Sunday, June 9, 2013
sdfd
One of my blog followers wrote an article, and wanted to share it with everyone. I read the article, and even if this does not directly pertain to you, maybe it pertains to someone you know. Her message went as followed:
Hi!
I just left you a blog comment, but figured this would be a better way to reach you. I ran across your blog and noticed the great content on your site. I am wondering if you allow guest posts because I recently have been researching and writing about how staying physically fit can be extremely beneficial to people going through cancer treatments. Exercise can be a conduit for healing of many different diseases (including cancer) by giving back energy levels, reducing stress, creating better blood flow, etc. I truly believe an article on fitness while going through cancer could be very beneficial to your readers, both directly and indirectly. This is an important message to get out there so please let me know if you would be interested in seeing an article and sharing it with your readers.
Exercise Choices During Recovery from Cancer
Studies have shown that exercise can benefit cancer patients by reducing treatment side effects and improving recovery rates. Depending on the stage of recovery, different intensity levels are appropriate. Below is a look at three exercises, with one for each recovery stage.
Breathing Exercises during Severe Cancer & Heavy Treatment
Cancer patients who are in need of lighter exercise routines, simple breathing routines are very appropriate. These breathing techniques may especially be recommended for those with impaired lung function, such as those in treatment for mesothelioma or lung cancer. By improving body oxygenation, breathing exercises can aid in reducing fatigue related to breathlessness. Breathing exercises also build energy, enhance lung function and increase blood flow, promoting better immunity and responsiveness to medications.
First, be sure to breathe only through the nose as much as possible to prevent hyperventilation, which reduces body oxygenation drastically. In an upright or lying position, depending on present capabilities, focus on relaxing your breath and extending each breath comfortably. Simply focusing on breathing is known to slow it down. This will reduce anxiety, improve mood and promote the ability to engage in physical activity over time.
Biking During Active Recovery from Treatment
Cancer patients who are gradually becoming stronger and are ready for moderate activity, resulting in a light sweat after more than 10 minutes of exercise, can often benefit from riding a bike, either conventionally or stationary. Bike riding is gentle on the joints and improves cardiovascular fitness over time. It's also known to bolster immunity.
As many cancers and treatments reduce strength and muscle mass, bike riding provides gentle physical activity that is ideal for patients in treatment and recovery. Depending on energy levels, patients can ride a bike up steep hills, on level paths, or use high or low resistance. With stationary bikes, resistance can be adjusted precisely to focus on light cardio or development of strength.
Weight Training for Patients Later in Recovery
In the later stages of recovery, patients can benefit from improving their physical fitness and strength through a weight-training regimen. This form of exercise provides a strong workout for the heart and lungs with just a short period of activity. Patients can begin with light weights and move up as their strength increases.
Strength training is especially valuable for cancer survivors who have suffered fat gain or loss of muscle and bone density. As strength develops and more weight can be lifted, users experience greater benefits. Bodyweight exercises, such as pushups, can also be used in combination with or instead of free weights or machines.
During cancer recovery, it's vital to exercise at a level that is comfortable and healthy. The most strenuous exercises can impart the greatest benefits, but should be saved for later in recovery. Ultimately, getting regular exercise can not only support a full recovery, but also help prevent recurrence of the disease.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment