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Cancer Rehabilitation

Restoring function and independence during and after cancer treatment

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Onkoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Cancer Rehabilitation?

Cancer rehabilitation is the multidisciplinary care that addresses physical, cognitive, and psychosocial impairments caused by cancer or its treatment. It spans the full continuum of care: prehabilitation before surgery to optimize fitness, acute rehabilitation during treatment, and long-term survivorship rehabilitation for late effects.

Common impairments include lymphedema after axillary or pelvic surgery, chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, post-mastectomy shoulder dysfunction, head and neck dysphagia and trismus after radiation, sarcopenia and deconditioning, cognitive impairment (chemo brain), and bowel and bladder dysfunction after pelvic treatment.

A typical referral pathway includes a structured screening at oncology visits, referral to physiatry (PM&R), and tailored therapy with a physical therapist, occupational therapist, speech-language pathologist, lymphedema specialist, or pelvic floor therapist. Outcomes are best when rehabilitation begins early — at diagnosis, not after impairment becomes chronic.

Symptoms

Limb swelling after surgery (lymphedema)
Numbness and tingling in hands or feet after chemotherapy
Reduced shoulder range after breast surgery
Difficulty swallowing or limited mouth opening after head and neck treatment
Weakness, balance problems, falls
Pelvic floor dysfunction after pelvic surgery or radiation

Risk Factors

Major cancer surgery (breast, abdominal, head and neck, pelvic)
Neurotoxic chemotherapy (taxanes, platinum, vincristine)
Pelvic or head and neck radiation
Prolonged hospitalization or bed rest
Older age and pre-existing medical conditions

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Persistent limb swelling, weakness, or balance problems
  • Difficulty swallowing or eating after head and neck treatment
  • Pain or stiffness limiting daily activity after surgery
  • Cognitive complaints affecting work or self-care

Treatment Methods

01
Prehabilitation before major cancer surgery (exercise, nutrition, smoking cessation)
02
Physiatry-led individualized rehabilitation plan
03
Lymphedema therapy (complete decongestive therapy)
04
Strength, balance, and aerobic conditioning
05
Speech and swallowing therapy after head and neck cancer
06
Pelvic floor rehabilitation
07
Cognitive rehabilitation for chemo brain

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Onkoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Onkoloji Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.