Por Taylor McKnight
Physical therapy is often the last thing on people’s minds when they receive a cancer diagnosis. However, it is an essential part of your treatment plan that enhances your quality of life and allows you to return to regular activities more quickly. Most hospitals have specially trained physical therapists for cancer patients who can help you throughout your journey.
Siga leyendo para conocer los retos relacionados con el tratamiento que puede abordar la fisioterapia, los tipos de rehabilitación disponibles y otras consideraciones a largo plazo para quienes han recibido tratamiento contra el cáncer.
¿Por qué es importante la fisioterapia durante y después del tratamiento del cáncer?
Cancer treatment such as chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation can impact your well-being in ways you may not have considered. Many cancer treatments can cause muscle weakness, increased difficulty in balancing, and a smaller range of motion. Physical therapy is essential to your recovery process and can help you restore your strength and physical function. Your physical therapist can work with you to create a plan of care that aligns with your healing process and individual goals.
Cancer treatment affects not only your physical health but your mental well-being, too. Many cancer survivors experience depression and anxiety even after they have completed treatment. Exercise is a powerful way to combat the side effects of treatment and positively affect your mental health. In addition, some research has shown that regular physical activity and exercise may even lower your risk of cancer returning.
¿Qué tipo de rehabilitación se ofrece paralelamente al tratamiento del cáncer?
Existen varios tipos de rehabilitación que puede recibir junto con la atención oncológica. La mayorÃa de los planes incorporarán algún tipo de rehabilitación fÃsica, asà como servicios de terapia ocupacional, patologÃa del lenguaje y rehabilitación profesional. Cada componente es esencial para ayudar a mejorar su calidad de vida y que pueda retomar las actividades que más le gustan.
Physical therapy:Â Your physical therapist can help you recover your strength, endurance, flexibility, and mobility once you complete treatment. Many also offer treatment for pain management, while some specialize in managing conditions like lymphedema.
Occupational therapy:Â Occupational therapists play an essential role by helping you resume your usual daily activities. These activities may include bathing, dressing, and returning to work. They devote considerable time and effort toward improving arm strength and function as well as range of motion.
Speech and language pathology:Â Some cancer survivors struggle with language comprehension and expression. Others may have difficulty swallowing food or drinks. A speech and language pathologist can assist with communication, cognitive skills, and swallowing disorders.
Vocational rehabilitation specialist:Â Many cancer survivors eventually return to work. Vocational rehabilitation specialists evaluate when the time is right to work again and how to accomplish this. They may recommend special equipment or guide those who must find a new line of work.
Aunque esta no es una lista exhaustiva de los servicios de rehabilitación, son los que utilizan la mayorÃa de los supervivientes de cáncer. Cada servicio es fundamental para ayudarle a mejorar su calidad de vida y su bienestar fÃsico. Seguir sus indicaciones y acudir a cada cita puede suponer una gran diferencia en cómo se siente después de recibir tratamiento contra el cáncer.
Otras cosas a tener en cuenta tras el tratamiento del cáncer
Many survivors feel unsettled and worry about an uncertain future after cancer. Some feel anxious that the cancer may return and stress they are not doing enough to remain vigilant about warning signs. In addition, many still experience negative symptoms associated with their treatment even after it ends. Commonly, many survivors continue to experience insomnia, fatigue, memory loss, pain, neuropathy, and emotional distress.
It's essential to recognize that these fears and worries are all valid. Sharing these concerns with a loved one or joining a support group can also bring relief. Support is invaluable at this stage of recovery, and you may even seek professional help to address your concerns. In addition, if you are struggling with your diet, a registered dietician can help you meet the nutritional goals necessary for your best outcome.
Recuerde que la experiencia de cada persona con el cáncer es única, pero apoyarse en la ayuda de otros supervivientes y seres queridos es fundamental para mantener la salud mental después del tratamiento. Tómese las cosas dÃa a dÃa y sea amable consigo mismo durante todo el proceso. Manténgase al dÃa con sus revisiones periódicas y diga siempre lo que piensa si algo no va bien. Nadie conoce su cuerpo mejor que usted, y encontrar al médico adecuado que escuche sus preocupaciones puede salvarle la vida.
Written by Taylor McKnight, Author for FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Center
Nota: Este artÃculo tiene por objeto proporcionar información general y no sustituir el asesoramiento médico profesional. Comente siempre sus opciones con su profesional sanitario.
Más información:
En el Podcast: Conversaciones sobre el cáncer de mama
La importancia de la fisioterapia en la recuperación del cáncer de mama
Sobrevivir al cáncer de mama.org Recursos y apoyo: