Posture & Core Training

Breathing techniques can play a significant role in the rehabilitation and emotional well-being of women survivors of cancer or current oncology patients. Physical therapists can incorporate these techniques to help address various physical, emotional, and psychological challenges faced by these individuals. Here’s how:

1. Improving Lung Function and Oxygenation
2. Managing Pain and Fatigue
3. Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation
4. Improving Posture and Core Stability
5. Facilitating Lymphatic Drainage

– For patients who have undergone surgery or radiation therapy involving lymph node removal (such as breast cancer survivors), breathing exercises can assist with lymphatic drainage.

– Techniques like deep diaphragmatic breathing can create gentle pressure changes within the abdomen, promoting lymphatic flow and reducing swelling or lymphedema.

Techniques Commonly Used:

1. Diaphragmatic Breathing: Encourages deep breathing by engaging the diaphragm, helping improve oxygenation and reduce stress.

2. Pursed-Lip Breathing: Helps manage shortness of breath by keeping airways open longer and improving air exchange.

3. Box Breathing: A mindfulness technique that can reduce anxiety and increase focus.

4. Coherent Breathing: Focuses on slow, deep breaths to balance the autonomic nervous system and reduce stress.

5. Progressive Relaxation: Combining deep breathing with muscle relaxation to reduce tension and stress.

By integrating these breathing techniques, physical therapists can create a holistic rehabilitation plan for oncology patients that addresses both their physical recovery and emotional well-being. These methods not only support healing but also empower women to take an active role in their recovery.

Posture and core training play a vital role in pelvic floor physical therapy (PFPT) because they directly influence the alignment, strength, and coordination of the pelvic floor muscles. Here’s how:

Postural Alignment and Pelvic Floor Function

• Neutral Spine Alignment: Maintaining a neutral spine reduces pressure on the pelvic organs and allows the pelvic floor muscles to function optimally.

• Impact of Poor Posture: Slouching or excessive anterior pelvic tilt can lead to muscle imbalances, which may contribute to issues like incontinence, pelvic pain, or prolapse.

• Proper Posture Cues: Activating the deep core and keeping the ribcage stacked over the pelvis helps engage the pelvic floor naturally.

Core Stability and Pelvic Floor Activation

• The Core Connection: The pelvic floor muscles, diaphragm, transverse abdominis, and multifidus form a coordinated system called the core canister. Strengthening the core stabilizes the spine and pelvis, which enhances pelvic floor function.

• Intra-abdominal Pressure Management: Strengthening the core prevents excessive downward pressure on the pelvic floor, which is crucial for managing conditions like prolapse or urinary incontinence.

Breathing and Diaphragmatic Control

• Diaphragmatic Breathing: This activates the pelvic floor through the natural expansion and contraction of the diaphragm, improving muscle tone and relaxation.

• Proper Breathing Patterns: Helps in regulating pressure and avoiding straining during bowel movements or heavy lifting.

Pain Reduction

• Alleviating Pressure on Nerves and Joints: Correcting postural misalignments can reduce pelvic girdle pain and lower back discomfort.

• Enhancing Blood Flow: Proper alignment and core engagement improve circulation to the pelvic area, aiding in tissue healing.

In summary, a physical therapist can aid your recovery with posture and core training. These interventions can improve recovery and ease pain.