Introduction
Physical activity plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health and well-being during brain tumor treatment and recovery. This guide outlines safe exercise recommendations tailored to brain tumor patients.
Safety Precautions
- Obtain clearance from your oncologist before starting any exercise program
- Exercise with a companion when possible
- Stop immediately if experiencing:
- Dizziness or vertigo
- Severe headache
- Vision changes
- Unusual fatigue
Recommended Activities
Low-Impact Exercises
- Gentle walking (10-30 minutes)
- Stationary cycling
- Swimming (if cleared by physician)
- Chair-based exercises
Balance and Coordination
- Seated marching
- Standing heel-to-toe walks
- Gentle yoga (with supervision)
- Simple tai chi movements
Exercise Progression
Week 1-2
- Start with 5-10 minutes daily
- Focus on simple movements
- Emphasize proper breathing
Week 3-4
- Gradually increase duration to 15-20 minutes
- Add light resistance exercises if cleared
- Include balance exercises
Week 5+
- Build up to 30 minutes of activity
- Incorporate varied exercises
- Monitor energy levels
Special Considerations
- Maintain hydration
- Exercise during peak energy times
- Wear appropriate footwear
- Keep room temperature moderate
When to Modify or Stop
- During active treatment phases
- Following surgery (per physician guidelines)
- During periods of increased intracranial pressure
- If experiencing new neurological symptoms
Documentation
Keep a log of:
- Exercise duration
- Type of activities
- Any symptoms experienced
- Energy levels
Contact Healthcare Team If:
- New symptoms develop
- Unusual fatigue persists
- Balance problems worsen
- Headaches increase