The Role of Occupational Therapy in Recovery

By Kaitlin Berry

Magothy Therapy & Wellness

. https://www.magothytherapy.com/

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The Role of Occupational Therapy in Recovery

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a reminder not only to prioritize early detection, but also to support those navigating treatment and recovery. While medical teams focus on curing cancer, rehabilitation specialists play a vital role in helping patients regain function, independence, and quality of life.

Working with an Occupational Therapist (OT) who specializes in oncology rehabilitation and is a Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT) can be beneficial before, during, and after treatment. Before surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation, an OT can educate patients on exercises, signs/symptoms of fibrosis or lymphedema, and strategies to reduce complications and support recovery. During treatment, OTs help manage fatigue, neuropathy, scar tissue, and swelling while teaching energy conservation and adaptive techniques to maintain daily routines through individualized occupational therapy services designed to support daily functioning and long-term wellbeing.

After treatment, long-term side effects such as lymphedema, pain, reduced range of motion, and “chemo brain” can interfere with daily life. An OT/CLT provides personalized interventions including manual lymph drainage, skin care, compression garment guidance, exercise programs, and cognitive strategies to restore balance and confidence.

Cancer rehabilitation is about more than healing the body—it’s about empowering survivors to live fully. Partnering with an oncology rehab OT ensures that every step of the journey is supported, from diagnosis through survivorship.