The therapeutic exercise involves movement prescribed to correct impairments, restore muscular and skeletal function and/or maintain a state of well-being. Therapeutic exercise is a type of physical activity used to treat or prevent injuries and improve functional outcomes. The scientific evidence demonstrating the beneficial effects of exercise is indisputable, and the benefits of exercise far outweigh the risks in most adults. For most adults, an exercise program including aerobic, resistance, flexibility, and neuromotor exercise training is indispensable to improving and maintaining physical fitness and health.
Therapeutic exercise core skills upon which the profession of physiotherapy is based. How does exercise differ from physical activity?
- Physical activity refers to the contraction of skeletal muscle that produces bodily movement and requires energy.
- Exercise is a physical activity that is planned and performed with the goal of attaining or maintaining physical fitness. Physical fitness is a set of traits that allows an individual to perform physical activity
Types of exercises
Therapeutic exercise may include:
- Aerobic and endurance conditioning and reconditioning
- Agility training
- Body mechanics training
- Breathing exercises
- Coordination exercises
- Developmental activities training
- Movement pattern training
- Neuromotor development activities training
- Neuromuscular education or reeducation
- perceptual training
- range of motion exercises and soft tissue stretching
- relaxation exercises
- strength, power, and endurance exercises
The benefits of therapeutic exercise are numerous. It can help to increase strength and flexibility, improve balance and coordination, reduce pain and inflammation, and enhance cardiovascular health. Additionally, therapeutic exercise can help to improve overall mental and emotional well-being by reducing stress and anxiety and promoting relaxation.
Therapeutic exercise is a powerful tool for improving physical function, managing chronic conditions, and promoting overall health and well-being. By working with a trained healthcare professional and following a tailored exercise program, patients can experience the benefits of therapeutic exercise and achieve their goals for improved physical and mental health.