People with physical disabilities or chronic health conditions can feel excluded from exercising as there isn’t always special provision made for them. However, this need not be the case as sports therapists and physiotherapists can work with you individually to adapt exercises to suit your body’s capabilities.
The importance of exercise for people with disabilities and chronic physical health conditions
Able-bodied or not, exercise is important to your physical and mental well-being so it’s good to build exercise into your daily routine. As an individual with a disability or chronic health condition, your muscles are more prone to any combination of underuse, overuse, or misuse. For example, if you use a wheelchair, the muscles towards the front of your body may be well-developed from pushing your chair. However, the muscles in your back may be underdeveloped through lack of use, which causes an imbalance. Working with someone to adapt exercises will help target specific needs.
How do you adapt exercises?
Fortunately, this can be quite straightforward and only require small modifications. Like rehabilitation exercises for the able-bodied, we will often start in a lying position, and progress to seated, before reaching standing exercises. Therefore, you will be able to follow similar exercises. Where lying or standing isn’t an option, upper body and spinal rehabilitation exercises can be performed in a seated position.
Can I exercise without getting a gym membership?
Absolutely! You don’t need to join a gym to experience a good strength session anymore as resistance bands, tins of beans, or simply your own body weight are great substitutes. Here are some examples of possible adaptations:
Unable to ride a bicycle? Use a handcycle.
Visually impaired and struggle to run solo? Ask a friend or family member to guide you.
Arthritis causing too much pain during high-impact activity? Try low-impact swimming or cycling instead.
There are many possible solutions to issues you might be facing: it’s just a matter of knowing the correct path to choose and that’s where we can help.
How do I get started?
One of our therapists will start with a thorough consultation to understand your needs and what you want to achieve. From that, we’ll be able to figure out a plan to get you there. We have lots of experience working with clients who have a variety of (dis)abilities or chronic conditions and we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.
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