The verdict is in; exercise is medicine! Exercise is an effective treatment for a large number of conditions and Chronic diseases! When applied, in a progressive and regular manner, exercise can be used to cure and/or manage a large number of symptoms and conditions that people may experience throughout life. Further, not only is exercise an effective treatment for the large majority of people, but it is also SAFE.
A common barrier that prevents people from exercising is the nagging- yet justified – anxiety of whether exercising is safe to do. Especially if a person is living with one or several chronic diseases or medical conditions. What the scientific consensus is on this topic is that exercise is SAFE for just about everyone. Here is a short list of medical conditions that exercising has been shown to be safe:
- Mental health issues – (Depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc.)
- Obesity
- Diabetes – Type 1 and type 2
- Multiple sclerosis
- Parkinson’s disease
- Kidney disease
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
- Musculoskeletal issues (I.e. low back pain)
- Cancer(s)
- Cerebral palsy
- Arthritis
- The list goes on…
As illustrated by this short, non-exhaustive list of diverse medical conditions, exercise is largely safe for the vast majority of people. Those even with chronic issues like low back pain have been shown in the scientific literature that exercise is safe! Also, that exercise is medicine!
What exercises/types of exercises can I do?
Although exercise is safe for most people, there are certain forms of exercise that might not be appropriate for certain people and situations. For instance, someone who just had a total knee replacement probably should not pick jump roping for their way of exercising. Those with balance issues might want to avoid hiking as their preferred form of exercising. The question comes down to “what exercise should I do?”. That question is for your neighborhood exercise professionals!
Physical therapists, exercise physiologists, athletic trainers, are highly trained and educated exercise professionals that can help guide you! Also, they will answer any questions or concerns about exercise. As well as your specific situation. It is common practice for these exercise professionals to work along side your exercise preferences, physical needs, and personal goals you may have! And use all this information to create an exercise program that is individually tailored to your personal needs and wants! This ensures that you are performing safe, effective, and beneficial exercise. Since exercise has been shown to decrease all cause mortality and increase overall quality of life. So from here, schedule an evaluation today! It’s the next step to start your exercise journey!
Interested in coming to Hohman Rehab? Great! We can get you setup right away! Click here for more information and to schedule!
In Health,
Kyle Kazmier, B.S., NASM-CPT, CES
