Exercising while undergoing diagnosis, surgery and treatment for breast cancer may not seem like a priority. However, exercising at this difficult time can improve your physical and emotional health so that you can better deal with the effects of the disease and the side effects of the treatment. Always discuss with your doctor any exercise regimen you plan on undertaking.
After Surgery
Breast cancer surgery -- biopsy, lumpectomy, mastectomy and/or reconstruction -- not only leaves an incision, but may also limit the range of motion of the arm on that side for several weeks. The American Cancer Society, or ACS, advises waiting until drainage tubes and stitches are removed for some exercises, but others -- ones that increase shoulder and arm motion -- you can usually perform a few days after surgery, adding exercises that make your arm stronger later.
Stop the exercises and talk to your healthcare provider if you experience loss of balance, weakness, worsening pain, new heaviness in your arm, unusual swelling or swelling that gets worse, headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, or new numbness or tingling in your arms or chest.
If radiation therapy is part of your regimen, it is especially important to improve your range of motion before and during the weeks of therapy so your shoulder and arm remain flexible.
During and After Treatment
A research study published in the May 1999 edition of the journal "Cancer" demonstrated that chemotherapy patients who undergo physical exercise during treatment fare better. A control group of chemo patients engaged in no increased exercise. Those who exercised showed improvement over the control group in such psychological factors as obsessive-compulsive traits, fear, interpersonal sensitivity and anxiety. In addition, according to a September 1999 article in "American Family Physician," the mental and physical benefits of exercise help patients face the hardship of completing treatment.
Chemo or hormonal treatment for breast cancer patients brings about heightened menopause symptoms that can leave them at increased risk for osteoporosis and bone fractures, so it's important to build up the muscles that support the wrists, hips and back, according to the Dr. Susan Love Foundation.
Self-image
Surgery and chemo also take their tolls on physical appearance and, therefore, your self-image. The ACS suggests disguising the physical changes brought about by cancer and drawing attention to your best points. Do this exercise in front of a mirror: wear the clothing and any prostheses you use to conceal the effects of your cancer, surgery and/or treatment. Spend 15 minutes examining your appearance, but instead of dwelling on negative aspects of your appearance, focus on the positive.
Considerations
Consult with your healthcare provider before you begin any exercises and ask for referrals to a physical therapist, occupational therapist and/or counselor. Taking good care of your body and your emotional health at this time is just as important as fighting the disease.
References
- American Cancer Society: Exercises After Breast Surgery
- "Cancer"; Effects of physical activity on the fatigue and psychologic status...; FC Dimeo, et al.; May 1999
- "American Family Physician"; Can Exercise Reduce Fatigue During Chemotherapy?; Karl E. Miller, M.D.; Sept. 1, 1999
- Dr. Susan Love Foundation: Getting Strong With Exercise After Breast Cancer; Naomi Aaronson M.A., OTR/L, CHT; Aug. 17, 2006
- American Cancer Society: Ways to Cope With Changes in How You Look
