Struggling with functional deficits from Cancer Treatments? Talk with your doctor about rehab

Did you know that more than 65 percent of cancer patients experience at least one functional deficit that impacts their daily life? These deficits include diagnoses such as:

  • Generalized weakness/debility
  • Fatigue
  • Difficulty with mobility (walking and transfers from different surfaces)
  • Difficulty completing their ADLs (activities of daily living)
  • Cognitive complaints
  • Lymphedema
  • Speech and swallow impairments
  • Cognitive difficulty

Unfortunately, research indicates that less than 10 percent of functional deficits in cancer patients are addressed. That’s why it’s important for patients to talk with their physicians about any difficulties and ask for help.

UofL Health’s cancer rehabilitation program has specialty-trained providers to assist patients with these and other functional deficits and rehabilitation needs. Having your physician refer you for physical, occupational and speech therapy can help lesson some of the functional impairments you might be experiencing.

And any time is a good time to start rehab! Research shows patients benefit from rehabilitation interventions before, during and after cancer treatments. The goal is to maximize function throughout the cancer journey and help you achieve the best quality of life possible. So, whether you are starting or completing cancer treatments, rehab can help! Our therapists at UofL Health – Frazier Rehab Institute and at the UofL Health – UofL Hospital Outpatient Rehab Clinic are ready to assist with locations close to your home.

Talk with your physician or call one of our UofL Health rehab locations today for more information about the services offered for cancer patients:

  • Frazier Rehab Outpatient Therapy scheduling (all locations)
    • Phone: 502-582-7406
  • UofL Hospital Outpatient Clinic scheduling
    • Phone: 502-562-3457

To learn more about Dr. Nelson, visit UofLHealth.org or call her office at 502-588-2160.

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Article by: Megan B. Nelson, MD

Megan B. Nelson, MD, is a cancer rehabilitation physician working with specialty providers to help coordinate rehabilitation efforts within oncology and across the UofL Health system. As a cancer survivor herself, Dr. Nelson has particular interest in the unique functional needs of cancer patients. She works with oncologists and the comprehensive cancer team serving patients from initial diagnosis, throughout treatment, and after treatment. She treats the whole patient, including musculoskeletal and neurological complaints, neuropathic pain, spasticity, lymphedema, fatigue and overall quality of life.

All posts by Megan B. Nelson, MD
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