Oncology Rehabilitation in Santa Barbara

Compassionate Care for Your Recovery Journey

Dedicated Support for Cancer Survivors

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Tailored Therapy for Your Unique Needs

What is Oncology Rehab?

Cancer and cancer treatments can cause physical and cognitive problems, as well as psychological distress.  These impairments can cause pain and limited ability to participate in your life.  While these symptoms are common, they are not normal.  

Oncology or Cancer Rehab is a program that helps people maintain and restore physical and emotional well-being before, during, and after cancer treatments.  At Heart of Gold Physical Therapy, rehab is provided by a specially trained physical therapist with the ability to screen and refer patients to other members of an oncology rehab team as needed.

We focus on what is physiologically going on in the body with cancer and cancer treatments, looking at each body system affected.  We understand this is a complex time with physical, mental, and emotional impacts.  We strive to prioritize the focus of rehab dependent on the stage of treatment, and support you in navigating your individual cancer journey.

Oncology Rehab can help those living with and beyond cancer reclaim control of their bodies and lives. 

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Goals of our Oncology Rehab Program

Experience the Heart of Compassionate Recovery

Maintain Activity

Help maintain the highest level of activity as possible throughout treatment and beyond

Reduce Side Effects

Lessen the impact of side effects and symptoms of cancer and its treatments

Optimize Quality of Life

Optimize quality of life at all stages of the cancer journey

What's Included in Oncology Rehabilitation?

Helping to improve cancer outcomes

Lymphedema PREVENTION Screening

Early identification of lymphedema risk factors to reduce the chance of swelling and complications.

Pre and Post-Surgical Physical Therapy

Tailored exercises and therapy to optimize recovery and function before and after surgery.

Pain Management 

Strategies to reduce pain and improve comfort using manual therapy, modalities, and movement techniques.

Lymphedema Screening and Monitoring

Regular assessments to track and manage swelling and tissue changes effectively.

Complete Decongestive Therapy for Lymphedema

Comprehensive treatment combining manual lymph drainage, compression, and skincare.

Compression Garment Fitting

Personalized fitting of compression garments to manage swelling and maintain function.

Chemotherapy-Related Fatigue Management

Targeted interventions to boost energy levels and combat treatment-related fatigue.

Pre and Post-Radiation Management

Addressing mobility and skin health issues related to radiation therapy

Scar Tissue and Axillary Cording Management

Techniques to release tension, improve flexibility, and restore normal movement.

Pre and Post-Reconstruction Support

Guidance and therapy to enhance recovery and function following reconstructive surgery.

Mobility Enhancement or Energy Conservation Techniques

Strategies to maintain mobility while managing energy efficiently during recovery.

Home Activity/Exercise Prescription

Customized exercise plans to support rehabilitation and promote long-term health at home.

Strength After Breast Cancer Exercise Program

Evidence-based exercise program designed to rebuild strength and confidence after treatment.

When to seek Oncology Rehabilitation Therapy

Take control of your journey and be proactive with your medical care.  It is ideal to be evaluated at the time of cancer diagnosis for baseline assessments and individualized support.  If at any point you have difficulty getting around, experience pain, weakness, fatigue, swelling, or unclear thinking, Cancer Rehab can help.

If you notice a change in function or any undesirable symptoms, talk with your health care team or contact Heart of Gold Physical Therapy to see if Cancer Rehab physical therapy is right for you.  The earlier you address adverse changes, the easier it is to mitigate the severity of them and to optimize your treatment and quality of life.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Take the first step towards reclaiming your life. Schedule a session with our compassionate team today and experience the difference!

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