We take the time to understand your personal goals, your history, and the unique ways cancer has affected your body — and we walk with you through every stage of healing. 

What Is Physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy (also known as physical therapy) is an evidence-based approach to helping you regain strength, flexibility, range of motion, and confidence in your body. It combines expert knowledge of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems with manual therapy, movement-based rehabilitation, and personalized education. 

Physiotherapy supports recovery from: 

• Surgery (e.g., breast, gynecological, prostate, colorectal, thoracic, or abdominal procedures) 
• Chemotherapy-related side effects such as fatigue, neuropathy, and deconditioning 
• Radiation-related stiffness, scarring, and joint limitations 
• Hormone therapy-induced musculoskeletal changes 
• Lymphedema and swelling after lymph node removal 

Our cancer-trained physiotherapists also screen for early signs of complications like axillary web syndrome, postural adaptations, and scar adhesions — helping to prevent long-term issues before they start. 

Your Physio Journey: What to Expect

We recommend an initial assessment either before your surgery if possible, or 10–14 days after surgery or as soon as you feel ready (it is important that your surgical drains have been removed before your first post-operative visit). Your physiotherapist will: 

• Evaluate your surgical site (scar) and tissue healing 
• Assess mobility, posture, and functional movement 
• Identify signs of lymphedema or swelling (including reviewing your baseline limb measurements taken during your pre-operative appointment if needed) 
• Review your upcoming treatments and next steps to ensure physical preparedness  
• Create a personalized, goal-oriented treatment plan 

Your treatment may include: 

• Manual therapy for scar tissue, fascia, muscles, or pain 
• Exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and stamina 
• Education and guidance on return to work, sport, and other activities  
• Neuromuscular re-education for balance or fine motor challenges 
• Lymphedema education and early intervention strategies 

We are here to guide you back to your full potential — whether that means returning to work, playing with your kids, or enjoying daily walks. 

At Ottawa Cancer and Lymphatics Centre, we offer more than standard physiotherapy. Our team has specialized training in cancer and lymphatic rehab and understands the emotional and physical impact of treatment. Every session is one-on-one, trauma-informed, and built around your comfort. 

We collaborate across disciplines — including massage therapy, kinesiology, dietetics, and psychotherapy — to provide holistic support. If you're experiencing a complex issue like chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, post-radiation fibrosis, or scar-related pain, we have the knowledge and tools to help. 

We see people of all genders and all types of cancer and lymphedema (and related conditions including lipedema), from breast and gynecologic cancers to urogenital, ENT, melanoma, abdominal/thoracic cancers and primary or secondary lymphedema. You’re welcome here. 

We also offer a dedicated pelvic health program to support patients experiencing pelvic floor dysfunction, including changes related to hormone therapy, radiation, or reconstructive procedures such as DIEP or TRAM flap surgeries. 

Whether you're just starting recovery or navigating survivorship, physiotherapy can help you reconnect with your body, reduce discomfort, and feel like yourself again.