Cancer and its treatment can affect strength, mobility, balance and energy. Surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and time spent less active may all change what someone can comfortably do.
Rehabilitation should be planned around the type of cancer, treatment stage, symptoms and advice from the oncology team.
What may physiotherapy help with?
Depending on the assessment, rehabilitation may include:
- gentle mobility after surgery or hospital treatment
- gradual strengthening
- walking and balance practice
- ways to divide activity and rest
- breathing exercises where appropriate
- support for returning to work, hobbies or daily tasks
Cambridge University Hospitals’ guidance on exercise during cancer explains that activity should account for treatment and current ability.
Fatigue needs a flexible plan
Cancer-related fatigue is not always relieved by rest. Short, manageable periods of activity may be easier than one long session. But exercise should be reduced or paused when the oncology team advises it, or when someone is acutely unwell.
Safety during treatment
Speak to the cancer team before starting or changing exercise. Fever, signs of infection, unusual bleeding, chest pain, severe breathlessness, new swelling or sudden neurological symptoms need prompt medical advice.
Ask about cancer rehabilitation
Crestwell Medical can work alongside oncology guidance to support mobility and function. Book an appointment to discuss cancer rehabilitation.
This article provides general information and does not replace advice from your oncology team.
