Which item is NOT an absolute cancer-specific contraindication for exercise?

Which item is NOT an absolute cancer-specific contraindication for exercise?

• A. Fever >38°C
• B. Uncontrolled pain
• C. Stable bone metastases
• D. Unstable bone metastases

Answer: (C)

The main idea is that in cancer rehabilitation, some conditions completely prohibit exercise, while others allow it with proper precautions. Fever over 38°C signals an active infection or systemic illness, so exercising could worsen the condition or complicate recovery. Uncontrolled pain means the patient isn’t clinically stable enough for safe activity, since movement could worsen pain or mask symptoms. Unstable bone metastases carry a high risk of fracture or neurological issues, so exercise is not safe in that state. Stable bone metastases, however, do not inherently block exercise. If the metastases are not progressing, pain is controlled, and there’s no risk of fracture or spinal compromise, a clinician can prescribe a tailored, supervised program with modifications (often low-impact and avoiding the affected areas). This is why stable bone metastases are not an absolute cancer-specific contraindication for exercise.

The main idea is that in cancer rehabilitation, some conditions completely prohibit exercise, while others allow it with proper precautions. Fever over 38°C signals an active infection or systemic illness, so exercising could worsen the condition or complicate recovery. Uncontrolled pain means the patient isn’t clinically stable enough for safe activity, since movement could worsen pain or mask symptoms. Unstable bone metastases carry a high risk of fracture or neurological issues, so exercise is not safe in that state.

Stable bone metastases, however, do not inherently block exercise. If the metastases are not progressing, pain is controlled, and there’s no risk of fracture or spinal compromise, a clinician can prescribe a tailored, supervised program with modifications (often low-impact and avoiding the affected areas). This is why stable bone metastases are not an absolute cancer-specific contraindication for exercise.