A person who has trouble moving may have general weakness, problems walking, and find it hard to get from one place to another. When a person spends a lot of time in bed, muscles become weaker. Other things that can make it hard to move include pain in joints or legs, as well as some of the side effects of chemo and radiation. It is important to move and exercise as much as possible to prevent new problems. Problems caused by less activity may include poor or no appetite, constipation, skin sores, problems with breathing, stiff joints, and mental changes.

What the Patient Can Do

• Do active or passive range-of-motion exercises as instructed by the nurse, doctor, or physical therapist (see section on exercise).
• Take pain medicines as prescribed.
• Drink as much liquid as allowed by your doctor.
• Keep a record of bowel movements (see section on constipation for information about foods that help prevent this problem).
• Turn and change positions at least every two hours while in bed.
• Wear shoes (not slippers that slide off easily) when walking or standing.
• Use any brace, cane, walker, or other support prescribed by your doctor or nurse.
• Take short walks if you can. Even if you are bedridden, try to sit up in a chair for meals and walk to the bathroom or bedside commode.
• If you need help when walking, have a family member support you on your weakest side. (For instance, if your right side is weak, have someone stand on your right side before you get up. Have your helper put his or her left arm around you, and put his or her right forearm and hand in front of your right shoulder.)

What Caregivers Can Do

• When lifting the patient, keep your back straight and bend and lift from your knees and hips. Stand as close to the patient as possible, and keep your feet spread for a firm base and good balance.
• Always lock the wheels on the bed or wheelchair.
• Always pull the patient toward you when rolling him or her in bed.
• Clear the floor so that you can help the person to the chair or bathroom without tripping over rugs, cords, fallen objects, clothing, or slipping on liquids.
• If the patient is unsteady but still able to get up, see section on falls.
• If the patient is to be alone for awhile, be sure that the phone and emergency phone numbers are within easy reach.

Call the doctor if the patient:

• is getting weaker
• falls
• has a headache, blurred vision, numbness, or tingling
• has a change in mental status, like getting confused, disoriented, or very sleepy
• has pain that gets worse

Go to a list of symptoms to find other problems in Managing Care at Home.

Revised: 01/04/2007