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Physical Therapy Challenges in Head and Neck Cancer

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Multidisciplinary Care of the Head and Neck Cancer Patient

Part of the book series: Cancer Treatment and Research ((CTAR,volume 174))

Abstract

Treatment sequelae such as trismus, shoulder dysfunction syndrome resulting from spinal accessory nerve palsy, and radiotherapy-induced neck fibrosis are often overlooked when in the management of head and neck cancer patients. This chapter examines these underappreciated issues and their corresponding physical therapy intervention based on current evidence. Head and neck cancer survivors must contend with these disabilities for years after treatment has been concluded. A few quit their jobs which puts a tremendous burden on them and their families with a diminished quality of life. The physical rehabilitative needs of head and neck cancer patients and useful interventions to help meet them are addressed.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Cedar Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, USA

    Dwight Baldoman

  2. City of Hope Cancer Center, Duarte, USA

    Ron Vandenbrink

Authors
  1. Dwight Baldoman
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  2. Ron Vandenbrink
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Correspondence to Dwight Baldoman .

Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Surgery, Division of Head and Neck Surgery, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California, USA

    Ellie Maghami

  2. Department of Surgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA

    Allen S. Ho

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Baldoman, D., Vandenbrink, R. (2018). Physical Therapy Challenges in Head and Neck Cancer. In: Maghami, E., Ho, A. (eds) Multidisciplinary Care of the Head and Neck Cancer Patient. Cancer Treatment and Research, vol 174. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-65421-8_12

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-65421-8_12

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  • Online ISBN: 978-3-319-65421-8

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