Moving Through Cancer: Staying Active During Cancer Treatment

Cancer treatment like chemotherapy, radiation therapy or surgery can be physically and emotionally draining for patients. It is common to feel tired, weak or in pain during the treatment process. Being the Best Cancer Hospital in Pune, we understand the challenges cancer patients face.  However, staying as active as possible during this time is extremely important for your overall health and well-being. Regular physical activity can help reduce fatigue, and boost mood and quality of life. 

Tips For Staying Active During Cancer Treatment

Here are some effective ways to stay active while undergoing cancer treatment.

Exercise At Your Own Pace

Gentle exercises like walking or yoga can be done on most days even when you are feeling unwell from treatments. Start small with just 10-15 minutes a day and slowly increase duration as you feel stronger. Listen to your body and don’t overdo it on days you feel extra tired. The goal is to move your body in a way that feels comfortable.

Walking is one of the best and easiest exercises anyone can do, even during cancer treatment. Try going for a daily walk around your neighborhood or inside your home. Fresh air and mild movement have immense benefits. Adding music you enjoy can make walks more enjoyable. 

For those experiencing more severe side effects, simple stretches and deep breathing exercises can also be done from bed. Consult the Best Cancer Specialist in Pune about the types and intensity of exercises suitable during your cancer treatment course.

Staying Active At Home

On days you don’t feel up to going out, there are many activities you can do at home to keep moving. Gentle housework like dusting, mopping or hanging clothes, gardening, cooking, playing with pets are all ways to incorporate movement into daily tasks. 

You can also try yoga or meditation apps or videos for easy follow-along workouts. Gentle yoga poses and deep breathing practices have calming effects and help relaxation. Light yoga, tai chi or chair exercises can be customized for any fitness level. Staying socially connected is also important. Video call friends and family for virtual activities like dancing, exercising together or online classes. Organize virtual game or movie nights to look forward to.

Occupational Or Physical Therapy

For some, guided physical or occupational therapy may be prescribed as part of cancer rehabilitation. A physical or occupational therapist can create personalized exercise programs tailored to individual needs, limitations and treatment goals. Therapy focuses on strengthening muscles, improving range of motion, balance and overall functionality. Gentle resistance exercises, balance activities and learning energy conservation techniques are common. Guidance from a specialist ensures safety and efficacy.

Continue Favourite Activities

If possible, try to continue hobbies and favorite recreational activities that were part of daily routine before diagnosis. Activities you truly enjoy and find purposeful are more likely to motivate continued participation, even on low-energy days. 

This could include things like gardening, dancing, cooking, crafts, swimming etc. done at a comfortable pace. Social support makes enjoying hobbies even more meaningful. Have patience on days you can only observe or participate minimally – every small movement counts.

A Promise of Wellbeing- Galaxy Care Hospital

Staying active brings numerous health benefits like managing treatment side effects, boosting mood and quality of life during cancer care. At Galaxy Care Hospital, we have the Best Oncologists in Pune and specialized rehabilitation teams to help patients devise personalized exercise plans customized for each individual’s unique needs during the treatment journey. 

We offer comprehensive cancer care along with advanced minimally invasive surgery options like Laparoscopic and Robotic Surgery. Our expert surgeons use the latest Da Vinci Robotic Surgical Systems for surgeries with reduced pain, scarring and faster recovery times compared to open surgeries. 

Reach us at Galaxy Care Hospital today to learn more about our treatment options and rehabilitation programs to stay active during cancer care. Our supportive and experienced medical teams are dedicated to helping patients fight cancer and improve their overall wellness. We wish you speedy recovery!