Physical Therapy Commons^™

The Use Of Tens To Help Manage Post-Mastectomy Pain, Alyssa B. Carey, Amanda Giarratano, Verena Gorgi, Lauren Vera

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) has been demonstrated to be an effective non-pharmacological adjunct for postoperative pain management in thoracic surgeries. However, few studies have examined its benefits in managing post-mastectomy pain. This study found that TENS provided positive effects on postoperative pain control, which were associated with improved physical and psychological outcomes. Overall, TENS appears to be a safe and effective modality for managing acute postmastectomy pain.

Whole-Body Vibration As An Adjunctive Modality For Radiation-Induced Fibrosis In Breast Cancer Rehabilitation: A Physical Therapist’S Perspective, Carla Steinberg

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

No abstract provided.

Occupational Therapy Interventions For Pediatric Patients With Cancer And Avascular Necrosis: A Case Report, Lucy Weathers, Sandra Murphy, Michael Neel, Raul Riberio

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

Background: Avascular necrosis (AVN) is a rare disease that can be caused by cancer treatment. AVN can affect multiple joints, which can disrupt one’s ability to perform daily activities. Rehabilitation services, including occupational therapy (OT) and physical therapy, are used to improve a patient’s quality of life through skilled conservative interventions that improve daily task engagement. Occupational therapists are trained to address functional deficits experienced by pediatric patients with cancer and may play a key role in treating patients who have AVN. This case report describes the role of OT in addressing self-care for a patient experiencing early multifocal AVN. …

Individualized Aerobic Exercise Prescription As Part Of A Comprehensive Physical Therapy Treatment During Systemic Chemotherapy: A Case Report, Veronica Griesemer

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is commonly seen in cancer survivors. Multiple treatment modalities for breast cancer can cause cardiotoxicity during or even decades after treatment. Aerobic exercise has been well documented to treat non-cancer-related CVD; however, research regarding optimal dosing within the cancer population is needed. This case report discusses the examination, evaluation, and treatment of a patient with breast cancer receiving potentially cardiotoxic chemotherapy.

Case Description: This patient presented with decreased cardiorespiratory fitness, elevated heart rate, and shortness of breath when climbing the stairs after completing systemic chemotherapies doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide. She was preparing to start paclitaxel treatments and …

The Relationship Between Fatigue And Quality Of Life For Patients Participating In A Cancer Survivor Program, Madge Suzanne Tinsley, Marie Vazquez Morgan, Elizabeth Disbrow, Carol Crooms

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

Introduction: The purpose of this chart review was to examine differences in fatigue and quality of life following cancer treatment based on gender, race, age, cancer type, and referral for rehabilitation services.

Methods: Ninety-one patient charts were reviewed for demographic variables, cancer type, rehabilitation referral, and baseline scores on the Brief Fatigue Inventory (BFI) and Reintegration to Normal Life Index (RNLI). Group differences were analyzed using the Mann–Whitney U test, and correlations between fatigue and quality of life were assessed using Pearson’s correlation (p < 0.05).

Results: Participants included 65 females (71%) and 26 males (29%), with 73% identifying as Black, 26% …

Impact Of Lymphedema Treatment Act Implementation On Lymphedema Therapists’ Compression Garment Practices, Sarah Stolker, Karla T. Washington, Kimberly Karr, Andrew Amari, Kyle A. Pitzer

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

Purpose: Lymphedema management requires routine use of compression garments to stabilize limb volume and diminish infection risk. The 2024 Lymphedema Treatment Act (LTA) established Medicare coverage for these essential medical supplies. However, this legislation introduced structural challenges to clinical workflows for lymphedema therapists, who traditionally perform measuring, ordering, and fitting. This study evaluated contemporary practices in compression garment fitting, procurement, compensation patterns, and policy-driven impacts on therapist workload and stress.

Methods: A cross-sectional exploratory survey of US lymphedema therapists evaluated the impact of the LTA on clinical workflows. The survey assessed weekly time spent on garment-related tasks, workflow changes since …

Demonstrating Competence In Oncology Rehabilitation: Credentials, Clinical Preparation, And Professional Trust, Christopher M. Wilson

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

Every rehabilitation professional will inevitably provide care for people living with and beyond cancer across acute care, outpatient settings, inpatient settings, and home care and within the community. Yet, many clinicians report feeling underprepared or unqualified to address the complex effects of cancer and its treatments. Continuing education, mentorship, and clinical experience remain important routes to professional development, but advanced credentials can offer a structured pathway for developing knowledge and skills and an external recognition of this preparation. This perspective discusses the potential value of specialization or board certification for rehabilitation professionals and other pathways for skill and knowledge attainment …

Editor's Message: About This Issue, Bryan A. Spinelli

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

In this issue, we are pleased to publish the President’s Message, two research reports, two case studies, a research round-up, and a clinical perspective. In the President’s Message, Dr. Wilson discusses the role that advanced credentials and mentorship can play in enhancing professional development and fostering interprofessional trust.

