Physical therapy
People of any age who are diagnosed with cancer can improve strength, function, and independence during and after cancer treatment with the help of physical therapy. Physical therapists help with concerns related to weakness, balance, scar tissue, lymphedema, range of motion, and rehabilitation equipment.
To schedule a physical therapy appointment, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center patients need to be referred by a Fred Hutch physician, physician assistant or nurse practitioner. Patients who have secondary lymphedema can be seen at the Fred Hutch clinic by one of our physical therapists specializing in oncology. Physical therapy is located on the fourth floor of the South Lake Union clinic.
Benefits of physical therapy
Cancer may be treated by surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and other treatments. Each of these treatments has unique side effects, some of which may lead to physical impairments that make normal daily activities difficult. We have advanced training in oncology care and will skillfully evaluate and treat your condition and provide you with tools to continue managing symptoms on your own.
Comprehensive cancer institutes throughout the United States, as well as the National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship, endorse exercise for people with cancer.
Who can benefit from physical therapy?
People treated for these diseases are commonly referred for physical therapy:
Physical therapy solutions
People treated for a wide range of different cancers are referred to physical therapy. Physical therapists treat the following common problems related to cancer and its treatment:
Meet our physical therapists
At Fred Hutch, physical therapists work as part of the care team with a patient's doctors, nurses and other specialists. Patients who have secondary lymphedema can be seen at the Fred Hutch clinic by one of our Certified Lymphedema Therapists.









