Breast cancer treatment can involve biopsies, a lumpectomy, mastectomy, breast reconstruction, chemotherapy and radiation. All of these procedures can leave you mentally fragile and physically weak. To strengthen the mind and the body during the breast cancer recovery period, women should do 30 minutes of mild exercise three times a week.
Mental Benefits
The whole process of tests, waiting for test results, surgery and subsequent treatment can be an ordeal filled with anxiety, uncertainty, depression and insomnia. An exercise program not only acts as an emotional outlet, but it can relieve psychological stresses and give you some control over your life. The book "The Breast Cancer Journey," published by the American Cancer Society, notes that exercise during breast cancer treatment helps facilitate relaxation, which in turn can reduce tension in the muscles, reduce pain, help you fall asleep and reduce anxiety and fatigue.
Physical Benefits
Breast cancer recovery exercises may also help strengthen your immune system. Following surgery and heading into chemotherapy, you want a strong immune system due to the toll chemo may take on your body. Exercise can help you maintain the physical strength and stamina needed for the recovery process. Additionally, according to Deborah A. Cohen, breast cancer survivor and author of "Just Get Me Through This," exercise may facilitate a quicker recovery time. Cohen states,"While surgery and subsequent treatments can damage muscle and tissue, exercise can help rebuild the damaged cells by increasing the blood flow to the area."
Post-surgery Exercises
Whether you have undergone a lumpectomy or mastectomy, arm exercises can help restore the full range of motion you possessed prior to surgery. Cohen recommends the pendulum, swinging your arm from left to right while bending forward at the waist. Stretching may also help restore mobility and flexibility. Sit on a chair, and clasp your hands together on your lap. With your elbows in, slowly raise your hands above your forehead.
Walking
The American Cancer Society says that most women can begin walking soon after surgery. Walking provides aerobic exercise, increases lung function, builds endurance, supports bone growth and enhances muscles. Walking also helps combat the pale, sallow complexion caused by chemotherapy, putting color in your cheeks as well as reducing weight gain from drugs.
Considerations
Consult with your health provider before beginning any breast cancer recovery exercise program. Start slowly so you do not exert too much undue stress on your body. Begin with five to 10 minutes of exercise several times a day, and work up from there. The American Cancer Society cautions that you seek medical advice if you experience loss of balance, increased pain or swelling, new heaviness in your arm, headaches or blurred vision.
References
- Science Daily: Exercise Boosts Recovery From Breast Cancer
- "A Breast Cancer Journey"; American Cancer Society; 2004
- "Just Get Me Through This"; Deborah A. Cohen; 2000
- American Cancer Society: Exercises After Breast Surgery
