Mobility refers to the ability to walk and move normally. Some people with a brain tumour have difficulty with their mobility. This may be due to a number of reasons:
- Tumour location and size. If the tumour is located in the frontal lobe it can affect the “movement section” of the brain. Tumours in other areas of the brain may also affect a person’s ability to move normally and may also affect their balance
- Sometimes medications (e.g. Dexamethasone) can affect a person’s muscle strength and may result in them having difficulty getting up out of a chair
- Tumours in the cerebellum (at the base of the brain) can affect coordination
- Other medical problems for example arthritis
Mobility may improve or worsen as a result of surgery.
Sometimes the person you care for might have a weakness on one side of their body. This is called hemiparesis. Their arm may also be affected and they may have difficulty moving it. In this instance, it is important for this arm to be protected. Positioning it on a pillow in front of the patient is a good way for them to keep sight of it, protect it from banging on things or pulling on the shoulder joint. Although wearing a sling is not usual practice when showering and walking, it may be appropriate for them to be assessed for a sling if their arm is becoming painful or injured. Occupational therapists can assess for suitable positioning equipment or slings if needed.
Plan ahead. Take advice from healthcare professionals about what you may need in advance so the equipment is there when you need it. Occupational therapists at the hospital are happy to provide a manual handling assessment, advice and equipment as required to minimise the risk of injury to you and the person you care for. Some hospitals may offer an outpatient occupational therapy service where the person you care for can be reviewed in the clinic or a home visit can be arranged.
Mobility and support
Mobility aids like walking sticks or walking frames may be helpful for your friend or relative to move safely. A physiotherapist (a health professional experienced in working with people with mobility issues) will be the best person to assess their mobility and to suggest if an aid is needed. Please discuss with the Cancer Nurse Coordinator or a GP to obtain a referral to a Physiotherapist.
Sometimes mobility can become so difficult so that the person you care for might need to use a wheelchair. An occupational therapist or physiotherapist can provide advice about how to get wheelchairs. Hospital-supplied wheelchairs may be available through the occupational therapist or physiotherapist. Referrals to these departments will need to be made by either the hospital team looking after your friend or relative, the oncologist, the cancer nurse coordinator or your General Practitioner.
Your relative or friend may need your help to move as their condition changes. They may also be more prone to falls. Click here for more information about dealing with falls and how to help someone up after a fall.
If you are looking for information about driving or getting around through other modes of transport, see our page on Driving Changes and Transport or our section on discounted modes of transport.