Building Muscle Before Surgery Or Cancer Treatment Accelerates Healing

Recovering from surgery or a serious illness does not necessarily have to begin within the confines of a hospital. Rather, it can commence beforehand in the gym, setting a solid foundation for a smoother recuperation.

According to Robert Wolfe, a renowned professor of geriatrics and an expert in muscle metabolism, surgical stress often results in a loss of muscle mass and strength. This poses a significant challenge, especially for elderly individuals, as restoring lost muscle is incredibly arduous for them. The body’s requirement for amino acids spikes during critical illnesses, advanced cancer, or severe injuries. These amino acids, obtained from muscle breakdown, play a vital role in immune function, wound healing, and overall recovery. Inadequate muscle mass can therefore impede the recovery process.

“Think of it as building a reserve,” explained Papp to The Epoch Times. “Stronger muscles before surgery better equip you to handle the physical demands of recovery. It’s like going into battle with armor.”

Cancer treatments often lead to significant weight loss, predominantly involving the loss of skeletal muscle. Known as cancer cachexia, this condition weakens strength and physical function, impairing the body’s ability to endure and recover from treatment.

Focusing on muscle strength helps patients withstand treatment more effectively, facilitating faster recovery and improved outcomes. Scott Capozza, a physical therapist at Yale New Haven Health specializing in oncology, highlighted the importance of muscle strength in aiding patients’ endurance of treatment.

Studies demonstrate that patients who engage in prehabilitation, a regimen focused on strength training prior to chemotherapy, experience fewer side effects and faster recovery between treatment cycles.

Capozza emphasized how prehabilitation empowers patients by granting them a sense of control during a time when uncertainty prevails. It enables them to embark on their treatment journey with confidence, knowing they actively contribute to their strength and resilience.

Before embarking on a strength training program, it is crucial to consult with a physical therapist or healthcare provider. They will tailor exercises to your specific needs, assisting you in developing a safe and effective plan that readies your body for surgery or treatment.

By incorporating strength training into your pre-surgery or treatment plan, you not only enhance your physical resilience but also actively participate in your recovery process.

“If your surgeon or medical provider does not mention prehab, it is within your rights to advocate for it,” emphasized Capozza.