Cancer Rehabilitation

Chemo brain is an expression that describes the thinking and memory problems that can occur during cancer treatment. The goal of therapy is to maintain current cognitive function and minimize any decline. It may include activities such as mental puzzles, physical exercise and even meditation. Be sure to let your care team know if you notice any mental changes, no matter how small they may be. For more information, please call 443-643-3257.

Some chemotherapy drugs can cause damage in the nerves of the arms and legs. Many times when the nerves in the legs are affected, some patients may experience decreased confidence with walking and balance. Comprehensive balance assessment and training available at UMRN facilities can help you better understand the symptoms you are experiencing. Occupational or physical therapy can provide assessment and training to manage these symptoms and balance training can reduce your risk for falls. For more information, please call 443-643-3980.

Lymphedema is a buildup of fluid in part of the body due to stressors such as lymph node removal, injury or radiation treatment. Lymphedema in the arm can often occur when lymph nodes are removed during breast cancer treatment. There is no cure, but it can be effectively controlled through professional care and self-management. Our certified lymphedema therapists offer an individualized approach to treatment including:

• Skin and nail care
• Manual lymphatic drainage
• Gradient bandaging
• Therapeutic exercises

Educating our patients on lymphedema management is an essential part of the rehabilitation we provide. With proper management, patients are able to everything daily life requires. Lymphedema management therapy is available at both hospitals:

UM Upper Chesapeake Medical Center - 443-643-3257
UM Harford Memorial Hospital - 443-843-5331

Chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation can have a significant impact on many of your body's functions. Common side effects can often be addressed and managed successfully; however, there are some symptoms you may feel uncomfortable talking about. Meeting with our certified pelvic floor therapist is a safe place to discuss side effects such as constipation, urinary incontinence, frequency and urgency, sexual dysfunction and lymphedema. Pelvic floor physical therapy focuses on strategies to manage these issues. Therapy usually includes hands on techniques and other conservative strategies to reduce symptoms and improve the function of the pelvic floor muscles. Patients are generally seen 1-2 times per week for a 1 hour one-on-one session with an experienced physical therapist certified in pelvic floor physical therapy. For more information, please call 443-643-3257.

A part of the plan for treatment for many types of cancer includes surgery. Any surgery may cause a temporary decrease in strength and function and an increase in pain. Rehabilitation professionals are available to assist during that recovery to return you to your optimal level of function. For more information, please call 443-643-3257.

Chronic fatigue is a common side effect of cancer treatment. To help combat the fatigue, we offer Stay Fit & Active, a low-impact fitness program for those undergoing cancer treatment or recently completing treatment. The program is led by an oncology-certified fitness instructor and teaches individuals how they can lessen the tiredness by staying active and exercising. For more information, please call 866-393-4355

Prehab is a form of strength training designed to help individuals reach an optimal level of fitness before undergoing a treatment or procedure. Lung prehab specifically helps maximize the respiratory efficiency of people diagnosed with lung cancer. Individuals are evaluated by a physical therapist for basic strength, flexibility of joints and elasticity of the rib cage during respiration. It is recommended prior to any treatment for lung cancer regardless if it is surgery, radiation or chemotherapy. A pedometer and journal are provided allowing patients to monitor and track their steps. After treatment or surgery, individuals are referred back to physical therapy to review their progress and discuss whether any additional therapy is needed. For more information, please call 443-643-3257