Ottawa Cancer and Lymphatics Centre

Ottawa Cancer and Lymphatics Centre Breast Rehab is one of a kind. At Breast Rehab, we offer a range of services to help you get back to the best quality of life possible.

We’re an Ottawa-based private clinic providing expert, hands-on care for people navigating cancer, lymphedema, lipedema, pelvic health issues, or surgical recovery. We are proud to be one of the few physiotherapy clinics in Canada that specializes in breast surgery and breast cancer rehabilitation. Our talented team has expertise in physiotherapy, pelvic floor physiotherapy, massage therapy, acupu

ncture, kinesiology, and lymphedema therapy. As well as being specialists in breast cancer rehab, we help people of all ages regain well-being for many other health conditions.

Our May book club pick is here!! Educated by Tara Westover Born to survivalists in the mountains of Idaho, Tara Westover...
04/28/2026

Our May book club pick is here!!

Educated by Tara Westover

Born to survivalists in the mountains of Idaho, Tara Westover was seventeen the first time she set foot in a classroom. Her family was so isolated from mainstream society that there was no one to ensure the children received an education, and no one to intervene when one of Tara’s older brothers became violent. When another brother got himself into college, Tara decided to try a new kind of life. Her quest for knowledge transformed her, taking her over oceans and across continents, to Harvard and to Cambridge University. Only then would she wonder if she’d traveled too far, if there was still a way home.

Read along and let us know what you think at your next appointment!

04/23/2026

Manual Lymphatic Drainage uses slow, precise, rhythmic techniques to stimulate lymphatic flow just beneath the skin, supporting swelling reduction, tissue health, and healing.

It’s not deep pressure.�It’s not traditional relaxation massage.�It’s specialized, certified care.

At our clinic, MLD is provided one-on-one by trained RMTs, physiotherapists, and kinesiologists who understand cancer recovery and complex swelling conditions. Lymphatic drainage isn’t just a trend, it’s health care!

Sometimes the softest techniques create the biggest shifts. 💛

How exactly does our lymphatic system work?
04/23/2026

How exactly does our lymphatic system work?

We’re so excited to be back at The Ottawa Cancer Foundation's West End Hub for another FREE workshop. Surgical scars, ra...
04/20/2026

We’re so excited to be back at The Ottawa Cancer Foundation's West End Hub for another FREE workshop.

Surgical scars, radiation changes, and treatment-related skin conditions are common after cancer care—and they deserve attention. This workshop explores how gentle, evidence-informed scar management and skin care techniques can support healing, reduce discomfort, and improve skin mobility and appearance over time.

You'll learn:
- How cancer treatments affect the skin and scar tissue
- When and how to safely start scar tissue work
- Practical tools: self-massage, hydration, and movement strategies to improve scar pliability

Research shows that manual therapy and scar mobilization can improve tissue flexibility, reduce pain, and prevent adhesions that limit function—especially after breast, gynecologic, and head & neck surgeries (Robinson et al., 2020; Zelenik et al., 2016). Gentle skin care routines also support barrier repair and reduce sensitivity during and after radiation (Chan et al., 2014).

This workshop will be led by a physiotherapist and certified lymphedema therapist and will be available in person. Please note, the session will not be recorded.

You do not need to be a current patient to attend.
When: May 11th @ 10:45am
Where: The Ottawa Cancer Foundation West End Hub (3865 Old Richmond Rd.)
To Register: https://ottawacancer.ca/calendar/community-cancer-hub-west/


References:
1. Robinson V, Jones L, et al. Soft tissue therapy for post-surgical breast scars: A clinical review. Rehabil Oncol. 2020;38(3):127-135.
2. Zelenik K, Kadlecová P, Svobodová L, et al. Manual therapy effect on scar tissue after mastectomy: a randomized controlled pilot study. Support Care Cancer. 2016;24(4):1791–1798. doi:10.1007/s00520-015-2967-2
3. Chan RJ, Webster J, Chung B, et al. Prevention and management of radiation-induced skin reactions: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. BMC Cancer. 2014;14:53. doi:10.1186/1471-2407-14-53

Wondering if Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) might be helpful for you?Here are 3 common signs that this treatment may be...
04/16/2026

Wondering if Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) might be helpful for you?

Here are 3 common signs that this treatment may be warranted:
1️⃣ Persistent swelling after surgery or radiation�
2️⃣ A feeling of heaviness, fullness, or tightness in a limb, face, or trunk�
3️⃣ Tissue firmness or fibrosis that feels hard or restricted

MLD is a gentle, specialized technique designed to encourage lymph flow and reduce congestion and at our clinic, it’s provided by certified RMTs, physiotherapists, and kinesiologists. That means you can often use massage and/or physio benefits depending on your coverage.

If swelling or tissue tightness has been lingering, it may be time for an assessment.

Book Online: https://ottawaclc.juvonno.com/plogin.php

When we say “Head & Neck Cancer Rehabilitation,” what does that actually mean?It’s not just exercises. It can include:�-...
04/13/2026

When we say “Head & Neck Cancer Rehabilitation,” what does that actually mean?

It’s not just exercises. It can include:�
- Manual therapy for jaw opening and neck mobility�
- Scar tissue and radiation fibrosis management�
- Manual lymphatic drainage for facial and neck swelling�
- Postural retraining�
- Targeted strengthening and endurance work�
- Support navigating long-term side effects

Head and neck recovery is nuanced. It requires advanced training and a gentle, knowledgeable approach. Our clinicians are trained to support the unique needs of this population, because rehabilitation in this area deserves specialized care.

