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Coping with Cancer > Side Effects > Fatigue and Cancer > Managing Symptoms

Exercise Descriptions

Lora Packel, MS, PT
Copyright © Lora Packel, MS, PT
Last Modified: May 27, 2009

Disclaimer: You should discuss your health risks with your physician before starting any exercise program.

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Straight leg raise – Quadriceps (thigh muscles)

Beginner

1. Lie down on your back with one leg bent and one leg straight.
2. Next, perform a posterior pelvic tilt to protect your back from injury. To do this, draw your umbilicus (belly button) toward the floor. If you are doing this correctly, your back should be flat against the floor/mat. You can also check your technique by putting your hand under the small of your back, on the floor, and flatten your back so that your back is "crushing" your hand.
3. With your toes pointed to the ceiling, keep your knee straight and lift your leg up to about 45 degrees.
   1. It shouldn’t be raised higher than the bent knee.
4. Slowly lower your leg back to the floor.
5. Repeat 10-15 times, 3 times in a row.
6. Repeat with opposite leg.

Advanced

1. Perform the same exercise as described above with a light cuff weight around your ankle. Start with ½ to 1 pound weight.
2. You are ready to add weight when you can perform this exercise for one week without experiencing muscle aches.

Standing hip flexion – Quadriceps and Iliopsoas (thigh muscles)

Beginner

1. Stand with your legs shoulder width apart.
2. Hold onto a stable chair or table for support.
3. Perform an abdominal draw in to protect your back from injury. Do this by pulling your umbilicus (belly button) in towards your back.
4. Keep your knee straight, toes pointed and kick your leg forward in a slow and controlled motion.
5. Return to the starting position.
6. Repeat 10-15 times, 3 times in a row.
7. Repeat with opposite leg.

Advanced

1. Perform the same exercise as described above with a light cuff weight around your ankle. Start with ½ to 1 pound weight.
2. You are ready to add weight when you can perform this exercise for one week without experiencing muscle aches.