Cancer Rehabilitation

When to check with your cancer team before exercise

What does cancer rehabilitation treat?

Cancer rehab is a supportive care program for changes in how your body moves, feels or functions as a result of cancer or its treatment. It aims to keep you as active and independent as possible in family, work and other roles, to lessen the side effects and symptoms of cancer and its treatment, including the emotional impact, and to improve your quality of life.⁠¹

It serves a large group. As of May 2025 an estimated 18.6 million people in the United States were cancer survivors, about 5.4% of the population, a number projected to reach 22.4 million by 2035; 79% were 60 or older. These are the figures the National Cancer Institute’s Office of Cancer Survivorship publishes, and it counts a person as a survivor from diagnosis through the rest of their life.⁠¹⁰

The problems rehab works on include:

• Fatigue, pain and swelling, and weakness, balance problems, or trouble walking or with daily activities⁠¹
• Neuropathy, numbness and tingling in the hands or feet⁠¹
• Lymphedema and limited range of motion, such as a stiff arm and shoulder after breast cancer surgery⁠^1,11
• Swallowing, chewing and speech, including after head and neck cancer, where speech-language pathologists play a central role⁠^1,12
• Thinking and memory changes: chemotherapy, some radiation to the brain and immunotherapy can cause trouble thinking, concentrating or remembering, sometimes called chemo brain⁠^1,13
• Emotional changes and sexual health changes⁠¹
• Bladder control after cancer surgery: surgery to remove the prostate, cervix, uterus, vagina or bladder can cause incontinence. After prostate surgery, stress incontinence is the most common type and control usually improves slowly over weeks or months. Pelvic floor physical therapists can help with a plan of pelvic floor (Kegel) exercises, and pelvic therapy with biofeedback often works better than exercises alone⁠^14,15
• Bone and muscle loss from hormone therapy for prostate cancer, which can also bring fractures and fatigue; exercise may help reduce some of these effects⁠¹⁶

Who provides cancer rehabilitation?

Several kinds of professionals may be part of your cancer rehab team, and you may work with one or more of them, depending on your needs.⁠¹ Rehab is most often outpatient, at cancer centers and hospitals; people with advanced cancer or complex problems may need inpatient rehab at a hospital, rehab center or long-term care center, and some services come to your home or by telehealth.⁠¹ Therapy after a hospital discharge explains how each of those is arranged after a hospital stay.

Physical therapists (PT)

A physical therapist is a licensed health professional who examines, tests and treats physical problems, using exercise, heat, cold and other methods to restore or maintain strength, mobility and function.⁠¹ The specialty board describes oncologic physical therapy as covering the effects of surgery, radiation, chemotherapy and immunotherapy, soon after treatment and in the long term, and palliative care.⁠¹⁷ Physical therapy explains what a PT does for adults.

Occupational therapists (OT)

An occupational therapist helps people develop, recover and improve the skills needed for daily living and working.⁠¹ For people with cancer, the American Occupational Therapy Association lists managing fatigue, pain and lymphedema, designing routines that save physical and mental energy, adapting routines at home and at work, improving memory and attention, improving sleep without medication, and increasing physical activity.⁠¹⁸ Occupational therapy covers the profession, and Staying independent at home covers energy conservation and home setup.

Speech-language pathologists (SLP)

A speech-language pathologist works with speech and swallowing problems, helping people communicate and eat and drink safely.⁠¹ In head and neck cancer, the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) describes SLPs as central to screening, assessment, diagnosis and treatment, with counseling before, during and after surgery, radiation and systemic therapy.⁠¹² Speech therapy for adults covers what an SLP treats in adults.

Lymphedema therapists

A lymphedema therapist evaluates and treats lymphedema, reducing swelling and controlling pain, often with special massage, bandaging, compression garments and exercise.⁠¹

Physiatrists and the rest of the team

A physiatrist, a doctor of physical medicine and rehabilitation, focuses on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of nerve, muscle and bone disorders that change how people move and function, and often helps with pain. A team can also include a registered dietitian, a psychologist, a vocational counselor for returning to work, a recreational therapist and an exercise physiologist, who builds exercise programs but does not diagnose or prescribe treatment plans as a physical therapist can.⁠¹

Which specialist fits which problem?

How to find a cancer rehabilitation specialist

Start with your cancer care team. The American Cancer Society says cancer rehab needs a referral from your health care provider, which may go to a rehab center or straight to a specialist, and the kind you get can depend on what your insurance covers. Ask which specialists can best address your symptoms, and look for a program that offers those services.⁠¹ When you book, ask which specialist you are seeing and whether they are experienced in working with people who have cancer.⁠¹

Specialist credentials, and what each one means

• Board-certified oncologic clinical specialist (physical therapy). Certified by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties. To qualify, a PT documents 2,000 hours of direct patient care in the specialty within the last 10 years (500 of them in the last three) or an accredited residency, submits an oncology case report, and takes the board’s certification examination. The first oncology examination was given in 2019, and the board had certified 281 oncology specialists as of July 2026.⁠^17,21
• CLT-LANA (lymphedema). The Lymphology Association of North America says its certification means a therapist completed a 135-hour training program through an accredited lymphedema therapy school, passed a voluntary, accredited certification examination, and is committed to ongoing education.⁠²²
• CCC-SLP (speech-language pathology). ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence, whose status can be verified through ASHA.⁠²³ ASHA’s code of ethics expects SLPs who treat head and neck cancer to be specifically educated and appropriately trained to do so.⁠¹²

Where to look

• Physical therapists: the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties’ directory of board-certified specialists, and APTA’s Find a PT directory on ChoosePT.com, which can be filtered by specialty area.⁠²⁴
• Lymphedema therapists: the Lymphology Association of North America, which the American Cancer Society names for finding a certified lymphedema therapist.⁠¹⁹
• Speech-language pathologists: ASHA ProFind, listing over 20,000 ASHA-certified audiologists and speech-language pathologists who say they accept referrals.⁠²⁵

To search clinics near you by city and discipline:

• Find a physical therapist
• Find an occupational therapist
• Find a speech therapist

What happens at a first cancer rehab visit?

