Helping cancer survivors rehabilitate

    There are over 10 million cancer survivors living today in the United States. This is a direct result of the tremendous strides the medical field has made in keeping people alive longer and, in many cases, helping them live with cancer. In order to achieve this medical milestone, however, treatments must be very aggressive and can affect people in ways non-related to their cancer.  These treatments often leave patients with life-changing problems such as neuropathy, osteoporosis, loss of motion, pain, and fatigue. In fact, the American Cancer Society reports that fatigue is the most common side effect of cancer survivors. Other common side effects include: lymphedema as a result of surgery and/or radiation; loss of strength; and balance issues.
    All across the country, hospitals and clinics are now taking the time to address these issues and to offer rehabilitation programs designed specifically for cancer patients. Cancer patients can begin these programs during active cancer treatment or when they have completed their treatment. The goal of the program is to improve their quality of life and to return them to their previous level of function. It also provides patients with the opportunity to have some control over their care and to engage in a program that makes them feel better.
    All cancer patients are appropriate for this program regardless of where they are in their current continuum of care. All patients are recommended to consult with their lead physician before beginning such a program, and all programs should be designed by professionals with knowledge of cancer-related issues.
    County Physical Therapy will be offering a presentation on the topic of cancer rehabilitation on Thursday, Oct. 1st at 11 a.m. at their Presque Isle location in the North Street Healthcare Plaza. The public is invited to this free event to learn more about cancer rehab and options that exist here in Aroostook County.
    If you have any questions regarding this program or the upcoming presentation, please feel free to contact me at County Physical Therapy. I can be reached at 769-2160 or by e-mail at jennifer.waddell@countypt.com.