Self care is very important after Radiotherapy for Head Neck Cancer. It includes various manoeuvres and techniques to provide relief from the side effects.

Neck Stretches:

Gentle neck stretches can help improve flexibility and reduce stiffness in the neck muscles. Slowly tilt your head to the right, left, forward, and backward, holding each stretch for a few seconds. Avoid any sudden or jerky movements.

Shoulder Rolls:

Perform shoulder rolls to relieve tension in the neck and shoulder area. Slowly roll your shoulders forward and backward in a circular motion.

Jaw Exercises:

Radiation therapy can sometimes cause tightness in the jaw muscles. Simple jaw exercises, like opening and closing your mouth or moving your jaw from side to side, can help improve jaw mobility.

Tongue Exercises:

If radiation has affected the tongue muscles, tongue exercises may be beneficial. Stick your tongue out as far as possible, move it from side to side, and touch it to the roof of your mouth.

Swallowing Exercises:

Some head and neck cancer patients may experience difficulty swallowing after radiation therapy. A speech therapist can recommend specific swallowing exercises to help improve swallowing function.

Breathing Exercises:

Deep breathing exercises can aid in relaxation and lung function. Take slow, deep breaths in through your nose and exhale through your mouth.

Relaxation Techniques:

Stress-relief techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga can help manage anxiety and improve overall well-being.

Always remember to start slowly and listen to your body. If you experience any pain or discomfort during the exercises, stop immediately and consult your healthcare team. They can guide you on the appropriate exercises for your specific condition and monitor your progress throughout your recovery journey.