0330 088 7800
Types of oncology
A medical professional who practices oncology is called an oncologist. Oncologists can specialise in different areas of cancer care, for example a radiation oncologist focuses on using radiotherapy as a treatment tool. A gynaecologic oncologist specialises in cancer that affects the female reproductive system and a surgical oncologist uses surgery to remove tumours.
Diagnosis of ontological conditions
Methods to aid diagnosis of cancer include biopsy, endoscopy, scans and blood tests. A biopsy allows detailed analysis of soft tissue under a microscope and this is essential for identification of cancer. Following computed tomography (CT) scan, medical staff can decide the best possible route of treatment and whether it is possible to surgically remove the tumour.
Above: Low impact upper limb and core mobility exercises supervised by a specilaist physiotherapistSymptoms of ontological conditions
Fatigue, unexplained weight loss, fever, excessive sweating and anaemia are symptoms often described by an individual prior to a diagnosis of an ontological condition.
Treatment of ontological conditions
Treatment of cancer is dependent upon the nature of the tumour. Medically, treatment options include chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, hormone manipulation and pain relief. The risks and implications of having or not having treatment will be discussed with you in detail by a specialist oncologist.
Physiotherapy for ontological conditions
Whether you decide to accept or decline treatment of cancer, it is likely that you will need physiotherapy at some stage in your rehabilitation. Physiotherapy can help you become strong enough for surgery or radiation therapy. Similarly, it can help you recover from surgery or radiation therapy to help you get back to your previous level of function, ability and mobility. Physiotherapists also work in palliative care to maintain comfort and dignity of the individual during the end stages of cancer.
Your physiotherapist will carry out a thorough physical assessment of your symptoms and main problems areas. The findings of the assessment will be discussed and you will have the opportunity to set some specific goals to achieve during your therapy sessions. The goals will be different for every individual and will be achievable in both the short and long term. Your physiotherapy treatment plan will be based on your problems and the goals set during the assessment. This may include:
- Symptom management
- Soft tissue mobilisation, stretches and splinting
- Joint and muscle stretches
- Fatigue management
- Muscle strengthening exercises
- Core stability and balance exercises
- Cardiovascular exercises
- Respiratory breathing exercises
- Provision of home exercise program
- Education of formal or informal carers
- Positioning
- postural management
- Provision of appropriate positioning aids, mobility aids and equipment
- Mobility practice
- Practice of functional activities
- Reduction in pain and swelling
- Maintain range of movement at joints and soft tissue
- Maintain comfort, privacy and dignity
- Increased mobility and ability to move around
- Increased independence with functional tasks
- Increased muscle strength, balance and co-ordination
- Increased exercise tolerance and stamina
- Try new aids and equipment that make functional activities easier
- Learn exercises to do in your own time
- Learn how to cope with fatigue
- Decreased risk of secondary complications
Why Physio.co.uk for ontological condition
At Physio.co.uk we understand the problems and difficulties an individual can face due to cancer. Our specialist physiotherapists can provide expert treatment to minimise symptoms and maximise function and quality of life.
- Physiotherapy at any stage of cancer
- Physiotherapy alongside medical treatment for cancer
- Experienced, professional physiotherapists
- One to one or family/carers present during treatment
- Treatment at home, in clinic, gym or 24 hour care facility
- No waiting lists
- Flexible appointment times
- Holistic care and liaison with all health professionals involved
