Who would benefit?
Therapy at the Orthopaedic Therapy clinic is for individuals with a cancer diagnosis who would benefit from rehabilitation to relieve pain, maximize recovery and help restore function resulting from tissue restrictions, movement imbalances or reductions in physical activity. Our interdisciplinary team works together to develop a program to address your specific needs prior to treatment, during chemotherapy and/or radiation, as well as following surgery. Our approach includes education and self-management strategies to maximize your rehabilitation and to empower you in managing your own recovery.
Who should I see?
At The Orthopaedic Therapy clinic our comprehensive approach to cancer care integrates the skills of our key health professions. Your team consists of Registered Physiotherapists, Registered Massage Therapists, Chiropractor and Registered Kinesiologist who have post-graduate education and certification in specific areas of cancer rehabilitation. The members of our team bring their extensive background in relieving musculoskeletal pain and functional restrictions to help you regain your quality of life and recapture your independence.
Physiotherapy
At the Orthopaedic Therapy Clinic your physiotherapist provides the cornerstone for your care when you are having pain or a restriction of function following your cancer treatments. Physiotherapy will help you to restore mobility, reduce pain, manage symptoms and restore independence.
The program begins with the physiotherapist looking for the cause of your pain and applying their in-depth knowledge on tissue healing and injury management to help you recover in the most efficient and effective manner possible. Their extensive experience in assisting many clients with their recovery from post-operative surgery and with complex conditions brings a valuable perspective to the emerging field of post-treatment cancer care.
A physiotherapy assessment will provide you with a plan to manage the physical side-effects of cancer-related treatments. Appropriate therapy can address restrictions such as a frozen shoulder or weakened muscles to help restore your movement and regain function.
If you have had surgery which has resulted in changes to your muscles or nerves i.e. transpositions, a detailed assessment can help to determine how to restore your optimum function. These surgeries are often complex and sometimes ground breaking. The perspective of a highly-experienced therapist is essential in helping to sort out the best approach in this rapidly evolving field.
For more information on Physiotherapy and Cancer Care click here
Registered Massage Therapy
Our Registered Massage Therapist’s will help you to manage the symptoms caused by the removal of lymph nodes, radiation treatments and/or post-surgical scarring. Once you are medically stable these massage treatments help to reduce the swelling and restrictions resulting from these procedures. They can assist you in managing lymphatic swelling and relieving axillary web syndrome/cording.
Our Registered Massage Therapists are trained in lymphedema management, compression bandaging, cranial-sacral therapy, therapeutic massage and myofascial release. Treatment is available for pain relief, relaxation and includes education and prevention strategies for recurrent symptoms.
For more information on Massage Therapy and Cancer Care click here
Acupuncture
Our Registered Physiotherapists and Registered Massage Therapists are certified in acupuncture. This treatment can assist in the reduction of pain, promote healing and reduce the nausea associated with chemotherapy.
For more information on Acupuncture and Cancer Care click here
Kinesiology
Registered Kinesiology is available for individuals who would benefit from a therapeutic fitness program prior to treatment, during chemotherapy and/or radiation, as well as following surgery. Exercise is a powerful adjunct in helping your recovery and long term prevention of recurrence.
Therapeutic fitness takes into account the effect your condition and/or treatment has on your physical goals as well as your ability to exercise. We work with your oncology team to determine the appropriate level for your rehabilitation.
Our Registered Kinesiologists work with you before, during and after your treatment to help manage side effects, promote recovery and reduce fatigue.
For more information on Exercise and Cancer Care click here
Pre-treatment
Pre-treatment, also called pre-habilitation, can help your body prepare for the rigours of chemotherapy. The benefits of exercise are extensive and the healthier you are going into the chemotherapy the more likely you will make it through your treatment on schedule and with fewer side effects.
During treatment
Many people are able to exercise during treatment. Once your oncology team endorses your ability to participate we can work with you to develop a plan to maintain your fitness during your treatment. We will determine an appropriate level of exercise to help reduce fatigue and diminish the loss of muscle mass which frequently accompanies chemotherapy.
Recovery
After treatment, fitness plays an important role in restoring your independence and quality of life. It helps reduce two of the most common post-treatment side-effects: fatigue and fear of re-injury. Exercise is integral in helping you to return to work and the physical activities you enjoy.
Exercise also has a role in many cancer prevention strategies. It is a key player in the reduction of body fat which is a factor influencing some types of tumour recurrences. It can help you restore your bone density, regain your balance and improve your sense of muscle coordination.
