According to physical therapist Leslie Waltke, "Rehabilitation and exercise, in patients with cancer, have been shown to improve quality of life, lengthen life and actually save lives." An exercise program should reflect prior fitness level, current limitations and personal preferences. Seek out a physical therapist trained in oncology to help you get started safely.
Stretching
The chest wall and armpit need stretching after breast cancer surgery and radiation. Surrounding areas, including the neck muscles and upper back, may also benefit from a stretching routine because pain from treatment can cause tension in these tissues. Both traditional stretch exercises and specific yoga poses may be helpful. Beginner stretches can be done lying down with feet flat on the ground and knees bent up. Reach your arms up overhead, or out to the side like a snow angel, to stretch the chest wall and armpit. Do not stretch through pain.
Strengthening
Because breast surgery occurs on the front of the chest wall, you may overlook strengthening the upper back. The region between your shoulder blades must be strong in order to resist your body's tendency to slouch because of the surgical incision pain on your chest. One simple strengthening exercise is performed by pulling your shoulder blades together and down. Hold for 5 seconds and repeat 10 times. As long as this exercise does not cause pain, it can be done several times a day.
Aerobic Exercises
Aerobic exercise is vital to the breast cancer survivor. Aerobic exercise includes activities that increase your heart rate such as walking, jogging, riding a bike or swimming. Research published in 2005 in the "Journal of American Medical Association," indicates that breast cancer survivors who walk 3 to 5 hours a week at an average pace have less risk of dying from the disease.
Warning
Always clear exercise with your medical team. Discontinue immediately anytime exercise increases pain or causes abnormal symptoms, such as dizziness. Seek medical attention, especially if problems persist. In order to reap the most from your exercise regimen, have an oncology-trained physical therapist assess your baseline abilities, prescribe an exercise program and monitor your progress.
References
- "Journal of American Medical Association"; Physical Activity and Survival after Breast Cancer Diagnosis; Michelle D. Holmes, MD et al; May 2005
- Leslie J Waltke, PT; Regional Cancer Rehabilitation Coordinator; Aurora Health Care; Milwaukee, Wisconsin
