Evidence-Based Exercise as Part of Therapy

The Sports Excellence Department of the 1st Orthopedic Surgery Clinic, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA), operating entirely thanks to a donation from the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF), in addition to its contribution to elite sports (pre-national, national, and Olympic teams across all disciplines), also implements the “Therapeutic Exercise – Action for Cancer” program for patients with cancer.

Laboratory Operation

The Therapeutic Exercise Laboratory operates based on an interdisciplinary approach and current guidelines for exercise as a therapeutic and supportive intervention.

Initial and ongoing assessments are always conducted by an interdisciplinary team, which consists of:

• Physician

• Physiotherapist

• Physical Education Teacher / Exercise Scientist

The process includes:

• Medical evaluation and approval for participation

• Functional, movement, and physiological assessment

• Physical fitness assessment (endurance, muscle strength, balance, mobility)

• Anthropometric measurements and body composition assessment

• Creation and maintenance of an electronic individual record

• Continuous monitoring, reassessment, and program adjustment

All sessions take place in a fully controlled and safe environment, under continuous scientific supervision.

Provision of a Personalized Program
For each participant, a personalized therapeutic exercise program is designed, tailored to:

• The diagnosis and stage of the disease

• The phase of treatment or rehabilitation

• Functional capacity and fitness level

• Medical guidelines and restrictions

• The participant’s needs and personal goals

Depending on the case, the program may include:

• Aerobic exercise

• Muscle strengthening

• Balance and motor control exercises

• Functional training and retraining of daily activities

Expected Outcomes for Participants
Participation in the Therapeutic Exercise programs aims to:

• Improve physical and functional capacity

• Reduce symptoms and side effects of the disease or treatment

• Enhance autonomy and daily functionality

• Improve psychological well-being and quality of life

• Provide overall support for the therapeutic and rehabilitation process