MORE ABOUT US
Chérien Roux completed her MSc degree in Exercise Physiology from the University of Northern Colorado in 2023, specialising in Cancer Rehabilitation / Exercise Oncology. UNC was one of the first universities in the world to open a cancer rehabilitation centre – University of Northern Colorado Cancer Rehabilitation Institute (UNCCRI).
QAULIFICATIONS
- MSc Exercise Physiology – University of Northern Colorado (2023)
- B.S Hons Sport Science – University of Johannesburg (2020)
- BA Sport Coaching Science – University of Pretoria (2019)
CERTIFICATION
- ACSM Exercise Physiology (2018)
- ACSM Exercise is Medicine (2023)
- ACSM Clinical Exercise Physiology (Scheduled to be completed in 2024)
- ACSM Cancer Exercise Trainer (2024)
The two years Master’s degree program includes a 12 weeks internship that teaches in-body assessments, skinfold measurements, circumference measurements, balance test, spirometry,NASM, cardiovascular aerobic assessment, strength assessment, ROM and flexibility assessment. All of these aspects are specifically adjusted for the cancer patients and all the data obtained is compared to normative data for cancer patients. Students are also taught how to evaluate other aspects of patients, including ECG and blood lactate measurements.
Numerous studies have proven that exercise helps combat cancer and its treatment related toxicities and side effects. The main goal of a Clinical Cancer Exercise is to improve the patient’s Acts of Daily Living.
An Exercise Oncologist’s function differs from that of a Biokineticist, a Physiotherapist and an Occupational therapist. Various physiological tests are conducted on cancer patients, individualised training programmes designed and support is given with performing the rehabilitation exercises. Exercise Oncologists work closely with a patient’s Oncologist to obtain as much information regarding the patient as possible. Pre-screening assessments are also conducted and the patient’s medical records are analysed as part of their initial assessment. The psychological condition of the patient is continuously considered as they may suffer from fatigue, depression and other psychological side effects.
Roux Exercise Oncology is the first Exercise Oncology Centre in South Africa.
EXERCISE ONCOLOGY DEFINED
Exercise oncology is the use of individualised exercise prescription in order to counteract the adverse side effects of cancer itself & its related treatments that may lead to physiological toxicities.
ACSM DEFINITION
“Cancer exercise rehabilitation program development and administration requires that fitness professionals have the knowledge and skills to work with the medical community as well as the cancer survivor who may have multiple treatment-related complications. The goal of developing a cancer exercise rehabilitation program is to deliver quality care with appropriate exercise assessment, prescription, and intervention while also providing education and safe programs by certified and qualified personnel”.
UNCCRI DEFINITION
“Cancer rehabilitation is a concept that is defined by the patient and involves helping an individual with cancer to obtain maximum physical, social,psychologic, and vocational function within the limits imposed by the disease and its treatments”.
ACSM-CEP DEFINED
“CEPs are allied health professionals, who as members of an interdisciplinary team, provide individualised physical activity and exercise services and education to select populations who are either at risk for or have chronic diseases or other conditions warranting specific modifications. CEPs extend the continuum of care for patients under a physician’s care. CEPs apply clinically accepted outcome measurements and evidence-based strategies to enhance their patients’ physical function and health-related quality of life”.
LET US HELP YOU TODAY!
Ready to take the first step towards your personalized oncological rehabilitation journey? Contact us today for expert guidance and support tailored to your unique needs. Let’s work together to help you regain your strength, vitality, and quality of life. Reach out now to get started!