Chronic pain, defined as pain lasting beyond the usual healing time, often persists for at least three months. It can lead to various issues beyond the pain itself, including fatigue, anxiety, depression, and a diminished quality of life. Dr. Valeria El Haj, National Medical Director of Ospedyc, emphasizes that while patients were once advised to rest, current recommendations encourage staying active to directly influence pain and combat associated problems.
Chronic conditions may include heart disease, diabetes, depression, or back and joint pain. Depending on the condition, primary care physicians may suggest safety measures before exercise. For instance, individuals with diabetes should be aware that exercise can lower blood glucose levels, making it essential to monitor glucose before physical activity. Those on insulin or glucose-lowering medications may need a snack beforehand to prevent hypoglycemia.
For arthritis sufferers, taking a warm shower before exercise can help relax joints and muscles, alleviating pain. It’s also crucial to wear footwear that absorbs impact and stabilizes joints during exercise.
Physical Activity Program
A comprehensive exercise program should include:
Aerobic Exercise: Improves heart health, energy levels, and weight control.
Muscle Strengthening: Activities like weight lifting enhance muscle strength, aiding daily activities and stabilizing joints.
Flexibility Exercises: Stretching helps maintain joint movement and function.
Balance Exercises: Especially important for older adults, these can prevent falls and reduce injury risks. Tai chi, backward walking, and single-leg stands are beneficial balance activities.
Benefits
Exercise positively impacts quality of life in various ways:
Arthritis: Alleviates pain, builds muscle strength around joints, and reduces stiffness.
Asthma: Can help control the frequency and intensity of asthma attacks.
Back Pain: Low-impact aerobic exercise strengthens the back and improves muscle function.
Cancer: Exercise can enhance the quality of life for cancer survivors, improve fitness, and lower the risk of certain cancers.
Dementia: Regular movement can enhance cognitive abilities and reduce the risk of dementia.
Depression and Anxiety: Regular physical activity improves symptoms of both conditions.
Diabetes: Helps lower blood glucose levels, control weight, and boost energy.
Heart Disease: Regular exercise reduces the risk of heart disease and its complications.
Osteoporosis: Activities like brisk walking and weight lifting strengthen bones and slow bone loss.