muscle atrophy...how can i help my mom gain back some of her strength...

marc24
marc24 Member Posts: 92
edited March 2014 in Colorectal Cancer #1
lately she has been very weak, and she doesnt really work as much anymore around the house because of her abdominal symptoms, so i notice my mom has lost some weight and some muscle esp around her arms...she looks skinny...so i was hoping u guys have some feedback as to what kinds of activities i can have her do without being too tiring...i encourage her to walk but what else do you guys have in mind?

Comments

  • kmygil
    kmygil Member Posts: 876 Member
    #2
    You are right on
    Marc, you are spot on with the walking. Walking will help the most. If she can up her caloric intake she will have a bit more energy to walk, as well. When you think you can, you might put 1/2 lb or 1 lb weights in her hands while she walks. This will also help. Don't try to "buff" her up, just build strength. God bless you for being such a great son.

    Hugs,
    Kirsten
  • PGLGreg
    PGLGreg Member Posts: 731
    #3
    physical therapy
    Yes, walking is very good. Over and beyond that and other exercises for stretching and balance that you may know about, you may find that her doctors are ready to spring into action when you suggest it and prescribe regular sessions with a physical therapist, perhaps with some equipment. And maybe there's a group of some sort around that gets together to do tai chi, yoga, or something similar.
    --Greg
  • lesvanb
    lesvanb Member Posts: 905
    #4
    PGLGreg said:

    physical therapy
    Yes, walking is very good. Over and beyond that and other exercises for stretching and balance that you may know about, you may find that her doctors are ready to spring into action when you suggest it and prescribe regular sessions with a physical therapist, perhaps with some equipment. And maybe there's a group of some sort around that gets together to do tai chi, yoga, or something similar.
    --Greg

    Yes to Physical therapyu
    It's been a godsend for me, not only for all the targeted help for regaining strength and flexibility, but for the regularity of a schedule. E.G It's Monday and at 8AM I go to physical therapy. Besides they cheer you on for progress made.

    Leslie
  • kimby
    kimby Member Posts: 797
    #5
    excercise
    Swimming, walking, chair yoga
  • lizzydavis
    lizzydavis Member Posts: 893
    #6
    Motivational & Inspiring Music & DVDs
    --- Find some of her favorite music and buy it for her to play. Turn it on when you are there. My favorite music gives me a little perk to move around and even sometimes do a little dancing.

    --- Also, shopping is great exercise. I enjoy going to Walmart (and that is walking). They always have reasonable prices and great things for my puppy, the kitchen, clothes, and my hygiene needs.

    --- There are motivational and comedy videos or DVDs which are great boosts for the mind and body.

    Hope this helps too.
  • kimby
    kimby Member Posts: 797
    #7
    lizzydavis said:

    Motivational & Inspiring Music & DVDs
    --- Find some of her favorite music and buy it for her to play. Turn it on when you are there. My favorite music gives me a little perk to move around and even sometimes do a little dancing.

    --- Also, shopping is great exercise. I enjoy going to Walmart (and that is walking). They always have reasonable prices and great things for my puppy, the kitchen, clothes, and my hygiene needs.

    --- There are motivational and comedy videos or DVDs which are great boosts for the mind and body.

    Hope this helps too.

    Love It!
    Dance, retail therapy and laughter. My 3 favorite things (maybe not in that order) LOL

    You ROCK!

    Kimby
  • lizzydavis
    lizzydavis Member Posts: 893
    #8
    Check with her Oncologist - I just heard from a friend....
    I just received an email from a friend who mentioned they have programs at the local hospitals and the local Sportsclubs which are helpful in regaining strength.
    --- She went through the one at the hospital first and then the one at Sportsclub and recommended both. If there is a charge, insurance
    might cover it if referred through the Cancer Center/Oncologist. There was also a free yoga day for cancer patients.
    ---The one at Sportsclub was free at that time and no one had to join the club at the end of the 10 weeks. Information was available at the Cancer Center on both or check with your oncologist if you are interested. Everyone participated at their own level.

    ---More thoughts for you to consider.
  • lizzydavis
    lizzydavis Member Posts: 893
    #9
    kimby said:

    Love It!
    Dance, retail therapy and laughter. My 3 favorite things (maybe not in that order) LOL

    You ROCK!

    Kimby

    Thanks, Kimby.
    Thanks Kimby. I am a big fan of the Stephanie Plum series too!! Lots of laughs!
  • pamysue
    pamysue Member Posts: 105
    #10
    Hey Marc,
    Do you have a Wii?
    Hey Marc,
    Do you have a Wii? I have a Wii and Wii Fit and it has been excellent in keeping me moving. They have yoga, balance games, etc. Very low impact up to body building. And it is FUN. You can play with each other, against each other, etc. They are expensive, so if you don't already have one it may not be an option. I wish they were covered by insurance!

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