Clinical Pilates plays a vital role in the recovery process. Clinical exercise not only helps prevent the development of breast cancer and various other diseases, but also plays a vital role in the recovery process. A American Cancer Association recommends that patients resume physical activity soon after treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy or hormone therapy, avoiding physical inactivity.
The American Cancer Association includes regular physical activity with resistance exercises at least twice a week, totalling 150 minutes of exercise.
Physical exercise triggers the release of various hormones in the body that can reduce pain and improve general well-being. It improves sleep quality, mood and libido, as well as stimulating the circulatory, lymphatic and cardiovascular systems. Exercise also stimulates the immune system to fight free radicals that damage healthy cells.
Another important factor of exercise for cancer patients is the reduction of body fat. Excess fat increases the production of hormones, mainly oestrogen, and substances related to body growth, which can stimulate tumour growth.
In order to minimise these consequences of treatment, physical exercise plays a significant role, and this is where the clinical Pilates Method comes in. It is an individualised form of physical activity that is highly adaptable to each patient's needs.
The mobility and strengthening exercises in clinical Pilates are performed dynamically and progressively, without impact and without risk to the person who is usually already weakened by surgical and pharmacological treatments.
The basic level exercises in clinical Pilates are initially carried out to introduce the patient to the method, help them adapt to the equipment and exercises, and integrate them into the clinical Pilates Method. Gradually, according to individualised progress, intermediate and advanced level exercises are introduced.
Scientific studies indicate that clinical Pilates contributes positively to the treatment of breast cancer in several ways, including:
- Reducing fatigue: clinical Pilates helps relieve the fatigue felt by breast cancer patients, improving energy levels and overall strength.
- Reducing the side effects of cancer treatment: clinical Pilates can help reduce the side effects of cancer treatment, such as nausea, pain and decreased range of motion.
- Improved functioning of the cardiorespiratory, circulatory and lymphatic systems: clinical Pilates exercises promote cardiovascular fitness, improve blood circulation and lymphatic drainage, which can reduce swelling and improve general health.
- Maintaining bone health: clinical Pilates exercises involving weight bearing and resistance help maintain bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and possible fractures.
- Chronic pain management: clinical Pilates can help reduce the chronic pain often associated with breast cancer treatment, especially in the joints and muscles.
- Improved range of movement, especially in the shoulder: Clinical Pilates exercises focus on improving joint flexibility and mobility, enabling recovery of range of movement, especially in the shoulder joint which can be affected by surgery and radiotherapy.
- Increased endurance and muscle strength, especially in the musculature of the shoulder girdle: clinical Pilates aims to work specific muscle groups, including the shoulder girdle, helping to increase strength and endurance, which can improve functionality, mobility and dexterity in daily tasks.
- Strengthening the “Centre”: clinical Pilates emphasises strengthening the core (in clinical Pilates referred to as the Centre), including the deep abdominal and back muscles, giving stability and support to the whole body.
- Stress management: clinical Pilates exercises incorporate conscious movements, breathing and relaxation techniques, promoting stress reduction and general well-being.
- Improved body awareness: clinical Pilates stimulates the connection between body and mind, promoting better postural awareness, alignment and movement patterns, which can help patients regain control of their body during and after treatment.
- Minimises anxiety and depression: regular participation in clinical Pilates sessions has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety in breast cancer patients, promoting a positive mindset and emotional well-being. (get reference)
- Reducing the risk of tumour recurrence: regular physical activity, such as clinical Pilates, has been associated with a reduced risk of tumour recurrence in breast cancer survivors. (get reference)
- Improved quality of life: clinical Pilates can significantly improve the quality of life of breast cancer patients by improving physical capacity, reducing pain and discomfort, and promoting self-confidence.
In conclusion, incorporating clinical Pilates into the treatment and recovery plan of breast cancer patients offers numerous benefits. Not only does it help to address the physical challenges resulting from the disease and its treatment, but it also positively impacts patients' mental and emotional well-being. By improving physical fitness, reducing side effects and enhancing overall quality of life, clinical Pilates becomes a valuable complementary therapy for breast cancer patients. However, it is important that patients consult their doctor before starting any exercise programme. With proper guidance and a personalised approach, clinical Pilates can be a key tool in the recovery process.
The inclusion of clinical Pilates in breast cancer treatment offers a comprehensive approach that integrates not only the physical, but also the emotional and mental aspects of patients' health. It provides a safe and adaptable platform to promote muscle strengthening, flexibility, proper posture and body awareness.
However, it is essential that patients follow the recommendations of the health professionals accompanying them and adjust the clinical Pilates programme according to their individual needs. Each person is unique and it is important to respect the body's limits during the recovery process.
To summarise, clinical Pilates is an effective therapeutic approach for breast cancer patients, offering a variety of physical and emotional benefits. By being included in the treatment plan, clinical Pilates can improve recovery, increase quality of life and promote patients' general well-being.
Integrativa | Health and well-being as a lifestyle
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