Head and neck cancers can impact nearly every aspect of daily life – from eating, speaking, and swallowing to breathing, posture, and even how a person relates to the world around them. While treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation are often life-saving, they can also cause challenging side effects that affect comfort, function, and independence, long after treatment ends. At Cancer Rehabilitation & Lymphatic Solutions on the Central Coast, we believe rehabilitation should be integrated into the cancer care pathway from the beginning. For people with head and neck cancer, this proactive, whole-person approach can significantly improve both short- and long-term outcomes.
Head and neck cancer (HNC) refers to a group of cancers that develop in or around the throat, larynx, nose, sinuses, and mouth. This includes oral cavity cancer, oropharyngeal cancer, laryngeal cancer, nasopharyngeal cancer, and others. Each of these can affect critical functions like speech, swallowing, and breathing, which is why early, tailored rehabilitation is so important.
Experts in Head and Neck Cancer Rehabilitation on the Central Coast
Our Erina clinic offers dedicated care for patients with head and neck cancer, led by Kate Perkins and Caitlin Hobday – two of the few qualified Head and Neck Lymphoedema Therapists on the Central Coast. Both are highly trained in managing the complex effects of head and neck cancer treatments, combining advanced lymphoedema therapy, hands-on rehabilitation techniques, and a deep understanding of the unique physical and emotional challenges these patients face.
With more than a decade of experience, Kate has become a recognised leader in cancer rehabilitation, and Caitlin has trained under her since 2022, now a fully qualified OT and accredited Lymphoedema Therapist herself. Together, they offer personalised care rooted in experience, compassion, and the latest clinical evidence.
How Cancer Treatment Affects the Head, Neck and Lymphatic System
Surgery, chemotherapy, and especially radiation to the head and neck region can impact soft tissue, lymphatic drainage, nerve function and musculoskeletal mobility.
This may lead to:
- Lymphoedema in the face, jaw, and neck
- Radiation fibrosis (thickened, tight tissues)
- Trismus (limited jaw opening)
- Swallowing or speech difficulties
- Neck and shoulder dysfunction
- Chronic fatigue and deconditioning
Our personalised head and neck cancer rehabilitation services address these symptoms early and holistically to promote better long-term outcomes.
Evidence-Based, Patient-Centred Treatment Model
We offer a unique combination of therapies and technologies in our Erina clinic, designed to reduce the severity of treatment-related side effects and support faster recovery.
Here’s how we help:
1. OncoLaser™ Therapy with MLS® Laser
Co-developed by Kate Perkins and Dr Catherine Norton, this protocol uses dual-wavelength laser technology (photobiomodulation) to target inflammation, promote tissue healing, and soften radiation-induced fibrosis. OncoLaser™ is a non-invasive, pain-free treatment used widely in our clinic, offering clinically proven results for managing side effects in head and neck cancer rehabilitation.
2. Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
A specialised technique used to reduce swelling and improve lymphatic flow in the delicate head and neck areas. MLD is essential for managing post-treatment lymphoedema and maintaining soft tissue mobility.
3. SOZO Bioimpedance Monitoring
This advanced technology tracks subtle fluid changes before visible swelling appears, giving our therapists an accurate L-Dex score for early intervention. It’s a key part of our proactive lymphoedema management strategy.
4. Exercise Prescription & Postural Rehab
We design targeted exercise plans to strengthen weakened muscles, restore range of motion, and address postural changes caused by surgery or radiation. Gentle movement can also reduce fatigue, ease stiffness, and stimulate lymphatic flow.
5. Hands-On Scar & Tissue Therapy
Our therapists address trismus, tightness, and scar adhesions with gentle manual techniques to restore comfort and function – especially after neck dissections or radiation therapy.
Why Early Intervention Matters
Many patients are don’t realise that the side effects of treatment can worsen without proper support – and we’ve found that most aren’t familiar with lymphoedema, fibrosis or trismus until symptoms appear.
By working with our specialised team to begin head and neck cancer rehab early (ideally during or soon after treatment) patients can:
- Avoid chronic lymphoedema and fibrosis
- Improve tolerance to ongoing treatment
- Restore strength and range of motion sooner
- Maintain swallowing and speech function
- Reduce fatigue and anxiety
- Boost quality of life and independence
Early rehabilitation can prevent complications before they become long-term problems, restore a sense of control and confidence during a deeply uncertain time, which is it’s a vital part of every head and neck cancer care plan – from the beginning.
Cancer Care That Goes Beyond the Clinic
We don’t just treat symptoms; we partner with our patients for the long haul. We coordinate with GPs, oncologists, surgeons and allied health professionals to ensure consistent communication and continuity of care.
As a clinic, we also remain at the forefront of global best practice, research and innovation. Kate recently trialled Medi’s new Circaid™ Head and Neck Wraps before their global launch, and presented her findings at the ALA Symposium in Perth. Both Kate and Caitlin regularly attend professional development and conferences, and Kate is regularly invited to share her knowledge at industry events. Their commitment to staying current means our patients benefit from the latest advances in head and neck cancer rehabilitation, without needing to leave the Central Coast.
Book a Head and Neck Cancer Rehabilitation Assessment Today
In honour of July being Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month, we’re encouraging both patients and referrers to prioritise rehabilitation as part of cancer care — not an afterthought.
If you or someone you know is undergoing or recovering from head and neck cancer treatment, our team is here to help. Contact Cancer Rehabilitation & Lymphatic Solutions on (02) 4312 7033 to book an assessment.
You don’t have to manage these challenges alone. Early, expert care can make a life-changing difference.