Physical Therapists Help Breast Cancer Survivors Benefit From Exercise After The Walk And Awareness

By Trish Muse

What can we do after walking and raising awareness for Breast Cancer? Promote exercise everywhere you go and with everyone you meet, especially among Breast Cancer survivors. Did you know even Breast Cancer survivors benefit from exercise?

October was Breast Cancer awareness month and Physical Therapy awareness month. What better way to celebrate and raise awareness by continuing to give the gift of fitness to survivors by working with one group of professionals best trained to work with them, physical therapists, and by encouraging everyone you love to make fitness a regular part of their daily lives.

Everyone knows of someone affected by Breast cancer. Over 271,420 new cases of Breast cancer were expected to be diagnosed in 2005. Breast cancer survivors have very special needs requiring a skilled professional at least until they reach a maintenance phase in exercise programming.

Once their physician provides a medical clearance exercise a woman can begin exercising. Exercise programs provide flexibility exercises for the affected arm and improve postural alignment and awareness after surgery.

Some of the exercise benefits of participating in a regular exercise program for Breast Cancer survivors are:

- increased quality of life

- increased mood

- increased strength and endurance

- prevention of complications after surgery and treatment

Exercise helps to battle the side effects of treatment and aid in Breast Cancer recovery. Additional benefits of exercise include improvements in function and pain perception and all psychological areas according to the latest research. Exercise will help with daily activities and prevent further weakness and musculoskeletal problems.

Once full range of motion or mobility are restored strength training for the affected arm can begin. While working towards full range of motion, continue strengthening those body parts that are not affected. You'll need the strength in the rest of your body to be functional and efficient with your daily activities. Some women on hormonal therapy are at risk for developing osteoporosis. Weightbearing exercise can help offset any possible fractures.

Physical activity is still possible even with lymphedema, a chronic swelling of the affected arm when lymphatic fluid collects and is unable to drain properly. Close supervision by a Physical Therapist or Occupational Therapist is a good idea to receive proper guidance for exercise selection and instruction. Not only can strengthening occur but the therapist can assist in developing alternate routes for lymphatic fluid drainage to prevent the likelihood of developing lymph edema. Therapists can also show you how to monitor your arm if you are prone to developing lymphedema. The risk of lymphedema is also decreased by participation in a supervised exercise program. Physical therapists are well trained and qualified to provide evidence-based, supervised and individualized exercise programs for willing survivors. An integrative and complete exercise program will focus on strength and flexibility of the shoulder, arm, back and hand in addition to posture, aerobic endurance, lower body training and stress reduction.

Exercises for core strengthening and stabilization are another way to improve function and strength. Proper postural retraining is very important as changes tend to occur following surgery which if left unaddressed can lead to the development of other problems.

Deep breathing techniques will assist with controlling and returning lymphatic fluid back to the heart By practicing deep and efficient breathing techniques, postural alignment will be improved and stress can be reduced.

Flexibility exercises will increase range of motion where limitations exist not only in the upper body but in the back as well. A flexibility program will also address any scar tissue that may have developed following surgery.

If exhaustion and fatigue are a factor, participating in appropriate exercises throughout the course of the day as opposed to a continuous exercise session may be more tolerable. Cardiovascular or aerobic exercise will boost your endurance. Try something simple and safe initially like walking.

Learn how to use and incorporate the use of your affected arm in your daily activities. This is a great way to functionally work on flexibility and strength.

Remember we can all do something active and encourage those around us to do the same. Exercise is an inclusive activity that we all can benefit from with proper guidance. So don't wait for a special month or a problem to enlist the help of a physical therapist. Partner up and start moving today to feel your power - all year long!

Trish Muse is a physical therapist, veteran pharmaceutical representative and published author. Frequently featured in Essence, Heart and Soul, Self and Health magazines as well as several others as a fitness consultant, Trish provides continuing education internationally for fitness professionals and physical therapists. She is currently pursuing her Doctor of Science in Physical Therapy. As the owner of Body Productions, Inc. she is a popular National Strength and Conditioning Association Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, respected American College of Sports Medicine certified Health Fitness Instructor and Wellcoaches licensed Wellness Coach in the Washington DC area. She is a Polestar certified Pilates practitioner and East Coast Fitness Ambassador for Doce Vida Designs. Trish is the star and creator of the popular exercise videos, Ab Attack, Body Management and The Workstation Workout and star and co-producer of the functional fitness video Rock, Roll and Reggae.

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Breast Cancer Survivors - How to Prevent Cancer From Returning After Chemo Or Radiation Therapy

By Hollis Holloway

The most common cancers are the prostate (for men) and breast (for women), followed by lung and colorectal cancers. Next is bladder cancer for men, uterine cancer for women, lymphoma for men, ovarian cancer for women.

