Treating fibrosis and lymphedema
It is important for individuals who
received radiation treatment and/or surgery for head and neck cancer continue
treating their post radiation neck and face fibrosis and lymphadenitis.
This may be difficult during the COVID-19
pandemic as access the physical therapists and lymphedema specialist may be
limited or absent. Some therapists offer treatment using telemedicine. Most
therapist encourage their patients to continue using their treatment modalities
and exercises at home.
Treatment of fibrosis that can be done at
home and include stretching the neck muscles by exercises such as chin curls,
head rotations, shoulder shrugs, and shoulder circles. Exercise can reduce neck
tightness and increases the range of neck motion. One needs to perform these
exercises throughout life to maintain good neck mobility.
Treatment of lymphedema that can be done
at home include manual lymph drainage, compression bandages and garments,
remedial exercises, and skin care.
It is best to consult one’s therapists to
inquire about the appropriate treatment modalities they should follow.
More information about treatment of these
conditions can be obtained in The Laryngectomee Guide and My Voice (for Lymphedema), and My Voice (for fibrosis) ) and My Voice (for fibrosis)
Lymphedema of the chin and neck
Coping with neopharyngeal or
esophageal narrowing during the COVID-19 pandemic
The corona (COVID-19) pandemic presents
many challenges for head and neck cancer patients and their medical providers.
Because of the reduction or decrease in outpatient services, the availability
of neopharyngeal and /or esophageal dilation for esophageal narrowing may not
be available.
Enclosed are suggestions how to cope with
these challenges:
- Performing dilation at-home using self-dilation device
- Considering treatment that resolve the narrowing (i.e., stent, laser treatment)
- Temporarily altering the diet to soft or liquid one
- Using a gastric tube for feeding
It is helpful to contact one’s speech and
language pathologist and/or physician for guidance. Many institutions perform
dilation to those who are unable to consume sufficient calories and liquids.
More information about treatment of these
conditions can be obtained in The Laryngectomee Guide at and My Voice
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