The first appointment is a full evaluation of your medical history and current problems. Expect questions about which daily tasks, such as bathing, dressing or eating, are hard for you; about pain, fatigue or weakness and what eases or worsens them; about thinking, memory or multitasking; and about what you hope rehab can do.⁠¹

Depending on the type of rehab, the specialist may test your range of motion, muscle strength or nerve function, check for swelling, and watch everyday movements such as walking or standing up from a chair. The plan that follows sets out treatments, a schedule and a way to track progress, and it is shared with the rest of your cancer care team.⁠¹

Bring your goals in writing and your questions, and someone to help you listen and take notes. You may feel sore or tired afterward; tell your rehab specialist if you are too uncomfortable or in pain. You can go back to rehab at any time after a cancer diagnosis, including after treatment is finished.⁠¹

What is cancer-related fatigue?

Cancer fatigue means feeling exhausted or extremely tired because of cancer or its treatment. Unlike ordinary tiredness, it is not completely relieved by sleep or rest, and it can come after little or no activity.⁠²⁰

It is one of the most common side effects of treatment: more than 80% of people with cancer have fatigue during chemotherapy or radiation therapy. It can begin before, during or after treatment, and it usually eases once treatment ends, though some people still feel it for months or years.⁠²⁰

Several things feed it, and many are treatable: anemia, pain, sleep problems, infection, poor appetite, fluid loss from vomiting or diarrhea, hot flashes, and feelings of stress, fear and hopelessness. Tell your team if you are very weak and tired, especially if you cannot do your normal activities or are still very tired after rest or sleep; an exam and a blood test can check for anemia or infection.⁠²⁰ The emotional toll of chronic illness covers the distress side, and when talk therapy helps.

Does exercise help cancer-related fatigue?

Yes, in the trials so far. ASCO’s 2024 guideline, written with the Society for Integrative Oncology from 113 randomized trials, says clinicians should recommend exercise, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based programs, and tai chi or qigong to reduce fatigue during treatment, and exercise, CBT and mindfulness-based programs after it. It rated the certainty of the evidence for these approaches low to moderate.⁠²

A 2012 Cochrane review of 56 trials with 4,068 participants, half of the trials in breast cancer, found exercise reduced fatigue more than control conditions, both during and after treatment. Aerobic exercise reduced fatigue significantly, while resistance training and other forms of exercise did not reach significance, and benefits were found in breast and prostate cancer but not in blood cancers.⁠²⁶

For fatigue, an international roundtable convened by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) in 2018 set the dose at moderate aerobic exercise, about the effort of a brisk walk, three times a week for at least 12 weeks; moderate-intensity combined aerobic and resistance training 2 to 3 times a week, or moderate-intensity resistance training twice a week, may also work. Low-intensity training had a weak effect and is unlikely to reduce fatigue.⁠^5,6

Build up to it. Even a few minutes of activity a day helps, short bouts with rest breaks count, and if you feel very tired, 10 minutes of light exercise a day is a starting point to build from.⁠⁶ Rest still has a place: keep daytime naps under an hour, and do what matters most to you when your energy is highest.⁠²⁰

Exercise during and after cancer treatment: is it safe?

For most people, yes. The American Cancer Society says research shows exercise is safe and helpful before, during and after cancer treatment for most people.⁠⁶ The ACSM roundtable concluded that exercise training and testing are generally safe for cancer survivors and that every survivor should avoid inactivity.⁠⁵

The roundtable found enough evidence that set doses of aerobic training, resistance training, or both improve anxiety, depressive symptoms, fatigue, physical function and health-related quality of life; the effects on peripheral neuropathy and thinking skills remain uncertain.⁠⁵ ASCO tells oncology providers to recommend regular aerobic and resistance exercise during active treatment given with curative intent, after a review that found gains in fitness, strength and fatigue.⁠²⁷

The American Cancer Society’s guideline for survivors is to build up to 150 to 300 minutes of moderate activity or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous activity a week, or a mix, with muscle-strengthening exercise at least 2 days a week, starting slowly and increasing over time. During treatment you may need to do less, or work at a lower intensity, than before; if you were inactive, short, slow walks are a start. Ask your team whether there are limits, and do not go above moderate effort, about a brisk walk, without talking with your doctor.⁠⁶

For self-reported physical function, supervised programs appeared more effective than unsupervised or home-based ones; for fatigue, the benefit did not seem to depend on supervision or setting. When side effects call for it, the roundtable sends people to trained personnel: physical and occupational therapists, physiatrists and certified exercise physiologists.⁠⁵

Lymphedema and weight lifting: what the trials changed

Lymphedema is a build-up of lymph fluid under the skin that causes swelling. It is most common after treatment for breast, prostate and pelvic cancers, lymphoma, melanoma and head and neck cancers, because surgery or radiation for them often involves the lymph nodes, and it can appear many years after treatment.⁠¹⁹

Early signs include swelling, fullness or heaviness; skin changes; new aching, tingling or numbness; stiffer joints; and a collar, ring or watch that feels tight without weight gain. Treated early, it is most likely to be reversible.⁠¹⁹

Weight lifting was long discouraged for women with breast cancer-related lymphedema, and upper body exercise for women at risk of it.⁠^3,4,5

The ACSM roundtable concluded that a progressive resistance program for the large muscle groups, 2 to 3 times a week, starting low and progressing slowly, is safe for women with or at risk of breast cancer-related lymphedema when supervised by a fitness professional. There is not enough evidence on starting without supervised instruction, and the findings may not carry over to lymphedema after head and neck, bladder, melanoma, gynecologic or other cancers.⁠⁵

Do I need to protect my arm after breast cancer?

Not by avoiding use. The trials and the roundtable support supervised, slowly progressive strength training for women with or at risk of arm lymphedema after breast cancer.⁠^3,4,5 What still holds: protect the skin, because cuts and injuries can trigger lymphedema or make it worse; wear a compression garment as directed, and only one fitted for you; avoid blood draws and blood pressure readings on the affected arm when possible; and tell your doctor right away about any change in the arm.⁠¹⁹

Call your doctor or lymphedema therapist if the area feels hot, looks red or swells, or you have a fever that is not from being sick: these can be signs of cellulitis, a skin infection.⁠¹⁹

Peripheral neuropathy after chemotherapy: what helps

Some cancer treatments damage the peripheral nerves. Damage to the sensory nerves can cause tingling, numbness or pins and needles in the feet and hands, and trouble feeling heat, cold or pain; damage to the motor nerves can cause weak muscles that make you lose your balance, trip, or struggle to button a shirt or open a jar.⁠²⁸