This insidious disease is not limited to just men and women, even children and some of our pet animals become victims to this dreadful disease.

ONE-THIRD OF NORTH AMERICAN WILL EVENTUALLY DIE OF SOME FORM OF CANCER.

Next to heart disease, cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States. All cancers results from a mutation or change of genes that control cell growth (American Medical Association).

The causes of this mutation includes: carcinogens, cigarette smoke, heavy metals, pesticides, radiation from X-rays, radiation from the sun, poor diet and etc.

It must be emphasized that many cancers can be prevented through the three-fold regiment of diet, avoidance of carcinogens(cancer-causing agents) and reinforced bodily defenses.

BREAST CANCER... SECOND LEADING CAUSE OF CANCER -RELATED DEATHS IN WOMEN.

According to the American Medical Association (AMA) there are nearly 180,000 new cases of breast cancer in American woman each year, and more than 40,000 deaths from the cancer. Five to 10 percent of women with breast have a mother or sister with breast cancer (two gene mutations called BRCA1 and 2)

Now here's something interesting. The vast majority of women who develop breast cancer have no family history of the disease. So now, with that behinds us let's focus on getting helpful suggestions on how to handle this health challenge successfully.

STEPS THAT CAN BE TAKEN TO PREVENT CANCER FROM RETURNING.

Diet... Fiber intake---Boosting fiber consumption to between 20 and 30 grams daily-- double the amount of most people-- may lower the amount of estrogen circulating the bloodstream. Eat more beans, lentils, fresh fruit, veggies and whole grain (AMA).

Reinforced Bodily Defense... The most powerful protector and fighter against cancer is Glutathione (GSH). Hundreds of medical articles have been written describing the role of GSH in cancer prevention and cancer treatment. They fall into the three main groups:

Prevention- includes detoxification of carcinogens, anti oxidation and heightened immune response.

Therapeutic possibilities- anti-tumor methodologies and the treatment and prevention of wasting.

Special role for GSH- in chemo therapy and radiation therapy whereby it minimizing it's side -effects.

THE BEST DEFENSIVE FIGHTER AGAINST CANCER.

Dr. Jimmy Gutman in his book "Glutathione Your Key To Health" page 6 says- GSH is the most powerful antioxidant occurring naturally in your body. The effectiveness of other antioxidants like vitamins C and E depends on glutathione.

A study published by the Journal of the National Cancer Institute illustrated that a well-functioning glutathione enzyme system wards off cancer. Glutathione (GSH) soak up oxy-radicals and other radicals as they form in the cell.

GSH therefore provides both preventative and therapeutic advantages. This is mainly because elevated glutathione levels enable the body to produce more white blood cells (cells that protect the body from disease and infection)

BREAST CANCER SURVIVOR... NO CHEMOTHERAPHY OR RADIATION THERAPY AFTER SURGERY.

I had the pleasure and opportunity to interview Susie of Florida.

Interviewer--- Susie, when were you first diagnose with breast cancer?

Susie-----------In January 2003.

Interviewer---- What was your first concern?

Susie----------- Find some help with my procedures. You see, I had no insurance to cover my expenses, so I was looking for some less expensive but effective alternative.

Interviewer----- What options came to mind?

Susie------------ First, and foremost was to get a second opinion.

Interviewer------ What procedure was done in your case?

Susie------------- Surgery to remove the infected lymph node.

Interviewer------ What followed, chemotherapy or radiotherapy?

Susie-------------- Neither, I refused both because of side-effects. My doctor disagreed initially with my decision. A friend got me in contact with a immune system research company that provided me information on a clinically proven natural technology that helps the immune system fight cancer. This whey protein isolate help optimize my immune system to produce more glutathione.

Interviewer------ What is your prognosis now?

Susie------------- As of April 2008, my doctor told me that my test shows me to be cancer free.

Interviewer------- What post-cancer suggestions would you like to share with other breast cancer victims?

Susie-------------- After you complete your procedures, exercise regularly, diet (include fruits and veggies), take high quality nutritional supplements and most importantly, attain and maintain a healthy immune system by raising glutathione levels. I take my special whey protein isolate every single day, because it saved my life. I am convinced that by doing these I will prevent my cancer from returning!

A weak or compromised immune system leaves the body cells vulnerable to free radical damage that can trigger cancer. There are other factors that creates a cancerous environment. Both humans and animals can become victims to cancer.

The most powerful and aggressive fighter against cancer is the master antioxidant.. Glutathione. Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States. Raising Glutathione(GSH) will help to protect your body against. CANCER.

Raising Glutathione is simple, easy and safe.

According to the Physician Desk Reference(PDR), Glutathione deficiency states includes: HIV/AIDS, infectious hepatitis, Certain types of cancer, cataracts, Alzheimer's Disease, Parkinson, asthma, COPD, radiation etc.

