Functional recovery in oncological patients: evidence of therapeutic exercise during hospitalization

Abstract

Introduction: Cancer is one of the world's leading public health problems due to its high incidence, mortality, and functional repercussions. It is characterized by the uncontrolled proliferation of abnormal cells capable of invading tissues and spreading to distant organs, generating alterations that affect multiple body systems. Although advances in timely diagnosis and cancer treatments have significantly improved survival rates in recent decades, the increase in the number of people living with cancer has highlighted the need to address the physical and functional sequelae resulting from both the disease and its treatments. Objective: To analyze the available scientific evidence on the effects of therapeutic exercise on the functional recovery of cancer patients during hospitalization. Methodology: A systematic review of the scientific literature was conducted to identify and analyze the available evidence on the effects of therapeutic exercise on the functional recovery of cancer patients during hospitalization. The literature search was conducted in the electronic databases Cochrane Library, PubMed, SciELO, and Redalyc, recognized for their relevance and coverage in the areas of oncology, rehabilitation, physiotherapy, and health sciences. Results: The included studies demonstrated that early mobilization and supervised therapeutic exercise are safe and feasible interventions in hospitalized patients with hematological malignancies, with a low incidence of adverse events. The evidence showed significant benefits in reducing cancer-related fatigue, pain, and dyspnea, as well as in preserving physical function and quality of life. Concurrent programs combining aerobic and strength training showed the best functional outcomes. Furthermore, prolonged interventions promoted muscle mass recovery, decreasing the prevalence of sarcopenia from 38% to 19%, and improving cardiovascular parameters such as left ventricular ejection fraction. Finally, the evidence highlighted the importance of prospective surveillance, a transdisciplinary approach, and the continuity of exercise programs after hospital discharge to maintain long-term functional benefits. Conclusions: This systematic review demonstrates that therapeutic exercise is a safe, feasible, and effective intervention for cancer patients during hospitalization, with clinically relevant benefits on functional capacity, muscle strength, cancer-related fatigue, and quality of life. The evidence analyzed supports the early incorporation of structured exercise programs as an integral part of inpatient treatment, surpassing the traditional model based on rest and deferred rehabilitation until after discharge. Keywords: Cancer, Therapeutic exercise, Rehabilitation, Functional recovery, Hospitalization, Quality of life.