Physical Med. & Rehabilitation for Cancer

Some patients may need to consult with a physical medicine specialist during and after cancer treatment.

Physiatrists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech-language pathologists offer therapies to:

• Patients who have undergone surgery and have limited range of motion or have difficulty with general mobility that interferes with normal activities.
• Patients who have undergone treatment and need strengthening or muscle conditioning.
• Patients who need assistance with daily living activities, such as getting dressed, eating, walking or getting in and out of bed.
• Patients who experience swallowing or speech difficulties due to treatment.
• Patients who need assistive devices such as canes or walkers.
• Patients who develop lymphedema of the extremities, a condition in which excess fluid collects in tissue and causes swelling in the arms, legs and elsewhere. Lymphedema sometimes occurs after the removal of lymph vessels or lymph nodes.

The lymphedema outpatient program includes complete decongestive therapy (CDT) administered by specially trained certified therapists. The program combines bandaging, lymphatic drainage, and compression garment fitting to decrease swelling, enhance function and improve quality of life.

For a complete list of rehabilitation resources offered at Greenwich Hospital, see the Physical Therapy section.