A Study to Assess the Efficacy of Early Physical Therapy Intervention Following a Modified Unilateral Neck Dissection for Treatment of Head and Neck Cancer

A Randomized Study to Assess the Efficacy of Early Physical Therapy Intervention on Upper Quarter Strength and Mobility, and Reported Upper Extremity Disability and Quality of Life Measures Following a Modified Unilateral Neck Dissection for Treatment of Head and Neck Cancer

This study will determine whether patients who receive regular physical therapy immediately following a modified neck dissection surgery will report decreased shoulder disability, decreased pain, improved or maintained shoulder range of motion and strength, and improved quality of life than those who receive only home instruction.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adults age 18-85, able to give informed consent
• Subject has provided written informed consent
• Received Modified Unilateral Neck Dissection with sparing of the SAN
• Not currently using transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) as a pain relieving modality
• Not currently receiving acupuncture as a pain relieving modality
• Able to participate with treatment group protocol including physical therapy appointment every other week

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of prior shoulder injury or surgery including rotator cuff repair or total shoulder arthroplasty.
• History of CVA with hemi paresis
• Bilateral neck dissection
• Known severed SAN