Tell your doctor or nurse as soon as you notice problems: diagnosing and treating them early is the best way to control them and prevent further damage.⁠²⁸ ASCO advises clinicians to assess whether to delay or reduce a dose, substitute another drug, or stop chemotherapy when neuropathy becomes intolerable or limits function. No medicine is recommended to prevent it, and duloxetine is the only drug with enough evidence for painful neuropathy, with limited benefit.⁠²⁹

Numbness in the feet or balance problems raise the risk of falls, so ask about devices that might help.⁠⁶ At home: move rugs out of your path, put rails on the walls and in the bathroom, use bathmats in the shower or tub, wear sturdy shoes inside and outside, get up slowly, use potholders, have someone check the water temperature, and check your arms, legs and feet for cuts every day.⁠²⁸

Physical therapy is among the treatments that may be advised to lower the pain.⁠²⁸ Whether exercise improves the neuropathy itself is still uncertain, the ACSM roundtable found.⁠⁵

Shoulder stiffness and tightness after cancer surgery

Pain and stiffness after any type of breast cancer surgery can weaken the arm and shoulder and make dressing, bathing or combing your hair harder, and arm and shoulder exercises help get the movement back. Start them only when your healthcare team says it is OK, usually a week or more after surgery; some exercises wait until drains and stitches are out.⁠¹¹

Some tightness in the chest and armpit is normal and should ease as you do the exercises; call your doctor if it does not. The exercises matter even more after radiation, which can affect the arm and shoulder long after treatment ends.⁠¹¹

Your team might send you to a physical therapist, an occupational therapist or a cancer exercise specialist certified by the American College of Sports Medicine, and you might need that help if you do not have full use of your arm within 3 to 4 weeks after surgery.⁠¹¹

After treatment for head and neck cancer, numbness and reduced movement in the head, neck and shoulder, soft tissue fibrosis and scarring, and limited jaw opening (trismus) are among the side effects ASHA lists, and some appear years after treatment.⁠¹²

Cancer prehabilitation: getting fit before treatment

Prehab means seeing a cancer rehab professional before treatment begins, to measure your strength, mobility and abilities before problems start. The American Cancer Society says research shows it can help people stay stronger, tolerate treatment better, have fewer complications and spend less time in the hospital.⁠¹

ASCO’s 2022 guideline names one case directly: in people with lung cancer, exercise before surgery led to shorter hospital stays and fewer complications afterward, and providers may recommend it.⁠²⁷ Being as active as possible before treatment may reduce complications from surgery more generally.⁠⁶

Before radiation for head and neck cancer, swallowing exercises are often part of preventive treatment, to reduce impairment and maintain function.⁠¹² “Should I think about cancer prehab?” is one of the questions the American Cancer Society suggests asking your team.⁠¹

Exercising safely with bone metastases

Bone metastases are areas of cancer that have spread to bone. They can cause pain, broken bones or more serious problems, and the spine is the most common site. Tell your cancer care team about any new symptom: bone pain is often the first sign of cancer in the bone and tends to be worse at night, and sudden, severe pain can mean a weakened bone has broken.⁠⁸ An international working group’s expert consensus says regular exercise can maintain or improve physical function and quality of life with bone metastases, and that the perceived risk of a skeletal complication should be weighed against those benefits, in consultation between you, your health care team and exercise professionals.⁠³⁰

What changes: correct technique and posture in every exercise; no rapid or loaded end-range movements, such as twisting, bending or arching, that involve the area of the lesions; care with impact loading near a lesion; and precautions against falls. The program should come from qualified exercise professionals with oncology education and exercise prescription experience.⁠³⁰

The evidence: in a trial of 57 men with prostate cancer and bone metastases, supervised aerobic, resistance and flexibility exercise three times a week for 3 months improved self-reported physical function and lower-body strength compared with usual care, with no exercise-related adverse events, no fractures and no difference in bone pain. Fatigue and body composition did not differ between the groups.⁠³¹

The ACSM roundtable lists bone metastases among the conditions that call for a medical evaluation and clearance by a physician before exercise.⁠⁵ The 2022 consensus prefers the term medical consultation to clearance, and it strongly encourages consulting your medical team before an exercise professional starts a structured program.⁠³⁰

Returning to work during or after cancer treatment

A vocational counselor supports people returning to work during or after cancer treatment, and occupational therapists help adapt routines and activities at home and at work.⁠^1,18

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), as the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) explains it, an employer must provide a reasonable accommodation needed because of cancer itself, the side effects of its treatment, or both, unless doing so would be an undue hardship. Title I covers private employers with 15 or more employees and state and local governments, and some state laws reach smaller employers.⁠³²

Accommodations the EEOC lists include leave for appointments and recovery, periodic breaks or a private area to rest, a modified schedule, working from home, and moving marginal tasks to a coworker. You do not need special wording: telling your employer you need a change at work because of your cancer is a request.⁠³²

How is cancer rehabilitation paid for?

Medicare Part B helps pay for medically necessary outpatient physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech-language pathology when your doctor or another health care provider certifies that you need it. After the Part B deductible you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, and there is no limit on how much Medicare pays for medically necessary outpatient therapy in a year. Therapy to maintain function or slow decline is covered, not only therapy that improves it.⁠^33,34,35

For 2026, once a year’s therapy passes $2,480 for physical therapy and speech-language pathology combined, or $2,480 for occupational therapy, the claims must carry the KX modifier confirming the care is medically necessary. Targeted medical review can apply above $3,000, though not every claim over that amount is reviewed.⁠³⁶

Since January 1, 2024, Part B has also covered lymphedema compression treatment items: standard and custom-fitted compression garments, compression wraps and bandaging supplies, when you have lymphedema and your provider orders them.⁠^37,38 You pay 20% after the deductible. Medicare pays for 3 daytime garments per affected body part every 6 months and 2 nighttime garments every 2 years, plus replacements when items are lost or damaged or your limb size changes, and the items must come from an enrolled supplier.⁠^38,39

Other insurance plans may limit which programs you can use and how many visits a year they cover, so check what you would pay before you start.⁠¹

• Medicare coverage for PT, OT and speech therapy
• Physical therapy cost, with and without insurance
• Occupational therapy cost for adults
• Adult therapy without insurance
• What to do when insurance denies therapy

Cancer rehabilitation goals: examples that work

Goals that name an everyday activity give you and your therapist something to measure. Write yours down and share them with your rehab team.⁠¹

