What is Cancer Rehab?

Cancer places great demands on patients, their families and caregivers. Oncological rehabilitation strives to give patients back as much quality of life as possible.

Cancer treatments include: Surgery, radiation, chemotherapy and medication). Although they are often life-saving and necessary, they can also have unwanted and unpleasant side effects. Examples of side effects are: Pain, weakness and fatigue, swelling, neuropathy (problems with nerve function), memory and concentration problems.

An occupational therapist can help alleviate some of the symptoms of cancer and its treatments, helping patients to improve their quality of life, be as independent as possible and get back to the things that really matter to them.

General Enquiries

071 6411 666

Email Contact

gayle@handsinot.co.za

Find Us

29/1 Peter Rd, Tres Jolie AH, Roodepoort, 2040

OR

Shop 13, Hillfox Value Centre, Cnr Albert St & Hendrik Potgieter Rd, Weltevredenpark, Roodepoort

At What Stage Is Cancer Rehab Useful

Therapy can be beneficial at any stage of the cancer; it can help if you:

  • Have been newly diagnosed

  • Are undergoing cancer treatment

  • Have survived cancer

  • Undergoing palliative treatment

We adapt the rehabilitation programme to the patient and his or her needs.

Cancer Rehab Can Help With

  • PAIN MANAGEMENT:

    The treatment of cancer and the cancer itself can cause considerable pain. Consequently, we use a number of techniques to relieve and manage the pain.

  • OEDEMA AND LYMPHOEDEMA MANAGEMENT:

    Oedema and lymphoedema can be caused by surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy and other treatments. Early and preventive intervention is crucial for good results, but treatment is effective and useful in all stages of lymphoedema. It is therefore offered to all our patients.

  • SCAR MANAGEMENT:

    Surgical and radiation scars can not only be aesthetically disturbing (and contribute to low self-esteem), but also cause pain and discomfort and limit mobility. We thus offer therapies aimed at improving the appearance and function of scar tissue.

  • RANGE OF MOVEMENT:

    There are many factors that can cause joints to become immobile, such as fear of movement, tight tissue and stiffness after surgery and radiation. That’s why we show you how to move safely after an operation and help you regain your mobility.

  • ACTIVITIES OF DAILY LIVING:

    In the fight against cancer, you may find yourself struggling with tasks you took for granted due to weakness, decreased energy, limited mobility and movement. We support you in getting back to doing the things that are important to you.

“Cancer is bad enough without the side effects that comes with its’ treatments. You cannot get away from the side effects, but rehabiliation can give some much deserved symptom relief and improved quality of life.”

GAYLE SEAGO, Occupational Therapist

“It’s not enough to just survive cancer, we want you to live the life you want.”

HANDS IN OT

Affordable Healthcare

Our services are charged at medical aid rates and are provided by qualified, experienced and passionate Occupational Therapists.

Assessments

We provide meticulous assessment and interpretation of test results to confirm a diagnosis and implement appropriate, patient-specific treatment plans..

Home Visits

We offer home visits for your convenience or alternatively you can come to our offices in the tranquillity of Northvale AH. (near Pinehaven)

Frequently Asked Questions

Different medical aids have different rules about therapy. In most cases reimbursement for therapy is subject to your medical savings, if you have funds available, your therapy will be covered. There are certain conditions that can be treated under the umbrella of Prescribed Minimum Benefits (PMB) or Oncology, ask your therapist whether either of these are applicable and we’ll assist with the application process.

Medical aid rates are applicable to all our services offered, so rest assured there are no co-payments.

A typical therapy session is around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the condition being treated. The frequency and duration of treatment varies significantly from person-to-person. Your therapist will be able to give you an estimate on the frequency and duration of therapy once an assessment has been done.

We ask that if you are unable to attend an appointment that you let the practice know at least 4 hours before the appointment to avoid being charged a cancellation fee. We also offer home visits to selected areas on prior arrangement if getting to the practice is difficult.

Yes, we will adapt the therapy session to your needs on the day of treatment. We will help in reducing your pain to get you back on the road to recovery.

Yes, we will be able to assess the wound and assist in changing wound dressings if needed. We will promote wound healing during the therapy process.

A custom splint is one that is made specifically for you and your specific symptoms/condition by a qualified hand therapist. A prefabricated brace is one that you can buy from your local pharmacy or orthopaedic supplier. Custom splints are generally preferred when more accurate positioning of joints and tissue is required. If support is needed short term or intermittently a prefabricated brace might be an option. Speak to your therapist about what option is best for you.

If you have any other questions, please contact us