Occupational Therapy for Cancer (in Adults)
Rachelle Brick, PhD, MSPH, OTR/L
Introduction
If you’re seeking cancer rehab (especially occupational therapy), we want you to be as informed as possible so we can truly partner to create the best course of treatment for YOU.
In occupational therapy, we tend to work from “menus” of evidence-based assessments and treatments. This gives us the flexibility to meet the specific needs of each patient. Below, you’ll see the assessment and treatment options your therapist may use, along with the evidence that supports them.
Please note that this page is for educational purposes and should not substitute advice from your medical provider. At the bottom of this page, you’ll find therapists near you who can support you in your cancer rehab.
A quick note on why to pursue cancer rehab
Cancer rehabilitation—including occupational therapy—can help improve your quality of life as you undergo cancer treatment. Cancer rehabilitation professionals can support everything from cancer prevention and health promotion following diagnosis to management of independence during and after cancer treatment. For example, cancer rehabilitation professionals are skilled in addressing many of the 10 recommendations for cancer prevention from the American Institute for Cancer Research.
Cancer rehab professionals can help with areas such as: quality of life, activities of daily living, fatigue, functional mobility, exercise, cognition, communication, sexual function, caregiving, and return to work. In addition to improving your overall quality of life, cancer rehabilitation services aim to:
decrease your risk of needing more intensive services, and
help you overcome severe side effects later in the cancer journey.
To date, outpatient oncology rehabilitation services have been linked to significantly lower costs associated with emergency department visits, home health services, skilled nursing facility stays, and hospice care.
Related Assessments
Assessments are powerful tools to help us partner in your care. They establish a clear baseline, direct our treatment efforts, and give us a reliable way to track your progress over time. Your team may select some specific measures that fit your unique situation. Here are some examples:
Occupation-Focused
Quality of Life and Global Health
Cancer-Related Cognitive Impairment
Physical Dysfunction
Cancer-Related Fatigue
Mood
Social Support
Distress
Occupation-Focused1-6, Quality of Life and Global Health7-10, Cancer-Related Cognitive Impairment1,11,12, Physical Dysfunction3,13-17, Cancer-Related Fatigue18,19, Mood14, Social Support14, Distress20
Possible Goal Areas
Therapy works best when there is buy-in from the patient. It is important that you work with your therapist to set treatment goals that truly reflect what’s important to you.
Goal Bank for Clinicians
Each goal is intended as a starting point. The functional motivation behind each goal should be identified collaboratively with the client.
Please note that the goals outlined represent goals relevant across a variety of OT practice settings (e.g., acute care, inpatient rehabilitation, outpatient rehabilitation). Goals may need to be tailored based on rehabilitation setting, plan of care, and patient preferences. Older cancer survivors may also have non-cancer related goals that may need to be addressed as well.
Occupation-Focused
Within [time frame], the patient will prepare a meal of choice using [insert adaptive equipment if applicable] with [insert level of independence].
The client will demonstrate independent use of [insert assistive technology] to promote independence in activities of daily living.
The client will implement use [adaptive equipment or strategies] to accommodate [physical or cognitive challenges] and maximize independence with driving.
Cancer-Related Cognitive Impairment
Within [time frame], the patient will effectively use a [insert cognitive strategy] with [insert level of assistance] to accomplish [insert patient-centered activity].
Within [time frame], the patient will independently use a memory aide to recall therapy schedules with [insert level of assistance]. * Within [time frame], client will identify and implement at least 3 strategies to reduce distractions in the home/work environment in order to improve sustained attention for instrumental activities of daily living.
The client will effectively filter out irrelevant distractions and maintain focus on [insert task], while working in a crowded room.
Physical or Sensory Dysfunction (e.g., debility, frailty, motor dysfunction, chemotherapy-related peripheral neuropathy)
The client will demonstrate successful bilateral coordination skills by [insert activity: tying one’s shoelaces and typing on the computer] with modified assistance.
The client will develop improved finger strength and dexterity to manipulate clothing fasteners, such as buttons, zippers, snaps, or shoelaces, independently for 80% of dressing tasks.
The client will independently articulate and implement 3 strategies to overcome safety challenges related to chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy.
