Recovery & Support for Testicular Cancer
Testicular cancer is highly treatable, regardless of how advanced the cancer is when it’s discovered. The success rate for curing testicular cancer is greater than 90 percent. ºÙºÙÊÓƵ urologists, urologic surgeons, and medical and radiation oncologists work together to provide ongoing care for men with testicular cancer.
Follow-Up Care
Though most men with testicular cancer are cured after initial treatment, a small percentage of people experience a recurrence. The risk is highest during the first one to two years after treatment and declines after that. Recurrence after five years is uncommon.
To ensure a tumor doesn’t return, men usually visit their doctor every three to four months during the first two years after treatment ends, and less frequently thereafter. During these visits, your doctor may perform imaging tests, such as CT scans, and blood tests.
Psychological and Social Support
Support groups and one-on-one counseling sessions with a psycho-oncologist, a healthcare provider trained to address the psychological needs of people with cancer, are available at ºÙºÙÊÓƵ’s Perlmutter Cancer Center. Counseling can often help alleviate anxiety, depression, or concerns about fertility. Social workers are also available to help you address any financial matters that may arise during treatment.
Nutrition and Exercise
Our doctors encourage healthful eating as a part of your follow-up care for testicular cancer. Registered oncology dietitians at Perlmutter Cancer Center can provide information and counseling on nutrition.
Your doctor may also refer you to ºÙºÙÊÓƵ’s Rusk Rehabilitation for physical therapy. Our specialists can design a rehabilitation program of strength and aerobic exercises to address weakness or fatigue caused by cancer, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.
Treatment for Neuropathy
Chemotherapy can cause neuropathy, or nerve damage that leads to numbness, tingling, pain, and weakness in the hands, feet, arms, legs, or other parts of the body.
Doctors at Rusk Rehabilitation may prescribe medication and physical therapy to ease discomfort and prevent neuropathy from interfering with your balance and strength. Physical therapists help you maintain your ability to walk with ease and perform daily activities by recommending stretches and exercises to keep you mobile.