Occupational Therapy Commons^™

Integrating Oncology Into Entry-Level Physical Therapist Curricula, Shana Harrington, Christopher M. Wilson, Morgan Zaranec, Lori Boright

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

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Background: Cancer and its treatments commonly result in adverse effects that impair function, well-being, and quality of life, necessitating access to skilled physical therapists (PTs). Although oncology is an essential component of physical therapist practice, entry-level education in cancer rehabilitation has historically been limited. In 2025, the Essential Competencies for Physical Therapy Entry-Level Education in Oncology were developed through a mixed-methods, modified Delphi process, establishing 19 competencies across six domains and defining minimum expectations for new graduates. To support translation of these competencies into academic curricula, a practical implementation resource was needed.

Purpose: To …

Interprofessional Palliative Care: Implementation Of What Matters Most, Nicole Moran, Madeleine A. Keppel, Madison E. Markey, Alicia Naccarato, Kristen Cumming, Lori Boright

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

Palliative care (PC) is defined as specialized care plans for people with serious, life-limiting illnesses, emphasizing comfort care and management of complex symptoms. Rehabilitation professionals such as physical and occupational therapists have unique skills and perspectives towards managing and contributing to this population though are often under-represented on interprofessional palliative care teams. The Guide to What Matters (The Guide) was created upon recognition of the need for an increased presence of rehabilitation services in PC.

Severe Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy Presenting With Paraplegic Symptoms: A Rehabilitation Case Report, Cecilia Hammond, Elizabeth Campione

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

Background: Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is characterized by sensory and/or motor symptoms in distal extremities starting within 24 hours of receiving chemotherapy and can potentially last for years. Management of CIPN may include medication (i.e. Duloxetine) and physical therapy (PT). The purpose of this case report is to describe the rehabilitation process and adjustments to the plan of care for a patient with severe CIPN. This case underscores the importance of a proper diagnosis and the need for research to develop evidence-based guidelines for PT interventions for non-ambulatory patients with severe CIPN.

Case description: The patient was a 53-year-old female …

Clinical Management Of A Patient With Lipo-Lymphedema Using Adjustable Compression Wraps: A Case Report, Candace Alexander, Claire Davies, Martha Monroe

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

Background: Lipo-lymphedema indicates the presence of lipedema and lymphedema. Compression is used to achieve volume reduction and assist with long-term management. Adjustable compression wraps (ACWs) have been used in lymphedema care to replace traditional compression bandaging and facilitate patient self-care.

Case Description: This patient reported issues with bilateral leg edema for more than 35 years. She reported poor experiences with compression garments and had tried self-management with a compression pump only. She was referred for lymphedema care when her malfunctioning compression pump enabled her edema to worsen.

Assessment and Treatment: Lipedema may have been present for many years …

Recurring Axillary Web Syndrome (Aws) Following A Strenuous Increase In Upper Extremity Strengthening Exercise: A Case Report, David Locke, Linda Koehler

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

Background: Axillary web syndrome (AWS) refers to cords presenting in the axilla, upper extremity, and lateral chest wall after breast cancer surgery with axillary lymph node dissection. This unique case demonstrates the onset of AWS 2 weeks post-operatively with recurrence at 4 and 21 months, following rapid progression in upper extremity strengthening exercise.

Case Description: A 33-year-old athletic woman with invasive ductal carcinoma underwent a left mastectomy with sentinel node biopsy (6 nodes removed). Cord development occurred at 2 weeks after surgery. She sought physiotherapy consisting of AWS education, myofascial pin-and-stretch techniques applied to the cord in end-range abduction, a …

Navigating Care In Cancer: Aligning Rehabilitation And Exercise To Support Patients, Christopher M. Wilson

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

The growing evidence base supporting both exercise oncology and cancer rehabilitation highlights their complementary roles across the cancer continuum. Research consistently demonstrates that physical activity improves physical function, fatigue, quality of life, and survival, while rehabilitation addresses impairments and restores participation in meaningful activities. Despite these advances, current care models often lack coordination, resulting in fragmented services, inappropriate referrals, and missed opportunities for optimal patient outcomes. Some individuals are directed to exercise programs without adequate screening for underlying impairments, while others may receive rehabilitation services when supervised, independent or community-based activity would suffice.

To address these gaps, there is a …

Editorial Board Message: About This Issue, Bryan A. Spinelli

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

Bryan Spinelli provides a summary of the contents of the issue.