The client will enhance their overall endurance and physical fitness by engaging in activities that promote cardiovascular health, such as walking, dancing, or participating in structured physical activity classes, for [insert length of session], 3 times per week.
The client will improve sensory discrimination skills to differentiate and interpret sensory information, such as identifying textures, temperatures, or shapes through touch with 75% accuracy.
Patient will improve lower extremity strength to stand from a seated position with moderate assistance within 2 weeks.
Client will improve shoulder extension by 30 degrees to improve participation in dressing and bathing activities.
Client will demonstrate improved depth perception to navigate stairs or ramps independently within 1 week.
Cancer-Related Fatigue
Client will demonstrate a clinically significant increase in their level of satisfaction with sleep performance on the COPM at time of discharge.
Client will independently articulate and implement [insert #] work simplification or energy conservation strategies to improve independence and efficiency completing [insert activity/task].
Mood
Within [time frame], client will implement mindfulness exercises and stress management techniques with 75% success during chemotherapy treatment sessions.
Neurogenic Bowel and Bladder
Client will be able to identify and utilize at least [insert #] self management strategies to maximize success in bladder management within the client’s household.
Social Support
Client will clearly articulate the names of at least [insert #] individual(s) who can assist with management of [insert symptom or functional activity]
The client will identify and utilize two cancer community resources, such as support groups, patient navigation, or online resources, to support community reintegration following cancer treatment.
Treatment Interventions
After a thorough evaluation and goal-setting process, it is time to start making progress. Below are treatment interventions21–23 that can be implemented as part of a holistic therapy program.
Evidence-Based, Occupationally-Driven Intervention Approaches
Behavioral Activation4,24,25
Lifestyle Redesign Protocol26,27
General OT Approaches That Address Cancer-Related Physical or Sensory Changes (e.g., debility, chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, cancer-related fatigue, etc.)
Therapeutic Exercise
Energy Conservation and Work Simplification Strategies
Ergonomic Evaluation of Home and Work Space
Education and Training on Assistive Technology/Adaptive Equipment
Task/Activity Analysis
Physical Agent Modalities
Balance and Falls Reduction Training
Joint Protection Techniques
Tactile Perception and Proprioceptive Exercises
General OT Approaches That Address Cancer-Related Cognitive Impairment and Fatigue
Routine-Based Strategies
Environmental Strategies
Energy Conservation Strategies
Social Support
Evidence-Based Occupationally-Driven Intervention Approaches
Behavioral Activation 4,24,25 (See handout below)
When using this approach, you follow a six organized steps to enable the individual patient to re-engage with meaningful activities. The key magic of this approach is that the patient drives the activity analysis and planning with support of the therapist. Should the client require specific skills training to achieve a plan, the therapist can provide the skills training. Behavioral activation allows the patient to follow a step-by-step process to overcome barriers to activities that can be later used when they are discharged from therapy as well.
Values identification and goal setting: The therapist and client work together to discuss motivating and pleasurable activities that the client would like to accomplish.
Create a Plan to Complete Activity: With the support of the OT, the client outlines a plan for how to complete the activity of interest. The plan could include the supplies needed, social support, cognitive supports/strategies, use of memory aides, etc.
Skills Training: If the client identifies a barrier to participation, the OT can support the client through skills-based training (e.g., home exercises, work simplification strategies, cognitive training, etc.)
Activity scheduling: The client schedules purposeful planning of preferred activity or exposures that address the client-centered goals
Activity monitoring: The client tracks how engagement in the activity went. The client could use a calendar or reporting aid to examine activity engagement in relation to symptoms (e.g., fatigue, pain, mood) and activity barriers (e.g., financial, environmental, social support)
Review of Progress: The Therapist reviews how the client did on the activity. They discuss what things the client would change to make the activity more successful.
Repeat steps 2-5 using updated plan, or trying a new activity goal with the client
Lifestyle Redesign Protocol26,27
General OT Approaches That Address Cancer-Related Physical or Sensory Changes (e.g., debility, chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, cancer-related fatigue, etc.)