Hollis Holloway is a Marketing and Wellness Consultant with Immunotec Research.

It is my pleasure to share this valuable and helpful information to any and all who are interested in doing the best they can to stay healthy.

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Gifts to Celebrate Breast Cancer Survivors

By Adriana Copaceanu

If you have loved ones or friends that have survived breast cancer, it's time for celebration. Your friend or loved one has been through a very stressful time and lots of procedures. And no matter which procedure they had, they must be emotionally and physically drained. It's time to let them know you are celebrating with them and will do whatever it takes to make them feel whole again. One of the best gifts you can offer is the gift of yourself: be there for then when they are happy and energetic, as well as when they feel tired and lonely. Here are a few ideas for those times full of optimism and stamina:

• go together for a shopping trip, and buy a little something that will make your friend feel beautiful
  
• have a cup of coffee together at a coffee shop, away from home
  
• take walk in the park to enjoy nature again: a cool breeze of fresh air, the nice colors of fall, and even the kids playing on the swing sets

For those days when your friend is tired and doesn't feel like doing much, give her one of the following gifts:

• a nice book to read
  
• a music CD/DVD
  
• a journal, so she can jot down her feelings
  
• a spa gift certificate: getting a massage not only feels good, but it helps the mind and body to concentrate on healing and reduces stress. If you can, give her the gift of a monthly massage that will rejuvenate her month after month.

And don't forget to give yourself a gift too: the gift of health. Make sure you take care of your own body, by living a healthy life, resting and eating nourishing food. And get a mammogram this year: be pro-active!

Adriana Copaceanu is a busy mom of 2. Visit her Busy Moms Online if you are looking for ways to maximize your precious time. And if you are a new mom, you'll find everything you need to know at her Baby's First Year website.

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Pregnancy May Protect Breast Cancer Survivors

By Pauline Go

Medical industry survives on the results of researches, so that it has substance to work with for the progress of humanity. Cancer is the second biggest killer in the United States. Different types of cancer kill millions of people every year. A new research about breast cancer proposes that women, who have the cancer, can actually be saved by pregnancy.

The rates of survival may increase if the women get pregnant. Ironically, several women are delaying getting pregnant in order to have a better chance of survival. In fact, this is a notion that is also supported by many doctors as estrogen is identified to accelerate the growth of malignant tumors in the breast. Also, women, who are of child bearing age, are more susceptible to get breast cancer than in any other stage in life.

When questioned about why pregnancy decreased the chances of dying in women who already have cancer, the reports showed hormones may have a big role in the whole process. Pregnancy is a physiological condition that regulates several hormones in the body. Also, estrogen which is capable of increasing the tumors in breast cancer can also play a role in controlling the tumors when it is at a certain level. The body also naturally produces several antibodies during pregnancy for the safety of the mother and child.

Another research in Australia showed that women, who developed breast cancer in a year of giving birth to the child, were highly susceptible to succumbing to the disease than other women of similar age. Whereas as women who developed breast cancer during pregnancy had the same chances of survival as any other woman. This caused the researchers to conclude that the time when a woman decides to get pregnant and resort to breastfeeding plays a big role in masking the tumor as the breasts undergo changes.

The result of a subsequent research conducted in Germany will be a welcome relief to many pregnant women, who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. The research showed that the developing fetus is not harmed if a woman undergoes chemotherapy while being pregnant.

About Author:
Pauline Go is an online leading expert in the medical industry. She also offers top quality tips like:
Ringworm Homeopathic Treatment and Vitiligo Disease

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Clothing For Breast Cancer Survivors With Lymphedema

By Jan Hasak

At age 43 I underwent a lumpectomy and radiation for treatment of my breast cancer. After recovery I found that knitted and spandex tops did not lie as well on my chest. Nor did swimsuits. They accented the asymmetry of my busts. When I developed lymphedema in my left arm, stretchy apparel looked worse due to my swollen arm. In addition to sweaters I shunned garments with deeper necklines and shallow armholes. Further, since I couldn't lift anything heavy with my left arm, I was limited in how I could tote bags with shoulder straps.

All these limitations made me feel like a fashion flop.

When I had a recurrence, I opted for a double mastectomy without reconstruction. I use prostheses for both breasts, making asymmetry less of a challenge. Still I have remained self-conscious of my appearance, wanting to disguise my new-normal body with something at least halfway attractive.

Solutions to these problems do exist. I'm not referring to pink-hued or pink-ribbon-adorned attire to promote breast cancer awareness, although wearing these items is a wonderful way to express support for a loved one afflicted with cancer. Rather I'm referring to practical, stylish clothing that disguises flaws and emphasizes the good features of a breast cancer survivor's figure, while not appearing to be designed for medical purposes.

