Pelvic Radiation
Presented by Erica Holland
Pelvic radiation is a critical component of cancer treatment that often results in significant, long-term, multisystem dysfunction affecting the bladder, bowel, and sexual organs. This course provides a comprehensive examination of the physiological and histological changes induced by ionizing radiation, moving beyond pathology-specific silos to a global pelvic health perspective. Practitioners will learn to differentiate between various radiation delivery methods, such as external beam and brachytherapy, and understand each method’s unique implications for tissue compliance and organ function. The curriculum emphasizes a holistic rehabilitation approach, integrating evidence-based interventions including electrical modalities, fluid and fiber management, and manual therapy techniques. By bridging the gap between oncology medical interventions and rehabilitative care, participants will develop the clinical reasoning skills necessary to minimize symptom burden and improve the quality of life for cancer survivors throughout the survivorship continuum.
Learning Outcomes
- Recognize the differences and therapeutic implications of external beam radiation and brachytherapy on tissue and organ compliance
- Identify precautions and contraindications for therapeutic internal and external pelvic interventions
- Compare the effects of pelvic radiation on chronology from radiation and histology of the pelvic organs, as well as its effects on emptying, storage, and sexual activity
- Select appropriate electrical modalities and application strategies to minimize pelvic dysfunction in postradiation patients
- List fluid, fiber, and moisture options to reduce symptom burden in people with pelvic radiation
- Select appropriate modifications for external and internal pelvic insertable instructions to maximize therapeutic outcomes
Meet your instructor
Erica Holland
Dr. Erica Holland is a pelvic health physical therapist with advanced specialty training in pelvic neurology, abdominopelvic oncology, and pelvic impairments of all genders. She earned a master’s degree from the University of Evansville and a doctorate from Virginia Commonwealth University. Erica is board certified in women’s…
Chapters & learning objectives
1. Medical Interventions
This chapter explores the primary medical methods of pelvic radiation, including various external beam technologies and internal brachytherapy procedures. Learners will identify critical precautions, contraindications, and the specific timelines required to ensure patient safety during and after medical treatment.
2. Radiation Effects on Histology and Tissue Compliance for Storage and Emptying
Participants will examine how ionizing radiation alters cellular DNA and mitochondrial function, leading to chronic changes in tissue elasticity and fluid dynamics. The discussion focuses on the compounding effects of fibrosis and edema on the storage and emptying functions of the pelvic viscera.
3. Therapy Interventions
This chapter provides practical, evidence-based rehabilitation strategies ranging from edema management and compression to the use of electrical stimulation and dilators. Clinicians will learn to adapt instructions for pelvic insertables and nutritional intake to maximize therapeutic outcomes and patient autonomy.
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