An international perspective on integrating physiotherapists in oncology care

摘要

Cancer and its treatments can result in impairments, which can affect multiple body systems. These impairments restrict physical functioning and participation in activities of daily living and life roles of many patients, consequently limiting their quality of life. Many such impairments are amenable to physiotherapy interventions. Numerous studies have shown beneficial effects of physiotherapy interventions - including exercise programs - on joint pain and range of motion, physical functioning, physical fitness, fatigue, and health- related quality of life.' However, the integration of physiotherapy services into cancer care continues to languish.