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Categories Aqua Therapy, Oncology, Resources Author marketing

Exercise and Nutrition During Cancer Treatment: Empowering Your Journey


The moment of a cancer diagnosis can feel like a pivotal point in one's life, ushering in a period of uncertainty and challenge. Yet, amidst the complexities of treatments and appointments, two critical pillars of self-care emerge as beacons of hope and resilience: exercise and nutrition.





These components are not just adjuncts to medical treatments but are foundational to enhancing quality of life, bolstering strength, and fostering recovery. As we explore exercise and nutrition during cancer treatment, remember that you're not navigating this path alone.





Let's explore how integrating thoughtful nutrition and purposeful movement into your care plan can be transformative.





Nutrition During Cancer Treatment





The role of nutrition in cancer care cannot be overstated. Proper dietary choices can significantly influence your capacity to manage the rigors of treatment and its side effects.





flyer containing oncology food recommendations. Green leaf, orange fruit, spices, snacks, meat
Click Here To Download




“During cancer treatment, you might need to change your diet to help build up your strength and withstand the effects of the cancer and its treatment. The nutrition plan may mean eating things that aren't normally recommended when in good health.”—American Cancer Society.





Here are four essential considerations to empower your nutrition journey:






  1. Tailored Dietary Strategies: Recognize that your nutritional needs are unique. Engaging with your healthcare team to craft a personalized eating plan can address specific challenges, whether they're related to maintaining weight or managing treatment side effects like nausea or altered taste.






  • Nourishment for Strength: High-protein, high-calorie foods may become more central in your diet, especially if maintaining weight becomes a concern. These choices help sustain your strength, ensuring your body has the resources to repair and recover.






  • Managing Side Effects with Nutrition: Certain foods can alleviate or at least not exacerbate side effects. Soft, cool foods like ice cream or milkshakes might be soothing for mouth sores, while snacks high in protein and calories can offer energy boosts without requiring large meals.






  • Vital Nutrients: Focus on various foods to ensure you receive all necessary nutrients. Proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals each support your body's fight against cancer and the effects of its treatment.






Download TTN Oncology Food Recommendations









Exercise During Cancer Treatment





The notion of exercising during cancer treatment might feel daunting; however, research consistently highlights its benefits.





“Some studies have proposed that rehabilitation exercise can reduce the cardiopulmonary adverse reactions, bone loss and incidence rate of fractures caused by cancer surgery or chemotherapy, and improve the quality of life of patients.”--NIH





Here are key insights to guide your physical activity:






  • Safety and Personalization: Consult your cancer care team before exercising. Your safety is paramount, and activities should be tailored to your current health status and treatment phase.





woman with cancer doing yoga





  • Moderate Exercise: Walking, yoga, or light resistance training can improve physical functioning and alleviate symptoms like fatigue and anxiety. The goal is to stay as active as your condition allows, gradually increasing activity over time.






  • Building a Routine: Regular, moderate exercise can enhance quality of life during and after treatment. Benefits include improved cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and even a positive impact on mood and mental health.






  • Exercise as a Catalyst for Recovery: Beyond immediate quality-of-life improvements, exercise during treatment can lay the groundwork for a more robust recovery, potentially influencing long-term outcomes.





What to Expect at The Therapy Network





At The Therapy Network, we understand the profound impact cancer diagnosis and treatment can have on your physical and emotional well-being. For exercise and nutrition during cancer treatment, TTN’s Oncology Physical Therapy Services support you through this journey, offering:





Customized Care Plans: Addressing symptoms like fatigue, pain, and mobility issues, our specialists tailor interventions to enhance your quality of life.





Innovative Solutions: From aqua therapy to specialized exercises, we utilize a range of modalities to support your recovery and rehabilitation.





women in pool aqua therapy




At The Therapy Network in Hampton Roads, Virginia, you’re not just a patient but part of our family. Our employee-owned structure means everyone you meet invests in your health and recovery.





Exercise and nutrition during cancer treatment are not just strategies for managing a diagnosis; they're integral parts of a holistic approach to cancer care. These elements empower you to control your health and actively participate in your recovery journey. As you navigate the challenges ahead, remember that The Therapy Network supports you every step, offering the expertise, care, and compassion you deserve.





Let's embrace a future focused on wellness, strength, and healing together. Appointments are available today without a doctor's referral.


