Therapeutic exercise is movement that is recommended to maintain a state of well-being, correct impairments, and/or restore skeletal and muscular function. Therapeutic exercise offers a plethora of advantages for function restoration, quality of life enhancement, and general health. Many people live their daily lives at the absolute minimum of their physical capabilities, and it only takes a mild illness to substantially impair function. Exercise is a therapeutic approach that increases a person's resistance to illness and length of recovery after such an illness by involving repeated, regular activity in various modalities.

Types of Exercise Therapy

Incorporating various types of exercises into a fitness regimen can yield comprehensive health benefits. 

Strength training: These exercises include strength training, which involves utilizing resistance to enhance muscle strength and endurance. 

Cardiovascular exercise:  Engaging in cardiovascular exercise, such as walking, running, swimming, or cycling, can effectively elevate heart rate.

Flexibility exercises: Flexibility exercises, encompassing stretching routines, are beneficial for enhancing range of motion and alleviating stiffness. 

Balance exercises: Balance exercises, such as tai chi or yoga, can significantly contribute to improving coordination and balance.

Functional exercises: Functional exercises that simulate everyday movements serve to enhance overall daily living skills.

How does exercise therapy benefit you?

Improved physical health:

Adhering to a prescribed therapeutic exercise regimen is specifically formulated to enhance overall body strength, consequently leading to,

• Increased strength and endurance

• Improved cardiovascular health

• Weight management

• Better balance and coordination

• Reduced risk of chronic diseases

• Better posture
  

Mental health benefits:

Individuals experiencing limited mobility and discomfort may become entrenched in a cycle of despondency, apprehension, and a sedentary way of life, further exacerbating their challenges. Engaging in therapeutic exercise triggers the release of endorphins, the body's innate pain-relievers, and can contribute to, 

• Enhanced vitality

• Reduced stress and anxiety

• Improved mood

• Better sleep quality

• Increased self-esteem

• Improved sense of well being
  

Functional improvements

Therapeutic exercise serves as a natural method for pain relief and rehabilitation, targeting the root cause of pain. Unlike medications, which merely alleviate symptoms and carry the risk of dependency, a consistent therapeutic exercise regimen can,

• Diminish the reliance on medication for pain management.

• Increase independence in daily activities

• Improve mobility
  

When is Exercise Therapy Recommended?

The following considerations are important to keep in mind:

Rehabilitation: Essential for restoring function and preventing complications after injuries or surgeries.

Chronic conditions: Vital for managing conditions like arthritis, heart disease, diabetes, or obesity.

Mental health: Instrumental in improving mood, reducing stress, and boosting self-esteem.

Aging: Essential for maintaining physical and mental health as we age.