Exercise: A Powerful Tool for Relieving Pain in Cancer Patients
Scientists Claim that Intense Exercise Can Relieve Pain in Cancer Patients During Treatment
Exercise A pain-relieving aid for cancer
Yoga is one type of exercise that can help ease pain symptoms for people with cancer. Drazen/Getty Images
📌 Researchers have discovered a surprising benefit of exercise for people with cancer – it can help alleviate pain. 💪
Many cancer patients may not initially consider exercise as a way to manage pain, but according to a recent study, physical activity can be an effective non-pharmacologic option for reducing pain associated with cancer and its treatments. This finding is consistent with previous research that shows an association between exercise and pain relief in non-cancer patients. So, let’s dive into the details and explore how exercise can be a powerful tool in managing pain for cancer patients.
The Study: Exploring the Connection Between Exercise and Pain
The study, published in the journal Cancer, involved 10,651 adults with a past cancer diagnosis and 51,439 adults without a history of cancer. Participants were asked to rate their average pain level on a scale of 0 to 10, with 0 representing no pain and 10 being the worst imaginable pain. They were also questioned about their exercise habits.
The researchers found that engaging in higher levels of physical activity was associated with lower pain intensity in both cancer patients and those without a history of cancer. Among individuals with a past cancer diagnosis, those who exceeded the U.S. government’s physical activity guidelines (150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week) were 16% less likely to report moderate-to-severe pain compared to those who exercised less. Furthermore, consistent or increased physical activity levels were linked to less pain compared to remaining inactive.
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💡 Insight 1: Physical activity plays a crucial role in managing cancer-related pain, regardless of whether an individual has a history of cancer or not.
Exercise as Part of a Comprehensive Cancer Treatment Plan
The benefits of exercise for cancer patients extend beyond pain relief. Dr. Jessica Cheng, a physiatrist at City of Hope Orange County in California, emphasizes the importance of maintaining physical activity throughout the cancer journey. Regular exercise has been shown to lower depression, anxiety, and fatigue while potentially improving survival rates for certain cancers.
Dr. Cheng suggests that cancer patients consult with their treating oncologists and undergo evaluation by a cancer rehabilitation specialist to determine the most suitable exercise regimen. Each patient’s individual medical situation, abilities, and preferences should be taken into account when selecting activities. With options ranging from shadow boxing and walking to swimming and modified wheelchair Zumba, there is something for everyone.
💡 Insight 2: Exercise offers various benefits beyond pain relief, such as reducing depression, anxiety, and fatigue, and potentially improving survival rates for certain cancers.
Balancing Exercise and Cancer Treatment
While exercise has proven to be beneficial for pain management in cancer patients, healthcare professionals must strike a balance when advising patients. They need to consider both the potential benefits of exercise and the impact it may have on the body’s ability to combat cancer.
Dr. Jennifer Beebe-Dimmer, an epidemiologist at Wayne State University’s Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, suggests that higher intensity interval workouts combined with strength training can yield the best short- and long-term outcomes for cancer patients. However, she acknowledges that any form of exercise is better than nothing. Patients should engage in activities they find enjoyable and can tolerate.
💡 Insight 3: Healthcare professionals need to find a balance between encouraging physical activity and addressing patients’ individual medical situations, abilities, and preferences.
Exercise and Medication: A Winning Combination
Exercise should not replace pain-reducing medications for people with cancer. Instead, it should be incorporated as part of an integrated approach to pain management. Non-pharmacological therapies, such as low-impact exercises, are recommended as adjuncts to medication.
Physical activity offers benefits beyond pain relief, including enhancing muscle growth and releasing endorphins, which aid in pain alleviation and tolerance. However, some caution is required, as physical exertion may exhaust the body and hinder its ability to fight malignancies. Consulting with healthcare professionals and cancer rehabilitation specialists helps identify safe and suitable exercise options.
💡 Insight 4: Exercise should be prescribed alongside pain-reducing medications for people with cancer, contributing to a comprehensive pain management plan.
Cancer Pain and Exercise: Looking Ahead
Future research should focus on determining the ideal intensity, frequency, and types of low-impact exercises that alleviate pain in oncologic patients. Exploring the potential of exercise as an adjunct to strong pain medication is vital for enhancing pain management strategies.
📚 References: – Identical twins study shows vegan diets helping heart – Childhood trauma may raise odds of adult physical pain – Plant-based diets cut diabetes risk by 24%
🙋♀️ Q&A: What Else Might You Want to Know?
Q1: Can exercise help alleviate pain in other medical conditions besides cancer?
Absolutely! Exercise has been shown to be effective in reducing pain in various medical conditions. For example, studies have demonstrated its benefits for individuals with chronic pain, arthritis, fibromyalgia, and more. Engaging in regular physical activity not only helps manage pain but also improves overall health and well-being.
Q2: Are there any risks associated with exercising while undergoing cancer treatment?
Exercise is generally safe for cancer patients, but it’s crucial to consult with healthcare professionals and cancer rehabilitation specialists before starting any exercise program. They will evaluate your specific medical situation and provide guidance on exercise intensity and type. In some cases, cancer treatments and their side effects may impact mobility and bone density, necessitating low-impact exercises for safety.
Q3: Can exercise reduce the need for pain medication in cancer patients?
While exercise has been shown to alleviate pain in cancer patients, it is not intended to replace pain medication. Exercise is most effective when used in combination with pain-reducing medications, offering a comprehensive approach to pain management. As always, consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best strategy for your individual needs.
If you found this article helpful, feel free to share it with others and spark a conversation about exercise and pain management in cancer patients. Together, we can spread awareness and support those navigating the challenges of cancer treatment.
Note: The medical information provided on this platform is intended to be used as a general resource only and should not replace professional medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance and tailored recommendations.
