Oncology: Role of Physical Therapy

CEU Course Description

Around 2 million people in the United States are diagnosed with cancer annually. This course explores the intersection of oncology and physical therapy, providing healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills to enhance the care and quality of life for individuals undergoing cancer treatment. Participants will delve into the physiological impact of cancer and its treatments, learning evidence-based strategies for addressing pain management, fatigue, and mobility challenges. It will cover quality of life, short and long-term treatment, the psychosocial impact of cancer, complications of cancer treatment, and the process of an oncology board certification. Through a multidisciplinary approach, this course equips practitioners to develop personalized rehabilitation plans, fostering collaboration between oncologists and physical therapists. With a focus on patient-centered care, participants will gain insights into effective communication and support strategies for individuals navigating the complex journey of cancer treatment.

CEU Course Objectives

1. Recall complications of cancer treatment and effective remedies to enhance quality of life.
2. Identify psychosocial elements that cancer diagnosis and treatment affect among populations impacted by cancer.
3. Recognize strategies for physical therapists and assistants to provide compassionate and understanding care to those diagnosed with cancer.

CEU Course Outline

Introduction (5 minutes)

• Content:
  • Overview of the course objectives.
  • Importance of understanding cancer and its effects.
  • Brief introduction to the role of physical therapy in cancer treatment.

Section 1: Background Information

• Total Duration: 30 minutes

  • Background Information (20 minutes)

    • Content:
      • Overview of cancer types and prevalence.
      • Basic pathophysiology of cancer.
      • Common treatment modalities and their goals.

  • Key Terms (5 minutes)

    • Content:
      • Explanation of essential terminology related to cancer and its treatment.

  • Summary (5 minutes)

    • Content:
      • Recap of key points from the background section.
      • Key takeaways about cancer and its basic understanding.

Section 2: The Effects of Cancer and Treatment

• Total Duration: 35 minutes

  • The Effects of Cancer and Treatment (25 minutes)

    • Content:
      • Physical and psychological effects of cancer.
      • Side effects of cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery.
      • Long-term impacts on patients’ health and quality of life.

  • Key Words (5 minutes)

    • Content:
      • Important terms related to cancer effects and treatment side effects.

  • Summary (5 minutes)

    • Content:
      • Overview of the effects of cancer and its treatments.
      • Summary of the section's main points and implications.

Section 3: The Role of Physical Therapy

• Total Duration: 35 minutes

  • The Role of Physical Therapy (25 minutes)

    • Content:
      • Benefits of physical therapy in managing cancer-related symptoms.
      • Common physical therapy interventions and strategies.
      • Collaboration with oncology teams to improve patient outcomes.

  • Key Words (5 minutes)

    • Content:
      • Key terms related to physical therapy interventions and their relevance to cancer care.

  • Summary (5 minutes)

    • Content:
      • Recap of the role and benefits of physical therapy in cancer treatment.
      • Key points about how physical therapy supports patient recovery.

Case Study #1 (10 minutes)

• Content:
  • Presentation of the first case study.
  • Focus on applying theoretical knowledge to a practical scenario.

Case Study #2 (10 minutes)

• Content:
  • Presentation of the second case study.
  • Emphasis on complex clinical situations and multidisciplinary care.

Conclusion (5 minutes)

• Content:
  • Final thoughts and course summary.
  • Key learning objectives and takeaways.
  • Encouragement for continued learning and application in practice.

References (not timed)

• Content: List of references and resources for further reading.

 Total Time = 3.00 hours

Instructional Level: Introductory