RelatedAdult rehabilitationStart here for adults

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

1. American Cancer Society. (2025). Cancer rehabilitation (rehab). cancer.org. Last revised December 8, 2025; developed with medical review and contribution by the American Society of Clinical Oncology. Checked November 4, 2026.
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   “Cancer rehab (or rehabilitation) is a supportive care program that helps you cope with changes in how your body moves, feels, or functions as a result of cancer or its treatment.” “Help you stay as active as possible and participate in family, work, and other life roles” “Lessen the side effects and symptoms of cancer and its treatment, including emotional impact” “Help you stay as independent as possible” “Cancer rehab is given by trained professionals during treatment, follow-up care, or long-term survivorship.” “They can measure your strength, mobility, and abilities before problems start.” “Research shows that cancer prehab can make a difference. It can help you stay stronger, tolerate your cancer treatments better have fewer complications, and spend less time in the hospital.” Rehab can help with “Managing fatigue, pain, or swelling” “Trouble with balance or weakness, walking, or daily activities” “Dealing with neuropathy (numbness and tingling in hands or feet)” “Managing sexual health changes” “Problems with swallowing, chewing, or speech” “Emotional and cognitive (thinking, memory) changes” “Lymphedema and range-of-motion issues” “To get cancer rehab, you will need a referral from your health care provider. Your referral might be sent to a rehab center or directly to a rehab specialist. What kind of referral you get will depend on your needs and might be affected by what your insurance will cover.” “Ask your cancer care team which specialists can best address your needs, and look for a program that offers those services.” “Your insurance plan may limit which programs you can use, so check which options are covered, how many are included each year, and what you’ll have to pay out of pocket.” Professionals: occupational therapist, “A licensed therapist who works with people who have functional problems to help them develop, recover, and improve the skills needed for daily living and working.” Physical therapist, “A licensed health professional who helps examine, test, and treat physical problems, and uses exercises, heat, cold, and other methods to restore or maintain the body’s strength, mobility, and function.” Physiatrist, “A physiatrist focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of nerve, muscle, and bone disorders that can change how people move and function. These specialists often help with pain management.” Speech therapist, “A health professional who is trained to work with people who have speech and swallowing problems. Speech therapists help people learn skills to communicate and make sure that they can safely eat and drink.” Lymphedema therapist, “A lymphedema specialist evaluates and treats lymphedema (build-up of fluid in the tissues) by focusing on reducing swelling and controlling pain. They often use special massages, bandaging methods, compression garments, and exercises.” Vocational counselor, “A vocational counselor supports people who are returning to work during or after cancer treatment.” Exercise physiologist, “they do not diagnose or prescribe treatment plans like a physical therapist can.” The team may also include a dietitian, a psychologist and a recreational therapist. “Many cancer centers and hospitals offer cancer rehab services. They are most often given as an outpatient so you don’t have to stay overnight. If you have advanced cancer or complex issues you might need inpatient rehab at the hospital, a rehab center, or a long-term care center.” “Some rehab services can also be given in your home or done via telehealth.” “Which rehab specialist will I see, and are they experienced in working with people who have cancer?” “Write down your goals for cancer rehab and share them with your rehab team.” “Ask someone to go with you so they can help you listen and take notes” “Your first cancer rehab appointment will be a full evaluation of your medical history and current problems.” “Depending on the type of rehab you are getting, they may test your range of motion, muscle strength, or nerve function. They may also check your body for swelling or inflammation.” “such as walking or standing up from a chair” “Your rehab professional will share the plan with other members of your cancer care team.” “However, you may feel sore or tired. If you feel too uncomfortable or are in pain, be sure to tell your rehab specialist.” “You can get cancer rehab services at any time after a cancer diagnosis, including after treatment is finished.” “Should I think about cancer prehab?”
2. Bower, J. E., Lacchetti, C., Alici, Y., et al. (2024). Management of fatigue in adult survivors of cancer: ASCO–Society for Integrative Oncology guideline update. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 42(20), 2456–2487. doi:10.1200/JCO.24.00541 (PMID 38754041).
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   “The evidence base consisted of 113 RCTs.” “Certainty and quality of evidence were low to moderate for CRF management interventions.” “Clinicians should recommend exercise, CBT, mindfulness-based programs, and tai chi or qigong to reduce the severity of fatigue during cancer treatment.” “For survivors after completion of treatment, clinicians should recommend exercise, CBT, and mindfulness-based programs”
3. Schmitz, K. H., Ahmed, R. L., Troxel, A., et al. (2009). Weight lifting in women with breast-cancer-related lymphedema. New England Journal of Medicine, 361(7), 664–673. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa0810118 (PMID 19675330).
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   “Weight lifting has generally been proscribed for women with breast-cancer-related lymphedema” “We performed a randomized, controlled trial of twice-weekly progressive weight lifting involving 141 breast-cancer survivors with stable lymphedema of the arm.” “Participants were required to wear a well-fitted compression garment while weight lifting.” “The proportion of women who had an increase of 5% or more in limb swelling was similar in the weight-lifting group (11%) and the control group (12%)” “a lower incidence of lymphedema exacerbations as assessed by a certified lymphedema specialist (14% vs. 29%, P=0.04).” “In breast-cancer survivors with lymphedema, slowly progressive weight lifting had no significant effect on limb swelling and resulted in a decreased incidence of exacerbations of lymphedema, reduced symptoms, and increased strength.”
4. Schmitz, K. H., Ahmed, R. L., Troxel, A. B., et al. (2010). Weight lifting for women at risk for breast cancer-related lymphedema: a randomized trial. JAMA, 304(24), 2699–2705. doi:10.1001/jama.2010.1837 (PMID 21148134).
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   “Clinical guidelines for breast cancer survivors without lymphedema advise against upper body exercise” “154 breast cancer survivors 1 to 5 years postunilateral breast cancer, with at least 2 lymph nodes removed and without clinical signs of BCRL at study entry.” “Weight lifting intervention included a gym membership and 13 weeks of supervised instruction, with the remaining 9 months unsupervised, vs no exercise.” “The proportion of women who experienced incident BCRL onset was 11% (8 of 72) in the weight lifting intervention group and 17% (13 of 75) in the control group” “In breast cancer survivors at risk for lymphedema, a program of slowly progressive weight lifting compared with no exercise did not result in increased incidence of lymphedema.”
