Bridging Awareness and Recovery: The Role of Physical Therapy in Breast Cancer Care
October 2025
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Breast cancer is the most common cancer for women in the United States. According to The American Cancer Society, 1 in 3 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer every year.
Oncology Physical Therapy
Every October, people around the world come together to recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Month—a time dedicated to increasing awareness, promoting early detection, and supporting those affected by breast cancer. This annual observance serves as both a reminder and a call to action: breast cancer affects millions of individuals and families, but early detection and continued research can save lives.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide, though it can also affect men. Awareness campaigns emphasize the importance of regular screenings, self-examinations, and understanding personal risk factors. Early detection through mammograms and other screening methods can greatly improve treatment outcomes and survival rates.
Beyond education, Breast Cancer Awareness Month also focuses on empowerment and support. Communities, organizations, and healthcare professionals work together to raise funds for research, provide resources for patients and survivors, and advocate for equitable access to care. The pink ribbon—now recognized globally—symbolizes hope, strength, and solidarity in the fight against breast cancer.
Honoring this month means more than wearing pink; it’s about encouraging open conversations, supporting loved ones, and taking proactive steps toward health. Whether through fundraising, volunteering, or simply reminding a friend to schedule a screening, every action contributes to the larger goal of ending breast cancer.
Dr. Yamada DPT
Dr. Yamada is an Associate Professor of Clinical Physical Therapy at the University of Southern California (USC). She is a Board-Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist and a Certified Lymphedema Therapist. In addition to her teaching and clinical expertise, Dr. Yamada serves as the Director of the Oncology Physical Therapy Residency Program at USC, where she is dedicated to advancing clinical excellence and mentorship in the field of oncology rehabilitation.
“Oncology physical therapy means helping people navigate one of the most challenging periods of their lives. Cancer does not discriminate—it affects people across all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life, which means I have the privilege of serving a diverse patient population. I am driven by the knowledge that a cancer diagnosis is not a death sentence; many people lead rich, meaningful lives after diagnosis, and I can play a vital role in that journey. This work is deeply motivating, and the gratitude I feel is genuinely mutual—I am constantly driven and encouraged by my patients' strength and resilience. I am continually advocating to ensure that cancer survivors receive the physical therapy services they need and deserve. Oncology PT allows me to make a tangible difference during a critical time when support and hope matter most.
Not only am I an Oncology PT practitioner, but I am a professor in our post-professional continuing education courses, which are open to any practicing physical therapist. These courses include both in-person labs and online formats, making oncology PT education accessible to clinicians everywhere.
With the help of our growing oncology PT faculty team at USC, we have also built an oncology PT residency program—one of only eight in the United States. Through this residency, we aim to train more confident oncology PT specialists who can provide expert care to cancer survivors. Additionally, we hope to cultivate the next generation of oncology PT faculty, mentors, and perhaps even researchers who will continue to advance the field and expand access to specialized care for this population.
On top of that, I am also a researcher engaged in oncology rehabilitation research. It is through research that we demonstrate that interventions, therapies, and innovative ideas can work. It is with research that we can show that change is possible and that improvements in care are achievable. Most importantly, it is through research that we show cancer survivors that someone is paying attention to what's going on with them and actively searching for solutions to improve their quality of life. I particularly enjoy being involved in clinical research because it involves direct interaction with patients—it keeps me connected to the very people whose lives we are working to enhance and reminds me why this work matters” - Dr. Yamada
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
Ravin Rhodes
USC DPT 2026 Class President
“Being DPT class president has been one of the most rewarding and exciting experiences of my academic journey. It’s given me the chance to represent my classmates, advocate for their needs, and foster a sense of unity and support within our cohort”
“One of my favorite ways to connect with everyone and bring some fun into our intense PT school life has been through making daily TikTok vlogs and creative videos. ”
“Whether it’s highlighting a day in the life of a DPT student, sharing tips for practical exams, or just making funny skits about the struggles we all face, these videos have become a lighthearted outlet for stress and a way to bond with classmates. They have also helped to demystify PT school for prospective students and brought more visibility to the unique, rewarding, and sometimes chaotic journey of becoming a physical therapist. ”
“Combining leadership with creativity has made this role incredibly fulfilling and a true reflection of my passion for both people and the profession. ”
October 2025
Student Highlight
Maryana Bonilla Yanez
Maryana Bonilla Yanez is a third-year Doctor of Physical Therapy student at the University of Southern California who participates in post stroke gait rehabilitation and motor learning. Those who have had the privilege of working alongside her have witnessed firsthand how deeply she cares for her patients—something clearly reflected in the genuine appreciation and trust her patients show her. Maryana consistently exceeds the expectations of a student, demonstrated through her passion for research and her strong commitment to giving back to the community.
GRADUATION HIGHLIGHT 🎓
Biana Trakhtenberg, PT, DPT
“Throughout physical therapy school, I was fortunate enough to learn from professors and mentors who were not only incredibly knowledgeable but also genuinely caring, and who have greatly shaped the physical therapist I am today. I am so lucky to have also formed meaningful friendships with amazing individuals who started as my classmates and are now my colleagues! One of my favorite parts of my physical therapy school experience was joining CASSIG; I truly appreciate how CASSIG has allowed me to connect with students from all over California and created a sense of community. I am grateful to have participated in meaningful projects and opportunities that deepened my involvement in the physical therapy profession and allowed me to work alongside such an incredible team. After graduation, I’m excited to start working in pediatrics and keep growing as a physical therapist.”
- Biana Trakhtenberg, CASSIG President, 2025