Evidence Update: Therapeutic horseback riding in breast cancer survivors
Breast cancer treatments often negatively impact upper extremity function and the overall perceived quality of an individual’s life. A 2014 pilot study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complimentary Medicine evaluated the physiologic and psychological effects of an equine-assisted therapy protocol in breast cancer survivors. This study consisted of 20 breast cancer survivors who […]
Evidence Update: Mat Based Exercises Improve Bone Density
Osteoporosis and osteopenia affect up to 35.5 million women in the United States, with numbers likely to grow with our aging population. Women who have had breast cancer treatment may be at increased risk for osteoporosis and fracture. Estrogen has a protective effect on bone, and reduced levels of the hormone trigger bone loss. Because […]
Evidence Update: The Effectiveness of Music Therapy in Decreasing Anxiety, Depression and Length of Hospital Stay in Breast Cancer Patients
It is well documented that patients undergoing breast cancer treatment report increased levels of anxiety and depression, both of which are known to increase cortisol levels in the body. Cortisol, also known as the stress hormone, serves an important physiological role in protecting one from imminent danger. However, when cortisol levels are chronically elevated in […]
Evidence Update: The Effectiveness of Physical Exercise on Bone Density in Osteoporotic Patients
Physical exercise is considered an effective means to help prevent osteoporosis and to increase bone strength in osteoporotic individuals. Breast cancer treatments, medications and surgery have a considerable impact on bone health, and patients may experience a loss of ovarian function, or if premenopausal before cancer treatment, may go through menopause earlier. The research supports […]