Cover And Front Matter, Volume 3, Issue 1

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

Cover and front matter, Volume 3, Issue 1

Thriving Through Treatment: A Senior Physical Therapist’S Perspective On Mindset In Cancer Care, Christine C. Masterson

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

Mindset plays a pivotal role in the cancer care continuum, influencing not only emotional well-being but also treatment adherence and physical recovery. Drawing on clinical experience as a senior physical therapist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, this Perspective explores how a thriving, wellness-oriented mindset can enhance outcomes for individuals facing cancer. Through case examples and evidence-based discussion, the article highlights how personal resilience, social support, and compassionate care foster post-traumatic growth, reduce complications, and improve engagement in rehabilitation. Physical therapists are uniquely positioned to lead this mindset shift, blending technical skill with emotional insight to empower patients. Cultivating a …

The Role Of Psilocybin In End-Of-Life Care: Evidence, Mechanisms, And Guidelines, Mackenzie E. Unsworth, Mary Lou Galantino, Robert Sandoval

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

This article aims to provide a brief overview of the evidence and mechanisms for psilocybin use in EOL care. Additionally, this article will provide guidelines for clinicians to assess patient use and integrate psilocybin into their clinical practice with respect to its current legal status.

Tissue Quality In Early Stages Of Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema: A Pilot Study, Tyler Almquist, Gabrielle Schroeder, Ian Villegas, David A. Doubblestein

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

Introduction: Breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) is a chronic condition associated with breast cancer treatments. Tissue quality assessment, commonly performed using the pitting edema test, can also be quantified with digital tissue tonometry. However, the role of tonometry in early-stage BCRL — classified as Stages 0 and I by the International Society of Lymphology (ISL) — remains unclear.

Purpose: This pilot study aimed to assess the utility of tonometry in early-stage BCRL by evaluating tissue resistance (N), volume (ml), and circumference (cm) in healthy individuals and those with ISL Stage 0 and I lymphedema.

Methods: A convenience sample of females …

Finding A Certified Lymphedema Therapist: Access To Lymphedema Treatment In Minnesota, Emma M. Tsai, Linda Koehler

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

Introduction

Lymphedema is a progressive disease that leads to chronic swelling. Lymphedema treatment includes complete decongestive therapy (CDT) provided by a certified lymphedema therapist (CLT). Locating CLTs can be difficult for patients and providers. Our aims were to 1) describe a method for assessing accessibility of lymphedema treatment in a specific region, and 2) apply this method to a specific region (Minnesota) to describe the lymphedema care in that region.

Methods

This cross-sectional study searched therapist directories on websites related to lymphedema and lymphatic diseases (e.g. lymphedema training programs, professional associations) to assess the current distribution of CLTs in Minnesota. …

Artificial Intelligence And The Future Of Oncology Rehabilitation, Christopher M. Wilson

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

While the promise of AI in oncology rehabilitation is remarkable, successful adoption requires balance between enthusiasm and realism. These technologies must be thoughtfully integrated into existing workflows with safeguards for data privacy, accuracy, and clinician oversight. The goal is not to replace clinical judgment or the human connection at the heart of rehabilitation, but to amplify and augment them—restoring time, focus, and compassion to the clinical encounter. With deliberate implementation and continuous evaluation, AI can become a trusted partner in advancing the quality, accessibility, and humanity of oncology rehabilitation practice.

Editorial Board Message, Bryan A. Spinelli

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

With the release of this issue, we would like to announce that Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice have adopted a new publication schedule. Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice will continue to publish 2 issues each calendar year with issues now being released in May and November. The rationale for this change was that our previous publication schedule coincided with the release of the October and April issues of Rehabilitation Oncology, an official publication of APTA Oncology that is a peer-reviewed, indexed resource for advancing oncologic physical therapy practice and cancer rehabilitation. We hope this change will limit the challenges that clinicians …

Cover And Front Matter, Volume 2, Issue 2

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

No abstract provided.

Vision For The Future Of Oncology Physical Therapy: Apta Oncology’S Strategic Plan, Christopher M. Wilson, Emily Compagner

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

This article summarizes the 2024-27 strategic plan of the Academy of Oncologic Physical Therapy. The strategic plan consists of five strategic pillars — advocacy, engagement, education, collaboration, and research. Although the strategic plan is slated for another review in 2027, the 2024-27 strategic plan sets forth the key initiatives to advance the field of cancer physical therapy and oncology rehabilitation. This piece summarizes some key initiatives and how the academy and the profession will aim to achieve the APTA and APTA Oncology visions. For the full 2024-27 strategic plan of APTA Oncology, visit www.oncologypt.org.

