Elizabeth focuses on regaining posture,
flexibility, and arm strength after
breast cancer treatment.

Cancer Rehabilitation
Women and men diagnosed with cancer often undergo treatment including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. In some cases, side effects from these treatments may include pain, limited mobility, decreased strength, swelling, and fatigue. Physical therapy interventions beneficial in counteracting the above-mentioned side effects may include:

• Postural awareness for retraining affected muscles and joints
• Therapeutic exercises to improve flexibility and strength in the involved area
• Aerobic conditioning to combat cancer related fatigue
• Education on skincare, scar management, lymphedema precautions, and safety during daily activities

For a referral form for Breast Cancer treatment, click here.

Lymphedema Rehabilitation
Lymphedema is an accumulation of lymphatic fluid that causes swelling, and can develop when the channels and ducts that transport lymph are missing, impaired, or damaged. Secondary lymphedema (acquired lymphedema) commonly occurs following surgeries that require the removal of lymph nodes. Lymphedema can develop immediately following surgery or months to years following cancer treatment. In addition to swelling, symptoms of lymphedema may include a feeling of heaviness and tightness, skin changes, infection in the affected area, and cosmetic deformity.

A multi-layer bandaging wrap is applied
to Gayle's left arm as part of the comprehensive
treatment in Rusk's lymphedema program.

Although lymphedema is a chronic condition, specially trained physical therapists can provide invaluable rehabilitative care. Early intervention and learning lifelong management techniques are essential to allow patients to lead full, normal lives. Rusk Institute employs a comprehensive care approach that emphasizes the importance of the patient's understanding of the condition and treatment. In addition to learning about precautionary measures that reduce the risk of developing lymphedema, patients benefit from a rehabilitation program that increases range of motion, flexibility, strength, and endurance. Treatment may include the following:

• Manual lymphatic drainage to mobilize fluid and protein from an affected area by a non-invasive, manual therapy technique
• Multi-layer bandaging to reduce swelling and assist in softening of skin and tissue in a swollen limb
• Therapeutic exercises to improve lymph drainage through a program of flexibility, strength training, and aerobic activities
• Patient education to allow patients to take control of their own lives. In addition to learning how to manage lymphedema at home, patients may receive guidance on specific questions from nutritionists, social workers, support groups, or other health professionals
• Compression garments to help minimize swelling during daytime daily activities
• Compression pumping (in select cases) to assist with circulation through the use of state-of-the-art pneumatic pumps

Click here for a referall form for our Lymphedema treatment.