A person who has trouble moving may have general weakness and problems walking, and they may find it hard to get from one place to another. When a person spends a lot of time in bed, muscles get weaker. Other things that can make it hard to move include pain in the joints or legs, as well as some of the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation. It is important to move and exercise as much as possible to prevent new problems. Problems caused by being less active may include poor or no appetite, constipation, skin sores, problems with breathing, stiff joints, and mental changes.

What the patient can do

• Do active or passive range-of-motion exercises as instructed by the nurse, doctor, or physical therapist. (See the section on exercise.)
• Take pain medicines as prescribed.
• Drink as much liquid as your doctor will allow.
• Keep a record of bowel movements. (See the section on constipation for information about foods that help prevent this problem).
• Change positions at least every 2 hours while at rest.
• Wear shoes (not slippers that slide off easily) when walking or standing.
• Use any brace, cane, walker, or other support prescribed by your doctor or nurse.
• Take short walks if you can. Even if you are bedridden, try to sit up in a chair for meals and walk to the bathroom or bedside commode.
• If you need help walking, have a family member support you on your weakest side. (For instance, if your right side is weak, have someone stand on your right side before you get up. Have your helper put his left arm around you, and put his right forearm and hand in front of your right shoulder.)

What caregivers can do

• When lifting the patient, keep your back straight and bend and lift from your knees and hips. Stand as close to the patient as possible, and keep your feet spread for a firm base and good balance.
• Always lock the wheels on the bed or wheelchair.
• Always pull the patient toward you when rolling him in bed.
• Clear the floor so that you can help the person to the chair or bathroom without tripping over rugs, cords, fallen objects, clothing, and without slipping on liquids.
• If the patient is unsteady but still able to get up, see the section in this booklet on falls.
• If the patient is to be alone for a while, be sure that the phone and emergency phone numbers are within easy reach.

Call the doctor if the patient:

• Is getting weaker
• Falls
• Has a headache, blurred vision, numbness, or tingling
• Has a change in mental status, such as getting confused, disoriented, or very sleepy
• Has pain that gets worse

Go back to Caring for the Patient with Cancer at Home: A Guide for Patients and Families.

Last Medical Review: 04/27/2009
Last Revised: 04/27/2009