Cancer (Oncology) Physical Therapy & Lymphedema

Oncology Physical Therapy

Oncology physical therapy is an integral part of Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital's multi-disciplinary and integrated approach to cancer treatment.  Our physical therapists have specialized training in post-surgical and post-radiation effects on function and motion, balance, scar tissue and cording of tendons and tissues.

Through the use of highly personalized treatment sessions, our therapists can often restore full arm, leg and trunk range of motion and strength.  They can also improve cardiovascular and cardiopulmonary fitness, posture and body mechanics to return you to your highest level of pre-diagnosis function. 

Education on appropriate and safe levels of exercise both during and after cancer treatment is an essential part of oncology physical therapy.

Lymphedema

Lymphedema, the swelling of an arm, leg or other body part caused by the accumulation of lymph fluid, is a common post-cancer surgery or post-radiation occurrence in women and men.  It can manifest itself in tissue swelling, skin changes, increased risk for chronic infections and slowing of tissue healing.

Our certified lymphedema therapists implement Complete Decongestive Therapy, a non-invasive and painless therapy that includes:

• Compression bandages between treatments to prevent the fluid from re-accumulating
• Exercise with bandaging to increase tissue pressure and movement of lymph fluid
• Manual lymph drainage to reroute lymph fluid around blocked areas
• Skin care to decrease risk of infections

 

For a therapy appointment at any Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital location, please call Central Scheduling at (847) 535-8000.  Please email any questions you have to physicaltherapy@lfh.org.