← Return to Looking for help with radiation fibrosis; Tips?

Discussion
Ellen2007 avatar

Looking for help with radiation fibrosis; Tips?

Head & Neck Cancer | Last Active: 2 hours ago | Replies (45)

Comment receiving replies
Profile picture for atherton @atherton

My husband was diagnosed in 2004 with SCC, stage 4 with a 20% prognosis.

My two suggestions:

1). Go to MD Anderson and map out a very good plan of care. They have so many resources there.
2). We fly from San Diego to West Orange New Jersey every 3 months for my husband's severe radiation fibrosis - as it's been 21 years since diagnosis. We HIGHLY recommend Dr. Stubblefield at Kessler Rehab . He is considered a leading expert on radiation fibrosis. He informed us that traditional PT was only making things worse. His PT, OT and Speech are specific trained in the treatment of radiation fibrosis and is able to relieve my husband's pain.
3). Look up articles on the NIH regarding treatment for radiation fibrosis - that's how we found Dr. Stubblefield in New Jersey.
4). Look up Cancer Rehab PT on you tube - PT has some great gently exercises - make sure to seek advise from MD first before starting any exercises.
5). Exercise now, get a great myofascial therapist - put in as much time to treat yourself now so that in 20 year you will be thankful that you did.
OK...that was more than 2 things but.....

Jump to this post


Replies to "My husband was diagnosed in 2004 with SCC, stage 4 with a 20% prognosis. My two..."

@atherton I am three years out now from partial glossectomy radical neck dissection chemo/ radiation. If you look at me you’re going to say your neck looks wonderful. I have a very small bulge under chin middle. I have been doing well until a month ago I sustained a “Charlie horse” to the neck decided to try the spicy tomato soup again same response. Since then my neck is a mess. I have restrictions, pulling, and occasional spasms. They ordered PT which seem to be making it worse. I also trying to find a good myofascial therapist but can’t find one. I live in Florida went to UM for treatment but I feel something is lacking. How did you find a good therapist. I looked at the John Barnes website and did see one twice but feel she is not expert level. It is frustrating to see there is no help for this. I am consistently doing exercises and now wearing a compression garment but need some expert advice to navigate this