Cancer & Deconditioning Exercise Physiology
Cancer and cancer treatment can have significant effects on strength, fitness and physical function. Surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and periods of reduced activity may all contribute to fatigue, muscle loss and deconditioning.
Exercise Physiology can form part of supportive care before, during and following cancer treatment, with exercise adapted to the individual's diagnosis, treatment, symptoms and current physical capacity.
Individualised Exercise During Cancer Care:
There is no single exercise program suitable for every person with cancer.
Our Exercise Physiologists develop programs based on your individual circumstances and liaise with your treating healthcare team where appropriate.
Exercise may include:
- Progressive resistance training
- Aerobic exercise
- Functional strengthening
- Balance and mobility exercises
- General physical reconditioning
- Exercise to assist with returning to normal daily activities
Programs can be modified as treatment, symptoms and physical capacity change.
Rebuilding Following Treatment:
Following cancer treatment, many people find that their previous levels of strength and fitness have reduced significantly.
A structured reconditioning program provides a progressive pathway back towards everyday activity, recreation, work or independent exercise.
Exercise Before, During & After Treatment:
Depending on individual circumstances, Exercise Physiology may be appropriate at different stages of cancer care.
The emphasis may change from maintaining strength and activity during treatment to rebuilding physical capacity and independence following treatment.
Exercise as Part of Your Broader Healthcare
Cancer care is multidisciplinary. Our Exercise Physiologists can work with your oncologist, GP, specialist or other treating clinicians to ensure exercise is appropriate for your current stage of care.
Rebuilding Strength, Fitness & Confidence
Our aim is to provide a supportive and individualised exercise environment that helps you remain as physically active as possible and progressively restore strength, fitness and function.
