Abramson Cancer Center

Treatment for my breast cancer is over. NOW WHAT?

• Do you want your strength and energy back?
• Do you have questions about changes in your upper body caused by cancer treatment?
• Do you want to learn more about lymphedema risk reduction and control?
• Do you do things differently with your upper body than you did before your cancer?

Good Shepherd Penn Partners (GSPP) Penn Therapy and Fitness and researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have created a new program for breast cancer survivors. This new program educates survivors about lymphedema and helps them to build strength. We are pleased that this program is now available to all breast cancer survivors who have completed their cancer treatments. Ask your oncology clinician and physical therapist if you are eligible.

GSPP Penn Therapy and Fitness and Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have teamed up to bring exercise to breast cancer survivors. Over the past few years, clinical researchers published the results of the PAL Trial. These studies showed that supervised, slowly progressive strength training can be safe and effective for breast cancer survivors.

The Program Includes:

• An individualized assessment of strength, range of motion and upper body issues
• Individual care of any physical function or breast cancer related issues
• A 1-hour lymphedema education program
• Four 1-hour group based exercise classes
• An exercise program to continue at home (or a gym)

Exercise can help you regain strength after your cancer treatment. We are here to help you return to yourself.

To speak directly with a therapist about the program, please call 215-662-4793.

Appointments

Please call 877-9MYREHAB to find a location nearest you that offers this program, then make an appointment. For a complete list of locations and directions, visit www.phillyrehab.com. A physician prescription is required for our services. You may obtain a prescription from your primary care doctor or your specialty care physician.

Insurance

Most major insurance plans are accepted, but insurance coverage varies from plan to plan. Please check your policy for information on referrals and coverage of services.

For More Information about Good Shepherd Penn Partners, please call toll-free 1-877-MYREHAB or visit www.phillyrehab.com.

The Physical Therapists at Good Shepherd Penn Partners and the PAL researchers have created a physical therapy program based on the results from the PAL trial.

Women who participated in the PAL study found the following benefits:

• 50% reduction of the likelihood of lymphedema worsening among women with lymphedema
• 70% reduction of the likelihood of arm swelling increases among women who had 5 or more lymph nodes removed
• Improved strength
• Improved body image
• Reduced body image
• Reduced body fat

For more information, visit PennCancer.org/PAL.