We are all aware of the general benefits of exercising. Not only does it keep certain diseases at bay and keep us healthy, but it also aids in the psychological wellbeing of a person.
There are many factors for getting diagnosed with cancer. These include genetics, environmental, old age, exposure to radiation and certain chemicals, substance abuse and obesity.
Cancer itself, and the life-saving treatment for it could cause physical impairments such as
Loss of muscle tone and strength
Reduced flexibility
Numbness
Loss of balance
Weakness
Tiredness
Difficulty in moving
How does physical activity (PA) help cancer patients then?
Exercises in a Cancer patients journey can be either pre-habilitative, preventative, restorative or palliative.
The rehabilitation journey of a Cancer patient begins at diagnosis.
Frequently, surgery is scheduled for investigation or removal of the tumour in situ. Physiotherapy before surgery, (called - prehabilitation), can help cancer patients in many ways. The benefits of prehabilitation are [Silver and Baima, 2013]
Prepares the cancer patient for potential physical impairment that might follow after the surgery.
An opportunity to increase cancer treatment options, thus potentially improving survivor rates.
Decrease lengthy hospital stays.
To be able to handle subsequent cancer treatments better due to mental and psychological preparedness.
Physical activity is safe and recommended for those undergoing cancer treatments. Exercises could either be preventative or restorative. Under the guidance of a Certified Oncology Rehab Therapist, resistant training, balance and strength training, coordination and movement training are all customised according to your needs.
Having an oncology physio to guide you through your physical and psychological wellness could [Ferioli et al, 2018]
Reduce hospital readmissions
Reduce fatigue, numbness, weakness
Reduce sleep disorders
Reduce Pain
Increase/ prolong independence
Improve survival chances
For those individuals with palliative or end of life needs, physiotherapy continues to play an important role. Being able to move is a form of independence which many of us take for granted. Palliative rehabilitation encourages that physical independence. Overall psychological wellbeing is also better for those that continue exercising.
With all the benefits of exercise, many are still doubtful or confused about cancer rehabilitation. Mainly, it's due to lack of awareness and understanding about how physical activity can help with many of the side effects of cancer. However, strong evidence suggests that exercising should be considered an essential adjunct therapy for cancer treatments.
References :
Ferioli, M., Zauli, G., Martelli, A. M., Vitale, M., McCubrey, J. A., Ultimo, S., Capitani, S., & Neri, L. M. (2018, March 2). Impact of physical exercise in cancer survivors during and after antineoplastic treatments. PubMed Central (PMC). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5862633/
Silver, J. K., & Baima, J. (2013, August). Cancer Prehabilitation : An Opportunity to Decrease Treatment-Related Morbidity, Increase Cancer Treatment Options, and Improve Physical and Psychological Health Outcomes. Am. J. Phys. Med. Rehabilitation, Lippincott Wiliams & Wilkins. http://www3.med.unipmn.it/intranet/papers/2013/LWW_Journals/2013-08-12_lww/Cancer_Prehabilitation__An_Opportunity_to_Decrease.9.pdf