Breast Cancer

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Introduction

The evolving role of physiotherapy in breast cancer care

There is a growing evidence base reporting the physiological and psychological benefits of physiotherapy as a safe and effective adjunct to breast cancer treatment (Eyigor et al. 2014).

With survival rates at an all time high the National Cancer Survivorship Initiative (NCSI) Vision (Department of Health) has stated that health professionals must now focus on meeting the unique needs of breast cancer survivors and improve accessibility to specialist services, including physiotherapy. Services ideally will be able to deliver physiotherapy interventions to better empower patients in the management of their symptoms, side-effects of treatment or recovery from surgery. (link to effects of cancer section)

Recent novel physiotherapy programs such as “The Specialist Breast Care Physiotherapy Service (2010)” are now being developed and implemented by the NHS to provide support to the growing population of survivors. It is therefore imperative that physiotherapists are prepared to deliver a high standard of care through such initiatives.

Recent developments in Scotland

(WAITING FOR CONSENT), a physiotherapist based at the (WAITING FOR CONSENT) is one such individual who is actively promoting and evolving the role of the physiotherapist in breast cancer care. As Project Manager for (WAITING FOR CONSENT), she is tackling the issue of cancer survivorship through promotion of physical activity after cancer and investigating what community services are available to support patients partaking in physical activity. Ellen's project has developed a guidance document, a policy about physical activity and cancer as well as a patient leaflet to provide basic information about physical activity. The plan next is to do educate staff to tell them about what message to give patients regarding physical activity during and after treatment and to put together resources to tell staff about community services that are available.

“My ultimate hope is that we might be able to consider something like a pulmonary rehab or like a cardiac rehab program for cancer survivors.” - CONSENT

The need for physiotherapist education in breast cancer patient care

This educational resource was inspired by the biopsychosocial model of health care proposed by the World Health Organisation and the NCSI's recent call for greater support and services for cancer survivors. Breast cancer patients face an array of problems and have specific needs which must be addressed in order to prevent long term functional limitations and disability (see Adams section). The physiological and psychological benefits from physiotherapy for breast cancer patients are well documented, with improvements observed in terms of morbidity, mortality and importantly, quality of life (Pidlyskyj et al. 2014). Thus, the potential role for physiotherapists in this area is clear to see and highlights the importance of training for physiotherapists to develop the skills required to meet patient needs and maximise their contribution to the MDT.

Audience

The resource was produced for use by Band 6 physiotherapists may be of benefit to other health professionals seeking background knowledge.

Learning Outcomes

1. To devise and discuss a long-term management strategy for breast cancer patients, including return to work and prevention of cancer recurrence.
2. To practice effective communication methods when treating breast cancer patients.
3. To justify the key role of the physiotherapist in a breast cancer patient multidisciplinary team.
4. To value a healthy life style approach to the prevention of breast cancer and care of breast cancer patients and implement this in patient-centred care
5. To facilitate contemporary skills development in the field of physiotherapy with breast cancer patients.
6. To inspire autonomous engagement in the emerging role of physiotherapy in breast cancer.
7. To promote and display a biopsychosocial approach to the care of breast cancer patients.
8. To acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to display effective behaviours and values of contemporary physiotherapy practice.

References

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