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Article
The Power Of Empowerment: An ICF-Based Model to Improve Self-Efficacy and Upper Extremity Function of Survivors of Breast Cancer
Rehabilitation Oncology
  • Mary Insana Fisher, University of Dayton
  • Dana Howell, Eastern Kentucky University
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1-2010
Abstract

Breast cancer is one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers among women. Breast cancer treatments often negatively impact the function of the arm, and quality of life and upper extremity function does not always return to a prediagnosis level. Survivors of breast cancer may also experience feelings of diminished self-efficacy related to functional deficits resulting from their physical limitations. The International Classification of Functioning (ICF) provides a framework for rehabilitation practitioners to address physical and psychological impairments, activity limitations, and participation restrictions. Patient outcomes may be improved by fostering self-efficacy through empowerment. This paper explores how the ICF model and theories of self-efficacy and empowerment can interact to promote improved rehabilitation outcomes for women who have survived breast cancer. A model for the role of rehabilitation practitioners to enhance self-efficacy through empowerment in order to minimize participation restrictions resulting from upper extremity morbidities is proposed.

Inclusive pages
19-25
ISBN/ISSN
2168-3808
Document Version
Published Version
Comments

PDF provided with permission of APTA. Permission documentation is on file.

Publisher
American Physical Therapy Association
Peer Reviewed
Yes
Keywords
  • breast cancer,
  • extremity function,
  • ICF
Citation Information
Mary Insana Fisher and Dana Howell. "The Power Of Empowerment: An ICF-Based Model to Improve Self-Efficacy and Upper Extremity Function of Survivors of Breast Cancer" Rehabilitation Oncology Vol. 28 Iss. 3 (2010)
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/mary_fisher/2/