Prehab Service

Between now and the time of your surgery, you have the opportunity to influence your recovery and outcome by keeping as healthy and active as possible. This process is called Prehabilitation.

Prehabilitation, or “Prehab” involves preparing for your upcoming treatment, and focuses on improving your physical fitness, mental wellbeing and weight management through what you eat. Research has demonstrated that Prehab can reduce the length of time you are in hospital, reduce the risk of complications occurring and help you with your recovery afterwards.

Building physical and emotional resilience can help you to cope with your cancer diagnosis and treatment as well as benefiting your health in the long-term.

We understand that you may not have attempted exercise for sometime and that the idea may seem daunting. Patients with a low level of activity are likely to see the most benefit and our team is able to cater for all levels of ability.

The NUH Prehab Unit is at Nottingham City Hospital.

Enter the City Hospital site at Gate 5 on Edwards Lane, and take the first right turn up Linden Way. The Prehab Unit is on the left hand side. There is a small parking area for Prehab patients outside the Unit, and the main entrance is clearly marked on the corner of the building

• Please bring a list of any medications you are taking to your first appointment
• We would encourage you to wear loose, comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for physical activity to all your appointments and exercise sessions and please bring a small towel
• Please bring some water with you to your sessions and if required, something to eat
• If you require any medication for an existing condition (eg asthma, diabetes, angina) that you may need during your session – please ensure you bring this with you.
• Please be aware there are no changing or shower facilities

• If you become unwell before or after your appointments, or you develop any worsening or concerning symptoms, please contact your GP or Cancer Nurse Specialist. Please also inform the Prehab Team as soon as you are able.
   
• Attending all of your Prehab sessions is important for you to achieve your goals and gain the most improvement. However if you are unable to attend your booked appointment or exercise session please make the Prehab Team aware as soon as possible.
   
• Please inform one of the NUH Prehab Team when you are given the date for your surgery (if not already known at time of initial appointment).

There is lots of evidence to support physical activity at all stages of the cancer care pathway.

Research has shown it is both safe and beneficial to exercise and keep active before, during and after your cancer treatment. It can help you to manage side effects such as cancer-related fatigue.
Engaging with physical activity can improve your physical function as well as your psychological well-being.

 

Exercise resources:

Pelvic Floor Exercises.pdf [pdf] 663KB

Prehab Service Home Exercise Booklet[pdf] 3MB

Core Exercises - bridge and bug.docx [docx] 4MB

Pre-operative-assessment-unit

 

Macmillan Information and Support Service
Access further information and support on all aspects of living with cancer including emotional, practical and financial support
Telephone: 0115 840 2650 / 0115 970 0033
Email: cancerinfo@nuh.nhs.uk
Text: 07812277944 (Text messaging only)

Maggie’s Nottingham
Website: www.maggies.org/our-centres/maggies-nottingham/
Telephone: 0115 924 6210
Email: nottingham@maggies.org

5KYourWay.org
Facebook: Forest Rec 5K Your Way, Move Against Cancer

CARE (Cancer and Rehabilitation and Exercise)
Web: www.nottscountyfoundation.org.uk/programme/care/