patients who have had breast surgery performed. This includes mastectomies, Latissimus Dorsi Flap reconstructions, DIEP flap reconstructions, axilliary node clearances, lumpectomies and sentinel node biopsies.
If the surgery was performed at Parkside Hospital, patients will be assessed and treated by the physiotherapy team for mobility, respiratory care and early shoulder range of motion exercises. Upon discharge patients will be referred to our outpatient physiotherapy department for advice and treatment following the procedures.
The aim is to restore the normal function of the upper limb and neck area and to guide the patients back to their normal daily activities.
Treatment will include Myofascial release of cording or scarring in the axilla and at the donor sites. This will be followed by range of motion and strengthening exercises of the shoulder and spine and an individualised return to sport and general activity programme for each patient.
Pilates - is an excellent form of improving posture and core strength and is recommended after surgery to regain further strength and flexibility of the entire body.
Acupuncture - can also be offered for various musculoskeletal problems or general well being.
Lymphoedema advice - is available and a referral to the Lymphoedema service for Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD), bandaging and compressions garments can be arranged.
Other useful links:
Click here to return to the Physiotherapy page.
If you would like more information about our Oncology service, please get in contact with us by phoning 020 8971 8000 or use our contact page.
