Showing posts with label exercises. Show all posts
Showing posts with label exercises. Show all posts

Tuesday, 5 September 2023

Easing The Grip | The Role Of Physiotherapy In Treating Trigger Finger


 In a world where our hands perform countless tasks each day, a condition that affects the smooth functioning of our fingers can be particularly debilitating. Trigger finger, a condition characterized by the painful and often jerky movement of the fingers can significantly impair one’s quality of life. Fortunately, beyond surgical and medical interventions, Physiotherapy has emerged as a valuable non-invasive treatment option. Physiotherapy treatment includes electrotherapy and a variety of range of motion exercises. In this blog, we will delve into the nuances of the trigger finger, its causes, symptoms, and most importantly, the pivotal role that physiotherapy plays in its management.

Understanding Trigger Finger:

Trigger finger, medically known as Stenosing Tenosynovitis, is a condition that affects the tendons in the fingers and thumb. Tendons are the tough cords connecting muscles to bones, and they glide through tunnels called sheaths as they help in the movement of the fingers. When the tendons become inflamed or swollen, they may no longer glide smoothly, causing the finger to get stuck in a bent position before suddenly popping straight. This can be both painful and limit the range of motion in the affected finger.

While trigger finger can occur without a clear cause, there are certain factors that can increase its likelihood like engaging in repetitive gripping or grasping activities, such as using tools or playing musical instruments, can strain the tendons and contribute to the trigger finger, conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and hypothyroidism have been associated with an increased risk of trigger finger, trigger finger is more common in individuals between the ages of 40 and 60, and women are more frequently affected than men. Symptoms of the trigger finger include “catching” or “locking” before suddenly releasing. Other symptoms include pain at the base of the finger or thumb, stiffness, and a palpable lump or nodule in the palm. In severe cases, the finger might become locked in a bent position, requiring manual assistance to straighten.

Physiotherapy: A Holistic Approach to Healing

Physiotherapy has gained recognition as a cornerstone in the management of Trigger Finger. It offers a holistic approach that addresses both the symptoms and underlying causes of the condition. Here’s how physiotherapy plays a pivotal role:

1: Pain Management: Physiotherapists employ various techniques such as manual therapyultrasoundTENS, and heat/cold therapy to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation in the affected area.

2: Range of Motion Exercises: Gentle stretching and range of motion exercises prescribed by a physiotherapist can help maintain or restore the flexibility and mobility of the affected finger.

3: Strengthening Exercises: Strengthening the muscles around the affected finger can improve its stability and support the tendons, reducing the likelihood of recurrence.

4: Ergonomic Education: Physiotherapists assess the individual’s daily activities and provide guidance on ergonomic modifications to prevent strain on the tendons.

5: Manual Techniques: Techniques such as joint mobilizations and soft tissue manipulation are employed by physiotherapists to improve the gliding motion of tendons and restore normal movement patterns.

6: Home Exercise Programs: Physiotherapists design customized exercise programs that patients can perform at home to complement their in-clinic sessions, accelerating the healing process.

7: Education and Prevention: Beyond treatment, Physiotherapists educate patients about Trigger Fingers, its causes, and strategies to prevent its recurrence. This knowledge empowers individuals to make informed lifestyle choices.

Collaborative Care for Optimal Results:

The effectiveness of Physiotherapy in treating Trigger Finger is enhanced when it’s part of a comprehensive care plan. Collaboration between physiotherapists, orthopedic specialists, and other healthcare providers is essential to ensure a well-rounded approach to diagnosis, treatment, and management.

In a world where our hands are vital tools for communication, creativity, and functionality, Trigger finger can be a significant hindrance. However, with advancements in physiotherapy and a better understanding of this condition, relief is within reach. Physiotherapy offers a holistic and non-invasive approach to managing trigger Finger, addressing pain, restoring movement, and improving the overall quality of life. If you or someone you know is struggling with Trigger Finger, consider reaching out to a qualified physiotherapist who can guide you on the path to recovery and hand wellness.

Monday, 14 August 2023

Functional Training | How Physiotherapy Translates To Real-life Movements?

 

In today's fast-paced world, physical fitness is not just about doing cardiovascular exercises or hitting the gym for a few hours each week. It's about being able to perform everyday tasks with ease, preventing injuries, and maintaining a high quality of life. This is where functional training comes into play. Derived from the principles of physiotherapy, functional training focuses on improving movement patterns and enhancing overall functionality in real-life situations. In this blog post, we will explore the relationship between physiotherapy and functional training, and how the latter translates to real-life movements.

