Cancer Rehabilitation: Acute and Chronic Issues, Nerve Injury, Radiation Sequelae, Surgical and Chemo-Related, Part 1

Med Clin North Am. 2020 Mar;104(2):239-250. doi: 10.1016/j.mcna.2019.10.004. Epub 2019 Nov 23.

Abstract

Individuals with cancer commonly experience functional impairments. Symptoms may present immediately or years to decades following their treatment. These impairments may include fatigue, pain, neuropathy, lymphedema, or radiation fibrosis syndrome and have the potential to deleteriously impact their function and quality of life. Cancer rehabilitation is a comprehensive resource that facilitates maximizing and maintaining cancer survivors' physical, social, psychological, and vocational functioning. This article covers the common functional impairments experienced by cancer survivors and the treatment strategies used in cancer rehabilitation. Application of these services can enhance the ongoing care for cancer survivors.

Keywords: Cancer; Disability; Function; Neuropathy; Quality of life; Radiation fibrosis syndrome; Rehabilitation; Survivorship.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cancer Survivors / psychology*
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms / rehabilitation*
  • Neoplasms / therapy
  • Physical Functional Performance*
  • Quality of Life*
  • Recovery of Function