Therapeutic Exercise: Moving Through Cancer Resistance Training Program
Energy Conservation and Work Simplification Strategies:
Alternate the easy activities with the ones that are more difficult
Organize and break down your activity to save time and decrease unnecessary movements
Break down the hard or multi-step activities into smaller tasks
Schedule sufficient time to complete the task
Rest between time intensive activities
Consider sitting for activities that do not require standing
Ergonomic Evaluation of Home and Work Space
Make sure the seat is high enough
Legs require less energy to push off from a higher surface
The work surface should be about 2 inches lower than your elbows
Arrange work area so that frequently used items are between shoulder and waist height.
Education and Training on Assistive Technology/Adaptive Equipment to simplify tasks and enhance independence (e.g., sock aid, reacher, screen reading software)
Task / Activity Analysis
Physical Agent Modalities: heat, cold, water, sound, electricity, and electromagnetic waves (including infrared, visible, or ultraviolet light; shortwaves; and microwaves). Of note, there are many contraindications for specific stages of cancer with PAMs. Please review contraindications prior to administering.
Balance and Falls Reduction training
Joint protection techniques
Tactile Perception and Proprioceptive exercises
General OT Approaches That Address Cancer-Related Cognitive Impairment and Fatigue
Routine-Based Strategies
Set a consistent, predictable schedule
Limit Multi-tasking
Make a list of key contacts and phone numbers
Use a checklist or app for daily reminders
Meditation or Breathing Exercises throughout the day
Regular sleep and waking times (See handout below)
Environmental Strategies
Keep frequently used items within easy reach
Discuss work accommodations with your supervisor
Schedule activities in a quiet area to reduce distractions
Energy Conservation Strategies (See handout below)
Set a consistent routine
Sit during time-consuming tasks
Keep frequently used items within easy reach
Social Support
Carpool with a friend to reduce cognitive burden
Bring a caregiver as back-up eyes and ears
Discharge suggestions
Creation of a home exercise program to support ongoing exercises and activities
Provision of cancer-specific community resources (e.g., support groups, financial navigation tools, cancer-specific community exercise programs)
Recommendations or strategies to maintain longstanding habits and routines across dynamic cancer continuum
Signs and symptoms to contact doctor (refer to Malster et al. article)
Red flags
This open access article (see citation below) provides an excellent overview of key safety, precautions, and considerations for working with adults of all ages with cancer during cancer rehabilitation activities.
Key Tables to Review in the Article:
Table 2 | General Rehabilitation Considerations in the context of blood count values |
Table 4 | General Safety Measures with Bone Metastasis |
Table 5 | Modality indications, precautions, and contraindications for individuals currently receiving or following cancer treatment |
Table 6 | When to consider something an “Oncologic emergency” |
Maltser S, Cristian A, Silver JK, Morris GS, Stout NL. A Focused Review of Safety Considerations in Cancer Rehabilitation. PM R. 2017.
Education Resources for Clients
Work-Related Disability and Financial Hardship Support
Job Accommodation Network: https://askjan.org/disabilities/Cancer.cfm
Cancer and Careers: Cancer and Careers | The Top Resource for Working People With Cancer
Triage Cancer: https://triagecancer.org
Cancer Legal Resource Center: https://thedrlc.org/cancer/
Physical Activity Support:
MyVictory.com: subscription service with over 2000 high quality exercise videos for people living with and beyond cancer.
Search Engine to Find Exercise Trainer with Cancer Specialty: Moving Through Cancer - Exercise is Medicine
Strength Training for Cancer Survivors: https://www.mapletreecanceralliance.org/
Cancer Specific Exercise Training Videos: cancerfoundationforlife.org/exercise-videos/
Caregiver Resource Guide: Cancer Caregiver Resources | Caregiver Guide | American Cancer Society
Breast Cancer Educational Guidebooks: Educational Guidebooks - Tigerlily Foundation
Education Resources for Clinicians
Choosing a Therapist
When searching for an occupational therapy professional to provide treatment for cancer, you may want to look for someone with multiple focus areas relevant to your condition (e.g., “lymphedema,” “cancer rehab,” or “insomnia.” )
Below, you can find OT professionals who have tagged cancer rehab as a focus area.
