The key to making cancer survival worthwhile is recovering the quality of life. The
cancer survivor needs to be able to participate at some level in the activities and
relationship they enjoyed prior to diagnosis and treatment. Whether the disease is
treatable or terminal, whether care is curative or palliative, simply prolonging life for
its own sake is not a goal. Rather, the goal should ultimately be to give more
meaning to living.
From a practical standpoint, this can mean beating the pain and discomfort of
symptoms associated with the cancer and the treatments. For some, it may mean as
little as being able to shave and shower without help, or it could be taking a short
walk outside with the grandchildren when they visit. The ability to sit up and hug a
loved one, carry on a cogent conversation with a friend over sports or politics, or get
to the bathroom without calling for help is reason for hope and a reason to smile.
Daily Exercise Provides Increased Quality of Life for Cancer Patients and Survivors.
Being able to function in the ways most important to the individual patient is aided
by the incorporation of a physical fitness routine into the treatment and follow-up.
Though already physically fit patients, and generally those beginning exercise earlier
will gain the most benefit, all patients and survivors can benefit physiologically and
psychologically from the use of an appropriate exercise regimen.
Studies thus far have primarily targeted breast cancer patients and cardiovascular
training, as shown in this review appearing in the Journal of Clinical Oncology.
Though scant evidence exists for other forms of cancer and other types of
exercise, leading oncologists have concluded that physical activity is strongly
linked to improved quality of life.
What Types of Exercise Are Appropriate?
No two patients or treatment protocols are the same, which means finding a
personal trainer is key to designing a safe exercise plan. For some of the weakest
patients, such as those with later-stage mesothelioma or other terminal prognosis,
active or passive range of motion exercises may be best. According to the American
Cancer Society, these can counter common symptoms, like stiff joints, bedsores
and declining cognition. A daily walk and taking an active role in personal hygiene
can help with relieving fatigue and preventing constipation.
Healthier patients can benefit from cardiovascular workouts, such as water aerobics,
as well as resistance training to prevent loss of bone density and muscle atrophy.
Besides helping to counter the common symptoms of treatment, this physical
exertion can lower the risk of recurrence for survivors. The most important goal is to
find a personal trainer with the expertise to create a safe workout plan for your particular needs.
Individual Exercise Routines for Cancer Patients and Survivors
By Jackie Clark
