Activation of the patient with skeletal metastatic neoplasia.

Abstract

The major problems in dealing with patients with skeletal metastatic disease are pain, fracture, neurological disability, and general inactivity. The broad aim in the management of the patient with bony metastatic carcinoma is the preservation of function, even in the face of imminent fracture. There must be a positive approach to the hopeless situation of widespread bony metastasis. Not only is the morale of the patient who is being treated raised but fellow patients with the same dread diagnosis of cancer see patients who get about and go home. It is the sole responsibility of the physician, once the decision is made to activate the patient, to follow this patient through the training program and not to relegate the supervision to a nurse or physical therapist.