Private practice physical therapy, oncology rehab, and cancer survivorship care are more important than ever for PTs and clinic owners. In this episode, Dr. Leslie Waltke explains how oncology physical therapy improves quality of life, increases survival, and reduces recurrence risk.
If you work with cancer patients — or want to — this conversation will change how you think about your role. Cancer rehab isn’t “extra.” It’s medically necessary, evidence-based care that fills the gap between being medically well and functionally independent.
Dr. Waltke breaks down what every PT should know when treating oncology patients, how to overcome the fear of “breaking” someone with cancer, and why walking programs alone can change survival outcomes. She also shares how her Team Phoenix triathlon program has helped over 260 female cancer survivors transform from non-exercisers into lifelong athletes.
For busy PTs and clinic owners, this matters because oncology patients are already in your clinics. The question is: are you confident treating them — and are you building systems that support long-term outcomes?
Chapters
00:00 – Welcome To Happy Hour
02:15 – Team Phoenix Model
08:40 – Cancer Rehab Fundamentals
14:55 – Lifelong Follow-Up Approach
20:10 – Closing The Rehab Gap
30:26 – The Parting Shot
Guest Links & Resources
Dr. Leslie Waltke
