
Benefits of exercise – a Physiotherapist perspective
CAUSES OF INACTIVITY
People may have some difficulty walking or being active because they may have become unwell. There are a number of reasons why people lose their mobility. Some of these reasons are:
- Fallers who broke an arm or leg and now lost ability to function as normal
- Loss of confidence in general mobility and going outdoors
- Fear of falling
- Prolonged illness resulting in people being bedbound
- Weakness due to inactivity
- Age related muscle wasting and loss of mobility
- Poor motivation
- Depression
- Dependence on carers and family members
- Neurological conditions e.g. stroke, Parkinson’s Disease, MS
- Poor environment, e.g. steep stairs, narrow entrances, loose carpets
- No appropriate walking aid
- Pain
- Stiff joints or arthritis
BENEFITS OF EXERCISE
Exercise comes in all forms and shapes. It does not necessarily mean you have to go to the gym to make a difference. Walking is always a good exercise. You may also want to make use of the stairs if you are able to climb them. Other people may need a tailored exercise program to work on specific muscle groups to strengthen and help with mobility
Exercise in any form is good for the following reasons:
– It improves mood and self esteem
– Decreases anxiety especially regarding mobility and fear of falling
– Improves breathing and ventilation of the lungs
– Increases fitness
– Increases muscle strength and endurance
– Lowers cholesterol which will reduce the risk of stroke
– Increases flexibility and joint range of motion
– Increases bone density
– Increases muscle mass and decreases fat mass (controls weight)
– Improves circulation
– Relieves pain
– Maintains independence
– Improves cognition or mental ability
– Reduces the risk of falls and improves balance
– Lowers blood pressure and prevents heart diseases
– Reduces stress
– Relieves constipation
– Improves posture
– Improves sleep
We have a wide knowledge of exercise and strength training. A home visit could help to tailor your exercises to help you function in your own home environment. Please contact Silver Physio for an assessment and further advice.
To arrange a home visit and get your rehab started ASAP, email us at office@silverphysio.co.uk or telephone: 020 3637 8988.