Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy Team: Supporting adults affected by cancer and blood conditions

We are here to help you stay as active and independent as possible throughout your cancer treatment. Our expert team focuses on what matters most to you, supporting your everyday activities and your quality of life.

Our service is available to patients aged 25 and over who are receiving care at the University College Hospital Macmillan Cancer Centre. We are a small team consisting of a specialist physiotherapist, a specialist occupational therapist and a rehabilitation assistant. We will work closely with your healthcare team and the community services near your home. 

Physiotherapy helps to improve movement and physical activity through exercise, manual therapy and tailored advice. It is especially helpful if you are dealing with injury, illness or the effects of treatment.

Our physiotherapist will support you before, during and after your treatment. They can help you stay mobile and active, and offer advice on managing:

• Shortness of breath 
• Pain 
• Fatigue  
• Muscle strength.

Occupational therapy can help you to manage everyday tasks that may become difficult during your treatment. This could be washing, dressing, or preparing meals.

Our occupational therapist will work with you to understand the challenges you face. They will support you to find practical ways to stay independent and do the things that are most important to you.

We are here to support you in many different ways. Some of the things we can offer include: 

• Walking aids, such as crutches or a walking stick
• Rehabilitation programme before and after surgery
• An exercise programme tailored to you
• Advice on scar tissue massage, if you are having surgery
• Equipment to help you around the home, such as a shower stool
• Tips for managing fatigue
• Advice on how to help with breathlessness
• A referral for a wheelchair, if you need one
• Tips on how to improve your memory and thinking skills
• Practical advice for everyday tasks, such as washing, dressing and cooking 
• Help with getting back to sport and exercise 
• Support to return to work and leisure activities.

If you would like support from our service, please ask any member of your UCLH healthcare team to refer you. It is a quick and easy process.

Once we receive the referral, we will review it and add you to our waiting list if we think we can help. We will then contact you to arrange your first appointment. Whenever possible, we will aim to see you during one of your visits to the Cancer Centre.

Yes, there are local physiotherapy and occupational therapy services in most areas. The exact services and how to access them may vary depending on where you live.

If you would like to be referred to your local physiotherapy or occupational therapy team, please contact your GP practice.

You showed us what was possible rather than impossible. We appreciated that very much and your swift practical follow up. Thank you for your kindness and your expertise.

...have been amazing, knowledgeable and professional, and I really appreciate all that you have helped me with.

…improved function, mobility and most of all confidence.

…fundamental to my recovery and wellbeing during a challenging chemotherapy regime… I feel incredibly fortunate.

Since starting physiotherapy, I feel better. I always feel better after my sessions, and I feel fitter. My breathlessness is a lot better… I am now able to see my friends and family and go on outings without getting breathless... The exercise has also benefited my mood and made me think more positively.

The Macmillan Support and Information Service offers advice, support and information to anyone affected by cancer or a blood condition. You can drop in any time between 9am and 4.45pm, Monday to Friday, or call 020 3447 8663.

Adult Cancer Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy Team

Address: University College Hospital Macmillan Cancer Centre Huntley Street, London, WC1E 6AG

Telephone: 07971 776 300