Exercise

The benefits that are especially important for cancer patients are:

• Improved ability to do more activity and maintain or improve functional ability
• Greater strength
• Improved immune system
• Improved breathing / less breathlessness
• Improved sleep
• Greater energy
• Greater stamina
• Feeling better in spirit
• Improved body image and confidence

It is important when thinking about starting any exercise or increasing your current exercise tolerance that you are assessed for the most appropriate exercise/activity for you. This will take into account your current ability and, with an individually tailored programme, will help you to achieve your own optimum level of functional independence. If you would like advice on an individual home exercise programme you will need to be referred to a physiotherapist.

If you are a patient at Dorothy House, our Dorothy House Nurse Specialist can refer you for a Physiotherapy assessment. You could also be referred to the Dorothy House COPE Palliative Rehabilitation programme via your Dorothy House Nurse Specialist or GP. Otherwise your GP may be able to refer you to a community physiotherapist for advice.

Review date: June 2012