Cancer can be an incredibly isolating and daunting experience, but a new study from Macquarie University in Australia has found that incorporating movement into cancer treatment can have a positive impact on a patient’s overall wellbeing and recovery outcomes.

The importance of exercise during cancer treatment

When cancer treatment such as chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery is undertaken, it can bring a host of physical challenges to the body.

Fatigue, muscle weakness, joint pain, nausea, and difficulty sleeping are common side effects of cancer treatment that can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life.

However, exercise has been found to have a critical role in improving a patient’s physical and mental wellbeing, reducing symptoms, and supporting the cancer treatment process.

A recent study published in the Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics found that exercising during and after cancer treatment improved symptoms such as fatigue, depression, anxiety, and emotional distress.

Furthermore, physical activity is believed to decrease the risk of cancer returning and can improve overall survival rates.

While the idea of exercising during cancer treatment may sound counterintuitive or impossible, simple movements like walking and stretching can provide numerous benefits and should be considered in all cancer treatment plans.

How movement can aid cancer recovery

Physical activity has been found to have a host of benefits for cancer patients, including:.

1. Reducing fatigue

Fatigue is one of the most common side effects of cancer treatment, and exercise is believed to be a way to combat it.

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The Journal of the National Cancer Institute published a study that found that aerobic exercise during cancer treatment reduced fatigue significantly. Even low-intensity activities like gentle stretching were proven effective in reducing cancer-related fatigue.

2. Decreasing the risk of recurrence

While movement will not entirely eliminate the risk of cancer recurrence, a recent study published in The Journal of the American Medical Association found that incorporating moderate exercise into cancer treatment, combined with a healthy diet, reduced the rate of cancer recurrence by 40%.

3. Boosting mental health

Research has shown that exercise can have a positive impact on mental health, improving depressed or anxious moods and increasing feelings of well-being.

4. Improving strength and balance

Surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation can all significantly impact muscle mass and strength.

Incorporating resistance training and balance exercises into a patient’s treatment plan can help reduce the amount of muscle lost and increase their overall strength and balance, which is vital for maintaining independence and mobility.

So, what can cancer patients do to incorporate exercise into their treatment?

The key is to start slowly and work with a trained healthcare professional to develop a safe and effective exercise plan. Many hospitals and cancer centers also offer specialized exercise programs designed specifically for cancer patients.

Some tips for starting an exercise program include:.

• Set realistic goals: Start with small goals like walking for 10-15 minutes a day and gradually increasing the duration or intensity over time.
• Listen to your body: Cancer treatment can take a severe toll on the body, so it’s important to stay attuned to how you’re feeling and rest or modify exercises as needed.
• Find an exercise buddy: Exercising with a friend or family member can provide accountability, encouragement, and make the experience more enjoyable.
• Stay hydrated and well-fed: Proper nutrition and hydration are essential for overall health and wellbeing, so working with a healthcare professional or nutritionist to ensure you’re eating a healthy diet is crucial.

Conclusion

Incorporating movement into cancer treatment can have a positive impact on a patient’s physical and mental wellbeing, ultimately improving their overall outcomes and quality of life.

While the idea of exercise may seem daunting, even small movements can provide numerous benefits, and there are many resources available to help patients start and maintain an exercise routine safely.