Benefits of Exercise in Chronic Disease Management
If you have a chronic disease, you may have questions regarding the benefits of adding an exercise program to your daily routine.
The CDC says physical activity can help prevent the development of certain chronic illnesses. But how beneficial can exercise be for those who are already living with a chronic disease?
The Evidence
There is strong evidence that the right type of fitness programs such as aerobic, strength training, or a combination of these can significantly benefit patients with chronic diseases including, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, asthma, and others.
The University of Jyväskylä in Finland analyzed an extensive collection of published research data, which evaluate the effects of exercise on more than twenty chronic diseases.
Researchers concluded that exercise therapy, as part of chronic disease management, safely improves functional capacity and helps reduce disability in patients.
How Does Exercise Improve a Chronic Condition?
Exercise has many benefits for all individuals. It can help improve cardiovascular functions, lower stress levels, and help maintain a healthy weight.
Aerobic Exercise
This type of exercise will help improve heart health and lung capacity as well as aid in weight loss. Moderate to high-intensity interval aerobic training is generally safe and effective for most patients. However, it is vital to increase the intensity of your workouts slowly. Remember, even a slow-paced walk routine can provide significant benefits.
Resistance Training
Strength and resistance training can help improve muscle strength and endurance. Strong muscles will help make daily tasks easier to perform, and it can also help slow the debilitating progression of muscle-related symptoms. Additionally, strength training can increase joint stability.
Flexibility Exercise
Stretching and stability exercises can help improve range of motion and increase balance, which can lower the risk of falls and help reduce the pain associated with stiff muscles and joints.
What Exercises Are Best for You?
Before you begin a fitness program, you should discuss it with your doctor. Together you can create a personalized exercise routine that is both safe and suited to your needs and interests.
Your doctor can recommend specific exercises to help reduce pain and build strength. Likewise, they may advise you to refrain from doing certain physical activities, which could increase your risk of injury. Additionally, if you are experiencing a disease flareup, speak to your doctor about how to modify your fitness routine.
Another important consideration is how frequently you should exercise. Your doctor and physical therapist can help define how long and frequent your exercise sessions should be, and what level of intensity is safest for you.
Special Considerations Before You Get Started
Depending on your condition, your physician may recommend additional precautions before you exercise.
As an example, many patients suffering from arthritis report benefiting from a warm shower before exercising to help relax their joints and muscles and reduce the level of pain they may be experiencing.
When you begin exercising, it’s reasonable to experience a certain amount of discomfort. However, contact your doctor if the level of pain seems disproportionate as they can provide tips for minimizing your pain or modifying your routine to meet your needs better.
Starting a fitness routine can be overwhelming and tough. Make sure you have the right support system to help you achieve your exercise goals.
Biologic infusion therapy, coupled with a personalized exercise routine, can significantly improve the quality of life of patients living with chronic diseases. At Altus Infusion, our goal is to make biologic infusion therapy more accessible and cost-effective for patients and physicians alike.
For more information on our services, please contact us at 855-692-5887.
