Kansas Pain Management

Cancer Pain Exercises

At Kansas Pain Management, we understand that cancer pain can be challenging, but certain exercises can help manage it by improving strength, mobility, and quality of life. Always consult with a healthcare professional before beginning any exercise program, especially if you’re undergoing treatment for cancer.

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Here are some general exercises that may help alleviate pain:

Gentle Stretching
  • Purpose: Helps relieve muscle tension and stiffness.
  • Examples:
    • Neck Stretch: Gently tilt your head to one side, holding for 10-20 seconds, then switch sides.
    • Hamstring Stretch: Sit on the floor with legs extended, reach toward your toes without straining, and hold.
  • Benefits: Increases flexibility and range of motion.
Range of Motion Exercises
  • Purpose: Prevents joint stiffness and helps maintain mobility.
  • Examples:
    • Shoulder Rolls: Slowly roll your shoulders in a circular motion.
    • Ankle Circles: Sit in a chair and slowly rotate your ankles in circular movements.
  • Benefits: Reduces joint pain and stiffness.
Strength Training (Low-Intensity)
  • Purpose: Maintains muscle mass, which can reduce weakness and fatigue.
  • Examples:
    • Wall Push-ups: Stand facing a wall, place your hands against it, and perform push-ups using your body weight.
    • Seated Leg Lifts: Sit on a chair and extend one leg at a time, holding for a few seconds before lowering.
  • Benefits: Enhances endurance and strength, helping to reduce overall pain.
Deep Breathing and Relaxation Techniques
  • Purpose: Helps manage pain and anxiety.
  • Examples:
    • Diaphragmatic Breathing: Inhale deeply through your nose, expanding your abdomen, hold for a few seconds, and exhale slowly.
    • Progressive Muscle Relaxation: Tense and relax each muscle group, starting from your feet and working upward.
  • Benefits: Reduces stress and may alleviate pain by calming the nervous system.
Aerobic Exercises (Low-Impact)
  • Purpose: Boosts energy levels, mood, and overall health.
  • Examples:
    • Walking: Gentle, regular walking improves circulation and reduces pain.
    • Swimming or Water Aerobics: Provides a low-impact way to move without putting stress on the joints.
  • Benefits: Promotes cardiovascular health and can relieve fatigue.
Yoga and Tai Chi
  • Purpose: Incorporates gentle movements, breathing, and mindfulness to manage pain.
  • Examples:
    • Simple Yoga Poses: Child’s Pose, Seated Forward Bend, and Cat-Cow Pose are gentle and relaxing.
    • Tai Chi: Slow, flowing movements that enhance balance and muscle control.
  • Benefits: Improves flexibility, balance, and reduces tension.
Tips for Exercise with Cancer Pain:
  • Listen to Your Body: Don’t overdo it—modify exercises based on how you feel.
  • Start Slowly: Begin with shorter sessions and gradually increase as your strength and stamina improve.
  • Stay Consistent: Regular, gentle movement is often more beneficial than intense exercise.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after exercise.
  • Rest: Balance exercise with adequate rest to prevent fatigue and overexertion.

Always consult your oncologist or physical therapist before starting any exercise routine to ensure it’s safe for your specific condition.

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For more information about back pain or exercises to strengthen your back, reach out to Kansas Pain Management Specialists by

calling (913)3399437 or request an appointment online.

We provide comprehensive, interventional pain management services across various locations in Kansas. You may book an appointment with us at Overland Park, Leavenworth/Lansing, and Ottawa, Kansas areas.  With nationally recognized and award winning Physicians our providers are leaders in the field of pain management.