Rehabilitation Considerations for Head and Neck Cancer

In the United States, the incidence of HPV-driven oropharyngeal cancer has increased by 225% since the late 1980s, putting the United States at the epicenter of this emerging epidemic. As a result, rehabilitation professionals are seeing an increase in clients with comorbidities stemming from medical interventions for head and neck cancers. Increased incidence paired with highly successful medical treatments is resulting in more individuals needing theservices of rehabilitation professionals. Our services are vital throughout the treatment trajectory in order to provideprevention of co-morbidities as well as treatment of side- effects. We are charged with providing these individuals with safe and effective client-driven treatment techniques to restore and improve quality of life.

This course will assist practitioners to understand the anatomy involved in head and neck cancers along with the advanced medical interventions individuals with head and neck cancer receive and the related side-effects. Participants will learn potential rehabilitation needs of individuals with head and neck cancer and various treatment options to improve their quality of life. An introduction tovarious outcome measures will also be discussed.

Highlights

• Recognize acute and long-term side effects of medical treatments for head and neck cancers that may impact your client's quality of life
• Provide safe and effective treatment options for individuals receiving medical interventions for head and neck cancer

Target Audience: Physical Therapists, Physical Therapist Assistants, Occupational Therapists, Occupational Therapy Assistants