New exercise programme for breast cancer patients

A new exercise and relaxation programme has been launched for women who have had breast cancer surgery.
Gainsborough newsGainsborough news
Gainsborough news

The Lincoln Breast Care Nurse Specialists at United Lincolnshire Hospitals Trust have campaigned for years for an exercise programme that would benefit breast cancer patients.

Now with support from fundraisers the Pink Ribbon programme has become a reality in patient recovery.

Jess Coveley, an instructor trainer for the programme travels across the country to enable others to teach breast cancer survivors in their area.

The exercise and relaxation regime will help stretch and strengthen the shoulder, chest, back and abdominal muscles, allowing women to regain full range of motion to those areas affected by breast cancer surgery.

The sessions are free, but participants will require the exercise leaflet and a resistance band at a cost of £10.

The programme consists of twice weekly classes for six weeks. Each class will be a small, concentrated group of six to eight women allowing for the exercises to be specific to each patient’s needs. After this, the patient can continue the programme at home.

The effect the programme has had will be audited throughout the course by the nurses monitoring wellbeing through one-to-one meetings.

Kate Hughes, Macmillan Breast Cancer Nurse Specialist from ULHT, said: “Evidence suggests exercise has the potential to reduce depression, improve self-esteem and may result in fewer recurrences as well as improving quality of life.”

“The programme can help physically and emotionally as it is personalised for each woman and allows them to interact with others who are going through the similar experiences.”

“We hope to be able to carry this on for many years to come,” she added.

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