Care practice in oncology: The physical therapy experience with breast cancer patients

Abstract

Early oncology physical therapy has played a vital role in preventing and minimizing the side effects of treatment for breast cancer, a disease that strikes a large number of women. Physical therapy reduces the risks of complications and can restore the kinetic and functional integrity of organs and systems. With this emphasis on means of prevention, oncology physical therapy has expanded the professional activities of physical therapists and added to their required skill set in recent years, thereby reinforcing the field's legitimate space within medicine. One of a physical therapist's main duties today is to prevent problems and promote good health, and this service should be offered during all phases of breast cancer, from diagnosis through treatment and palliative care.