Benefits of Exercise in Cancer Care

person stretching Current research from the University of Wisconsin has mirrored what other research projects have been touting for the past few years. Exercise is one of the best ways to prevent certain cancers and improve quality of life during active cancer and beyond.

Most sports medicine studies have shown that between 20-40% of patients improve in depression scores, mood elevation, self-efficacy, and pain management. Research has shown that patients who perform strength training, aerobics, stretching, and relaxation as part of their total exercise program improve their fitness levels dramatically.

Programs such as Yoga, T'ai chi, Qui gong, water therapy, working with a certified personal trainer, and group exercise enhance the cancer patient's health & fitness results. Exercise has been shown to have a positive effect in the prevention and improvement of colon cancer, prostate cancer, breast cancer, blood disorder cancers such as lymphoma, leukemia, and multiple myeloma, uterine, cervical and ovarian cancers. Exercise has a direct effect on the immune system. Moderate exercise has been proven to boost the body's resistance to disease by boosting Natural Killer cell activity.

Some of the proven research physical benefits of exercise are: increased flexibility, increased muscle strength, improved fitness levels, pain management, weight management, reduced muscle cramping, reduced myofibrositis and adhesions, increased oxygen to brain, decreased fatigue and improvement in sleep. The proven research psychological benefits are: stress reduction, enhanced confidence, refocused energies, relaxation, mood elevation, normalized activities, and improved quality of life.

A Sample Workout for Breast Cancer Patients

One of the most asked questions we hear is: "How do I improve strength, motion, and reduce pain after breast surgury?" Exercise is the most important way to improve both physical and emotional health. Here are some simple tips that we advise our breast cancer patients:

Start off slow with gentle movements. Wall crawls with your hands decreases stiff arms and shoulders following surgery.
Do strength, stretching and aerobic training with a qualified exercise specialist. Our skilled exercise experts will design a program fitting your needs.
Our exercise specialists will recommend additional programs such as yoga, Qui gong, T'ai chi, water therapy and meditation. These land and water-based programs will make you feel better safely and efficiently.

EXERCISEWORKS OF BOSTON
617-529-8353 | bostonexerciseworks@gmail.com