Lung cancer is caused by uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the lungs. It can significantly affect breathing, oxygen levels, energy, and overall physical function. Medical treatment targeting the cancer itself may include a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or immunotherapy. On the other hand, physiotherapy focuses on how lung cancer and its treatments affect your body, including your breathing, strength, endurance, posture, and ability to perform everyday activities.

Physiotherapy can play a vital role in lung cancer rehabilitation- bolstering your quality of life by improving capabilities such as your strength, endurance, breathing, and movement confidence. However, a diagnosis of lung cancer can feel physically, emotionally, and mentally overwhelming.

At Cornerstone Physiotherapy, we’re here to help guide you through this process, focusing your efforts on improving and maintaining the activities that matter to you most. You’re in the driver’s seat, and we’re here to support you throughout your journey.

Common Symptoms of Lung Cancer

Symptoms vary from person to person and may change over time. Common physical challenges include:

• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Persistent cough
• Fatigue and low energy levels
• Chest or shoulder pain
• Reduced exercise tolerance
• Muscle weakness and deconditioning
• Post-surgical stiffness or pain
• Anxiety related to breathing or activity
• Physiotherapy can help address many of these symptoms and support safer, more confident movement.

Common Symptoms Associated with Lung Cancer Care/Treatment

• Surgery = scar tissue causing pain along incision and restriction of mobility of tissues in area, shortness of breath fatigue
• Chemotherapy often causes: Fatigue, chemo-induced peripheral neuropathy, loss of appetite, nausea/vomiting, easy bruising/bleeding
• Radiation usually causes: shortness of breath, fatigue, cough, sore through and/or trouble swallowing, skin readiness or irritation where treated
• Immunotherapy often causes: fatigue, joint aches, diarrhea

How Assessment and Treatment at Cornerstone Works

A Comprehensive, Individualized Assessment. A physiotherapist will first take time to discuss:

• Your medical history and cancer treatment plan
• Current symptoms and physical limitations
• What matters to YOU (whether it be walking further, managing breathlessness, returning to daily activities)

Next, the physiotherapist will utilize the appropriate tests to assess

• Breathing patterns and lung function
• Strength, mobility, and balance
• Cardiovascular endurance – Using specialized equipment we can perform cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET). This advanced test will reveal how your heart, lungs and metabolic system are functioning.

Tailored Physiotherapy Treatment.  Our team will provide you with clear instructions and guidelines to ensure your exercise program will help you recover without causing harm or excessive fatigue. Based on your needs, treatment may include:

• Breathing retraining and airway clearance techniques
• Graded cardiovascular and strength exercises to rebuild endurance
• Fatigue management strategies
• Posture and mobility work to reduce pain and stiffness
• Education and pacing strategies to help you stay active safely
• Post-surgical rehabilitation

Our approach is compassionate, adaptable, and guided by how you’re feeling on the day.

Fee Schedule

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Resources

Our Partners and Additional Resources
Cancer Rehabilitation Physiotherapy – Cornerstone 
Canadian Cancer Society – Lung Cancer
Lung Cancer Canada