Breast Cancer: Contemporary Rehabilitation Strategies

72
About the Course:
The purpose of this intermediate-level course is to provide a critical review of current evidence to inform physical therapy best practice for the breast cancer patient population. Upon fulfilling the course objectives, practitioners will be prepared to develop an evidence-based approach to the evaluation and treatment of individuals with breast cancer throughout the survivorship continuum.

Learning Objectives:
  • Describe the epidemiology, diagnosis, and types of breast cancer and the effects on health and wellness.
  • Identify common surgical, medical, and radiation treatments for breast cancer and corresponding treatment-related sequelae.
  • Explain the unique role of the physical therapy practitioner in working with individuals with breast cancer.
  • Identify the common physical, psychological, and cognitive limitations resulting from the different stages of breast cancer treatment and appropriate assessment tools.
  • Explain appropriate sequencing and selection of physical therapy interventions for individuals with breast cancer.

About the Author:
Amy Litterini, PT, DPT,
is an assistant clinical professor in the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at the University of New England (UNE) in Portland, Maine. She received a BS in Health Sciences and a Master of Physical Therapy degree from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Simmons College in Boston, Massachusetts. Since 1996, her career has focused on oncology rehabilitation including research, lymphedema management, fitness programming, wellness initiatives, clinical patient navigation, program development, and education. She is a Certified Patient Navigator by the Harold P. Freeman Patient Navigation Institute in Harlem, New York, and has provided clinical navigation services to both breast and prostate cancer survivors. She has provided oncology rehabilitation continuing education in both live and web-based formats and provides an oncology foundation for both Doctor of Physical Therapy and Master of Occupational Therapy students at UNE. Dr. Litterini has published and presented research on cancer survivorship issues, axillary web syndrome, the benefits of physical activity in cancer survivorship, the effect of gym-based and home exercise programming on functional mobility and gait speed in advanced cancer, and chronic and end-of-life cancer-related conditions. Nationally, Amy serves as the Vice President of the APTA Oncology Section and is the Oncology Section Delegate in the House of Delegates. In 2016, she was appointed to the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties Oncologic Specialty Council of the American Physical Therapy Association and the National Board of Medical Examiners. Regionally, she sits on the Northern New England Clinical Oncology Society Board of Directors and is a member of the Maine Cancer Foundation’s Rehab and Survivorship Committee.

How to Receive Credit:
  • Read the entire course online or in print which requires a 6-hour commitment of time.
  • Depending on your state requirements you will be asked to complete:
    • An affirmation that you have completed the educational activity.
    • A mandatory test (a passing score of 75 percent is required). Test questions link content to learning objectives as a method to enhance individualized learning and material retention.
  • Provide required personal information and payment information.
  • Complete the mandatory Self-Assessment and Course Evaluation.
  • Print your Certificate of Completion.

Disclosures

Resolution of Conflict of Interest
Colibri Healthcare, LLC implemented mechanisms prior to the planning and implementation of the continuing education activity, to identify and resolve conflicts of interest for all individuals in a position to control content of the course activity.

Sponsorship/Commercial Support and Non-Endorsement
It is the policy of Colibri Healthcare, LLC not to accept commercial support. Furthermore, commercial interests are prohibited from distributing or providing access to this activity to learners.

Disclaimer:
The information provided in this activity is for continuing education purposes only and is not meant to substitute for the independent medical judgment of a healthcare provider relative to diagnostic and treatment options of a specific patient’s medical condition.

©2019: All Rights Reserved. Materials may not be reproduced without the expressed written permission or consent of Colibri Healthcare, LLC. The materials presented in this course are meant to provide the consumer with general information on the topics covered. The information provided was prepared by professionals with practical knowledge of the areas covered. It is not meant to provide medical, legal, or professional advice. Colibri Healthcare, LLC recommends that you consult a medical, legal, or professional services expert licensed in your state. Colibri Healthcare, LLC has made all reasonable efforts to ensure that all content provided in this course is accurate and up to date at the time of printing, but does not represent or warrant that it will apply to your situation nor circumstances and assumes no liability from reliance on these materials. Quotes are collected from customer feedback surveys. The models are intended to be representative and not actual customers.