Katherine Gladhart-Hayes
MSOT, MPH, OTR/L
Occupational Therapist
Eugene, Oregon
Cancer, Health Policy, Home Modifications, ICU/Critical Care, Maternal Health, Neurorehabilitation, Pelvic Health, Social Determinants of Health
Lori Volin
OTR/L,CLT-LANA
Occupational Therapist
Lymphatic Rehab, LLC
Lincoln, Nebraska
Aging in Place, Cancer, Chronic Conditions, Chronic Pain, Dementia, Lifestyle Medicine, Lymphedema, Prevention, Rare Diseases
Shaunna Kotka
OTD, OTR/L, CLT-LANA, CMT
Administrator
Open Grounds Inc.
Marina del Rey, California
ADHD, Anxiety, Cancer, Chronic Conditions, Chronic Pain, Cognitive Rehabilitation, Dementia, Depression & Mood Disorders, Dystonia, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Fitness, Health Promotion, Home Modifications, Insomnia & Sleep, Knowledge Translation, Lymphedema, Medication Management, Neurodiversity, Neurorehabilitation, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Orthopedics & Musculoskeletal, Parkinson’s, Prevention, Population Health, Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), Rare Diseases, Rheumatic Diseases, Social Determinants of Health, Sports Medicine & Performance, Stroke, TBI, Trauma & PTSD
Carlee Gothard
COTA/L
Occupational Therapy Assistant
Ascension St. John Medical Center
Tulsa, Oklahoma
ADHD, Anxiety, Aphasia & Communication Disorders, Assistive Technology, Autism, Cancer, Chronic Conditions, CIMT, Coaching, Dementia, Developmental Delays, Health Promotion, ICU/Critical Care, Medication Management, Multiple Sclerosis, Neurodiversity, Orthopedics & Musculoskeletal, Prevention, Spinal Cord Injury, Stroke, TBI, Trauma & PTSD
Paul Pettyjohn
OTR/L, CPAMS, MLD/CDT, CAPS
Monterey Park, California
Aging in Place, Burns, Cancer, Cerebral Palsy, Chronic Conditions, Chronic Pain, Ergonomics, Fitness, Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), Hand Therapy, Health Promotion, Home Modifications, Lymphedema, NICU, Orthopedics & Musculoskeletal, Prevention, Stroke, TBI
Karen Johnson
MOT, OTR/L, CBIS, CSRS
Innovative OT NC, LLC
Holly Springs, North Carolina
Cancer, Coaching, Cognitive Rehabilitation, Dementia, Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), Health Promotion, Home Modifications, Multiple Sclerosis, Neurorehabilitation, Prevention, Spinal Cord Injury, Stroke, TBI
Anna Addison
MSOT, OTR
Industry Professional
Prompt Health
San Francisco, California
Aging in Place, Aphasia & Communication Disorders, Burns, Cancer, Chronic Conditions, Chronic Pain, Cognitive Rehabilitation, Ergonomics, Fitness, Feeding and Eating, Health Data, Home Modifications, Leadership, Medication Management, Multiple Sclerosis, Neurorehabilitation, Orthopedics & Musculoskeletal, Parkinson’s, Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), Rare Diseases, Sports Medicine & Performance, Spinal Cord Injury, Stroke, TBI, Trauma & PTSD, Vestibular & Balance Rehab, Wound Care
Kelly Juhrden-Ramey
MBA, OTR
Occupational Therapist
Savor Senior Living
Houston, Texas
Aging in Place, Anxiety, Aphasia & Communication Disorders, Cancer, Chronic Conditions, Chronic Pain, Coaching, Cognitive Rehabilitation, Dementia, Fitness, Feeding and Eating, Health Data, Health Policy, Health Promotion, Home Modifications, Lifestyle Medicine, Leadership, Low Vision Rehabilitation, Prevention, Rare Diseases, Social Determinants of Health, Stroke, Swallowing & Dysphagia
Miriam Clapp
OTA/L
Administrator
Sacramento, California
Anxiety, Autism, Cancer, Chronic Conditions, Dementia, Fitness, Neurodiversity, Neurorehabilitation, Stroke
Jamie Boldig
MOT, OTR/L
Appleton, Wisconsin