5. Campbell, K. L., Winters-Stone, K. M., Wiskemann, J., et al. (2019). Exercise guidelines for cancer survivors: consensus statement from International Multidisciplinary Roundtable. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 51(11), 2375–2390. doi:10.1249/MSS.0000000000002116 (PMID 31626055). American College of Sports Medicine roundtable, 2018; full text at PMC8576825.
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   “exercise training and testing were generally safe for cancer survivors” “Implications for other outcomes, such as peripheral neuropathy and cognitive functioning, remain uncertain.” “For training programs that last at least 12 weeks, engaging in moderate intensity aerobic training three times per week can significantly reduce cancer-related fatigue both during and after treatment” “Moderate intensity combined aerobic plus resistance training sessions performed 2–3 times per week or twice weekly moderate intensity resistance training may also be effective” “the effect for low intensity training was weak and this level of exercise is unlikely to reduce fatigue” “There is a history of clinical recommendations to refrain from aerobic or resistance training in order to avoid onset or exacerbation of lymphedema” “is safe when supervised by a fitness professional” “Insufficient evidence exists to conclude whether or not starting a resistance training program without supervised instruction is safe for women with or at risk for lymphedema after breast cancer.” “the effects seen in breast cancer may not translate for lymphedema following head and neck, bladder, melanoma, gynecologic, or other cancer sites.” On self-reported physical function, “Broadly, supervised exercise appears to be more effective than unsupervised or home-based interventions” “The 2018 ACSM Roundtable recommendations” “The efficacy of exercise for this outcome appears to be independent of the level of supervision and/or setting for training” Table 4 (adapted from the NCCN triage approach): for “Lung or abdominal surgery, ostomy, cardiopulmonary disease, ataxia, extreme fatigue, severe nutritional deficiencies, worsening/changing physical condition (i.e., lymphedema exacerbation), bone metastases”, “clearance by physician prior to exercise”; for “Peripheral neuropathy, arthritis/musculoskeletal issues, poor bone health (e.g., osteopenia or osteoporosis), lymphedema”, “Recommend pre-exercise medical evaluation”; trained personnel, “physical therapists, occupational therapists, physiatrists) and certified exercise physiologists”
6. American Cancer Society. (2025). Physical activity when you have cancer. cancer.org. Last revised November 12, 2025. Checked November 4, 2026.
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   “Research shows that for most people, exercise is safe and helpful before, during, and after cancer treatment.” “Start slowly and increase physical activity over time.” “Build up to at least 150-300 minutes of moderate-intensity activity or 75-150 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity per week, or a combination of these.” “Include muscle-strengthening exercise at least 2 days per week.” “Research shows that being as active as possible may reduce complications from surgery.” “If you exercised before cancer treatment, you might need to exercise less or at a lower intensity during treatment.” “you could start with a low-intensity activity like short, slow walks.” “Ask your cancer care team about exercising during treatment and whether there are any limits to what you can do.” “Always check with your health care team before starting an exercise program, especially if you have any of the following:” “Heart or lung disease” “Ostomy” “Severe fatigue” “Balance problems or unsteadiness on your feet” “Weak bones or bone metastases (cancer that has spread to the bones)” “Also ask if any of the medicines you take might affect how physically active you can be.” “Do not exercise above a moderate level of exertion without talking with your doctor. Moderate exertion is about as much effort as a brisk walk.” “If you notice swelling, pain, dizziness, or blurred vision, call your doctor right away.” “If you have numbness in your feet or problems with balance, you are at higher risk for falls. Ask about devices that might help you.” “If you are at greater risk of infection, you may need to stay away from public gyms and crowds until your risk returns to normal.” “Even a few minutes of activity each day will help you.” “If you feel very tired, try doing 10 minutes of light exercise each day and build up from there.” “Try short periods of exercise with frequent rest breaks.” “If you have a feeding tube or a catheter (central line in your chest), avoid pool, lake, or ocean water and other exposures that may cause infections. Don’t do strength training that uses muscles in the area of the catheter.”
7. American Cancer Society. (2026). Cancer-related fatigue. cancer.org. Last revised October 14, 2026. Checked November 4, 2026.
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   “Check with your healthcare team before you become more physically active if you have:” “Cancer that has spread to your bones (bone metastasis)” “A low platelet count” “Fever or active infection” “Low red blood cell counts (anemia)” “Balance problems, weakness, or other fall risks”
8. American Cancer Society. (2025). Bone metastases. cancer.org. Last revised July 29, 2025. Checked November 4, 2026.
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   “Bone metastases (bone mets) are areas of cancer that spread to the bones from another part of the body. This can cause pain, broken bones, or more serious problems.” “The spine is the most common site for bone metastases.” “It’s very important to tell your cancer care team about any new symptoms you have.” “Bone pain is often the first symptom of cancer that has spread to the bone. The pain may come and go at first. It tends to be worse at night and may get better with movement.” “These breaks often cause sudden, severe pain.” “Spinal cord compression is an oncology emergency.” “Back pain (sometimes with pain going down one or both legs)” “Numbness of the legs or belly” “Leg weakness or trouble moving your legs” “Loss of control of urine or stool (incontinence) or problems passing urine” “If you notice symptoms like these, call your doctor right away or go to the emergency room.”
9. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Cancer and blood clots infographic. cdc.gov. May 15, 2024; part of the Stop the Clot, Spread the Word campaign developed by the National Blood Clot Alliance with CDC. Checked November 4, 2026.
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   “Blood clots affect 900,000 people in the United States each year. 1 in 5 blood clots are related to cancer and its treatment.” “Contact your cancer doctor if you experience any of these signs or symptoms of a blood clot.” Leg or arm: “Swelling” “Skin that is warm to the touch” “Pain or tenderness not caused by injury” “Redness or discoloration of the skin” “Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these signs or symptoms of a blood clot.” Lung: “Difficulty breathing” “Coughing up blood” “Chest pain that worsens with a deep breath or cough” “Faster than normal or irregular heartbeat”
10. National Cancer Institute. Office of Cancer Survivorship. Statistics and graphs. cancercontrol.cancer.gov. Figures from Wagle NS, et al., Cancer treatment and survivorship statistics, 2025. Checked November 4, 2026.
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    “Individuals are considered survivors from the time of a cancer diagnosis through the rest of their life.” “As of May 2025, it is estimated that there are 18.6 million cancer survivors in the United States. This represents approximately 5.4% of the population.” “The number of cancer survivors in the United States is projected to grow to 22.4 million by 2035.” “In 2025, 79% of cancer survivors currently living in the United States are age 60 or older.”
11. American Cancer Society. (2026). Exercises after breast cancer surgery. cancer.org. Last revised July 1, 2026. Checked November 4, 2026.
