Oncology & Lymphedema Physiotherapy in Fernie BC
Are you navigating a cancer diagnosis, recovery, or managing Lymphedema? Visit Ridgeline Physio, where our team can help assess and treat your oncology and lymphedema rehabilitation needs. Our goal is to make the path to recovery clear and simple. We deliver evidence-based treatment, as well as the tools and knowledge for success long-term.
Proudly providing Oncology & Lymphedema care to the Elk Valley and surrounding areas, including Fernie, Jaffray, Sparwood, Elkford, Elko, Grasmere, Crowsnest Pass, and beyond.
Supporting You Through Cancer Recovery
Cancer treatments such as mastectomy, lymph node removal, radiation, and other oncology treatments can lead to swelling, tightness, pain, scar tissue, weakness, and changes in mobility.
At Ridgeline Physio, we provide individualized physiotherapy to help you manage these changes, improve movement, and regain confidence in your body. The physical changes during this time are the most significant, and we can help.
Lymphedema & Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT)
Lymphedema is a condition in which lymph fluid builds up in the body's tissues, causing swelling. It can occur when the lymphatic system is damaged or affected, including after some cancer treatments such as lymph node surgery or radiation therapy.
Lymphedema most commonly affects an arm or leg, but it can occur in other areas of the body as well.
We provide Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) for the management of lymphedema. Treatment may include:
Lymphedema assessment and education
Manual lymphatic techniques
Compression strategies
Exercise and movement
Skin care and self-management
Strategies to manage swelling and heaviness
What Does Post-Cancer Rehabilitation Include?
We can help with recovery from the following:
Mastectomy and breast cancer surgery
Lymph node removal
Radiation therapy
Chemotherapy and other cancer treatments
Reconstruction and related surgeries
Reduced mobility, strength, or physical capacity
Lymphedema management
Our goal is to help you move comfortably, manage symptoms, and return to the activities that are important to you.
You don't have to navigate recovery alone.
Book an appointment with Ridgeline Physio to learn how physiotherapy can support you through the physical changes pre, during and after cancer recovery including fatigue, pain and lymphedema management.
Frequently Asked Questions about Oncology Physio
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Oncology physiotherapy is specialized physiotherapy designed to support people before, during, and after cancer treatment. It can help manage treatment-related symptoms and physical changes such as fatigue, weakness, pain, reduced mobility, balance problems, scar tissue, swelling/lymphedema and loss of strength. An oncology physiotherapist develops an individualized treatment plan based on your type of cancer, treatment history, symptoms, and goals.
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Physiotherapy can help you maintain strength, mobility, function, and independence during cancer treatment. Treatment may include individualized exercise, mobility exercises, strength training, breathing techniques, balance training, pain management strategies, education and lymphedema management. Your physiotherapist will adapt treatment to your energy levels and current medical needs.
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Lymphedema is a condition in which lymph fluid builds up in the body's tissues, causing swelling. It can occur when the lymphatic system is damaged or affected, including after some cancer treatments such as lymph node surgery or radiation therapy. Lymphedema most commonly affects an arm or leg, but it can occur in other areas of the body as well.
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Yes. A physiotherapist with specialized training in lymphedema management can assess swelling and develop an individualized treatment plan. Depending on your needs, treatment may include compression therapy, exercise, skin care education, movement strategies, and manual lymphatic techniques. Early assessment can help you understand your symptoms and available management options.
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If you have coverage for physiotherapy in your extended health benefits, this should cover oncology physiotherapy.
Please contact your insurance provider or physiotherapy clinic if you are unsure about your coverage.
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Bring any relevant information about your cancer diagnosis and treatment, a list of medications, information about previous surgeries or radiation treatment, and details of any current symptoms or concerns. If you have been given specific precautions or recommendations by your oncology team, bring those as well.
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For many people, appropriately prescribed physical activity can be beneficial during and after cancer treatment. However, exercise should be individualized according to your diagnosis, treatment, symptoms, medications, blood counts, medical precautions, and current physical capacity. An oncology physiotherapist can help you exercise safely and progressively within your healthcare team's recommendations.
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No, you do not need a referral from a doctor to access oncology/lymphedema physiotherapy.
Some insurance providers require a prescription to reimburse for physio care, please check in with your insurance provider if you are unsure.
