Exercise Aids in Cancer Treatments

Guest Blog by: Liz Davies

Exercise Aids in Cancer Treatments

Cancer patients often have difficulty becoming motivated to exercise since the treatment process creates side effects that include intense pain, discomfort and fatigue. In the past, doctors recommended that cancer patients rest and make sure not to strain themselves. Recently, studies have emerged that show the correlation between exercise and the health of cancer patients.

These studies advise the same amount of activity for people undergoing cancer treatments as people who are not undergoing these treatments. For the average person, doctors advise about thirty minutes of moderate exercise daily. People undergoing cancer treatments such as radiation and chemotherapy, who took on this amount of activity, experienced reduced side effects from their treatments, lower rates of the cancer recurring and higher survival rates.

Especially in women, radiation and chemotherapy may cause severe bone loss. Weight-lifting activities can aid in by enhancing bone density which strengthens bones. Strength-building exercises can be in the form of weight-lifting, resistance training and isometric training. These can be performed with weight machines, resistance bands, dumbbells and even items like soup cans. Being proactive is extremely important when going though cancer treatment. Bone mass cannot be built; it can only be retained so it is important for people going through treatments to consistently perform strength-building activities.

Depending on the cancer, treatments may cause patients to either lose weight or gain weight. In order to lower the risk of the cancer reoccurring it is advised that people maintain a healthy weight. Exercises such as running, swimming, walking or other aerobic activity can help control a person’s weight. These exercises will also improve mood and energy levels which is especially helpful for cancer patients.

It is well known that cancer patients can experience damaging side effects from the necessary medication they must take and an exercise schedule may feel daunting to maintain. The mere act of keeping a routine can have a incredible effect on a person’s mental health and can help keep them have a positive outlook. One way to keep a routine is to redesign the definition of exercise. A thirty-minute exercise session may not be feasible for everyone. A shorter or less intense session of activity is better than none at all so trying simple exercises like putting groceries away or walking around the house is a good way to make a difference in health. Stretching exercises, like pilates for example, are good for both mind and body. 

With all types of activity it is important to consult a doctor before beginning any exercise regimen. These ideas are great for people going through any type of treatment from anything ranging from mesothelioma treatment to breast cancer treatment.

Other ways of staying positive and motivated for cancer patients include becoming a part of support groups and gaining the support of family and friends.

Liz Davies is a recent college graduate and aspiring writer especially interested in health and wellness. She wants to make a difference in people’s lives because she sees how cancer has devastated so many people in this world. Liz also likes running, playing lacrosse, reading and playing with her dog, April.