Oncology physical therapy

Bobbi Conner spoke with Dr. Katie Schmitt, a Doctor of Physical Therapy, clinical specialist in oncologic physical therapy and certified lymphedema therapist at MUSC Hollings Cancer Center, about the role of oncology physical therapy in caring for people with cancer and survivors.

Oncology physical therapy focuses on rehabilitation across the cancer continuum, addressing both disease-related problems and treatment side effects to help patients maintain mobility, strength and function during and after treatment.

Common issues treated include chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, which causes numbness and tingling in hands and feet; reduced range of motion after procedures such as mastectomy or head and neck surgery; deconditioning following intensive treatments like stem cell transplant; and mobility needs before and after lung cancer treatment. Lymphedema is managed as a long-term, often progressive condition that requires ongoing follow-up.

Timing of care varies by diagnosis and treatment. Patients with breast cancer may be evaluated before surgery to establish a baseline, while others may begin therapy after completing treatment when side effects become apparent. Some survivors are seen years later for late effects.

Typical sessions combine manual therapy for pain or tightness, resistance and aerobic training supported by research on their benefits, and stretching to end the session. Programs are individualized to patient needs and treatment goals.

Benefits include restoring function patients may assume is permanently lost, improving strength and mobility, reducing fatigue and helping people return to daily activities. Rather than prolonged rest after treatment, targeted rehabilitation can yield meaningful recovery.

Length of therapy depends on the condition: postoperative rehabilitation or neuropathy treatment may last weeks to months, while lymphedema management often involves years of follow-up as part of a long-term care team.

Bobbi Conner reported from the radio studio at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston for South Carolina Public Radio.