While there are more than 100 types of cancers, many create similar symptoms, especially in terms of the side effects associated with conventional treatment options — namely radiation and chemotherapy.
Based on the way in which cancer attacks the body, symptoms such as fatigue are highly common, significantly impacting a patient’s quality of life. This symptom is also reported among 20 to 50 percent of cancer survivors, impacting their ability to function
In order to combat this symptom, while supporting the health and overall well-being of patients, researchers are interested in alternative treatment options, including but not limited to qigong techniques and exercises.
The Relationship Between Qigong and Cancer Fatigue
There are many reasons why someone with cancer would experience fatigue, including cancer itself, cancer treatments, pain, lack of sleep, poor nutrition, anemia, and other associated variables.
As stated in this recent 2019 study, published in Oncology Research and Treatment, cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is one of the most problematic symptoms. However, to date, there isn’t a standardized treatment strategy to combat CRF.
Within this study, researchers were interested in the effects of Baduanjin qigong among patients living with colorectal cancer, as well as CRF. This form of qigong is one of the most common types, mainly utilized as a form of medical qigong, which is meant to improve one’s health — in comparison to forms which focus on martial arts and/or religion.
In order to better understand the impact that Baduanjin qigong had on cancer fatigue, researchers studied a total of ninety patients. These patients were undergoing chemotherapy-related treatment, participating in this randomized controlled study for a total of 24 weeks.
What they found was that, at baseline and at the 12-week study period, no significant differences were apparent. However, at 24 weeks, patients participating in the qigong exercise group showcased a lower proportion of individuals suffering from moderate-to-severe CRF, in comparison to the control group (23.2% vs. 59.1%).
The researchers concluded that Baduanjin qigong exercises could help relieve CRF in those undergoing chemotherapy as colorectal cancer patients. These patients were also able to improve their sleep quality and physical activity level.
Can Qigong Cure Cancer Fatigue?
While this recent study showcases positive benefits associated with qigong and cancer fatigue, more research needs to be conducted across a larger sample size in order to verify its effectiveness as a long-term CRF treatment.
Within this isolated study, it’s apparent that qigong exercises can have a positive effect on cancer patients who experience CRF. The results were significantly different between the experimental and control group, supporting the relationship between qigong and a reduction in the severity of CRF.
Overall, this clinical trial showcased the potential impact that qigong exercise can have on CRF. In addition, it was found that at 24 weeks, those who participated in the qigong exercise group also had higher scores in relation to the Karnofsky Performance Status (being an assessment tool for functional impairment) and Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index (PSQI).
These findings showcase the possible clinical implications of qigong therapy among those undergoing chemotherapy. Not only could this type of intervention improve their quality of life, but by also supporting their sleep quality and physical activity levels, qigong exercises may help support the overall healing process based on these key improvements.
Additional Research Supporting the Benefits of Qigong for CRF
In another 2017 study, published in Medicines, the researchers were interested in the effect that qigong had on individuals with cancer. While the researchers stated that qigong exercise therapy has the potential to improve cancer-related quality of life while reducing fatigue, wide-spread availability does not exist.
Within a separate 2014 study, published in the Journal of Cancer Survivorship, the researchers studied elderly prostate cancer survivors who continued to experience fatigue and distress.
Forty men (aged 58 to 93) were placed into one of two groups — a qigong group or a stretching group. Following the 12-week study period, it was found that a qigong intervention was a feasible option among senior cancer survivors in relation to distress and fatigue levels.
In terms of fatigue levels, at baseline, the two groups did not differ from one another based on the FACIT-Fatigue cut-off grading scale. However, it was stated that the majority of the sample size was clinically fatigued. As expected, the qigong group showcased a significantly greater improvement in comparison to the stretching group.
A 2010 study reported similar findings after observing 162 patients, living with a range of cancers. Quality of life, mood, and fatigue were measured, as well as levels of the inflammatory marker known as C-reactive protein.
After controlling for various baselines, the medical qigong group showed significant improvements across all measurements compared with those receiving usual care.
In summary, qigong, particularly medical qigong, is a low-risk, potentially highly effective intervention option that appears to improve cancer-related fatigue without causing significant side effects. This effect has been reported among patients living with various types of cancer.
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