Physiotherapy, also known as physical therapy, is a healthcare profession that aims to enhance physical function and quality of life through assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of various musculoskeletal and neurological conditions. Physiotherapists utilize a wide range of techniques and exercises to address specific impairments and restore optimal movement and function in their patients. These techniques often involve a combination of strength training, flexibility exercises, balance training, and functional movements.

Functional training, on the other hand, takes the principles and exercises used in physiotherapy and applies them to a broader audience. It focuses on training the body to perform movements that are natural and essential for everyday activities. The goal of functional training is to improve coordination, balance, strength, stability, and mobility, enabling individuals to carry out their daily tasks more efficiently and with reduced risk of injury.

One of the core concepts of functional training is the principle of specificity. This principle states that the body adapts to the specific demands placed upon it. In other words, if you want to get better at performing a particular movement or activity, you need to train in a way that closely mimics that movement or activity. This principle is at the heart of physiotherapy, where therapists design exercise programs that target the specific functional goals of their patients.
For example, if a patient is recovering from a knee injury and wants to regain the ability to climb stairs without pain, the physiotherapist will likely incorporate exercises that focus on strengthening the muscles around the knee joint, improving balance, and enhancing the overall stability of the lower limbs. These exercises may include squats, lunges, step-ups, and single-leg balance drills. By repeatedly practicing these movements in a controlled and progressive manner, the patient can build strength and confidence, eventually being able to climb stairs with ease once again.

The beauty of functional training lies in its ability to translate these principles and exercises into everyday life. Unlike traditional gym workouts that often involve isolated muscle movements or machines, functional training incorporates multi-joint movements that engage multiple muscle groups simultaneously. This reflects the way our bodies naturally move in real-life situations.

Think about activities like picking up groceries, carrying a toddler, or reaching for something on a high shelf. These tasks require a combination of strength, coordination, balance, and mobility. Functional training mimics these movements by incorporating exercises such as squats, deadlifts, overhead presses, and rotational movements, which target multiple muscle groups and promote better overall functional fitness.

By training in a functional manner, individuals can improve their performance not only in the gym but also in their daily lives. They become more efficient at carrying out common tasks and are better equipped to handle physical challenges or unexpected movements. Functional training also helps to prevent injuries by strengthening the body in a holistic manner, improving stability, flexibility, and muscular balance.

In addition to the physical benefits, functional training also has positive effects on mental well-being. Engaging in functional movements that mimic real-life tasks can boost confidence, increase body awareness, and enhance overall body satisfaction. The sense of accomplishment and improved self-esteem gained through functional training can have a profound impact on one's mental health and overall quality of life.


Tuesday, 18 April 2023

Empower Your Fitness | Effective Physiotherapy Exercises For Wheelchair Users


 Empower Your Fitness | Effective Physiotherapy Exercises For Wheelchair Users

Regular exercise is important for everyone, regardless of their physical ability. However, for people who are wheelchair-bound, it can be challenging to find exercises that are safe, effective, and enjoyable. Fortunately, there are many exercises that can be done while seated in a wheelchair that can help maintain physical fitness and improve overall health. These exercises can be tailored to the specific needs and abilities of the individual and can be done in the comfort of their own home or in a physiotherapy clinic.
Before starting any Physiotherapy exercise program, it is important to consult a physiotherapist to determine what exercises are safe and appropriate for you. They can also provide guidance on how to modify exercises to accommodate any physical limitations.

Here are some exercises that are suitable for wheelchair bound individuals:
Breathing Exercises:
Breathing exercises can help improve lung capacity and reduce stress. Some examples of breathing exercises that can be done in a wheelchair include:

  • Deep breathing: The patient can take deep breaths in and out, this can help improve lung capacity and reduce stress.
  • Diaphragmatic breathing: This involves breathing from your diaphragm, which can help improve breathing efficiency and reduce shortness of breath.
  • Upper Body Strengthening Exercises:
  • These can help build and maintain strength in the arms, shoulders, and chest. Some examples of upper body strengthening exercises that can be done in a wheelchair include:
  • Bicep curls: Hold a weight in each hand and lift the weights towards your shoulders, then lower them back down.
  • Shoulder press: Hold a weight in each hand and lift the weights above your head, then lower them back down.
  • Chest press: Use resistance bands or weights to perform a chest press, pushing the weights away from your body and then bringing them back in towards your chest.
  • Wrist rotations: Rotate your wrists in a circular motion, both clockwise and counterclockwise.

