Rehabilitation & Therapy

A brain tumor diagnosis and its treatments often affect not only the brain but also physical abilities, coordination, and daily functioning. Rehabilitation therapies play a crucial role in helping patients regain independence, improve quality of life, and manage symptoms after surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy.


Why Rehabilitation Matters

Brain tumors and their treatments can impact muscle strength, balance, coordination, speech, and cognitive function. Rehabilitation helps patients recover lost abilities, adapt to new challenges, and regain confidence in daily activities. Starting rehab early, under the guidance of healthcare professionals, can improve long-term outcomes.


Physical Therapy (PT)

Physical therapy focuses on improving mobility, strength, balance, and coordination. A physical therapist will design personalized exercises and treatments to help patients:

  • Regain muscle strength weakened by surgery or inactivity

  • Improve balance and prevent falls

  • Increase endurance and stamina

  • Manage pain and reduce muscle stiffness

  • Enhance overall physical functioning to support independence

Therapists may also recommend assistive devices like walkers or canes to help with safe mobility.


Occupational Therapy (OT)

Occupational therapy helps patients relearn and adapt to everyday tasks affected by brain tumor symptoms or treatments. Occupational therapists focus on:

  • Improving fine motor skills for activities like dressing, eating, and writing

  • Teaching strategies to manage cognitive challenges such as memory or problem-solving difficulties

  • Recommending adaptive tools and home modifications to increase safety and ease of use

  • Supporting patients to regain independence in self-care, work, and leisure activities

 

Speech and Cognitive Therapy

Some patients may benefit from speech-language therapy to address communication, swallowing, and cognitive impairments. Therapists help improve speech clarity, language skills, and memory, as well as coping strategies for thinking difficulties.


Working with a Rehab Team

A multidisciplinary rehab team often includes physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, neuropsychologists, and physicians. This team collaborates to create a comprehensive rehab plan tailored to each patient’s unique needs and goals.


When to Start Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation can begin soon after diagnosis, sometimes even during hospitalization, and continue throughout treatment and beyond. Early rehab can help prevent complications and maximize recovery potential.

Rehabilitation and therapy are essential parts of the brain tumor journey that support recovery, improve daily functioning, and enhance quality of life. If you or a loved one are facing challenges related to mobility, self-care, speech, or cognition, speak with your medical team about a referral to rehabilitation services.

Brains for the Cure is a program of the Head for the Cure Foundation, which is powered by the generous support of donors. Learn more about how you can join the fight.