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How Therapeutic Exercise Can Restore Strength, Balance And Mobility To Those Recovering From Injury Or Disease

By Rosella Campbell


Physical therapy is a way to rehabilitate patients who have developed impairments in their mobility. It is used to restore a normal range of movement for patients recovering from certain medical conditions, illness or injury. The goal of this kind of therapy is to aid patients recovery by helping them develop flexibility, balance and coordination, and muscular strength. Therapeutic exercise is a mature form of therapy and those living in Boston, MA will find there are a good number of therapists in their locality.

Physical therapists are able to help people with a broad range of issues, and consequently they work in a variety of health-related settings. Some work in hospitals, but they can also be found in schools, research departments, hospices, fitness centers and other places where physical therapy is needed. Many choose to specialize in areas such as pediatrics, orthopedics, geriatrics and sports-related injury.

When designing a care program, a therapist will begin by examining their patient's medical history and making an assessment of their current capabilities. He or she may also draw upon information provided by lab studies and scans where needed. A care plan will then be designed that is tailored to the specific needs of the patient. As much as possible, the goal is always to restore the patient's physical capacity to normal.

The exercises contained within the program will aim to work particular muscle groups, joints or limbs. The patient will be instructed on how to perform the exercises in order to get the most from them. This process may require some adjustment since patients may find some exercises easier than others. The patient will be monitored and exercises changed or modified as needed.

The essence of any program of exercise will be to improve flexibility, strength, coordination and balance or several of these attributes. Strength exercises are of particular importance for patients who have experienced muscle loss. Gains in strength are also important for restoring a patient's confidence, which often suffers when physical capacity is lost.

Balance and coordination drills are essential for restoring lost balance that can result from certain illnesses. They are also of great help for mobility-impaired elderly patients who are at risk of falling. The aim here, is to develop lower-body strength and also the vestibular system (the area of the inner ear that controls spatial perception and balance).

Flexibility exercises can help patients restore the suppleness of their joints and their range of motion. They are also an important safeguard against potential future injuries. Most of these exercises involve stretching, and many are very easy to perform without equipment. In addition, many stretching exercises are emotionally satisfying to perform and engender a sense of well-being.

This is a critical component of exercise and bodily movement in the broadest sense. Those who have suffered with injury or disease often suffer a dent to their confidence and sense of personal efficacy. By beginning to move again and use their bodies constructively, many experience a boost in their mood and self-confidence. This psychological and emotional improvement can help tremendously in aiding patients make a speedy and full recovery.




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