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Exercise and Bone Health in Cancer Patients

Exercise and Bone Health in Cancer Patients

Why Bone Health Matters in Cancer

Many people with cancer experience a decline in bone mineral density due to treatments such as chemotherapy, hormone therapy, or radiation. This can increase the risk of osteoporosis, fractures, and falls. Older adults, or those with pre-existing osteoporosis, are particularly vulnerable. Additionally, some patients with solid tumours may develop bone metastases, which further weaken bone structure.

How Exercise Supports Bone Health in Cancer Recovery

Research consistently shows that exercise prescribed by physiotherapists and exercise physiologists is one of the most effective ways to maintain and improve bone strength during and after cancer treatment. Exercise helps by:

  • Stimulating Bone Remodeling: Promoting bone matrix mineralisation and marrow health.

  • Preserving Bone Density: Reducing treatment-related bone loss.

  • Reducing Fall Risk: Improving balance, strength, and coordination to prevent fractures.

A recent review of 40 clinical studies confirmed that exercise is safe for patients with osteoporosis, osteopenia, or bone metastases, when tailored appropriately.

Best Types of Exercise for Bone Health

The most effective approach for cancer patients includes a combination of:

  • Weight-Bearing Exercises: Walking, jogging, hopping, or stair climbing to stimulate bone loading.

  • Resistance Training: Using free weights, resistance bands, or body weight to strengthen bones and muscles.

  • Balance and Strength Training: Supporting fall prevention and safe mobility.

Key Considerations for Safe Cancer Exercise

To ensure safety and effectiveness, physiotherapy and exercise physiology programs should be:

  • Individualised: Taking into account cancer treatment history, medical conditions, and any bone metastases.

  • Targeted: Bone loading benefits are site-specific, so exercises must focus on the affected areas.

  • Progressive: Starting at a low intensity and gradually increasing the load over time.

  • Timely: Beginning exercise early in treatment provides the best outcomes, though benefits are seen at any stage.

  • Supervised: Programs designed and monitored by an exercise physiologist or physiotherapist experienced in oncology are safest and most effective.

Beyond Bone Health: Whole-Body Benefits of Exercise

In addition to protecting bones, exercise offers many other benefits for cancer patients:

  • Increased Muscle Strength: Supporting balance and reducing fall risk.

  • Improved Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health: Enhancing stamina and recovery.

  • Better Mental Wellbeing: Reducing anxiety, depression, and improving quality of life.

  • Greater Independence: Supporting daily activities and overall confidence.

Proactive Cancer Care in Sydney & the Sutherland Shire

At Restore Oncology Care and Lymphoedema Clinic, our physiotherapists and exercise physiologists in Sydney’s Sutherland Shire specialise in safe, evidence-based exercise programs for cancer patients. We work with you to improve bone health, muscle strength, and quality of life at every stage of treatment and recovery.

📞 To book an appointment with our cancer exercise team, call 02 7501 5013 or email info@restore.physio.

References

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