Cancer Rehabilitation and Lymphedema- what’s your risk?

By
By Lakeview Physio
Susan Bocchinfuso
,
BSc.PT, BA. Psych, Acupuncture, Yoga, CLT, Cancer Rehab, Pelvic Health Physiotherapist
and
,
on
Fitness
September 19, 2024

Working with a physical therapist will enable you to maximize your recovery, help you decide if you need to wear a compression garment, and guide you in understanding your own personal risk factors.

Working with a physical therapist who understands the effect that cancer treatments can have on your lymphatic system is essential. While the number of nodes you have removed is important, there are several other things to consider:

  1. Have you had radiation?  
  2. Did you have 1 lymph node removed or many?
  3. What is your body mass index?
  4. How about your general activity level?

Understanding these different variables and how they can come into play can help you get a firm understanding of lymphedema so you can know what to expect and what to watch out for.

Not everyone who has treatment for cancer gets lymphedema.

The evidence tells us approximately 20% of women who have received treatment for breast cancer go on to develop lymphedema. Working with a physical therapist will enable you to maximize your recovery, help you decide if you need to wear a compression garment, and guide you in understanding your own personal risk factors.

Learn more about cancer rehab and lymphedema with Susan: Book Online | Lakeview Physiotherapy Clinic & Movement Studio (janeapp.com)

...

Latest Posts