Did you know that October is National Physical Therapy Month? For those
who don't know,
Cancer Rehabilitation is among the therapy services available at Campbell County Health
Rehabilitation Services.
Chemotherapy, radiation and sometimes surgery are common treatments for
people diagnosed with
cancer. But almost every cancer patient can benefit from Cancer Rehabilitation
at any point in their treatment, even when their disease is in remission.
Cancer rehab is different from orthopedic physical therapy for injuries
to knees or other joints and can help with swelling, mobility and pain.
A 2013 study showed that up to 75 percent of breast cancer patients experienced
a decrease in their arm and shoulder range of motion and an increase in
pain within one week after
surgery. Beginning rehab treatment two to three weeks after breast surgery allows
therapists to help the patient transition from the body’s normal
reaction of inflammation and the creation of scar tissue with less discomfort
and increased mobility. Therapy can also help with lymphedema, a collection
of fluid that causes swelling in the arms and legs after cancer surgeries
that remove or damage the lymph nodes.
Every patient responds differently to cancer treatment, but most can experience
relief with therapy for their specific type of cancer. Chemotherapy often
causes a loss of balance due to a condition called neuropathy, which causes
symptoms of numbness, pins and needles, tingling or burning sensations
in the extremities. Cancer Rehab can help patients relearn how to go about
activities of daily living and even teach the nerves and brain the correct
gait or walking patterns.
And CCH’s
orthotics and prosthetics services can custom design, fit and maintain mastectomy bras, prosthesis
and compression sleeves for cancer patients of all ages.
Cancer Rehabilitation services are covered by most insurances plans and
require a referral from a physician or advance practice provider. Referrals
can be made regardless of where the patient is in their cancer treatment phase.
Recovery from an injury or illness condition requires hard work and commitment.
Our compassionate and experienced staff at Campbell County Health Rehabilitation
Services in Gillette, Wyoming helps each patient reach their goals in
a team-oriented atmosphere. Therapists and their patients form a partnership,
and set their goals together, working to help the each patient function
at their highest level, whether at home or work. To learn more about the
services available at Campbell County Health, visit
www.cchwyo.org/rehab or call 307.688.8000.