Today's article is by guest blogger Liz Davies, a recent college graduate and aspiring writer especially interested in health and wellness.
Physical exercise is quickly becoming a large part of the recovery process for cancer patients undergoing one or more forms of treatment, and studies are showing that this not only reduces the pain symptoms associated with the treatment itself, it helps to keep the body's weight under control, aids in balancing metabolism and also works to bring about a positive mental attitude on the part of the patient. The old days of resting in bed are gone, as more and more evidence is being gathered that supports the idea of a rather active lifestyle for those afflicted with cancer.
Changes in Body Mass
Changes in Body Mass
Those undergoing treatment for cancer will usually experience either a substantial weight gain or weight loss, partly a result of the type of cancer and also tied closely to the form of treatment. In either case, the body undergoes a shock as attempts to maintain the normal weight is undertaken automatically by the body's systems. This has always been a concern for doctors who try to advise their patients on how best to keep the desired weight, appropriate amount of fat and healthy muscle tissue. Exercise has been proven to play a key role in maintaining the best possible height and weight proportion.
Normal Exercise Is Best
Normal Exercise Is Best
Today most health professionals are encouraging their cancer patients to undertake a physical exercise routine that would be the same as if they were otherwise healthy. Many suggest about 2.5 hours per week of exercise, which includes weightlifting, walking or jogging, gym equipment and general aerobic activities. Caution should be given to working out in public places, because many patients have a negatively affected immune system during chemotherapy; close contact with other individuals in the weight room may lead to a higher risk of infectious contractions.
As A Palliative Treatment
Exercising the muscles makes them work harder but also strengthens them. And muscles that are under worked are often those which produce pain for recovering cancer patients. In addition the fluids surrounding the joints are also affected by chemotherapy and therefore a moderately intense workout routine helps tremendously to relieve pain in these areas.
Part of a Positive Attitude Lifestyle
Regardless of whether the recovering patient was already involved in a daily exercise routine, performing this kind of physical activity during treatment gives him or her the opportunity to focus on health in general. There is no question that anyone given a cancer diagnosis will realize the importance of good physical health, and beginning an exercise routine will motivate the individual to "keep at it". Besides, once the positive physical effects of an exercise routine are noticed, it reinforces the patient to continue with a daily regimen of exercise. This is really no different than seeing a reduction of fat when a good diet program is implemented.
It is time to say goodbye to the old idea that complete rest is the best medicine for those in chemotherapy for cancer no matter what type of cancer the patient has whether is it breast cancer, lung cancer or
testicular mesothelioma. Keeping active does not harm the body, but helps it to heal, and produces a wonderful rise in the patient's mental state as well.
Liz Davies is a recent college graduate and aspiring writer especially interested in health and wellness. She wants to make a difference in people’s lives because she sees how cancer has devastated so many people in this world. Liz also likes running, playing lacrosse, reading and playing with her dog, April. To contact Liz, healthlylizd@gmail.com
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