Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among Australian men and affects around 1 in 6 men. Common treatments for prostate cancer include surgical removal, chemotherapy, radiation, targeted drug therapy and Androgen Deprivation Therapy (ADT). These treatments can negatively affect your health, which is why cancer patients are often advised to exercise according to their abilities before, during, and after cancer treatment.
Exercise Physiology & Prostate Cancer Treatment
Exercise plays a crucial role in the treatment of prostate cancer, offering a safe and effective way to enhance treatment tolerance and outcomes. Patients who exercise during treatment cycles often tolerate and respond better to a greater percentage of their treatment plans. Physical activity also helps manage the side effects of ADT, as this treatment can cause loss of muscle mass, bone density, weight gain, cognitive impairment, hot flashes and other chronic conditions.
Research shows that prostate cancer patients who maintain higher energy expenditure levels have a lower mortality rate from both prostate cancer and other causes. Moreover, beyond these specific benefits, strength and aerobic exercises can increase blood flow, improve immune function, combat fatigue and reduce fat mass.
What type of exercise is recommended during prostate cancer?
Urinary incontinence can be an issue for most men going through prostate cancer treatment and the issue may have been around for years before diagnosis. Whether the prostate is enlarged, has been removed or you have sensitivity from radiation, following the above physical activity guidelines is the best thing you can do for pelvic floor health. At MyEP our EP’s specialise in specific pelvic floor exercises and distraction techniques that are helpful with incontinence and urgency. All the above should be part of your plan to improve your pelvic floor health.
An individualised approach needs to be taken to meet your specific needs during your prostate cancer treatment. This is why seeing an Exercise Physiologist is the first and most important step in your exercise program.
MyEP have been prescribing tailored exercise programs for people with cancer for over 10 years and specialise in prostate cancer exercise treatment. Depending on your treatment you may also have access to free or cost reduced consultations with an Exercise Physiologist under certain ADT pharmaceutical companies and Medicare.
For best results, book an appointment with one of our Exercise physiologists who specialises in treating those with cancer at MyEP. Our experienced team of Exercise Physiologists will create an individualised program that will give you the tools and knowledge to exercise safely and effectively before, during and after your prostate cancer treatment.