Rehabilitation in Advanced Cancer Patients with Bone Metastases and Neural Compromise: Current Status and Future Directions

Abstract

Purpose of review: This review aimed to increase the understanding of oncologists and physiatrists about the necessity, efficacy, and safety of rehabilitation in advanced cancer patients with bone metastases and neural compromise.

Recent findings: Recently, there are growing evidence supporting the safety and efficacy of rehabilitation in patients with bone metastases and neural compromise. Despite the potential benefits of rehabilitation, however, rehabilitative services are considerably underutilized in clinical practice. Many oncologists are not familiar with functional issues and have limited understanding of the available rehabilitative services. Moreover, medical professionals, even physiatrists, have uncertainties and concerns about skeletal complications and often regard rehabilitation as a contraindication in this patient group. This review aimed to raise awareness on the role of rehabilitation in the continuum of cancer treatment, to improve its use in clinical practice. A multidisciplinary team approach involving physiatrist may facilitate integration of relevant clinicians.