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    “This information was developed with assistance from the Oncology Section of the American Physical Therapy Association.” “You can start these exercises as soon as your healthcare team says it's OK. This usually happens a week or more after surgery.” “Pain and stiffness can weaken your arm and shoulder and make it harder to move them. This can happen after any type of breast cancer surgery, and it can affect your daily activities like dressing, bathing, or combing your hair.” “Radiation can affect your arm and shoulder long after treatment is finished.” “They might send you to a physical therapist, occupational therapist, or cancer exercise specialist certified by the American College of Sports Medicine.” “You might need this kind of help if you do not have full use of your arm within 3 to 4 weeks after surgery.” “Some exercises should not be done until your drains and sutures (stitches) are removed.” “Some tightness in your chest and armpit after surgery is normal. The tightness should decrease as you do your exercises. Call your doctor if it does not.”
12. American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Head and neck cancer (Practice Portal). asha.org. Checked November 4, 2026.
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    “SLPs play a central role in the screening, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of people with HNC.” “Counseling before, during, and after medical management (surgery, radiation therapy, systemic therapy)” “As indicated in the Code of Ethics (ASHA, 2023), SLPs who serve this population should be specifically educated and appropriately trained to do so.” “Prior to cancer treatment, exercises are often part of preventative, or prophylactic, dysphagia treatment for patients undergoing radiation therapy. These exercises may reduce impairment, maintain function, and assist in recovery” “Many of these side effects (e.g., dysphagia, lymphedema) can occur both during and after treatment, even several years after its conclusion” Side effects listed include “numbness/reduced range of motion in the head, neck, and shoulder areas” “soft tissue fibrosis and scarring” “trismus—decreased range of motion in the jaw”
13. National Cancer Institute. (2023). Memory or concentration problems and cancer treatment. cancer.gov. Reviewed January 26, 2023. Checked November 4, 2026.
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    “sometimes described as a mental fog or chemo brain” “Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy may cause difficulty with thinking, concentrating, or remembering things. So can some types of radiation therapy to the brain and immunotherapy.” “Are there specialists who could assess, treat, or advise me on these problems (such as a neuropsychologist, an occupational therapist, a vocational therapist, and others)?”
14. American Cancer Society. (2026). Surgery for prostate cancer. cancer.org. Last revised July 27, 2026. “Stress incontinence is the most common type after prostate surgery.” “After surgery for prostate cancer, bladder control usually improves slowly over several weeks or months.” “Incontinence can be treated.” Checked November 4, 2026.
15. American Cancer Society. (2026). Bladder incontinence. cancer.org. Last revised October 8, 2026. Checked November 4, 2026.
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    “Surgery to remove the prostate, cervix, uterus, vagina, or bladder” “Pelvic floor (Kegel) exercises can strengthen the muscles that support the bladder or other organs in the abdomen (lower belly). Healthcare providers, such as pelvic floor physical therapists, trained in pelvic therapy can help you create a plan that works for you.” “Pelvic therapy done with biofeedback often works better than exercises alone.” “You can ask your care team for a referral to a pelvic floor physical therapist.”
16. National Cancer Institute. (2024). Hormone therapy for prostate cancer. cancer.gov. Reviewed October 4, 2024. Checked November 4, 2026.
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    Side effects of androgen deprivation therapy include “loss of bone density” “bone fractures” “loss of muscle mass and physical strength” “fatigue” “Exercise may help reduce some of the side effects of hormone therapy, including bone loss, muscle loss, weight gain, fatigue, and insulin resistance”
17. American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties. Become a board-certified oncologic clinical specialist. specialization.apta.org. Checked November 4, 2026.
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    “The oncologic specialty area within the physical therapy profession includes the management of musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, integumentary, and cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitative needs of patients living with and beyond cancer and other chronic illnesses, including HIV. This encompasses acute secondary sequelae of treatments such as surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy as well as long-term secondary sequelae of treatments and palliative care.” “The first oncology specialist certification examination was administered in 2019. As of July 2026, ABPTS has certified 281 oncology specialists.”
18. American Occupational Therapy Association. (2023). Occupational therapy services for cancer. aota.org. Checked November 4, 2026.
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    “People who are currently receiving treatment for cancer, or those living with or beyond cancer, receive occupational therapy services to help them manage fatigue, pain, mental health, and cognitive symptoms that keep them from doing the things they want or need to do each day.” Occupational therapy practitioners work with clients to “Manage pain and lymphedema (swelling)” “Reduce or manage fatigue (feeling tired)” “Adapt routines and activities at home and at work” “Improve memory, attention, and the ability to manage daily tasks” “Design routines that help save physical and mental energy” “Improve sleep without medication” “Increase physical activity”
19. American Cancer Society. (2026). Lymphedema. cancer.org. Last revised July 8, 2026. Checked November 4, 2026.
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    “Lymphedema is a build-up of lymph fluid in the fatty tissues just under your skin that causes swelling (edema).” “Any cancer that affects the lymph system can cause lymphedema. But it’s most common in certain cancers including:” breast, prostate, pelvic area cancers, lymphoma, melanoma and head and neck cancers; “The risk for lymphedema is higher in these cancers because they often require surgery or radiation that involves lymph nodes.” “Swelling, fullness, or heaviness in the breast, chest, shoulder, arm, hand, leg, or foot” “Skin changes such as dryness, discoloration, thickening, or dimpling” “New aching, tingling, numbness, pain, or discomfort” “Less movement or flexibility in your joints” “Your shirt collar, ring, watch, or bracelet feels tight, even though you haven’t gained weight” “It’s important to identify and treat lymphedema as early as possible when it’s most likely to be reversible.” “Lymphedema can develop many years after cancer treatment, even if you’ve never had it before.” “Cuts and injuries to the skin can trigger lymphedema or make it worse.” “Avoid having blood draws from veins in the affected arm, when possible.” “Avoid having blood pressure measurements taken on the affected arm, when possible.” “If you wear a compression garment, wear it as directed.” “Never wear a compression garment that hasn’t been fitted for you.” “Tell your doctor right away if you notice any changes.” “Call your doctor or lymphedema therapist if you notice any signs of lymphedema or cellulitis, or if:” “Any part of the affected area feels hot, looks red, or swollen.” “You have a fever that's not from being sick.” “Find a certified lymphedema therapist (CLT):” “Lymphology Association of North America (LANA)”
