7 Ways Exercise can Alleviate Side Effects of Cancer Treatment

7 Ways Exercise can Alleviate Side Effects of Cancer Treatment

As a certified Cancer Exercise Specialist through CETI, Liane Geeves (owner of Pilates Connection) offers a tailored program for cancer patients pre-, during and post-treatment. In this blog article, Liane explains why exercise plays a pivotal role in alleviating the side effects of cancer treatment through various avenues:

1. Diminished Fatigue: Cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation often induce fatigue. Regular exercise has demonstrated efficacy in enhancing energy levels and mitigating fatigue, empowering patients to better combat treatment-induced tiredness.

2. Better Mood and Mental Well-being: The mental toll of cancer and its treatments can manifest as anxiety, depression, and mood fluctuations. Exercise triggers the release of endorphins, neurotransmitters that uplift mood and alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression.

3. Enhanced Strength and Flexibility: Cancer treatments may trigger muscle weakness and reduced mobility. Engaging in exercises focusing on strength and flexibility can preserve and enhance muscle strength, joint flexibility, and overall physical capabilities.

4. Reinforcement of Immune Function: Exercise has been linked to a strengthened immune system, potentially aiding the body in tolerating cancer treatments better and lowering the susceptibility to infections.

5. Mitigation of Health Risks: Cancer treatments may heighten the risk of other health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and diabetes. Exercise aids in mitigating these risks by bolstering cardiovascular health, enhancing bone density, and improving insulin sensitivity.

6. Improved Sleep Quality: Cancer treatments can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to insomnia and poor sleep quality. Consistent exercise can regulate the sleep-wake cycle and induce relaxation, fostering better sleep.

7. Weight Regulation: Fluctuations in weight, either gain or loss, can occur due to certain cancer treatments. Exercise facilitates the regulation of body weight and composition, crucial for overall health and wellness during and post-treatment.

Before commencing any exercise regimen, cancer patients should seek guidance from their healthcare team to ensure safety and suitability based on their individual circumstances. Factors such as cancer type, treatment stage, and overall health status influence the type, intensity, and duration of exercise. If you’d like to know more about Cancer Exercise Programs offered at Pilates Connection – please read HERE, or contact Liane for a consultation.