Utilizing Pilates to Improve Respiratory Function in Breast Cancer Survivors

Abstract

Complications resulting from cancer therapy can significantly influence the health outcomes of breast cancer survivors, particularly regarding their respiratory system. Pilates interventions have been utilized to improve cancer-related complications in clinical settings, but the evidence has not been comprehensively reviewed to prescribe Pilates as an effective rehabilitation option to improve respiratory function in breast cancer survivors. A systematic search strategy was employed to identify relevant literature from PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science using specific keywords: Pilates, respiratory function, breast cancer. The purpose of this review is to summarize the current evidence on the effects of Pilates on respiratory function in breast cancer survivors providing a thorough overview of the specific benefits associated with Pilates within the context of breast cancer. Further, we address the unique challenges faced by breast cancer survivors when performing Pilates, as well as current knowledge gaps and future directions in the field of rehabilitation science. The primary features of Pilates include an emphasis on specialized breathing techniques in conjunction with core stability, strength, flexibility, and precise control over muscle movements and posture that can be relevant to the health of breast cancer survivors. Our findings suggest that Pilates appears as a promising rehabilitation strategy to counteract the adverse effects of cancer therapies on the respiratory system.