Oncology Physical Rehabilitation

As part of the MercyOne Genesis Cancer Care Institute, MercyOne Genesis Rehabilitation Services are committed to improving potential for survivorship and quality of life. The nurse, using a questionnaire about the patient's functional skills and home situation, will interview all patients at the Cancer Care Institute. This questionnaire will determine potential problem areas and trigger a referral from your physician for therapy as needed.

The purpose of cancer rehabilitation is to assist patients in resolving problems related to their disease and treatment in order to achieve the highest possible level of function. Multiple rehabilitation needs can now be addressed at one location. These services are available throughout all phases of your care.

• Recent arm/leg weakness
• Recent fall/balance problems
• Swelling of leg or arm (lymphedema)
• Unsteadiness or difficulty walking
• Problems swallowing
• Speech and thinking/memory changes
• Pain
• Decreased endurance when performing daily activities

Therapeutic Objectives:

• Determine patient concerns through review of history and listening to patient
• Identify functional problems through tests and measures
• Select appropriate therapy treatments(s)
• Patient and therapist will work together to set achievable goals to improve function
• Make additional referrals to other services as needed
• Provide a comprehensive rehabilitation program that addresses patient concerns
• Provide an individualized home exercise program
• Provide family education to assist patient as needed
• Provide recommendations for environmental and home changes/equipment which will contribute to improved function
• Provide follow-up and referral resources within the community

What to Expect:

Physical Therapy:

• Muscle strengthening
• Lymphedema management
• Pain management
• Gait and transfer training
• Skin and wound care
• Balance and coordination
• Lifting/Moving assessment
• Posture and positioning

Occupational Therapy:

• Self cares (bathing, dressing, grooming)
• Lymphedema management
• Upper extremity strengthening and coordination
• Energy conservation
• Manual therapy including massage to reduce pain and promote tissue health and circulation

Speech Therapy:

• Assessment and treatment of changes in speech or thinking/memory skills
• Communication assistance
• Swallowing assessment and treatment

For more information about our program, please contact us at 563-421-1457.