Cardiovascular Exercises:
Cardiovascular exercise is important for maintaining heart health and increasing endurance. Some examples of cardiovascular exercise that can be done in a wheelchair include:
  • Wheelchair aerobics: This involves moving your arms and legs to music while sitting in a wheelchair. It can be a fun and social way to increase your heart rate.
  • Hand cycling: This involves using a handcycle machine to pedal with your arms, providing a great cardiovascular workout.
  • Wheelchair sports: Participating in sports such as wheelchair basketball, tennis, or rugby can be a fun and effective way to increase your heart rate.
Flexibility Exercises:
Flexibility exercises are important for maintaining range of motion and preventing stiffness. Some examples of flexibility exercises that can be done in a wheelchair include:
  • Seated stretches: You can perform stretches while seated in your wheelchair to improve flexibility in your upper body and legs.
  • Range of motion exercises:  ROM exercises involve moving your joints through their full range of motion to maintain flexibility.
  • Strength training:  Strength training is important for maintaining muscle mass and bone density. Some examples of strength training exercises that can be done in a wheelchair include:
  • Resistance band exercises: Resistance bands are a great way to provide resistance and build strength without the need for weights. They can be attached to the wheelchair or used with the hands and feet.
  • Weight lifting: If you have access to a gym or have weights at home, you can perform seated weightlifting exercises to build strength in your upper body. 
Balance Exercises:
Balance exercises are important for maintaining stability and preventing falls. Some examples of balance exercises that can be done in a wheelchair include:
  • Seated balance exercises: These exercises involve shifting your weight from side to side or forward and backward to improve balance.
  • Core exercises: Strengthening your core muscles can help improve balance and stability. Corestrengthening exercises can help improve posture and stability, which can reduce the risk of falls. Some examples of core strengthening exercises that can be done in a wheelchair include:
  • Seated crunches: Lean forward and bring your chest towards your knees, engaging your abdominal muscles.
  • Seated twists: Twist your torso to one side, then the other, engaging your oblique muscles.
  • Seated back extensions: Lean back in your wheelchair and engage your lower back muscles to lift your torso up.
Transfer training Exercises:
Transfer training exercises can help improve the ability to transfer in and out of a wheelchair, which can make daily activities easier and safer. Some examples of transfer training exercises that can be done in a wheelchair include:
  • Sit-to-stand transfers: Practice transferring from a seated position to a standing position, using the armrests of the wheelchair for support.
  • Bed-to-wheelchair transfers: Practice transferring from a bed to a wheelchair, using proper lifting techniques and support from a caregiver if needed.
  • Wheelchair-to-car transfers: Practice transferring from a wheelchair to a car seat, using proper techniques and support from a caregiver if needed.
These exercises can be done while seated in a wheelchair and can help maintain physical fitness and improve overall health. Consult a physiotherapist to determine what exercises are appropriate for you, and don't be afraid to try new things to keep your exercise routine interesting and engaging.

Sunday, 1 January 2023


10 Easy Home Exercises To Reduce Your Belly Fat

Are you looking for ways to shed the layer of belly fat that sits just under your skin? Then you need to exercise regularly. Though losing abdominal fat is tough but isn't impossible. A proper training schedule can shed stubborn pounds and get you in shape once and for all. This blog will discuss some exercises that help burn belly fat. With old age, there is an increase in belly fat along the waistline. This is because muscle mass decreases with age as fat increases. Belly fat can make a person feel self-conscious or can cause difficulty fitting into their favorite attire.

Excessive fat belly also has some associated health risks therefore stress should be laid to try to control belly fat. There are 3 types of belly fat:

  • Subcutaneous,
  • Intramuscular, and
  • Visceral.

  • Visceral fat is the type of fat that is between the organs and is known as belly fat. Even if a person has normal weight and Body mass index (BMI), excessive visceral belly fat can lead to a variety of health problems, like:
  • Heart diseases.
  • Breathing problems.
  • Type 2 diabetes.
  • High blood pressure.
  • High cholesterol.

  • There are many exercises, but not all create an equal banishing effect on belly fat. Also, physical activity should be incorporated into your daily routine as it is a great way to burn off unwanted belly fat.

  • Here are some fat-burning Exercises for belly fat that you can try to help you slim down your waistline:

  • Medicine Ball Crunch:
  • Place the ball on the chest, and hold it with both hands.
  • Lie down, and bend your knees.
  • Lift the torso off the floor so that it's perpendicular to the floor.
  • Roll backward almost 45 degrees, return to sitting upright, and exhale through the pursed lips.
  • Repeat 20 times. 

  • Hanging Leg Raise
  • Suspend the body in the hanging position on a pull-up bar, with the hands at about shoulder width.
  • Keep the knees straight and relaxed, and pull the legs up towards the chest as far as possible without locking or hyperextending them.
  • Pause for a moment, and lower slowly to the starting position by bending at the knees till they touch the floor.
  • Repeat the movement 30 times. 