20. National Cancer Institute. (2024). Cancer fatigue. cancer.gov. Updated September 20, 2024. Checked November 4, 2026.
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    “Cancer fatigue is a condition caused by cancer or cancer treatment in which you feel exhausted or extremely tired.” “However, cancer fatigue is not completely relieved by sleep or rest and may happen after no or minimal activity.” “More than 80% of people with cancer experience fatigue while receiving chemotherapy or radiation therapy.” “Fatigue can begin at any time—before, during, or after cancer treatment.” “Fatigue usually decreases after cancer treatment ends, but some people may still feel fatigue for months or years.” “Some side effects of cancer treatment can cause or worsen fatigue.” The page lists anemia, appetite loss, diarrhea, hot flashes, infection, pain, sleep problems and vomiting. “High levels of distress can lead to physical problems such as fatigue, insomnia, and appetite loss.” “Sometimes fatigue is worsened by feelings of stress, fear, and hopelessness.” “Tell your health care team if you feel very weak and tired—especially if you are not able to do your normal activities or are still very tired even after resting or sleeping.” “They’ll perform a physical exam and blood test to check for anemia or infections.” “Mental health therapists can use cognitive behavioral therapy and talk therapy to help you manage these feelings, which can help decrease fatigue.” “If you are tired, take short naps of less than one hour during the day.” “Choose activities that are most important to you and do them when you have the most energy.” “Meet with a registered dietitian to learn about foods and drinks that have the nutrients you need to keep up your energy level.”
21. American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties. Minimum eligibility requirements. specialization.apta.org. Checked November 4, 2026.
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    Option A: “Applicants must submit evidence of 2,000 hours of direct patient care as a licensed United States physical therapist (temporary license excluded) in the specialty area within the last 10 years, 25% (500 hours) of which must have occurred within the last three years.” Option B: “Applicants must submit evidence of successful completion of an APTA-accredited post-professional clinical residency within the specialty area, completed within the last 10 years.” Oncology: “In addition to the general requirements, applicants must also submit one case report demonstrating specialty practice in oncologic physical therapy.”
22. Lymphology Association of North America. Why choose a LANA certified lymphedema specialist? clt-lana.org. “LANA Certification signifies a therapist who has:” “Completed a rigorous 135-hour training program through an accredited lymphedema therapy school.” “Demonstrated comprehensive knowledge by passing a voluntary, accredited certification examination.” “Committed to ongoing education and staying up-to-date with the latest lymphedema management techniques.” Checked November 4, 2026.
23. American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Certification. asha.org. “Verify the status of an individual's Certificate of Clinical Competence in Audiology (CCC-A) or Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP)” Checked November 4, 2026.
24. American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties. Find a board-certified physical therapist specialist. specialization.apta.org. Checked November 4, 2026.
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    “The directory of board-certified specialists is a portal that allows consumers, physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and other health care professionals to find PTs that have achieved specialist certification from the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties.” “Specialists are highlighted in this directory, and you can filter providers by specialty area.” (APTA’s Find a PT, on ChoosePT.com.)
25. American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. ASHA ProFind. asha.org. “ASHA ProFind is your connection to over 20,000 ASHA-Certified audiologists and speech-language pathologists who have indicated they are accepting referrals.” Checked November 4, 2026.
26. Cramp, F., & Byron-Daniel, J. (2012). Exercise for the management of cancer-related fatigue in adults. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (11), CD006145. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD006145.pub3 (PMID 23152233).
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    “For this update we identified a total of 56 studies (4068 participants) for inclusion” “with the majority carried out in participants with breast cancer (28 studies).” “A meta-analysis of all fatigue data, incorporating 38 comparisons, provided data for 1461 participants who received an exercise intervention and 1187 control participants.” “Benefits of exercise on fatigue were observed for interventions delivered during or post-adjuvant cancer therapy.” “we identified benefits of exercise on fatigue for breast and prostate cancer but not for those with haematological malignancies.” “aerobic exercise significantly reduced fatigue but resistance training and alternative forms of exercise failed to reach significance.” “aerobic exercise can be regarded as beneficial for individuals with cancer-related fatigue during and post-cancer therapy, specifically those with solid tumours.”
27. Ligibel, J. A., Bohlke, K., May, A. M., et al. (2022). Exercise, diet, and weight management during cancer treatment: ASCO guideline. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 40(22), 2491–2507. doi:10.1200/JCO.22.00687 (PMID 35576506).
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    “The evidence base consisted of 52 systematic reviews (42 for exercise, nine for diet, and one for weight management), and an additional 23 randomized controlled trials.” “Exercise during cancer treatment led to improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness, strength, fatigue, and other patient-reported outcomes.” “Preoperative exercise in patients with lung cancer led to a reduction in postoperative length of hospital stay and complications.” “Oncology providers should recommend regular aerobic and resistance exercise during active treatment with curative intent and may recommend preoperative exercise for patients undergoing surgery for lung cancer.”
28. National Cancer Institute. (2020). Nerve problems (peripheral neuropathy) and cancer treatment. cancer.gov. Reviewed January 15, 2020. Checked November 4, 2026.
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    “Some cancer treatments cause peripheral neuropathy, a result of damage to the peripheral nerves.” “tingling, numbness, or a pins-and-needles feeling in your feet and hands that may spread to your legs and arms” “inability to feel a hot or cold sensation, such as a hot stove” “inability to feel pain, such as from a cut or sore on your foot” “weak or achy muscles that may cause you to lose your balance, trip easily, or have difficulty buttoning shirts or opening jars” “Getting these problems diagnosed and treated early is the best way to control them, prevent further damage, and to reduce pain and other complications.” “Move rugs out of your path so you will not trip on them.” “Put rails on the walls and in the bathroom” “Put bathmats in the shower or tub.” “Wear sturdy shoes with soft soles.” “Get up slowly after sitting or lying down” “Use potholders in the kitchen to protect your hands from burns.” “Ask someone to check the water temperature” “Wear shoes, both inside and outside. Check your arms, legs, and feet for cuts or scratches every day.” “Sometimes practices such as acupuncture, massage, physical therapy, yoga, and others may also be advised to lower pain.”