Axillary Web Syndrome (Aws) In Absence Of Breast Cancer History Or Surgery: A Case Report, David B. Locke, Linda Koehler

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

Background: Axillary web syndrome (AWS) is a complication of breast cancer surgery with axillary lymph node removal. Cords are found within 2 weeks post-surgery in the axillary area of the operated side, and many extend down the arm or into the lateral chest wall. The purpose of this report is to present a unique case of idiopathic AWS, and to increase awareness of non-cancer related AWS in the medical community.

Case Description: A 39-year-old healthy female presented to physiotherapy with a 2-week history of a palpable tight cord in her left axilla without history of cancer or surgery. She sought …

Editorial Board Message—Coming Soon: Research Roundups

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

No abstract provided.

Cover And Front Matter, Volume 2, Issue 1

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

No abstract provided.

Embracing Professional Bravery And Inclusion: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome And Advancing Oncology Physical Therapy, Christopher M. Wilson

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

Oncology physical therapists (PTs) and physical therapist assistants (PTAs) play a crucial role in cancer care but often struggle with imposter syndrome, which can hinder professional confidence and interdisciplinary collaboration. Addressing these feelings is essential to ensuring optimal patient outcomes and advancing the field of oncology rehabilitation. This article explores the importance of mentorship, inclusivity, and professional bravery in overcoming self-doubt and advocating for the recognition of oncology rehabilitation within healthcare systems. By fostering a welcoming professional community and proactively seeking leadership opportunities, PTs and PTAs can enhance patient care and establish their essential role in oncology treatment. The future …

The Lymphedema Treatment Act: Past, Present, And Future, Candace Alexander, Leigh Ann Foster, Susan Gordon, Runzun Shetye

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

No abstract provided.

Rewiring Our Psychologically Informed Physical Therapy Interventions: Triple Network Model, Immunology, Sex, And Pain Perception, Roberto Sandoval, Mary Lou A. Galantino

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

No abstract provided.

Vestibular Rehabilitation Considerations For Chemotherapy-Induced Vestibulotoxicity: A Clinical Perspective, Tabitha Galindo

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

No abstract provided.

The Role Of Cancer Rehabilitation In Chemotherapy-Induced Sarcopenia, Tracy L. Moore, Jessica Bertram

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

No abstract provided.

Cover, Table Of Contents, President's Message, Editorial Board's Message, Academy Of Oncologic Physical Therapy

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

No abstract provided.

Disaggregating The Relative Influence Of Genetic, Environmental And Individual Factors On Ldl And Hdl Cholesterols And Bmi For A Sample Of African American (Aa) Mothers And Daughters, C. Jayne Brahler, Jewel Harden, Michelle Mchone, Matthew Soules, Eric Evans, Ann Alyanak, Fred Diakpieng, Paul M. Vanderburgh

Health and Sport Science Faculty Publications

There are many reports about the associations between blood lipids, body mass index (BMI) and dietary cholesterol intakes both within the individual and between related individuals. The purpose of this descriptive research project was to investigate the relationships between LDL and HDL cholesterols, body mass index and dietary cholesterol intakes for a sample of African American (AA) mothers and their daughters and to attempt to separate the contribution of genetic versus environmental factors. Mother and daughter participants (n =42 and 66, respectively) were 12-14-hours fasted when blood samples were drawn, heights and weights measured, and 24 hour food recalls completed.

Qtc Is Associated With Obesity And Physical Activity Level For African American Females, C. Jayne Brahler

Health and Sport Science Faculty Publications

Long QT syndrome (LQTS) is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular or ischemic disease mortality. Obesity as a cause for acquired LQTS in otherwise healthy individuals is rapidly gaining the attention of the scientific community. African American people have a higher incidence of obesity compared to Caucasians, yet race-specific information is not available for their prevalence of LQTS. Chronic physical activity can help reduce the incidence of obesity, yet little is known about the effects of chronic physical activity on acquired LQTS. Subjects in this study were a volunteer sample of African American mothers (21-53 yr, n = 44) and …