Cover And Front Matter, Volume 3, Issue 3

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

No abstract provided.

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

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

Print issue available for $25.

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 …

A Systematic Review And Meta-Analysis: Psychometric Properties Of Functional Tests In The Cancer Population, Mckenna Culter, Austin Schlater, Grace Molfenter, Mary Fisher

University of Dayton Doctor of Physical Therapy Annual Research Symposium

No abstract provided.

An After-School Adaptive Cycling Program For Children With Disabilities: A Pilot Study, Betsy Donahoe-Fillmore, Trisha A. Renner, Kate Burkart, Emma Feldman, Raegan Oehler, Kennedy Dedario, Britney Kozlowski, Terri Dinkelaker, Mary Fisher

University of Dayton Doctor of Physical Therapy Annual Research Symposium

No abstract provided.

A Comparison Of Drop Vertical Jump And Running Biomechanics Among Varying Experience Levels With Running, Jacob Hamme, Joaquin Barrios

University of Dayton Doctor of Physical Therapy Annual Research Symposium

No abstract provided.

Improving Functional Electrical Stimulation Prescription For Persons With Multiple Sclerosis: A Case Series, Shahla Hosseini, Kimberly Bigelow, Nick Padgett, Robert Campbell, Lauren Boland, Skylar Forsberg, Brett Weaver, Kurt Jackson

University of Dayton Doctor of Physical Therapy Annual Research Symposium

No abstract provided.

The Effects Of Yoga On The Symptoms Of Perimenopause And Menopause: A Randomized Control Trial, Wendy Chorny, Betsy Donahoe-Fillmore, Brenlyn Rostad, Olivia Miller, Summer Rivas, Andrea Heitkamp, Cassidy Albers, Kennedi Gephart, Mary Fisher

University of Dayton Doctor of Physical Therapy Annual Research Symposium

No abstract provided.

A Tennis Ball Necklace As Simple Feedback To Effectively Reduce Impact Kinetics During Running, Kevin Sheehan, Matthew Minard, Andrew Clark, Jason Clingenpeel, Morgan Gigandet, Nicolas Love, Madison Scott, Joaquin Barrios

University of Dayton Doctor of Physical Therapy Annual Research Symposium

No abstract provided.

Determining The Concurrent And Predictive Validity Of The Repetitive Step Test In Individuals With Parkinson’S Disease, Harold Merriman, Kurt Jackson, Kyle Arrowood, Kaylee Virag

University of Dayton Doctor of Physical Therapy Annual Research Symposium

No abstract provided.

Split-Squat Lower Limb Biomechanics In Individuals With And Without Chronic Ankle Instability, Joaquin Barrios, Eva Carbone, Matt Cesario, Marshall Flynn, Danielle Updike

University of Dayton Doctor of Physical Therapy Annual Research Symposium

No abstract provided.

Soft Tissue Mobilization Versus Hold-Relax Stretching On Wrist Extensor Tendon Stiffness In Tennis Players, Brendan Burck, Adina Taylor, Cody Pohlman, Andrew Traven, Harold Merriman, Joseph Day

University of Dayton Doctor of Physical Therapy Annual Research Symposium

No abstract provided.

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 …

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 …

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 …

Physical Therapy Management Of An Adult Patient Diagnosed With Spindle Cell Rhabdomyosarcoma: A Case Report, Jennifer Carrano

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

Background: Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is a rare soft tissue sarcoma that primarily affects children and adolescents. Adult RMS is uncommon and associated with poorer prognosis and limited evidence to guide rehabilitation.

Case Description: A 29-year-old male presented with right facial pain, hearing loss, tinnitus, and right facial and tongue paresthesia. Imaging and biopsy revealed spindle cell RMS of the right masticator space. He had no cancer-related family history, did not smoke, and used alcohol occasionally. Treatment included neoadjuvant chemotherapy, major oncologic resection with scapular free flap reconstruction, and adjuvant radiation. He was referred to outpatient physical therapy with trismus, restricted …

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 …