Aging in Place, ADHD, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Anxiety, Aphasia & Communication Disorders, Assistive Technology, Autism, Burns, Cancer, Cerebral Palsy, Chronic Conditions, Chronic Pain, Coaching, Cognitive Rehabilitation, Dementia, Depression & Mood Disorders, Dystonia, Ergonomics, Fitness, Feeding and Eating, Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), Grant Writing, Hand Therapy, Health Data, Health Policy, Health Promotion, Hippotherapy, Home Modifications, Insomnia & Sleep, Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), Knowledge Translation, Lifestyle Medicine, Leadership, Medication Management, Multiple Sclerosis, Nature-based, Neurodiversity, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Orthopedics & Musculoskeletal, Osteogenesis Imperfecta, Parkinson’s, Pelvic Health, Prevention, Population Health, Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), Rare Diseases, Rheumatic Diseases, Seating and Mobility, Spinal Cord Injury, Stroke, TBI, Trauma & PTSD, Tourette syndrome, Voice & Fluency
Nancy Broadway
OTRL, MBA. CLT
Occupational Therapist
Michigan Medicine
Ann Arbor, Michigan
Aging in Place, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Burns, Cancer, Chronic Conditions, Chronic Pain, Cognitive Rehabilitation, Dementia, Low Vision Rehabilitation, Lymphedema, Neurodiversity, Orthopedics & Musculoskeletal, Parkinson’s, Prevention, Population Health, Spinal Cord Injury, Stroke, TBI, Trauma & PTSD, Vestibular & Balance Rehab
Harmony Direct Therapy
Occupational Therapist
Harmony Direct Therapy
Forest lodge, New South Wales
Aging in Place, ADHD, Anxiety, Assistive Technology, Autism, Cancer, Cerebral Palsy, Cognitive Rehabilitation, Dementia, Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), Lifestyle Medicine, Neurodiversity, Neurorehabilitation, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Parkinson’s, Rheumatic Diseases, Seating and Mobility, Stroke, TBI, Trauma & PTSD
Briana Bonner
OTD, OTR/L
Dr. Bri The OT
Saint Johns, Arizona
ADHD, Aquatic Therapy, Assistive Technology, Autism, Cancer, Cerebral Palsy, Chronic Conditions, Coaching, Fitness, Grant Writing, Health Policy, Health Promotion, Hippotherapy, Home Modifications, Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), Lifestyle Medicine, Leadership, Maternal Health, Nature-based, Neurodiversity, NICU, Population Health, Rare Diseases, Seating and Mobility, Sexuality/Intimacy, Spinal Cord Injury, Stroke, TBI, Trauma & PTSD
Emily Rich
PhD., OTR/L
Occupational Therapist
Tucson Medical Center
Tucson, Arizona
ADHD, Cancer, Chronic Conditions, Chronic Pain, Cognitive Rehabilitation, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), Lifestyle Medicine, Neurodiversity, Parkinson’s, Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)
Matthew Dodson
OTD, OTR/L, CBIST, FAOTA
Braintrust Services
Ft. Collins, Colorado
ADHD, Cancer, Cognitive Rehabilitation, Leadership, Neurorehabilitation, TBI
Marissa Ruhl
MOTR/L, CLT-LANA, CPAM
Thrive Occupational Therapy Health and Wellness PLCC
Omaha, Nebraska
Cancer, Chronic Pain, Fitness, Health Promotion, Lifestyle Medicine, Lymphedema, Maternal Health, Pelvic Health, Prevention, Sexuality/Intimacy, Trauma & PTSD
Vanessa Yanez
PhD, MSOT, OTR/L
Los Angeles, California
Anxiety, Cancer, Chronic Conditions, Chronic Pain, Cognitive Rehabilitation, Health Promotion, Lifestyle Medicine, Sexuality/Intimacy
Amanda M Fonner
OTR/L
Educator
Mercy Hospital Jefferson
Festus, Missouri
Anxiety, Burns, Cancer, Chronic Conditions, Chronic Pain, Cognitive Rehabilitation, Dementia, Depression & Mood Disorders, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), Hand Therapy, Health Promotion, Low Vision Rehabilitation, Lymphedema, Multiple Sclerosis, Neurodiversity, Neurorehabilitation, Orthopedics & Musculoskeletal, Parkinson’s, Social Determinants of Health, Stroke, TBI, Trauma & PTSD, Vestibular & Balance Rehab
Cynthia Kisik
COTA/L
Patriot at Home
