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Physical therapy

As a (pediatric) physical therapist affiliated with KinderOncoNet, you contribute to the physical functioning of a child with cancer in the home setting. This can be during or after oncological treatment. Survivors who had cancer during childhood can also turn to you with questions related to movement and physical activity.

As a (pediatric) physical therapist affiliated with KinderOncoNet, you contribute to the physical functioning of a child with cancer in the home setting. This can be during or after oncological treatment. Survivors who had cancer during childhood can also come to you with questions related to movement.

The role of the physical therapist

At the Princess Máxima Center, the goal during (physical therapy) treatment is to achieve the best possible quality of life during and after treatment. This involves looking at the child’s physical, social, cognitive, emotional, and spiritual well-being. As a physical therapist, you mainly contribute to the physical domain. This includes:

  • Promoting independence and self-reliance.

  • Reducing negative side effects of the disease and its treatment.

  • Encouraging physically active play.

  • Reducing medically traumatic stress.

Physical therapy support within KinderOncoNet

As a physical therapist affiliated with KinderOncoNet, you have knowledge about movement in children with cancer. Many children and parents receive physical therapy support at the Princess Máxima Center or in the home setting. Together with the child and parents, a treatment plan is developed. Young children often practice through play, while older children focus more on improving strength and endurance to enhance physical and motor skills.

Physical activity programs at the Princess Máxima Center

At the Máxima Center, the physical domain is supported by making the environment attractive for physical play, for example through the sports garden. The Maximaal Bewegen program offers daily opportunities for physical activity for children in the gym, in their room, or elsewhere in the hospital. Children are encouraged to move as much as possible within their limits, starting from day one.

The added value of KinderOncoNet for the physical therapist

As a (pediatric) physical therapist affiliated with KinderOncoNet, you may receive referrals for children from the Máxima Center. Based on the knowledge you have gained, you can work on the child’s specific needs and optimal quality of life, depending on the type of cancer and the phase of treatment. On this knowledge platform, you will find important information about childhood cancer in relation to (pediatric) physical therapy care.

E-learning and registration with KinderOncoNet

By completing our e-learning, you will learn more about this treatment, as well as the treatments provided by an occupational therapist, speech therapist, dietitian, and psychologist. After completing the e-learning, you can register as a physical therapist affiliated with KinderOncoNet, which gives you access to the learning portal.