Pioneered by physiotherapists at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire (UHCW) NHS Trust, the sessions consist of a one-off education class followed by a four week timetable of Pilates.
Lucy MacDonald, Lead Physiotherapist for Breast Cancer Rehabilitation, said: “It’s great to be able to offer this service to patients and empower them with the tools to return to normal function after surgery. Exercise can be important in preventing recurrence of cancer and helping patients to tolerate treatment.
“Unlike regular Pilates sessions that you can access through a gym, our sessions are set up with breast cancer patients in mind. All patients are assessed before coming into class, so we get to know them well and are aware of any issues or concerns they may have.”
The education class is open to Warwickshire women immediately following surgery, providing them with the information they need to pace their return to normal life. The class also looks at more technical details, including scar management.
The Pilates sessions, hosted in the Laurel Unit at the Hospital of St Cross in Rugby, are open to patients from six to eight weeks , and focus on rehabilitation.
In these sessions, attendees can learn to understand their body again and slowly step up their activity levels to help reduce post-surgery pain.
The project’s funding also covers pre-screening with patients who are more likely to develop shoulder stiffness after surgery
Joanna Fairhurst, Senior Programme Manager for Treatment and Care at West Midlands Cancer Alliance, said “This is a fantastic initiative which will have a real impact on patients’ lives, both pre and post treatment.
“There’s a wealth of evidence available showing the benefit of physical activity and that regular exercise can help reduce pain, improve movement and boost the quality of life for patients following surgery”.
‘Prehab’ sessions are also offered to patients who are due to undergo surgery, encouraging them to stay fit and well ahead of their surgery date.
Currently, funding has been allocated for the sessions to run for 18 months, with a period of evaluation to follow.