Cancer treatment can affect your physical, social, psychological, and work-related abilities. Participating in the physical medicine and rehabilitation program at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center can help you maintain and regain your abilities and maintain your independence.

Specialists in physical medicine and rehabilitation are referred to as physiatrists. Our physiatrists work closely with physical and occupational therapists to deliver comprehensive services to cancer patients. We frequently prescribe specific therapy treatments and refer patients to other subspecialists, as needed.

Participating in cancer rehabilitation may help:

• Boost your confidence
• Improve your physical strength
• Increase your ability to care for yourself
• Manage your symptoms related to cancer and treatment
• Reduce anxiety and depression
• Reduce your hospital stays

We offer physical medicine and rehabilitation services for anyone currently undergoing cancer treatment, or for those in recovery. We especially encourage people who are experiencing limitations or difficulties completing day-to-day tasks as a result of cancer or cancer treatment to use our services.

Conditions We Treat

We see cancer patients who have the following conditions:

• Arm, leg, or joint pain due to cancer, metastases, or prior cancer treatment
• Back pain due to cancer, metastases, or prior cancer treatment
• Bowel or bladder incontinence
• Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy
• Cognitive (thinking) issues
• Deconditioning, weakness, or fatigue
• Lymphedema
• Neck or shoulder pain
• Nerve dysfunction
• Sexual dysfunction
• Swallowing issues
• Trouble opening your mouth (trismus)
• Trouble speaking
• Trouble walking or keeping your balance

Services We Offer

Our team will work with you and your oncologist to understand your diagnosis, treatment plan, needs, and goals. We will create a customized treatment plan to maximize your physical function and improve your quality of life. Depending on your specific needs and goals, your cancer rehabilitation program may include:

• Exercise programs
• Family education and support
• Help with activities of daily living (ADLs), including eating, drinking, dressing, bathing, cooking, and doing basic chores
• Nutrition counseling
• Pain treatment
• Patient education and counseling
• Support to quit smoking