PHYSICAL THERAPY IN THE REHABILITATION OF PATIENTS FOLLOWING BREAST CANCER TREATMENT (LITERATURE REVIEW)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32782/2522-1795.2025.19.1.1Keywords:
breast cancer, rehabilitation, physical therapy, quality of lifeAbstract
This article summarizes the current challenges, issues, and selected modern approaches to physical therapy in the rehabilitation of patients who have undergone specialized treatment for breast cancer (BC). BC is the most common malignant neoplasm (MN) among the female population worldwide, with approximately 2.296.840 new cases recorded in 2022. However, the implementation of breast cancer screening and improvements in diagnostic and therapeutic interventions have led to significantly high survival rates, with a five-year survival rate of approximately 81% in Europe. Despite these advancements, many breast cancer survivors experience a range of neuromuscular, musculoskeletal, pain-related, and functional disorders resulting from both the disease and its treatment. These challenges underscore the growing importance of rehabilitation measures to enhance quality of life and, to some extent, improve overall prognosis. The aim of this study was to examine, analyze, and summarize the current challenges and contemporary approaches to physical therapy in the rehabilitation of patients who have received specialized treatment for breast cancer. Methods. A search for relevant sources was conducted in the following databases: PubMed, Medline, Cochrane Library, Embase, BMJ Group, and Google Scholar. Results. Several barriers hinder the effective implementation of rehabilitation measures, including a lack of knowledge, limited access to care, and poor adherence to treatment regimens. A substantial body of evidence supports the benefits of incorporating range-of-motion exercises, aerobic activities, resistance training, and stretching, which have been shown to improve shoulder mobility and reduce pain without increasing the risk of lymphedema development or progression. Additionally, combined physical therapy interventions have demonstrated effectiveness in reducing upper limb swelling. Conclusion. The integration of physical rehabilitation programs into the clinical management of breast cancer patients is a crucial step toward ensuring optimal conditions for achieving maximum independence and the best possible quality of life. A multidisciplinary approach is essential to address the oncological, functional, and psychosocial needs of this patient cohort.
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