Louisville, Ohio
Aging in Place, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Aphasia & Communication Disorders, Assistive Technology, Burns, Cancer, Cerebral Palsy, Chronic Conditions, Chronic Pain, Dementia, Fitness, Grant Writing, Home Modifications, Insomnia & Sleep, Lifestyle Medicine, Medication Management, Multiple Sclerosis, Nature-based, Neurodiversity, Neurorehabilitation, Orthopedics & Musculoskeletal, Parkinson’s, Pelvic Health, Rare Diseases, Rheumatic Diseases, Seating and Mobility, Sexuality/Intimacy, Spinal Cord Injury, Stroke, TBI, Trauma & PTSD, Vestibular & Balance Rehab
Rachel Egan
OTR/L, MS, CHT, COMT-UE
NovaCare Rehabilitation
Blaine, Minnesota
Aquatic Therapy, Cancer, Chronic Pain, Coaching, Cognitive Rehabilitation, Dementia, Fitness, Hand Therapy, Industrial Rehabilitation, Leadership, Orthopedics & Musculoskeletal, Prevention, Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), Rheumatic Diseases, Stroke
Greta Rompel
OTR/L
Saint Charles, Missouri
Aging in Place, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Burns, Cancer, Cerebral Palsy, Chronic Conditions, Chronic Pain, Cognitive Rehabilitation, Dementia, Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), Health Policy, Home Modifications, Low Vision Rehabilitation, Lymphedema, Multiple Sclerosis, Neurorehabilitation, Orthopedics & Musculoskeletal, Parkinson’s, Seating and Mobility, Spinal Cord Injury, Stroke, TBI
Kaci Behrens
OTD/S
Student
Ankeny, Iowa
Aquatic Therapy, Autism, Cancer, Cognitive Rehabilitation, Home Modifications, Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), Leadership, Multi-tiered System of Supports, Neurorehabilitation, NICU, Parkinson’s, Rare Diseases, Spinal Cord Injury, Stroke, TBI, Trauma & PTSD
Ashley Elma
OTS
Student
Xavier University
Cincinnati, Ohio
ADHD, Autism, Cancer, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Hand Therapy, Home Modifications, Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), Lifestyle Medicine, Lymphedema, Maternal Health, Neurodiversity, Neurorehabilitation, NICU, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Prevention, Spinal Cord Injury, Stroke, TBI, Trauma & PTSD, Tourette syndrome
Destiney Carmichael
OTS
Student
Xavier University
Cincinnati, Ohio
Aging in Place, ADHD, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Anxiety, Assistive Technology, Autism, Burns, Cancer, Cerebral Palsy, Chronic Conditions, Chronic Pain, CIMT, Cognitive Rehabilitation, Dementia, Dystonia, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Fitness, Feeding and Eating, Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), Home Modifications, Insomnia & Sleep, Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), Lymphedema, Maternal Health, Multiple Sclerosis, Nature-based, Neurodiversity, Neurorehabilitation, NICU, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Orthopedics & Musculoskeletal, Osteogenesis Imperfecta, Parkinson’s, Pelvic Health, Prevention, Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), Rare Diseases, Rheumatic Diseases, Seating and Mobility, Sexuality/Intimacy, Social Determinants of Health, Spinal Cord Injury, Stroke, TBI, Trauma & PTSD, Vestibular & Balance Rehab
Conclusion
Hopefully, this article has helped you understand what therapy for cancer rehab entails, and whether you are a good candidate!
This article is updated regularly based on new research. If you have any research you would like us to consider for our next update, please contact us.
OT Potential does not endorse any treatments, procedures, products, or therapists referenced herein. This information is provided as an educational service and is not intended to serve as medical advice. Anyone seeking medical advice should consult their medical provider.
