[Physical therapy of cancer patients - narrative review and expert opinion].

Aim: The issue of physical therapy for people with malignancies has been very controversial. In the past, physical therapy was completely contraindicated in cancer patients. Many doctors are still conservative regarding this issue. Therefore, based on a narrative summary of literature data, we compiled a consensus-based expert opinion.

Methods: The narrative summary was prepared based on publications of the last 5 years. Then the expert group created an expert opinion based on a common consensus.

Results: We created a concise expert opinion consisting of 10 points and a practical algorithm. The use of physical therapy is established jointly by the patient, doctors and health professionals. Exercise is essentially recommended for everyone. We formulated specific recommendations regarding massage, ultrasound, laser, shockwave, TENS and balneotherapy. These methods can be used with appropriate precautions in cancer patients. On the other hand, most electrotherapy modalities are not recommended, while the evaluation of massage in patients with osteosarcoma is not clear, so we prefer not to recommend it.

Conclusions: Exercise, certain modalities of physical therapy and balneotherapy can be useful additions to the rehabilitation of cancer patients.