by Austin Kitteringham, CSCS, FIT Trainer and Emily Rocawich, PT, DPT, CSCS, Spooner East Chandler
A cancer diagnosis can be life changing! Days can quickly become filled with doctors’ appointments, imaging, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, on-going cancer management, and follow-up care. Exercise, nutrition and physical therapy are not necessarily your first priority when considering management of a cancer diagnosis; however, they can be valuable tools to assist in recovery and in maintaining or regaining strength throughout your journey.
Exercise Before, During, and After Breast Cancer Treatment
Before beginning exercise, it must first be safe for the patient to participate in an exercise routine. It is important that you discuss your desire to exercise with your oncologist who can determine, based on your current health status, whether or not it is appropriate. Inappropriate exercise at the wrong time of treatment may actually be harmful to the current plan of care (i.e., if WBC count or platelet levels are low).
However, this does not rule out physical therapy or exercise completely! No matter what stage of treatment you may be in, physical therapy can help. During your evaluation a therapist will be able to obtain baseline measurements specific to whether you are going through chemo, radiation, or surgical treatments. A breast cancer rehabilitation specialist will also be able to provide education on safe and appropriate levels of activity throughout the various stages of treatment.
Exercise participation is going to look very different for the woman who is going through active chemotherapy treatment vs. a woman going through radiation vs. a woman who may be returning to an active lifestyle post-treatment. Not only will an exercise regimen will look different at each of these stages but, they will look different for each individual.
Nutrition for Breast Cancer Patients
In addition to exercise, nutrition plays a huge role in the success of patients with cancer. It is often said that nutrition is 80% percent of the equation for achieving a healthy lifestyle, and can be essential in assisting in recovery for a cancer patient.
Checking with your oncologist for safe nutrition or diet recommendations during the treatment process is also essential. Different types of diets continue to overwhelm a patient and may not be safe at the time of chemotherapy or radiation treatments.
The easiest place to begin the nutrition journey is by starting to develop healthy habits, or begin a habit-based program. Healthy habits ensure long term results and can help you to return to a healthy, active lifestyle.
Comprehensive Care for all Spooner Patients
There are many benefits to trusting Spooner for your physical therapy, exercise, and health goals. The Spooner team provides comprehensive care based on each individual’s needs, and utilizes the skills of multiple professionals to serve patients with the highest quality of care.
We are here to help!
If you’re interested in learning more, or making an appointment with a Breast Cancer Rehabilitation Specialist, please contact the Spooner team today. We have convenient locations throughout the Valley and are here to help you in your recovery journey.