Contributors
Rachelle Brick
PhD, MSPH, OTR/L
Rachelle Brick, PhD, MSPH, OTR/L is a Program Director in the Health Systems and Interventions Research Branch (HSIRB) within the Healthcare Delivery Research Program (HDRP). Rachelle will also serve as a Cancer Care Delivery Research Project Scientist for the National Cancer Institute Community Oncology Research Program (NCORP).
Rachelle is a licensed occupational therapist and rehabilitation scientist who develops, establishes, and promotes translational research on health issues in aging and cancer populations. Rachelle has a wide range of scientific expertise and research experience leading multiple concurrent research projects and initiatives. Some of her research interests include cancer survivorship, rehabilitation, epidemiology of healthcare utilization and outcomes, symptom management, biomarkers of aging, implementation of effective healthcare strategies, and healthcare delivery models.
Rachelle received her PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences from the University of Pittsburgh in 2021 and her Master of Science in Public Health from the University of Miami in August 2022. Prior to her current roles, Rachelle was a Cancer Prevention Fellow in the Behavioral Research Program (BRP) within DCCPS. During this time, she has demonstrated leadership skills from various trans-NIH working groups (i.e., Trans-NIH-NCI Cancer and Aging Coordinating Committee, OPTImize Cancer Survivorship (OPTICS) Working Group Trans-NIH), the NCI (i.e., Co-chair of the Grants and Scientific Writing Committee of the NCI Cancer Prevention Fellowship Program), and extramural efforts.
Sarah Lyon, OTR/L, is the CEO of OT Potential. Sarah earned her BA from St. Olaf College and her master’s degree in occupational therapy from New York University. Her diverse clinical background spans multiple settings, including critical access, acute trauma, and state inpatient psychiatric hospitals. In 2011, she founded OT Potential to fulfill the industry's need for reliable, high-quality occupational therapy resources and continuing education.
As a recognized content creator, Sarah has collaborated with top healthcare brands like VeryWell Health, WebPT, and MedBridge. She blends her clinical expertise with a talent for creating clear, action-oriented content that empowers practitioners to excel. Passionate about elevating the OT profession, she has been featured on numerous industry podcasts. Sarah ultimately returned to her roots, running OT Potential and raising her family in her hometown of Aurora, Nebraska.
References
Newman R, Lyons KD, Coster WJ, Wong J, Festa K, Ko NY. Feasibility, acceptability and potential effectiveness of an occupation-focused cognitive self-management program for breast cancer survivors. Br J Occup Ther. 2019.
Sleight AG, Roberts PS, Lyons K, Amaral L, Feldman AE. An OT Health Self-Management Program for Cancer Survivors Improves Health Behavior Occupational Performance Scores: A Pilot Study. Am J Occup Ther. 2024.
Brick R, Bender C, Skidmore E. Impact of cancer and cancer-related treatments on participation restrictions. Br J Occup Ther. 2021.
Lyons KD, Bruce ML, Hull JG, et al. Health Through Activity: Initial Evaluation of an In-Home Intervention for Older Adults With Cancer. Am J Occup Ther Off Publ Am Occup Ther Assoc. 2019.
Pergolotti M, Cutchin MP, Muss HB. Predicting participation in meaningful activity for older adults with cancer. Qual Life Res Int J Qual Life Asp Treat Care Rehabil. 2015.
Pergolotti M, Deal AM, Williams GR, et al. Older Adults with Cancer: A Randomized Controlled Trial of Occupational and Physical Therapy. J Am Geriatr Soc. 2019.
Romero-Ayuso D, García-López R, Lozano-Villena C, et al. Usability of a mobile phone application to enhance activities of daily living in occupational therapy services for breast cancer survivors. Hong Kong J Occup Ther HKJOT. 2023.
Harrington SE, Stout NL, Hile E, et al. Cancer Rehabilitation Publications (2008-2018) With a Focus on Physical Function: A Scoping Review. Phys Ther. 2020.
Riedl D, Giesinger JM, Wintner LM, et al. Improvement of quality of life and psychological distress after inpatient cancer rehabilitation. Wien Klin Wochenschr. 2017.
Pergolotti M, Covington KR, Lightner AN, et al. Association of Outpatient Cancer Rehabilitation With Patient-Reported Outcomes and Performance-Based Measures of Function. Rehabil Oncol. 2021.
