Cancer Recovery
Cancer patients often develop many side effects from surgery and treatments that impact physical functioning, independence and quality of life, all of which may be prevented through an exercise program. After being diagnosed with cancer, common treatments include a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and/or hormone therapy, which can all reduce strength, energy, fitness and overall physical capacity.
Our Exercise Physiologists are experienced in working with patients with a cancer diagnosis and work with patients before, during and after treatments (surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, hormone therapy etc) and into recovery and survivor-ship. We work with people of all ages and types of cancers, at all stages of diagnosis and all levels of physical ability. We understand the complexities of the cancer journey; the specific surgeries and physical rehabilitation requirements; the effects of different chemotherapy, medications, radiation and hormone therapy on physical functioning; the side-effects of treatments and long-term physical recovery expectations. Our team also understands that your experience is unique and individual and we tailor your rehabilitation and exercise plans accordingly.
Initial Assessment
In order to establish the appropriate exercise program, an initial assessment with one of our Exercise Physiologists is essential and involves a detailed discussion on your cancer history and treatments, goal setting, postural analysis, body composition assessment, range of motion and flexibility testing, balance and stability testing, muscle strength and endurance testing, physical function tests and a cardiovascular fitness test. The results of these tests are discussed and an individual treatment plan is designed to help you meet your needs and goals.
Follow-up appointments are required at 6-weekly intervals.
Treatment Plan
Your treatment plan involves an overview of the exercise and rehabilitation that has been recommended for you and will outline your treatment goals, weekly exercise requirements, the type of treatment required and any other information specific to your exercise-based treatment.
Exercise has been shown to:
Reduce cancer-related fatigue
Improve balance, stability and independence
Increase overall quality of life
Increase aerobic capacity (fitness)
Reduce brain-fog and chemo-brain
Improve bladder control and incontinence
Increase muscle strength and muscle mass
Improve bone density
Improve long-term survival
Increase joint range of motion and flexibility
Reduce joint and muscle pain
Manage and improve lymphedema
Enhance overall physical functioning
Improve body composition and weight management
For more details, please email info@canberrasofttissuetherapy.com head to our Contact Us page and leave your details or call the team on (02) 5100 7307.
