Exercise suggestions:
Many healthcare providers believe, and research shows, that physical activity is safe and beneficial for older people, and those with health conditions such as arthritis, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, or other chronic conditions, as well as for people recovering from surgery. In fact, a lack of activity can make a condition worse or difficult to live with.
Benefits of regular exercise:
Exercise does not have to be strenuous or vigorous. Just 30 minutes of moderate physical activity several times a week provides health benefits -- even low-intensity activities. An exercise class is beneficial, but so is simply increasing daily activities including:
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons suggests, with the advice of their physicians, that people of all ages and abilities exercise to some degree, even those with the above mentioned conditions or concerns.
Exercise and age:
Physical activity is especially important for older adults because it can lower the risk of heart disease or heart attack, lower blood pressure, control diabetes, and help maintain a healthy weight level. It is never too late to start an exercise program.
Exercise also helps to protect us from some of the normal effects of aging, such as:
Exercise and chronic conditions of the muscles, bones, or joints:
If you have a chronic condition affecting your muscles, joints, or bones, a lack of physical activity can make the condition worse or more difficult to live with. Medical research shows that physical activity is both safe and beneficial for people with arthritis, osteoporosis, and other chronic conditions of bones and joints.
Exercise and back pain:
Although you should not exercise during an acute attack of back pain, your physician may encourage you to get up and move around. Prolonged bed rest and inactivity may delay your recovery.
A balanced fitness program of regular physical activity and specific exercises can strengthen the muscles of the stomach, hips, and thighs, which can relieve chronic back pain, prevent the condition from getting worse, or prevent future attacks of pain.
Talk with your physician about staying in good physical condition by running, walking, swimming, bicycle riding, or weight lifting, as well as using correct techniques when sitting, standing, lifting and moving objects.
Exercise and arthritis:
For persons with arthritis, many types of exercise will help to strengthen joints and the surrounding muscles. Exercise also can relieve joint stiffness and reduce pain. Inactivity may aggravate the problem because weak muscles around the joints can lead to joint instability.
Exercise and osteoporosis:
Weight-bearing exercises such as walking, jogging, and weight lifting can stimulate bone growth and make bones healthier. Regular exercise will also help maintain good balance, so that you are less likely to fall and suffer a disabling bone fracture. Stimulating bone growth and preventing bone loss through exercise should be part of your lifestyle -- because once you stop, the benefits begin to diminish in two weeks and disappear in two to eight months.
Exercise and joint replacement:
While recovering from joint replacement surgery, follow a graduated walking program and specific exercises prescribed by your orthopaedic surgeon or physical therapist to restore movement and strengthen the muscles and ligaments surrounding the prosthesis.
Normal, healthy levels of activity should not damage the prosthesis or joint replacement. In fact, to take full advantage of the surgery, you must stay active for the rest of your life.
Consult your physician to design a safe, effective exercise program, based on your individual condition.
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