Introduction: The issue of cancer is a current one with a significant international impact. One of the important points of Europe's Beating Cancer Plan is the "Better Life for Cancer Patients Initiative". One of the key areas is quality of life (QoL) of cancer patients and survivors, which is significant from the perspective of rehabilitation, calling for a multidisciplinary approach and emphasising physical activity as one of the options for supportive treatment. Movement and its perception are used in the Feldenkrais method (FM), which can be personalised and applied at different stages of the disease to positively influence QoL.
Objectives: The topic of FM in occupational therapy (OT) is quite new. Previous qualitative research on the use of FM in OT has demonstrated improvements in QoL and meaningfulness. FM can be classified as an integrative oncological (IO) intervention. The most common goals include alleviating disease symptoms and side effects of conventional treatment, improving QoL and overall health and fitness.
Methods: Prospective study with mixed design mapping the feasibility and utility of FM in oncological prehabilitation and rehabilitation from the perspective of an OT with a focus on gynecological oncology.
Results: Preliminary results with 20 patients show statistically significant positive effect on the physical and mental state and QoL of the patients. Final results will be presented at the congress.
Conclusion: Evidence on OT and IO in cancer rehabilitation is insufficient and further research is considered necessary. From the OT viewpoint, FM has potential in oncological rehabilitation as one of the possible approaches of IO.