Individuals with pleural cancer may benefit from several types of rehabilitation. Physical, occupational, and/or respiratory therapy may be required to improve strength, endurance, and self-care. If surgery is performed, breathing exercises after surgery may be useful to prevent postoperative pulmonary complications. Certain exercises can also be performed to reduce postoperative pain and speed recovery and include progressive relaxation and deep breathing techniques. Supportive rehabilitation allows individuals to gain some control over ordinary activities of life and helps them cope emotionally. Individuals who are in the end stages of pleural cancer may require palliative therapy, in which the primary focus is pain control.
Long-term survivors of pleural cancer have other aspects to consider including their physical, psychological, social, and spiritual well-being. Counseling with appropriate professionals such as nurses, psychologists, and clergy may be beneficial either on an individual basis or in a support group setting. |
Source: Medical Disability Advisor