First, what is cancer? Cancer is the growth of abnormal cells in the body that causes destruction of normal, healthy cells. This process affects the health and function of the body or body parts, and can cause death. Statistics show that cancer affects 39.6% of people in the United States at some point in their lives. More than 1.5 million new cases are diagnosed each year. Cancer, and cancer-treatments, can cause physical problems such as pain, numbness, swelling, weakness, loss of balance, and difficulty moving or walking.
Physical Therapists are trained and educated to understand all of your health conditions, including a cancer diagnosis. Because of this they help people manage cancer-related problems, improve their health and functional abilities, and return to work and other activities. Your physical therapist will work with you to develop a specialized treatment program to address your specific needs and goals.
According to The American Cancer Society people undergoing cancer treatment, and cancer survivors, should perform consistent physical exercise. Physical exercise has been shown to decrease fatigue, improve the ability to perform normal daily activities, and improve an individual’s chances of surviving cancer. Physical therapists can design individualized exercise and treatment programs to reduce or prevent many cancer-related problems.
Physical therapists help people diagnosed with cancer before and after surgery. Before surgery, they evaluate individuals for any of the problems listed above, and help address them. After surgery, they can help with the healing of the incision site, improve circulation, reduce pain, and minimize scarring. They evaluate individuals for any physical therapy treatment needs, and, by designing individualized treatment programs, help them recover and heal faster than they would on their own.
If you’re dealing with cancer recovery or need a consult for physical therapy for cancer recovery contact Roanoke Therapy Services today.
Content: http://www.moveforwardpt.com/SymptomsConditionsDetail.aspx?cid=256fdb5e-efde-44db-bbb3-ca2d56e68b50