Cancer Rehabilitation
What is Cancer Rehabilitation?
Supporting Your Recovery. Rebuilding Strength. Restoring Confidence.
At APPI clinics, Cancer Rehabilitation is an individually tailored service designed to support you in returning to strength, confidence, and everyday life after breast or any form of cancer treatment.
Cancer Rehabilitation can be one of the first positive steps you take towards reclaiming your body following surgery and active treatment. We understand that recovery is not just physical — it is deeply personal — and our approach reflects that.
A Specialist, Evidence‑Based Approach
We have developed a unique and highly effective form of Cancer Rehabilitation, combining:
- The internationally recognised Pink Ribbon Pilates Rehabilitation Programme for Breast Cancer Rehabilitatiom
- The APPI Pilates method based in the fundamental belief that ‘movement is medicine’.
- Core theoretical and practical principles from modern rehabilitation science
All sessions are delivered by our specially trained team of physiotherapists, rehabilitation therapists and Pilates instructors who are experienced in supporting men and women through the physical and emotional stages of recovery.
Your Journey With Us
Your programme begins with a comprehensive 60‑minute assessment with one of our specialist practitioners. During this session we will:
- Discuss your cancer diagnosis and treatment history
- Review any reconstruction surgery you may have had
- Understand your current symptoms, concerns, and goals
- Explore your previous exercise experience and lifestyle
From this assessment, we will design a highly individualised rehabilitation programme, tailored specifically to your treatment, surgery, healing stage, ongoing treatments, and long‑term goals.
We will also advise on the most appropriate frequency and duration of sessions, typically planning for 60‑minute sessions once or twice per week.
Thrive Beyond Cancer: Personalised Cancer Rehabilitation Package
Everyone’s experience of cancer is different, and your recovery journey is personal to you. That’s why our Thrive Beyond Cancer package brings together a selection of our specialist services, giving you the opportunity to explore the support that feels right for you. Our package includes:
- Your choice of initial assessment with either a specialist MSK physiotherapist or Women’s Health physiotherapist
- A follow-up session with an MSK physiotherapist, Women’s Health physiotherapist or 1-1 Rehabilitation/Pilates session, depending on your needs and goals
- Your choice of a place in either our Thrive Beyond Cancer mat class or Mat Pilates for Menopause class designed to support you as you rebuild strength, confidence and movement
The package offers excellent value while giving you the flexibility to experience different aspects of our specialist cancer rehabilitation services and discover what works best for you.
Not sure where to start?
That’s completely understandable. You don’t need to know which service is right for you before you book. Please call our friendly reception team who can talk you through the options, answer your questions and help you choose the best place to start.
We’re here to support you every step of the way.
Total package price: £205
How Can Rehabilitation and Pilates Help After Cancer?
Pilates for Breast Cancer Rehabilitation
Pilates can be a valuable part of breast cancer rehabilitation, offering a gentle, adaptable approach to rebuilding strength, mobility and confidence during and after treatment.
Research suggests Pilates and exercise can support quality of life, physical function, strength, mobility and wellbeing, while helping to manage common challenges such as fatigue, pain, reduced movement and treatment-related side effects.
Regular exercise may also help to:
- Reduce fatigue and improve physical function
- Maintain or rebuild muscle strength and mobility
- Support cardiovascular fitness and overall wellbeing
- Improve posture, movement and confidence
- Support recovery from treatment and its side effects
- Promote long-term health and physical resilience
Why strength matters
Maintaining muscle mass is an important part of recovery. Muscle supports strength, movement and metabolic health, while lower muscle mass has been associated with poorer outcomes in breast cancer survivors.
A combination of strength, aerobic activity and regular movement can therefore play an important role in rehabilitation.
Most importantly, exercise should be appropriate for where you are in your recovery. Pilates can be adapted to your individual needs, helping you gradually rebuild strength and confidence at a pace that feels right for you.
What does cancer rehabilitation at APPI involve?
Our approach focuses on restoring healthy movement patterns, gradually rebuilding strength and mobility in a safe, supported way.
Research consistently shows that exercise is one of the most powerful tools for improving long‑term outcomes, recovery, and quality of life following breast cancer treatment. We recognise that the physiological side effects of treatment can make returning to exercise feel daunting — our role is to guide you back with care, clarity, and confidence.
Programme Structure
Our Pilates and Cancer Rehabilitation Programme includes:
Specialist Assessment
An initial 60‑minute assessment with one of our trained practitioners:
From this in‑depth session, we design a programme that reflects:
- Your medical and surgical history
- The type of reconstruction performed where this has occurred
- Ongoing treatments or side effects
- Your personal movement, lifestyle, and wellbeing goals
When can I start Cancer Rehabilitation?
You may be able to start the programme as early as 6–12 weeks post‑operation, depending on how well your healing is progressing.
As with any rehabilitation or exercise plan, it is essential that you have been medically cleared by your surgeon before beginning.
A Programme That Evolves With You
Importantly, we work with you and your goals throughout your recovery. As your body changes, your programme will be progressed and modified to ensure it continues to meet your needs — supporting not just recovery, but long‑term confidence, strength, and wellbeing.
And here's what our clients say . . .
“When I was diagnosed with breast cancer and told I needed a double mastectomy, I was absolutely petrified. The fear of the surgery itself, coupled with the thought of a long and uncertain recovery…
“I have joint problems because of cancer drugs and Lucy went at my own pace so I felt comfortable doing the exercises”. Jacquie
“Lucy is brilliant and this class is perfect, a great way to feel supported and looked after through our cancer journey, leaving energised and refreshed after a tailored session. A class that will become a regular each week for me.” Olivia
“A session with Lucy is like being showered with positivity. Her incredible knowledge and soothing, healing voice take Pilates to a whole new level. Every Monday, I leave feeling happier, taller, and completely rejuvenated.” Petra
“Excellent class. Cristina manages to gauge the needs of the class whilst providing professional, knowledgable and challenging exercises. Highly recommend.” Margaret
How do I book?
If you would like to learn more about our Pilates & Breast Cancer Rehabilitation Programme or book an assessment, please contact your local APPI Clinic. They can introduce you to our specialist practitioners who’ll be happy to help with any questions you have.
Our team is here to support you at every stage of your recovery.