Therapeutic Exercise & Activity
Therapeutic exercise uses activities and designed exercises to aid in increasing mobility and fitness levels. Normally associated with treating injuries, it can also help overall active patients improve health and wellness with the benefits generally exceeding the risks of exercise. These exercises can assist in recovery after surgery, relief from osteoporosis and pregnancy care. We design exercise plans to meet the needs of each individual to provide the most benefit.
What is Therapeutic Exercise?
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.
Therapeutic exercise can be classified into three categories based on the degree of physical effort required by the patient:
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Active exercise: The patient performs the movement without any assistance from the therapist or equipment. For example, walking on a treadmill or lifting free weights.
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Active-assisted exercise: The patient performs the movement with some assistance from the therapist or equipment. For example, using a pulley system or a resistance band.
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Passive exercise: The therapist performs the movement for the patient who does not exert any effort. For example, moving the patient's arm through its range of motion.
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Therapeutic exercise can target different aspects of physical fitness, such as:
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Range of motion: The ability of a joint to move through its full extent. For example, bending and straightening the knee.
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Strength: The ability of a muscle to produce force. For example, lifting a heavy object.
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Endurance: The ability of a muscle or a system to sustain activity over time. For example, running or cycling for a long distance.
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Flexibility: The ability of a muscle or a tissue to stretch and lengthen. For example, touching your toes or doing a split.
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Balance: The ability to maintain stability and control of your body in different positions and situations. For example, standing on one leg or walking on an uneven surface.
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Therapeutic exercise can help you:
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Reduce pain and inflammation
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Improve mobility and function
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Prevent stiffness and contractures
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Enhance circulation and healing
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Increase muscle mass and bone density
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Improve posture and alignment
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Boost your mood and energy levels
What is Therapeutic Activity?
Therapeutic activity involves dynamic movements that simulate functional tasks or activities of daily living (ADL). Therapeutic activity is a type of physical therapy intervention that aims to improve functional performance.
Therapeutic activity always requires active participation from the patient who performs complex and multi-dimensional movements. For example, climbing stairs, reaching overhead, throwing a ball, pushing a cart, or cooking.
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Therapeutic activity can address multiple aspects of physical fitness at once, such as:
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Coordination: The ability to perform smooth and accurate movements that involve multiple body parts. For example, playing an instrument or typing on a keyboard.
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Agility: The ability to change direction and speed quickly and efficiently. For example, dodging obstacles or playing soccer.
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Power: The ability to produce force rapidly. For example, jumping or throwing.
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Reaction time: The ability to respond quickly to a stimulus. For example, catching a ball or braking a car.
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Motor control: The ability to regulate and adjust movements according to feedback and goals. For example, writing neatly or hitting a target.
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Therapeutic activity can help you:
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Restore function and independence
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Improve quality of life and satisfaction
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Enhance skill acquisition and retention
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Increase motivation and engagement
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Promote safety and injury prevention
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Facilitate adaptation and problem-solving
How are Therapeutic Exercise & Activity Different?
Therapeutic exercise and activity are both important components of physical therapy that can help you achieve your goals. However, they have some key differences that you should be aware of:
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How are Therapeutic Exercise & Activity Similar?
Therapeutic exercise and activity are both individualized treatments that share some common goals and benefits. They are both:
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Based on a thorough assessment and evaluation of your condition and needs
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Designed to address your specific impairments and functional limitations
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Adapted to your level of ability and progress
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Monitored and supervised by a licensed physical therapist
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Supported by evidence and best practice guidelines
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Aimed to improve your health and well-being
How Can You Get Started with Therapeutic Exercise & Activity?
If you are interested in starting a therapeutic exercise or activity program, you should book a Physical Therapy Evaluation with us Book Online | Jubilant Therapy Services. A physical therapist will perform a comprehensive evaluation and create a personalized plan of care for you.
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Your physical therapist will work with you to:
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Identify your goals and expectations
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Assess your current level of function and fitness
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Determine the type, frequency, intensity, and duration of the interventions
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Select the most suitable exercises or activities for you
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Teach you how to perform them correctly and safely
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Provide feedback and guidance along the way
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Modify or progress the interventions as needed
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Measure your outcomes and satisfaction
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Your physical therapist will also educate you on how to:
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Prevent or manage potential complications or risks
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Incorporate the exercises or activities into your daily routine
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Maintain or enhance the benefits after discharge