Telerehabilitation helps treat breast cancer, reduce side effects

A recent study has shown telerehabilitation can be a valuable tool for breast cancer patients in alleviating side effects of both the cancer and its treatments.

Researchers from the University of Granada and hospitals Virgen de las Nieves and San Cecilio used the e-CUIDATE telerehabilitation system to treat pain, fatigue and strength loss and improve the quality of life of patients suffering with breast cancer.

The system features access to a Skype application that can administer an exercise program developed specifically to target the symptoms and side effects of breast cancer. Patients were able to maintain the benefits of the telerehabilitation six months after the completion of the exercise program.

“The participants have ameliorated their pain, strength, fatigue and quality of life, which reflects that an 8-weeks exercise program followed through the Internet can be successfully carried out without the need for an in-person therapeutic strategy," said Noelia Galiano Castillo, of the University at Granada.