Oncology is the treatment of tumors and cancer using chemotherapy, hormonal therapies, and other targeted treatments. It can save lives, but many patients feel it impedes their immediate quality of life by making exercise and activity difficult. Here are some steps that will help you exercise during or after cancer treatment.

How to Exercise While Undergoing Oncology Treatments

1. Start Slowly

If you feel well enough to do so, start your exercise routine slowly. At first, try simply walking five or 10 minutes per day. Gradually increase the distance, time, and intensity. Simple yoga poses and basic stretching exercises are also a good starting point. They increase your heart rate, improve circulation, and ready you for more challenging activities. As you improve, consider adding light resistance training and more vigorous cardio activities.

2. Get Oncology Team Approval

Before beginning any exercise routine, discuss your intentions with your oncologist and other clinicians. Explain your anticipated routine and ask for suggestions. Regular activity has been shown to assist with health, ease pain, and prevent fatigue, but for safety's sake, your medical team should approve your activities before you begin.  

3. Perform Balance Exercises

Chemotherapy drugs, pain meds, and chemotherapy-induced neuropathy can result in balance difficulties in many patients. Balance exercises are thus very helpful. For instance, spend 10 seconds balancing on one foot before switching to the other foot. Do seven to 10 sets of these three times a day, and practice walking in a straight line, placing your feet heel to toe as if walking a tightrope. These will help you maintain and improve mobility and balance. 

If you need the finest oncology treatment available to you, stop by Taylor Regional Hospital in Campbellsville, KY. They have served patients throughout central Kentucky for more than 50 years, with specialties in family medicine, women's health, and surgery. They offer an urgent care walk-in clinic for emergencies, staffed by trained, compassionate physicians. Their radiology department is fully accredited by the American College of Radiology in Nuclear Medicine. Learn more about them on their website or call (270) 465-3561 to make an oncology appointment.