Dealing with a cancer diagnosis today is much different than in the past. Doctors have so much more information about treatment and recovery that patients have relatively good chances at a full recovery. Although each patient is unique to their situation, most experts agree that physical activity or therapy is a smart way to deal and recover from cancer. Explore the benefits of activity so that every patient can strive for a better tomorrow.

Increased Lung Volume

After chemotherapy or radiation therapy, the entire body feels down. Depending on the cancer type, breathing can be difficult too. By performing physical-therapy activities, patients will often feel like they can breathe again. Because exercise encourages deep breaths, the lungs actually become stronger than before. Being able to breathe in normal oxygen volumes forces these molecules into the bloodstream where they can nourish recovering tissues. People with lung cancer and associated issues typically respond well to a consistent workout schedule.

Reduced Fatigue

Fewer bouts with fatigue are reported by cancer patients who perform physical therapy, reports the National Comprehensive Cancer Network. As the body sweats and works through the workout strain, good hormones flow through the bloodstream. These natural chemicals give the patient a good feeling, which forces fatigue feelings away. Depression within the fatigue can fade as well. The mental side to a cancer diagnosis is just as critical as the physical aspect.

Boosted Immune System

As patients participate in their physical activities, the muscles and bones benefit with increased nutrients to their locations. With strong tissues comes a bodily balance called homeostasis. The body doesn't have to be on high alert because of declining tissues and negative thought processes. It actually has a chance to heal other areas that may have been overlooked until now. A boosted immune system is a superior side effect to basic workout sessions.

Potential Long-Term Remission

According to the World Confederation for Physical Therapy, exercise can directly influence long-term remission. Patients who keep up with doctor's visits and work out both with and without professionals see a dramatic increase in quality of life. Persistent cancers can actually decline in tumor size, which allows the person to live life to its fullest for many years.

Partnering With Professionals

The best way to get moving is through a partnership with a physical therapy professional. They take a patient's medical condition into consideration as they create a workout plan that's customized to the situation. It's altered over time as the patient gains more strength and agility. Working out without a professional's input at first may not be as beneficial because injuries and overexertion can be an issue.

Each day after a cancer treatment can be challenging, but patients have many options to keep on moving. A 30-minute workout may be too difficult so patients can break up that activity into 5- or 10-minute bursts of movement. By performing at least three hours of exercise each week, cancer survivors can see a significant difference during their recovery time. Living with cancer doesn't have to be as difficult as it once was.