You have probably been told time and time again that exercise and stretching can help reduce your pain. In most cases this is true, and for breast cancer survivors physical therapy could relieve joint pain caused by their medications. A study published by HealthDay reviewed the effects of medications taken by people once affected by breast cancer. They found that most of these people experienced joint pain.
At Southwest Spine and Pain Center, we like to encourage our patients to take charge of not only their pain, but their treatment, too. Taking a break from your normal day-to-day responsibilities sounds nice, but research tells us that inactivity can actually be worse for our pain. Southwest Spine and Pain Center is the premier pain clinic in Utah, with four locations across the state. If you suffer from cancer pain or symptoms associated with this disease, contact a specialist today.
The American Association for Cancer Research indicates that joint pain and stiffness are common side effects for cancer patients taking the aromatase inhibitor drugs Arimidex (anastrozole), Femara (letrozole), and Aromasin (exemestane). The researchers of this study assessed the efficacy of a routine exercise regimen for breast cancer survivors taking these medications. The participants were split into two groups: one which completed an exercise program with resistance and strength training, and the other which had regular care.
The researchers found that the women in the exercise group received 20 percent decrease in pain. The individuals in the regular care group had relatively no change in joint pain. Regardless of age, cancer stage, time on medications, and chemotherapy, the women in the exercise group had significant joint pain relief.
Upon completion of the study, the researchers plan on determining how these exercises can help patients, including reducing inflammation/weight and increasing muscle strength.
To read more about the study, visit: http://health.usnews.com/health-news/news/articles/2013/12/12/exercise-might-ease-joint-pain-caused-by-breast-cancer-drugs and talk with your doctor about which treatments will help relieve your cancer pain. Southwest Spine and Pain Center is committed to proper diagnosis and individualizing effective treatment plans. Contact a Southwest Spine and Pain Center specialist today to find out how we can help with your pain condition.
If chronic pain is impacting your life, don't wait to schedule an appointment at Southwest Spine and Pain Center. With three locations and growing, the pain management specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center are dedicated to helping those who suffer from chronic pain live the life they want to! To schedule an appointment, visit our locations tab!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.
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