Authors (including presenting author) :
Tse LY(1), Tsang CLT(1), Tsang NC(1), Wong PM(1), Kwong SF(1), Ling YH(2)
Affiliation :
(1) Physiotherapy Department, Ruttonjee and Tang Shiu Kin Hospitals (2) Department of Surgery, Ruttonjee and Tang Shiu Kin Hospitals
Keyword 1: :
Breast cancer
Keyword 2: :
Gyrokinesis®
Keyword 3: :
Post-Operation Rehabilitation
Keyword 5: :
Physical function
Introduction :
Breast cancer treatment causes a decline in physical functions. Reduced physical strength, tissue stiffness, and fatigue, which usually last long after completion of treatment, are commonly reported by survivors, affecting quality of life (QoL). The Gyrokinesis® method is a breath-led movement system emphasizing fluidity and three-dimensional motions. Its efficacy in improving thoracic mobility, muscle strength, overall well-being and reducing scar adhesions, is suggested by preliminary evidence (Hung, 2015; Min et al., 2025). Its use in breast cancer rehabilitation in addition to conventional physiotherapy is limited. Therefore, a pilot physiotherapy program using Gyrokinesis®-based exercise was implemented for breast cancer survivors under follow-up at RTSKH physiotherapy department.
Objectives :
- To empower patients with breast cancer specific exercise techniques and provide a platform of group support. - To evaluate the effectiveness of the program on improving physical functions and well-being.
Methodology :
A cohort of 29 breast cancer survivors (mean age: 61.1 ± 7.9 years; mean post-operative duration: 35.8 ± 17.8 months) was enrolled in the 10-session wellness workshop between August-October 2025. The intervention combined mobilization exercises based on the Gyrokinesis® method with guided breathing techniques. Volunteer Gyrotonic® and Gyrokinesis® trainers were recruited to provide additional coaching on exercise techniques. Structured group discussions were conducted in the workshop to strengthen group dynamics and reinforce peer support. Moreover, the reinforcement of home practice was facilitated by supplementary video materials. Pre- and post-assessments included handgrip strength (HGS), lower-body strength (30-second chair stand test, 30SCST), skeletal muscle index (SMI), dynamic balance (functional reach), aerobic endurance (six-minute walk test, 6MWT), and breast cancer-specific QoL (FACT-B).
Result & Outcome :
Post-intervention patients showed significant improvements in all physical measures: HGS(p< .001), functional reach(p< .001), 30SCST(p< .001), SMI(p=.048), and 6MWT(p< .001). Furthermore, FACT-B scores exhibited a positive trend towards enhanced QoL. 100% patients expressed satisfaction and agreement with the program's effectiveness in facilitating recovery and sense of well-being. Additionally, 89% and 82% of patients agreed that the workshop enhanced their mental well-being and social participation respectively. The physiotherapy program using Gyrokinesis® based exercise was effective in improving key indicators of physical functions and well-being in breast cancer survivors, supporting the integration of such rehabilitative approaches into long-term care.
