Effects of a Home-Based Exercise Program During Radiotherapy

Investigation of the Effects of Home-Based Exercise Program Applied During Radiotherapy on Posture, Range of Motion, Muscle Strength, Fibrosis, Lymphedema and Swallowing Functions in Patients Diagnosed With Head and Neck Cancer

The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of exercise on individuals with head and neck cancer who are receiving postoperative radiotherapy.

The study is based on three primary hypotheses:

1. Exercise may help reduce or prevent the loss of normal range of motion that can occur during radiotherapy.
2. Exercise may help maintain muscle strength or lead to improvements in muscle strength.
3. Exercise may help maintain or improve postural alignment.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck.
• Undergoing unilateral neck dissection surgery.
• Scheduled to receive curative radiotherapy.
• Age 18 years or older.
• Willingness to participate and ability to comprehend exercise instructions.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Presence of distant metastasis.
• Presence of a tracheostomy.
• History of previous trauma or surgery involving the shoulder or cervical region.
• Neurological disorders affecting upper quadrant function. Recurrence of disease during the study period.