Exercise Guidelines for Brain Tumor Patients: Recovery and Rehabilitation

Introduction

Physical activity plays a crucial role in recovery and maintaining quality of life during brain tumor treatment. These guidelines will help you exercise safely and effectively.

Safety Precautions

• Always consult your healthcare team before starting any exercise program
• Exercise with a companion when possible
• Stop immediately if you experience:
  • Dizziness or vertigo
  • Severe headache
  • Vision changes
  • Unusual fatigue

Recommended Exercises

1. Balance Exercises

• Supported standing exercises
• Single-leg stance (with support)
• Heel-to-toe walking

2. Gentle Aerobic Activities

• Short walks (5-15 minutes)
• Stationary cycling at low resistance
• Swimming (if cleared by physician)

3. Flexibility Exercises

• Gentle neck stretches
• Shoulder rolls
• Ankle and wrist rotations

Exercise Progression

1. Week 1-2

   • 5-10 minutes per session
   • 2-3 sessions per day
   • Focus on balance and breathing

2. Week 3-4

   • 10-15 minutes per session
   • 2-3 sessions per day
   • Add gentle aerobic activities

Monitoring Guidelines

• Keep exercise intensity low to moderate
• Use the "talk test" - you should be able to hold a conversation
• Monitor fatigue levels before and after exercise
• Log your activities and any symptoms

When to Avoid Exercise

• During active fever
• Severe fatigue
• Immediately after surgery (follow surgeon's guidelines)
• When experiencing new neurological symptoms