Magnuson A, Ahles T, Chen BT, Mandelblatt J, Janelsins MC. Cognitive Function in Older Adults With Cancer: Assessment, Management, and Research Opportunities. J Clin Oncol Off J Am Soc Clin Oncol. 2021.
Pergolotti M, Battisti NML, Padgett L, et al. Embracing the complexity: Older adults with cancer-related cognitive decline-A Young International Society of Geriatric Oncology position paper. J Geriatr Oncol. 2020.
Leach HJ, Covington KR, Pergolotti M, et al. Translating Research to Practice Using a Team-Based Approach to Cancer Rehabilitation: A Physical Therapy and Exercise-Based Cancer Rehabilitation Program Reduces Fatigue and Improves Aerobic Capacity. Rehabil Oncol. 2018.
Brick R, Jensen-Battaglia M, Streck BP, et al. Exploring geriatric assessment-driven rehabilitation referral patterns and its influence on functional outcomes and survival in older adults with advanced cancer. J Am Geriatr Soc. 2025.
Abdur Rahman Md, Rashid MdM, Le Kernec J, et al. A Secure Occupational Therapy Framework for Monitoring Cancer Patients’ Quality of Life. Sensors. 2019.
Huang MH, Hile E, Croarkin E, et al. Academy of Oncologic Physical Therapy EDGE Task Force: A Systematic Review of Measures of Balance in Adult Cancer Survivors. Rehabil Oncol. 2019.
Fitzpatrick TR, Farone DW. Leisure, household activities, and health among Mexican American elders with cancer. J Psychosoc Oncol. 2011.
Fleischer A, Fisher M, Scheid D, et al. Interdisciplinary Cancer Rehabilitation eHealth Impact on Quality of Life. Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2024.
Chen HM, Lin YY, Wu YC, et al. Effects of Rehabilitation Program on Quality of Life, Sleep, Rest-Activity Rhythms, Anxiety, and Depression of Patients With Esophageal Cancer: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial. Cancer Nurs. 2022.
Bulli F, Miccinesi G, Maruelli A, Katz M, Paci E. The measure of psychological distress in cancer patients: the use of Distress Thermometer in the Oncological Rehabilitation Center of Florence. Support Care Cancer Off J Multinatl Assoc Support Care Cancer. 2009.
Hunter EG, Gibson RW, Arbesman M, D’Amico M. Systematic Review of Occupational Therapy and Adult Cancer Rehabilitation: Part 1. Impact of Physical Activity and Symptom Management Interventions. Am J Occup Ther Off Publ Am Occup Ther Assoc. 2017.
Hunter EG, Gibson RW, Arbesman M, D’Amico M. Systematic Review of Occupational Therapy and Adult Cancer Rehabilitation: Part 2. Impact of Multidisciplinary Rehabilitation and Psychosocial, Sexuality, and Return-to-Work Interventions. Am J Occup Ther Off Publ Am Occup Ther Assoc. 2017.
He K, Jiang J, Chen M, et al. Effects of occupational therapy on quality of life in breast cancer patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Medicine (Baltimore). 2023.
Brick R, Lyons KD, Rodakowski J, Skidmore E. A Need to Activate Lasting Engagement. Am J Occup Ther. 2020.
Lyons KD, Wechsler SB, Ejem DB, et al. Telephone-Based Rehabilitation Intervention to Optimize Activity Participation After Breast Cancer: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Netw Open. 2024.
Leske M, Koczwara B, Blunt J, et al. Co-designing Healthy Living after Cancer Online: an online nutrition, physical activity, and psychosocial intervention for post-treatment cancer survivors. J Cancer Surviv Res Pract. 2024.
Pyatak EA, Carandang K, Rice Collins C, Carlson M. Optimizing Occupations, Habits, and Routines for Health and Well-Being With Lifestyle Redesign®: A Synthesis and Scoping Review. Am J Occup Ther Off Publ Am Occup Ther Assoc. 2022.
Additional Resources
Maltser S, Cristian A, Silver JK, Morris GS, Stout NL. A Focused Review of Safety Considerations in Cancer Rehabilitation. PM R. 2017.
