Physical disabilities make it very difficult for some patients to receive adequate physical exercise in order to stay healthy. It is important for a person to stay as physically active as they are capable. This will improve heart health and help them achieve and maintain the best possible mobility. This conditioning can lengthen the patient’s life and provide them with a much greater quality of life.
Since physical disabilities differ so greatly, it is important to identify the best possible physical conditioning that person can achieve. If the person is limited in mobility in their lower extremities, exercise that incorporates the arms and upper body can improve strength and allow the person better mobility. Sometimes balance is compromised. There are safe exercises that can be performed, such as walking, that strengthen the lower body and improve mobility.
If a person is able to walk, no matter how slowly, this is the best exercise for reducing lower back pain. Sitting for long periods of time, such as in a wheelchair, can strain the muscles in the lower back causing pain. Walking can help stretch and strengthen these muscles. This can also reduce the amount of pain medicine a person has to take.
Maintaining the best possible physical conditioning can also reduce the risk of strokes. It can lower cholesterol and blood pressure, risk factors for heart attacks and strokes. If the person is unable to sustain physical activity for a period of time, doctors and physical therapists may recommend shorter workouts several times per day.
Physical activity, even if it is quite limited, has also been shown to decrease symptoms of depression. It also stimulates blood flow to the brain, improving cognitive function. Even very limited physical activity in disabled patients has many benefits, and the rewards are a longer life with better physical and mental health to enjoy it with.