Book Online: https://ottawaclc.juvonno.com/plogin.php

Spring has sprung 🌷... and while we’re opening windows and clearing out closets, it’s also a great time to check in on y...
04/09/2026

Spring has sprung 🌷... and while we’re opening windows and clearing out closets, it’s also a great time to check in on your body.

Cancer treatment and surgery change the body and sometimes symptoms slowly build over the winter months when we’re less active.

A spring reset might look like:�
✔️ Reassessing your physiotherapy plan�
✔️ Adding manual lymphatic drainage to prepare for the heat�
✔️ Updating your exercise program�
✔️ Booking consistent therapy or dietitan support

You don’t have to wait for symptoms to worsen to take action. Let’s help your body move into this new season feeling supported, strong, and cared for. 🌼

A little scheduling update 💛We are so grateful for the trust you place in our team, and with that, our schedule is filli...
04/07/2026

A little scheduling update 💛

We are so grateful for the trust you place in our team, and with that, our schedule is filling quickly.

Some of our massage therapists are currently booking 6–7 weeks in advance, and physiotherapy services 2-3 weeks out. If you’re receiving ongoing care (especially for lymphedema, post-surgical recovery, or chronic swelling), pre-booking can help prevent gaps in treatment. Also add yourself to our waitlist (online or get in touch with our front desk) as we do often see movement in our schedules with spots opening up last minute.

Friendly reminder: Manual Lymphatic Drainage can often be billed under massage therapy OR physiotherapy benefits, depending who you visit and on your insurance plan. We’re happy to help you make the most of your schedule and your insurance coverage.

If you know you’ll need continued care, now is a great time to secure those spots.

Book Online: https://ottawaclc.juvonno.com/plogin.php
Get in touch with our front desk:
613-422-5061
admin@ottawaclc.ca

April is Head & Neck Cancer Awareness Month 🎗Treatment for head and neck cancers can impact so much more than people exp...
04/03/2026

April is Head & Neck Cancer Awareness Month 🎗

Treatment for head and neck cancers can impact so much more than people expect including jaw mobility, neck stiffness, swallowing, scar tissue, radiation fibrosis, and even facial or neck swelling. These challenges are real... and they are treatable.

Our team provides specialized rehabilitation including:�
• Manual therapy for jaw and neck mobility�
• Scar and fibrosis management�
• Manual lymphatic drainage for facial/neck swelling�
• Targeted exercise for strength and function�
• Supportive, one-on-one care in private treatment rooms

If you or someone you know is navigating head & neck cancer treatment or survivorship, we’re here. 💛

Our April book club pick is here! A SOARING, PROPULSIVE, AND UNFORGETTABLE novel about two zookeepers at the last zoo in...
04/01/2026

Our April book club pick is here!

A SOARING, PROPULSIVE, AND UNFORGETTABLE novel about two zookeepers at the last zoo in the world.

Camille has always preferred animals to people. The wild has nearly disappeared, but as a zookeeper at the last zoo in the world, on Alcatraz Island, she spends her days caring for playful chimpanzees, gentle tree frogs, and a restless jaguar. Outside, resistance groups and brutal cartels fight to shape the world’s future, but Camille is safe within her routines. That is, until a new zookeeper, Sailor, arrives from Paris.

From their first meeting, Camille is drawn to Sailor, who seems to see something in Camille that no one has before. They bond over their shared passions and dream up ways to improve their lives. When Sailor whispers the story of an idyllic, secret sanctuary where wild animals roam free, Camille begins to imagine a new kind of life with Sailor by her side.

Sailor knows all too well the dangers beyond Alcatraz, but she increasingly chafes at the zoo’s rigid rules. She hatches a reckless plan to smuggle one of the most prized animals off the island to freedom, and invites Camille to join her. The consequences if they fail would be catastrophic, and Sailor’s contacts at the sanctuary go dark just as the threats from the cartels grow more extreme. Camille must decide if she’s ready to risk everything for the promise of a better world.

Propulsive and fiercely hopeful, with a heart-stopping final twist, The Island of Last Things is an elegy for a disappearing world and a gorgeous vision for the future.

Read along and tell us what you think at your next visit!!

03/30/2026

Ultimate relaxation 💆‍♀️

03/20/2026

“Talk and treat” 🗣️

Education and affirmations are an important part of your recovery and our therapists are great multitaskers. By talking and treating we get the absolutely most out of your appointment time. We maximize your time receiving hands on treatment while ensuring you have the necessary information to continue your recovery at home!

Address

1902 Robertson Road
Ottawa, ON
K2H5B8

Opening Hours

Monday 7am - 6pm
Tuesday 7am - 6pm
Wednesday 7am - 6pm
Thursday 7am - 6pm
Friday 7am - 6pm

Telephone

+16134225061

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Haley Rehab is one of a kind. We are proud to be one of the few physiotherapy clinics in Canada that specializes in lymphedema management and cancer rehabilitation, with combined experience of 75 years’ service in this field. Our talented team has expertise in physiotherapy, massage therapy, nursing and wound care, and many of our therapists are lymphedema-certified. As well as being specialists in cancer rehab, we help people of all ages regain well-being for many other health conditions. At Haley Rehab, we offer a range of services to help you get back to the best quality of life possible.