The Importance of Exercise during Breast Cancer Treatment

You have probably read about the importance of maintaining a good exercise routine during and after breast cancer treatment, but you may be wondering why it is actually so important?

We have significant research into the benefits of exercise during and after treatment for breast cancer, particularly due to its effectiveness on minimising side effects.

Common side effects of cancer treatment often include:

• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Compromise to our immune system
• Reduced muscle and bone mass
• Weight loss
• Anxiety and depression

An appropriately designed and tailored exercise program is a fantastic way to help beat some of these common side effects by boosting the following:

• Muscle strength
• Joint range of motion
• Bone density
• Energy levels
• Endurance
• Immune function
• Mental health and wellbeing

During and following treatment women can also develop significant changes to their posture (e.g. feeling more stooped than usual), restriction and pain in shoulder and chest as well as symptoms of swelling and lymphedema. These can all be common symptoms following lymph node removal surgery. Targeted range of motion exercises, massage and lymphatic drainage are just a few examples of how physio can help you feel more comfortable during this time.

Many women share that finding the time and energy to initiate or continue a regular exercise management plan is a challenge. We often find that exercising in a small personalised group setting can help with motivation, energy levels and mental wellbeing.

If you have previously or are currently undertaking treatment for breast cancer and would like to experience some of the many benefits of exercise and physiotherapy, come and see us at Synergy Physio.

We take pride in tailoring our group classes to your needs, and can work with you to establish an exercise routine that works best for you!

Here at Synergy Physio we love helping women with their health. Explore more about our team and how we can help you here! 

Contact us today on 07 5448 3369 or simply book online