Oncology Treatment

The Oncology Conditioning program is designed to help patients return to physical activity after intensive cancer treatment and provide all patients with help in coping with direct or indirect effects of cancer.

The Post-Mastectomy Program focuses on many elements noted in the Oncology conditioning program as well as addressing the specific deficits following mastectomy procedures. These deficits may include mobility deficits in the shoulder, arm and neck as well as lymphedema.

What is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema is the buildup of lymph in the tissues, mainly in the fat just under the skin, and is caused by a problem in the lymphatic system. Lymphedema is an abnormal collection of too much tissue protein, fluid (edema), chronic inflammation, and thickening and scarring of connective tissue.

Symptoms:

The symptoms of lymphedema may vary, but often include:

• swelling in a limb or body part
• a feeling of heaviness or discomfort in the affected area, often resulting in loss of mobility
• repeated infections in a limb
• lymph fluid leaking through skin
• thickened skin