Ballarat exercise physiologists helping patients move the right way in cancer treatment

Gradually, under supervision of exercise physiologists, he began a journey to feel a little more ‘normal’ again.

The idea of exercising had not occurred to him at all during the course of his treatment but the suggestion of his doctor got him back moving.

“Exercise built me back up again,” Mr Crick said. “I’ve really improved my fitness and it really beats just lying around, doing nothing and feeling sorry for yourself. I enjoy the sessions, having something to aim towards.”

Targeted, prescribed and tailored exercise programs are part of a multi-disciplinary, holistic treatment approach at Ballarat Regional Integrated Cancer Centre. The right exercise is proving a key part of cancer treatment, as highlighted in an ABC Catalyst episode this month, and Exercise Right Week.

Ballarat Health Services’ exercise physiology team has been offering sessions for cancer patients in BRICC since early 2015.

Mr Crick underwent extensive surgery in Melbourne to remove a cancer from behind his eyes earlier this year. He was able to return home to Ballarat for radiation, where he became involved in the BHS exercise program first at BRICC and now at Queen Elizabeth Centre.

BHS accredited exercise physiologist Jessica Seater said research into exercise for chemotherapy and radiation patients was still new but preliminary findings were really positive in both improving health, function, mood and to combat treatment side effects.

“Rest is actually contraindicated now,” Ms Seater said. “Do anything but rest and only with the right advice and right exercise for each patient.”

Ms Seater said patients first need a referral, but exercise physiologists could help patients maintain a healthy weight and rebuild muscle-mass that has become deconditioned. Exercise physiologists also work with a range of clients who have chronic conditions.

For information on finding the right exercise, visit exerciseright.com.au or exercisemedicine.org.au