A pilot system of kinesiological treatment for patients with breast cancer undergoing preoperative phase of chemotherapy was established at the Institute of Oncology Ljubljana. Patients were assigned an individually tailored home based exercise program. Our main goal was to test the feasibility of this treatment system. At the same time, we wanted to check whether this type of treatment can prevent a decline in aerobic endurance, muscle strength and mass, flexibility, quality of life, and whether kinesological treatment has any unwanted side effects. 21 patients (83 %) completed the intervention. Progress was evaluated with physical fitness tests performed before, during and after the intervention and with body composition messurements conducted before and after the intervention. Based on results of the initial testing we designed an exercise program for each patient. They also received an exercise schedule where they recorded the completed activities. Every two or three weeks we checked the performed activities, modified the program and extended their exercise plan. The average compliance for the planned physical activity was 81 % (77 % for the exercise program and 84 % for aerobic activities). During the intervention patients managed to improve their grip strenght (2,45 % right hand and 3,62 % left hand), number of repetitions for the Chair Stand Test (10,65 %), grade of the Fullerton Advanced Balance Scale (0,45 %), flexibility at the V Sit Reach Test (14,1 %) and FFMI (5,7 %). We werent as sucesesful at maintaining endurance. Results for the YMCA Step Test declined on average for 13,83 %. There was improvement in some categories of the Quality of Life Questionnarie. There were no new injuries recorded during intervention. Kinesiological treatment of patients has thus proved to be feasible and effective.
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