How well did your ENT / oncologist provide transition to potential after treatment options?

For me each diagnosis, initial and recurrence, were within the same hospital and health care organization. In both cases the surgeries and radiation were successful in excising the cancer. Each time upon discharge from the hospital, other than follow up visits with the ENT's and Radiologists, there was very little direction or assistance given regarding potential quality of life improvements with physical therapy.

Because of my swallowing problems I was referred to a specialist where multiple attempts over several months resulted in minimal improvements.

I was 18 months out from my last radiation treatment and dealing with what seemed like an ever reducing ability to open my mouth more than 1/2" and increased pain / spasms in my jaw and neck before I finally started to search out some means of relief other than just increasing my pain meds. Researching the my area for the best available physical therapist(s), I found a group that specialized in after treatment of head and neck cancers. In the same health care organization....

Over the last month and a half, the results from the PT are starting to be reflected in a reduction in jaw joint pain and muscle spasms in the neck and jaw area.

I do wonder if the PT was started as soon as feasible after completion of radiation treatments, if there would be any difference in my daily quality of life.

So. I'm very interested to hear from any / all of you regarding your experiences associated with transitioning from surgery or radiation treatments AND / OR if you feel improvements could be made regarding this phase of recovery.