[The impact of physical activity on the functional state of a small patient with cancer].

UNLABELLED

According to the American Cancer Society, an increasing number of children with newly diagnosed cancer has been observed since 1975.

AIM

The aim of the study is to present the effects of oncological treatment occurring within the musculoskeletal system and the impact of physical activity on the functional state of a small patient with cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic review of articles in the PubMed browser from 2009 under the password "childhood cancer rehabilitation" was used in the article.

RESULTS

Oncological treatment has many negative effects both during and after treatment. Taking chemotherapy or radiation therapy often leads to peripheral neuropathies, pain, muscle weakness, impaired coordination, balance and chronic fatigue. Consequently, this reduces physical activity. Unused muscles begin to diminish, contributing to an increased feeling of weakness during basic daily activities. Research conducted among people who survived cancer in childhood showed that in adult life they are more often exposed to the occurrence of peripheral neuropathies, obesity and cardiovascular diseases. The use of physiotherapy in therapy of an oncological patient may reduce the risk of appearance of unwanted complications and bring relief during and after treatment. During rehabilitation the physiotherapist can use various methods, including classic massage, interactive video games, dance, neuromobilization, cycling, jogging or Graded Motor Imagery.

CONCLUSIONS

Physical activity undertaken by children with each type of cancer during and shortly after treatment has a positive effect on the development of all motor skills, without increasing the risk of death. No adverse effects have been observed. The physiotherapist in the rehabilitation process focuses mainly on improving the quality of motor skills, gait pattern, reducing pain and training of basic everyday activities. However, there is still a lack of a consistent protocol for assessing physical activity in young patients with cancer.