Evidence Update: Impact of Pilates Exercise on Lymphedema
The advances in breast cancer treatment such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgical treatment all reduce breast cancer mortality rates, but they may also lead to complications such as lymphedema. Research shows that the percentage of patients experiencing lymphedema after breast cancer treatment ranges from 2% to 30%. Exercise is an important strategy to help reduce and manage lymphedema. In a recent study, 60 women with lymphedema were randomized into two groups: a clinical Pilates exercise group and a control exercise group that was assigned standard lymphedema management exercises. In both exercise groups, there were significant symptom reductions such as decreased severity of lymphedema, improvements in social appearance anxiety scale scores, improvements in quality of life and use of the affected upper extremity. The improvements were greater in the clinical Pilates exercise group. Pilates is an effective and safe exercise model that can aide in symptom reduction of lymphedema. Hulya Ozlem Sener, Mehtap Malkoc, Gulbin Ergin, Didem Karadibak, Tugba Yavuzen. Effects of Clinical Pilates Exercises on Patients Developing Lymphedema after Breast Cancer Treatment: A Randomized Clinical Trial. J Breast Health 2017; 13: 16-22.
Evidence Update: Self-Care in Breast Cancer Recovery
Breast cancer is an extremely challenging life event that can occur and impact one’s outlook on life. While focus on quality of life has traditionally centered on physical well-being, current research is showing a multitude of other factors that influence a woman’s quality of life. A recent literature review explored the existing research and showed that breast cancer survivors experience physical, psychological, social, and spiritual challenges, all of which can benefit from a more holistic approach of well-being and self-care. The article points out that as many as 64% of women with breast cancer experience fear as well as high percentages experiencing distress and anxiety. Socially, women perceived their social functioning as reduced and negatively impacted throughout a cancer journey. However, studies have found that utilization of a social support network is associated with better resistance to illness, lower mortality, longer survival from myocardial infarction, lower risk of cancer reoccurrence, and improved cancer survival. Spirituality and religiosity is another area impacted by a breast cancer diagnosis. Research has shown that an involvement in spiritual/religious activities enhances physical and mental health, coping with illness, medical outcomes, decreasing fear, finding hope, and making meaning. Want to learn more about how to implement self-care in these areas and positively change your overall quality of life? Join us at the August TurningPoint Education event or make an appointment with one of our counselors to learn more. Wei, D, et al. Effectiveness of Physical, Psychological, Social, and Spiritual Intervention in Breast Cancer Survivors: An Integrative Review, Asia Pac J Oncol Nurs, v.3(3); Jul-Sep 2016.
Evidence Update: Why is Exercise Important for Breast Cancer Survivors?
Establishing a consistent and comprehensive exercise routine that involves upper and lower body strengthening as well as a cardiovascular component should be a goal for all individuals. This is especially important for breast cancer survivors who may benefit from interventions that can offset the side-effects related to breast cancer treatment. A recent study confirms the findings that exercise after cancer-related treatments may improve physical and emotional well-being, maintain bone health, improve balance, reduce risk of recurrence, reduce body mass index, and manage and prevent lymphedema. Participating in aerobic exercise programs for as few as three weeks may have an impact on the health and well-being of survivors. In addition, whole body resistance training programs pose numerous benefits for breast cancer survivors to regain strength and improve body composition. Participating in a regular exercise routine not only has an impact on health, but helps empower individuals with a sense of accomplishment and involvement in their own self-care. Dieli-Conwright CM, Orozco BZ.  Exercise after breast cancer treatment: current perspectives. Breast Cancer: Targets and Therapy (Dove Med Press) 2015; 7:353-362.
Evidence Update: Why is Posture Important?
Posture is a term used to describe how your body is positioned when you are standing, sitting or lying down. Posture can change after injury, surgery or other treatments such as radiation. A research study in which a post-mastectomy group was compared to a control group found a significantly higher incidence of faulty body postures which was observed among women after treatment for breast cancer. Faulty posture puts more stress on your muscles, tendons and ligaments. Poor posture after breast cancer treatment can lead to increased discomfort and injury. Good posture allows your joints to have less stress and work more effectively while helping your vital organs remain in the best position and your nervous system to be able to function effectively. Being aware of good posture is the first step to breaking poor postural habits and reducing stress and strain on your body. Malicka I, Barczyk K, Hanuszkiewicz J, Skolimowska B, Wozniewski M. Body posture of women after breast cancer treatment. Ortop Traumatol Rehabil. 2010 Jul-Aug;12(4):353-61
