Cancer is a horrible disease.
The rates of cancer among men and women are rising, but so is the evidence with how to best manage cancer.
There is no doubt that the there is a lot of suffering that is involved as well. From the initial testing and diagnosis, to discussing treatment, managing with family and friends, going through surgery, treatment and the recovery, cancer treatment and survivorship is a hard slog.
But what if there is a way to try and reduce the extra suffering - the preventable suffering? This is where the PINC and STEEL Cancer rehabilitation program comes into effect. These programs have been developed for all stages of cancer treatment and management to help physios better understand the unique experience that is cancer. The evidence strongly supports the recovery from all cancer and reconstruction surgeries, physio to help manage the side effects of treatment, and empowering people to take their rehabilitaton seriously to get back to what they were doing pre-diagnosis. With treatments these days, Cancer is NOT a death sentence.
Cancer survivors have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, osteoporosis, functional decline and cancer reoccurance or new primary cancer - all of which can be reduced with improved physical activity. The aim of this program is to optimise recovery, ease pain and muscle tension, regain strength and mobility, improve energy levels and breathing, maintain independence, improve confidence, reduce side effects and promote wellness.
Over the next 12 weeks, Brendan will be completing the STEEL Certification program and will be providing more information on his learnings. The aim in our clinic will be to raise awareness with the community, local GP's and hospitals about the importance of evidence based physio as an adjunct to cancer treatment. There is currently only a few providers in Melbourne and no one in the City of Kingston. Keep posted on more information and how this program may be of benefit to you or your family.