Swimwear is one such example. I'm a big proponent of mastectomy bathing suits, since swimming is such a great exercise, and more importantly, I love to get in the water. The swimsuits I've seen with pockets for prostheses are both functional and fashionable these days. According to some experts, the most contemporary--albeit more expensive-mastectomy swimsuit styling comes from a line called Anita. Another brand, Amoena, offers a large selection of elegant beachwear to flatter any figure. Other lines of mastectomy bathing suits and caftans include It Figures, T.H.E. and Gottex.

According to WebMD's Breast Cancer Guide, the most popular swimsuit style for women who've undergone a mastectomy is the tankini, a two-piece suit that completely covers the torso. These come in a variety of designs, including a blouson top. I can attest to the practicality and versatility of this type of beachwear.

For arm lymphedema, compression braces have come a long way. Fashionable yet medically functional garments are offered by such innovators as Lymphedivas LLC and Slice of Fashion LLC. There's nothing like a black lacy gauntlet or zebra-zag armsleeve to turn heads and stop conversation at a cocktail party.

At least one company has developed apparel designed specifically for breast cancer survivors with lymphedema. Sansu Function Designs for Living, established through collaboration between Princess Margaret Hospital and Ryerson University School of Fashion in Toronto, Canada, provides an array of innovative products.

One of Sansu's most noted items is a modular bag with a belt to enable the wearer to hold her arm comfortably in a sling design or use the bag as a stylish waist pack. After I had lymphedema, I went back to using my "fanny packs." Even though out of style, they were extremely practical for my active lifestyle. This trendy Sansu bag would never be a fashion faux pas.

Sansu also developed a carry-all coat with dropped shoulders and removable lining, a fleece scarf cape, a dolman-style knitted top with kangaroo pocket for resting the arms or carrying items, and an oxford blouse with dropped shoulders, loose cuffs and magnetic button closures. This company is currently designing patterns to allow seamstresses to make their own clothing for patients with upper body and arm lymphedema.

I am encouraged by how far companies have come in making breast cancer survivors with lymphedema feel less conspicuous in their clothing and more confident in their appearance. While attractiveness may not be every survivor's focus, the availability of chic attire goes a long way to help many survivors, especially younger women, recover emotionally and psychosocially from their cancer treatments. I challenge more in the garment industry to be avant-garde in their approach to this subpopulation of women who love donning trendy outfits. Can athletic garb geared for the cancer survivor with lymphedema be far behind?

Jan Hasak, author of Mourning Has Broken: Reflections on Surviving Cancer (Xulon 2008), speaks on various cancer-related topics and serves as cancer and lymphedema patient-advocate for various non-profit organizations.

Her website is http://www.janhasak.com.

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Breast Thermography - How It Detects Breast Cancer

By Peter Gitundu

Breast cancer originates from the breast tissues. Symptoms of having the disease include having a lump, change in shape and size of the breast or discharge from the nipple. These symptoms are discovered through a self- exam after which one goes for further tests in a hospital. The tests done in the hospital include; breast scans, mammograms or needle biopsy. Through these tests, the doctor is able to confirm whether indeed it is cancer or whether the lump is non-cancerous. Treatment of the disease takes a long time and the treatment usually results in other problems such as hair loss.

Thermography is one of the latest way of detecting breast cancer. It is more effective than mammograms and biopsy. Continuous use of mammogram to detect the disease can also cause the same disease due to radiation exposure. Thermography is safer, faster and painless as compared to all the other methods. This method is also more efficient as it detects the development of a disease way before any other method that is in use today. It uses heat to diagnose the presence of a disease. This is because heat is a sign of inflammation which is usually the earliest possible sign of an illness or disease.

This kind of surgery is a non-invasive procedure as compared to needle biopsy. In addition, this procedure is ninety-nine percent accurate in determining the type of tumor you have. It also reduces the likelihood of getting false positives or negatives. Another advantage of using this method is that, it is done without any contact being made with the breast. Regular use of this method to detect breast cancer will provide you with the earliest signs of a tumor developing. It measures the heat patterns in the body and then the information is analyzed for any abnormalities. These abnormalities in the data collected are usually a sign of diseases in the body.

Thermography is very cost-effective as compared to other types of diagnoses. It can be used by all women regardless of their age. It is also effective in diagnosing other diseases such as dental problems, headaches, sinuses, back pain and arthritis. The test should be done at least three months after your last chemotherapy and radiation treatments. You should also allow for some time to elapse after any form of surgery. On the day when you get to do the exam, you should avoid showering and use of lotions. Some edibles are also not allowed just before the exam.

Peter Gitundu Creates Interesting And Thought Provoking Content on Cancer. For More Information, Read More Of His Articles Here If You Enjoyed This Article, Make Sure You Read My Most Recent Posts Here.

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