Is it okay for cancer patients to exercise while undergoing treatment? The answer is a resounding “yes,” says Katherine Schaefer, a licensed yoga instructor, massage therapist and Reiki master.
“Exercise activates the muscles, circulates fluids throughout the body, and helps maintain strength and flexibility,” says Schaefer, who leads yoga classes and offers massage and Reiki therapy at Karmanos Cancer Institute’s Lawrence and Idell Weisberg Cancer Treatment Center in Farmington Hills. “Exercise also helps relieve feelings of anxiety and depression.”
With physician approval, patients can pursue a variety of activities, from walking, jogging and yoga to tai chi and strength training. And exercises can be adapted for patients with limited mobility, Schaefer says.
“Movement is important for all patients, including people in a wheelchair or hospital bed,” she says. “A little exercise can go a long way. Just be sure to exercise in moderation and listen to your body. Pain or fatigue are signals that you need to back off a little bit. It’s important to work on your flexibility and strength, but don’t pursue it as if you’re entering a competition.”
Schaefer says it’s important to exercise daily — just don’t do the same activity each day.
“A variety of exercises not only keeps us from getting bored with our workout routine, it also promotes healing and better overall body function,” she says.
People in Schaefer’s yoga classes often tell her how exercise has impacted them.
“Exercise gives patients the confidence to actively participate in their health management,” Schaefer says. “They often feel more calm and relaxed after exercising—the activity lifts their spirits. And they enjoy the support and camaraderie of the other class members.”
Perhaps the biggest benefit of exercise is helping patients reconnect with themselves, Schaefer says.
“A lot of patients disconnect mentally from their bodies after experiencing pain or undergoing surgery,” she says. “Exercise is an opportunity to connect with the essence of who you are.
“It’s very fulfilling to receive a positive response from people going through difficulties related to cancer. Offering exercise classes is just one way Karmanos treats the whole patient, not just the disease.”
Always consult your doctor before beginning an exercise program. For more information about the benefits of exercise, visit the American College of Sports Medicine website at acsm.org.
To support yoga, massage, Reiki and other healing arts programs at Karmanos, please visit the Leah A. Davidson Endowment for the Healing Arts webpage.
For more information about a cancer diagnosis or treatment, call 1-800-KARMANOS (1-800-527-6266).