Categories Aqua Therapy, Back Pain, Chronic Pain, Exercise, Rheumatoid Arthritis Author marketing

Does Aquatic Therapy Promote Recovery and Wellness?


If you seek an effective way to recover from an injury or prevent future ones, look no further than Aquatic Therapy. The Therapy Network in coastal Virginia offers Aquatic Therapy sessions that can be your ticket to improved well-being and an active lifestyle.





What is Aquatic Therapy?





Simply, it involves personalized, hands-on therapy techniques and specific body movements designed for water use. How do Aquatic Therapy exercises promote recovery and wellness?





Imagine exercising in an environment where gravity's effects are reduced, and joint strain is minimized. Water provides natural buoyancy, making recovery and wellness, with Aquatic Therapy an ideal choice for rehabilitation after an illness or injury.





Your Therapy Network therapist will use specially designed exercise equipment and aids like floats and balls to assist you during your sessions. Through targeted exercises and movements, you will experience the benefits of this low-impact yet highly efficient form of Therapy.





aquatic therapy group




7 Benefits of Pool Exercise





Let’s take a closer look at the remarkable benefits of Aquatic Therapy and how it promotes recovery and wellness. Here are seven of the top benefits: 






  • Lowers Fall Risk:  If you are concerned about balance and coordination issues, Aquatic Therapy is a game-changer. In a safe and supportive aquatic environment, you will regain confidence and reduce the risk of falls by improving these skills.






  • Helps with Balance and Coordination:  Whether recovering from an injury, dealing with a chronic condition, or simply looking to enhance performance, aquatic therapy can help improve your balance and coordination—the resistance provided by water challenges your muscles, enhancing your overall stability.






  • Reduced Stress on Joints and Bones:  Water's buoyancy provides a unique advantage by alleviating stress on your joints and bones. The buoyancy makes Aquatic Exercise an excellent choice for individuals with arthritis, back pain, or orthopedic injuries. By reducing the strain on these areas, you can engage in rehabilitation exercises comfortably and with less pain.






  • Builds Muscle Strength and Endurance:  Water is hundreds of times more resistive than air, making it ideal for building strength and endurance. Your Therapy Network therapist will guide you toward improved muscle tone through exercises.






  • Increases Aerobic Capacity: Water-based exercises elevate your heart rate and enhance your cardiovascular fitness. Aquatic Therapy offers an enjoyable and effective way to improve your aerobic capacity without placing excessive stress on your joints.






  • Improves Joint Flexibility: Aquatic Therapy can help you regain and improve flexibility if you struggle with limited joint mobility. The water's resistance enables you to move your joints through a greater range of motion, restoring joint function and reducing stiffness.






  • Reduces Swelling:  Aquatic Therapy can effectively reduce swelling in injured or inflamed areas. The pressure exerted by the water helps to improve circulation, promoting healing.





As a bonus, can Aquatic Therapy help you lose weight? "Aquatics therapy is considered superior to traditional forms of physical exercise for individuals who are overweight and obese. When coupled with a new diet, aquatics therapy can help people lose weight safely and effectively.”—ClassicRehabilitation.com 





Aquatic Therapy has significant benefits, but how else does it promote recovery and wellness? What conditions can benefit from Aquatic Therapy?





Conditions that Benefit from Aquatic Exercise





Now that you are familiar with the benefits of Aquatic Therapy, you may wonder which conditions can benefit from this physical therapy approach. Aquatic Physical Therapy has been successfully used to treat a wide variety of conditions, including:






  • Arthritis




  • Back Pain




  • Balance Disorder




  • Chronic Pain




  • Relief from Diabetes Symptoms




  • Fibromyalgia




  • Joint Pain




  • Multiple Sclerosis




  • Orthopedic or Sports Injuries




  • Post-Operative Conditions




  • Stroke




  • Tendinitis





With the list of benefits and conditions improved with Aquatic Therapeutic Exercise, we hope that we have answered the question, “Does aquatic therapy promote recovery and wellness?”





Aquatic Therapy at The Therapy Network





The Therapy Network is here to support you on your journey to recovery and optimal health. Our team of skilled physical therapists specializes in customizing your PT journey and will guide you every step of the way.





Read more on our website.





Experience the power of water in healing and transforming your body. Did you know you do not need a physician's referral or prescription to schedule an appointment at The Therapy Network? Contact us to schedule an appointment in the Hampton Roads region of Virginia.