The Role of Pelvic Floor Therapy in Cancer Rehabilitation
Cancer is more than a diagnosis it can affect many aspects of how the body functions, both during treatment and throughout recovery. Depending on the type of cancer and the treatments involved, changes can occur in the bladder, bowel, reproductive organs, pelvic muscles, and surrounding tissues. Surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and hormonal treatments can all contribute to changes in strength, mobility, pain, and the way these organs function.
How Cancer Treatment Can Affect Pelvic Function
If you have been diagnosed with or treated for cancer in the pelvic region—including endometrial, ovarian, colon, bladder, prostate, or rectal cancer—you may experience changes in functions that are essential to everyday life.
You may notice changes in bowel function, including increased urgency, difficulty controlling bowel movements, constipation, or loose stools. Bladder function may also change, leading to urinary leakage, increased frequency or urgency, or difficulty starting or fully emptying your urine stream.
Cancer treatment can also affect vaginal and sexual health. Changes in vaginal tissue, pelvic pain, vaginal stenosis (narrowing or shortening of the vaginal canal), or discomfort with intercourse can occur following certain treatments.
These symptoms can be frustrating, uncomfortable, and sometimes difficult to talk about. However, they are important aspects of cancer rehabilitation, and you don't have to navigate them alone.
Lymphedema: Another Possible Effect of Cancer Treatment
Another possible effect of cancer treatment is lymphedema, a condition that can occur when the lymphatic system is damaged or disrupted. This can happen after certain surgeries, radiation treatments, or when lymph nodes are removed or affected during cancer treatment.
Lymphedema causes a buildup of lymphatic fluid, which can lead to swelling, heaviness, tightness, or changes in the skin. While it commonly affects the arms or legs, swelling can also occur in other areas of the body depending on the location of treatment.
The good news is that lymphedema can be treated and managed. A physical therapist who specializes in lymphedema can evaluate your symptoms and develop an individualized treatment plan. Treatment may include specialized manual techniques, compression garments, exercise, and education on skin care and ways to manage swelling.
Where Pelvic Floor Therapy Can Help
Pelvic health physical therapy can be an important part of recovery after cancer treatment. A pelvic floor physical therapist can help identify physical changes that may be contributing to your symptoms and develop a treatment plan based on your individual needs.
During your first visit, your therapist will discuss your diagnosis, cancer treatments, current symptoms, and any concerns you may have. If appropriate, they may then perform a physical assessment, which could include evaluating posture, muscle strength, mobility, and coordination. A pelvic floor examination may also be recommended to better understand how the pelvic floor muscles are functioning.
A pelvic floor examination is completely optional and will only be performed with your informed consent. Your therapist will explain the examination beforehand, answer any questions, and respect your decision if you choose not to have one. You are always in control of your care.
Depending on your needs, therapy may address pelvic pain, muscle weakness or tension, scar tissue, bladder or bowel changes, sexual health concerns, mobility, or coordination. Treatment may include therapeutic exercise, manual techniques, education, and strategies to improve everyday function.
The goal is not simply to treat a symptom, but to help you restore function, improve comfort, and feel more confident in your body as you move through recovery.
Center of Pelvic Excellence Physical Therapy & Wellness (COPE PT)
McKinney Location
3721 S. Stonebridge Drive, Suite 1102
McKinney, TX 75070
Phone: (817) 381-5177
Dallas Location
12700 Hillcrest Road, Suite 149
Dallas, TX 75230
Phone: (817) 381-5110
Website: www.copept.com
Email: info@copept.com
Instagram: @dr_pelvicbella_copept
