Cancer surgery can sometimes lead to weakness, reduced movement, pain, stiffness or difficulty returning to everyday activities. Physiotherapy can help patients gradually regain strength, mobility and flexibility while adapting exercises to their recovery. Depending on the surgery, rehabilitation may include movement exercises, strengthening, balance training and guidance for safely resuming daily activities. Starting rehabilitation at an appropriate stage can support recovery and help patients regain independence. The programme should always be tailored to the type of surgery and individual health needs.

Yes. Cancer and its treatment can cause significant fatigue and loss of physical strength. Oncology rehabilitation can help patients gradually rebuild stamina, strength and functional ability. A physiotherapist may recommend an individually tailored activity programme based on the patient’s energy levels and medical condition. Gentle, progressive exercise can help improve endurance and may reduce cancer-related fatigue. Patients who have been inactive should speak with their healthcare team before beginning a new exercise programme to ensure it is appropriate for their condition.

The right exercises depend on the cancer type, treatment, physical condition and individual goals. A rehabilitation programme may include walking or other aerobic activity, gentle stretching, mobility exercises, balance training and progressive strength exercises. Exercise should generally begin at an appropriate level and increase gradually as tolerated. Patients recovering from surgery or undergoing active treatment may need specific modifications. A physiotherapist or other member of the cancer care team can recommend exercises that are safe and suitable for the individual.

Yes. Specialised lymphedema therapy can help manage swelling that may develop after cancer treatment. Depending on the individual, treatment may include gentle exercises, manual lymph drainage, compression bandages or compression garments. A trained therapist can assess the affected area and teach techniques for managing symptoms safely. The treatment plan depends on the severity and cause of the swelling. Manual lymph drainage should not be performed in certain situations, including infection, blood clots or active cancer in the affected area, without appropriate medical guidance.

Cancer rehabilitation can be provided before, during and after cancer treatment, but the programme needs to be personalised. During chemotherapy or radiation therapy, a physiotherapist may modify the intensity and type of exercise according to symptoms, treatment effects and overall health. The cancer care team should be involved in planning rehabilitation, particularly if the patient has significant fatigue, weakness, pain or other complications. Your healthcare team can determine which activities are appropriate and when they should be performed.

If you are undergoing cancer treatment or experiencing weakness, fatigue, pain, reduced mobility or swelling, speak with your oncologist about oncology rehabilitation. MOC Cancer Care & Research Centre can help you discuss rehabilitation needs as part of your overall cancer care and guide you on the appropriate next step. To consult the MOC team, visit MOC Cancer Care or contact them directly. Keep your diagnosis, treatment details, surgery records and recent reports available during your consultation. MOC describes its cancer care model as including consideration of patients’ rehabilitation needs.