29. Loprinzi, C. L., Lacchetti, C., Bleeker, J., et al. (2020). Prevention and management of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy in survivors of adult cancers: ASCO guideline update. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 38(28), 3325–3348. doi:10.1200/JCO.20.01399 (PMID 32663120).
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    “The identified data reconfirmed that no agents are recommended for the prevention of CIPN.” “clinicians should assess the appropriateness of dose delaying, dose reduction, substitutions, or stopping chemotherapy in patients who develop intolerable neuropathy and/or functional impairment.” “Duloxetine is the only agent that has appropriate evidence to support its use for patients with established painful CIPN. Nonetheless, the amount of benefit from duloxetine is limited.”
30. Campbell, K. L., Cormie, P., Weller, S., et al. (2022). Exercise recommendation for people with bone metastases: expert consensus for health care providers and exercise professionals. JCO Oncology Practice, 18(5), e697–e709. doi:10.1200/OP.21.00454 (PMID 34990293).
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    International Bone Metastases Exercise Working Group; full text at PMC9810134. “Regular exercise has the potential to maintain or improve physical function and health-related quality of life in people with bone metastases, and the perceived risk of skeletal complication should be weighed against the potential health benefits.” “on the basis of consultation between the person, health care team, and exercise professionals.” “avoidance of rapid or loaded end-range movements, such as rotation, flexion, or extension movements that involve the area of the lesions; consideration of impact loading of an exercise along with the type of movement (ie, concentric, eccentric, and plyometric) in the area of the bone lesion(s); and education and precautions to minimize the risk of falls.” “should be delivered by qualified exercise professionals with oncology education and exercise prescription experience. Emphasis on postural alignment, controlled movement, and proper technique is essential.” “The IBMEWG agreed that the term medical consultation versus clearance was the most appropriate term” “Consultation with the medical team is strongly encouraged before an exercise professional provides structured exercise for a person with bone metastases”
31. Galvão, D. A., Taaffe, D. R., Spry, N., et al. (2018). Exercise preserves physical function in prostate cancer patients with bone metastases. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 50(3), 393–399. doi:10.1249/MSS.0000000000001454 (PMID 29036016).
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    “57 prostate cancer patients” “were randomized to multimodal supervised aerobic, resistance, and flexibility exercises undertaken thrice weekly (EX; n = 28) or usual care (CON; n = 29) for 3 months.” “However, there was no difference between groups for lean mass (P = 0.584), fat mass (P = 0.598), or fatigue (P = 0.964). There were no exercise-related adverse events or skeletal fractures and no differences in bone pain between EX and CON (P = 0.507).” “Multimodal modular exercise in prostate cancer patients with bone metastases led to self-reported improvements in physical function and objectively measured lower body muscle strength with no skeletal complications or increased bone pain.”
32. U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. (2013). Cancer in the workplace and the ADA. eeoc.gov. Issued May 15, 2013. Checked November 4, 2026.
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    “Title I of the ADA covers employment by private employers with 15 or more employees as well as state and local government employers.” “Some of these state laws may apply to smaller employers” “unless doing so would be an undue hardship (that is, a significant difficulty or expense).” “An employer must provide a reasonable accommodation that is needed because of the limitations caused by the cancer itself, the side effects of medication or treatment for the cancer, or both.” “leave for doctors' appointments and/or to seek or recuperate from treatment” “periodic breaks or a private area to rest or to take medication” “modified work schedule or shift change” “permission to work at home” “reallocation or redistribution of marginal tasks to another employee” “A person simply has to tell the employer that she needs an adjustment or change at work because of her cancer.”
33. Medicare.gov. Physical therapy services. medicare.gov. Checked November 4, 2026.
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    “helps pay for medically necessary outpatient physical therapy” “You can also get this therapy to help improve or maintain your current function, or slow your rate of decline.” “Your doctor or other health care provider (including a nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, or physician assistant) must certify that you need it.” “you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount” “There's no limit on how much Medicare pays for your medically necessary outpatient therapy services in one calendar year.”
34. Medicare.gov. Occupational therapy services. medicare.gov. “Therapy to help you perform activities of daily living (like dressing or bathing). You can get this therapy to help improve or maintain your current capabilities, or slow your rate of decline.” Checked November 4, 2026.
35. Medicare.gov. Speech-language pathology services. medicare.gov. “Speech-language pathology services provide evaluation and treatment to regain and strengthen speech and language skills. This includes cognitive and swallowing skills, or therapy to improve or maintain current function or slow decline.” Checked November 4, 2026.
36. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Therapy services. cms.gov. Page last modified March 10, 2026. Checked November 4, 2026.
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    “For CY 2026 this KX modifier threshold amount is:” “$2,480 for PT and SLP services combined, and” “$2,480 for OT services.” “Claims for services over the KX modifier threshold amounts without the KX modifier are denied.” “the MR threshold is $3,000 for PT and SLP services and $3,000 for OT services.” “The targeted MR process means that not all claims exceeding the MR threshold amount are subject to review as they once were.”
37. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. (2024). Transmittal 12532, Medicare Benefit Policy Manual, chapter 15: add section 145, Lymphedema Compression Treatment Items. cms.gov. March 7, 2024. “January 1, 2024 for MBPM, chapter 15, section 145” Checked November 4, 2026.
38. Medicare.gov. Lymphedema compression treatment items. medicare.gov. “Part B may cover your gradient compression garments (standard and custom-fitted) and gradient compression wraps with adjustable straps and compression bandaging supplies.” “You must have lymphedema and your doctor or other health care provider must order the items.” “you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount” Checked November 4, 2026.
39. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Lymphedema compression treatment items. cms.gov. Page last modified July 28, 2026. Checked November 4, 2026.
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    “Daytime: 3 garments per affected body part every 6 months” “Nighttime: 2 garments per affected body part every 2 years” “To replace lost, stolen, or irreparably damaged items” “If a patient’s condition changes, like a change in limb size” “You must be an enrolled DMEPOS supplier to get Medicare payment for furnishing these treatment items.”

Medical disclaimer. This page is for general educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your individual situation. Speak to your oncology team before starting an exercise program, particularly if you have bone metastases, heart or lung disease, or extreme fatigue.