With advances in the treatment and management of cancer, people are surviving longer. However the side effects of such treatments can often mean a decrease in physical function and reduced quality of life. There is growing evidence to suggest that exercise can be of great benefit to those with cancer; including improved cardiovascular function, strength and quality of life, as well as a reduced risk of cancer recurrence and death as a result of certain types of cancer.
What remains unclear is the optimal intensity of exercise. A team of Melbourne researchers has drawn on data from 4000 participants in randomised trials and established that exercise generally reduced fatigue and increased walking endurance. However, a peak effect was found for exercise at moderate intensity. This means that moderate intensity exercise is better at reducing the overall levels of cancer related fatigue than high intensity exercise.
Contact us to see how we can help with prescribing the best exercise treatment and strategies to help you minimise fatigue and maximise strength.
Source: APA, 24 June 2016. http://www.anatomy-physiotherapy.com/articles/other/ various/1874-exercise-improves-fatigue-and-mobility-in-cancer-survivors