The diagnosis of breast cancer could cause a lot of emotions. However, the best way to get the most out of it is to live an active and healthy way of life. From your diet and exercise routine, everything has to be tailored to your specific needs. Surgery for cancer of the breast can have a devastating effect on women’s bodies. Here are some workouts that can aid in speedier recovery.
A study in 2020 published by the National Cancer Institute has shown evidence linking exercise with a higher chance of survival among women with high risk in breast cancer. It found that women who engaged regularly in physical activity prior to the diagnosis of cancer and afterwards treatment were less likely suffer from cancer recurrence or die as compared to women who were not active.
Cured Care have reached out to Dr Ramya Nair, Consultant Physiotherapist at Masina Hospital, to find out about exercises that can aid in the healing process following a surgical procedure for breast cancer. Dr. Nair suggested five exercises that can be practiced within the first day following the time the patient has undergone the breast cancer surgery.
Exercises to speed up recovery after the surgery for breast cancer:
1. Deep breathing exercises
The practice of breathing exercises that are deep will allow you to bring your chest back into motion with a calm and steady way. To do this exercise, breathe deeply through the nose. Hold it for 10 seconds. Then exhale slowly from your mouth. Perform 10 repetitions of this exercise. You can also perform this while lying on your mattress.
2. Wand exercise
The radiation therapy used for breast cancer patients can affect the shoulders’ movement. Exercise with a wand can increase the flexibility of your shoulder and brings it back to its normal. For this exercise, you’ll need to lie on your back, and hold the wand between your hands. After that, lift it up and hold it for five minutes and then slowly bring it back down. Repeat this motion at minimum 10 times.
3. Elbow wings
Also, this exercise will assist in flexing the shoulders and chest that are among the more vulnerable areas following an o breast cancer surgery. Lay on your back and place them behind you in such a manner that your elbows are in what appears to be wings. Then , move your elbows upwards and down slowly in a slow move. You should do 5 sets every for 1-2 minutes.
4. Shoulder blade squeeze
To perform this exercise, take a seat in a chair with your back straight ahead, without putting you back against the seat. Arms should lie by your side , with your elbows bent slightly and palms facing downwards. Squeeze your shoulder blades in a forward direction and then return. Keep each position for five seconds , then repeat. Deep breathing while you hold this position helps to reduce swelling following surgery.
5. Wall climbing
Place your feet on the wall, and put of your palms on the wall, at shoulder height. Utilize your fingers to go or slide as high as you are able to climb until you feel stretched. Keep the stretch for 5-10 seconds, then let it let your body relax. Repeat the exercise seven to ten times.