  • Russian Twist
  • Sit on the floor, bend the legs keep the feet flat on the floor.
  • Place the hands behind, and interlace fingers so that the palms are facing outwards. Lift the elbows off the floor by squeezing the shoulder blades together. That should raise the torso slightly off the ground, keep the abdominals tight, and don't arch the lower back.
  • Extended the arms at 90 degrees from the shoulders while holding onto something sturdy like a rack of weights. Make sure to raise the legs off the ground while doing so.
  • Twist the torso to the left side as far as possible without moving the hips or buttocks up from the ground. Keep them parallel to the surface beneath them while keeping the arms straight and pointing towards the ceiling throughout the movement.
  • Pause for 2 secs once the rotation is done before returning to the starting position where the knees were crossed over each other earlier in the exercise (keeping hands interlaced behind the back with arms lifted above the head).
  • Repeat 8- 12 times.

  • Burpees with pushups
  • Stand with the arms by the sides and feet shoulder-width apart.
  • Squat down, and place the hands on the floor about one foot in front of the body.
  • Kick both feet back so that the person is in a push-up position, with knees on the floor and hands under the shoulders.
  • Lower into a push-up till the chest is almost touching the ground.
  • Straighten both legs quickly so that they're extended behind while simultaneously swinging the arms forward between the legs to perform one push up
  • Reverse the direction by pulling up so that both feet land under the hips again after ending the push-up with the chest above the hands.
  • Stand up straight again and repeat.
  • Do the exercises continuously for 20 seconds. 

  • Abdominal Crunches
  • The person lies on the back with the knees bent, hip-width apart.
  • Place the hands behind the head with the elbows open wide. 
  • Take a deep breath and engage the core muscles (upper and lower abdominal muscles) as the person lifts the torso including the shoulders while keeping the head back without pulling on the neck. 
  • Do 20 repetitions.

  • Bicycle Abdominal Exercise
  • While still on the back, continue to keep the hands behind the head.
  • Bring the knees into the chest then straighten one leg while turning the upper body toward the opposite bent knee. 
  • Alternate with the right and left legs until the person performs 20 repetitions – 10 on each side. 

  • Plank
  • Turn over on the front and place the elbows underneath the shoulders. 
  • Flex the feet and lift the entire body so it is parallel to the floor. 
  • Hold for 60 seconds. 
  • Work up to 1, 2, and 5 minutes. 

  • Walk or Run
  • Walking or running are effective exercises, these not only reduce belly fat, but also lower the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, Type 2 Diabetes, or high cholesterol.  A person can burn 100 calories per mile, depending on the weight, just by running. Start slow and work the way up to 30 to 40 minutes every day. 

  • Leg Lifts
  • The person lies in the back with the palms facing down tucked just underneath the hips so that the hands are peaking out.
  • Engage the core muscles and lift the hips and legs keeping them straight. 
  • Perform 10 – 12 repetitions. 

  • Push-Ups
  • If any of the exercises listed above do not appeal to you or want another option, you can perform push-ups. 
  • Begin by bending over and walking the hands forward to a downward-facing dog position with the hands shoulder-width apart and hips pointing to the ceiling. 
  • Slowly lower down to the plank position and hold for 3 seconds before dropping the hips to the floor and lifting the chest to the sky. 
  • Go back to the plank position and lift the hips to the downward-facing dog position. 
  • Repeat 10 times. 

  • An individual should do at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day, without overtraining and pushing themselves too hard. As, sometimes due to overtraining, the body can produce too much cortisol (a stress hormone, associated with belly fat), so overtraining may make it more difficult to burn off belly fat. Therefore, just moderate regular exercise is recommended.

Saturday, 1 October 2022


Dementia | Top 10 Exercises for Patients with Alzheimer’s Disease

World Alzheimer’s Day is observed on the 24th of September every year, to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease. This day is viewed as an opportunity to find new ways of fighting the effects of this disease and regulate the increasing number of Alzheimer’s cases all over the world. Alzheimer's disease or Dementia is a progressive brain disease, that affects the brain cell and leads to loss of body function, behavior changes, and memory loss. Usually, ignorance about the early symptoms can lead to the worsening of the situation. Studies have shown that exercises are beneficial for people suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. Exercising not only improves strength and endurance but also improves cardiovascular fitness. Physiotherapists play an important role in recommending exercises for patients with Alzheimer’s disease and tailoring routines to meet the needs of each patient. Listed below are a few exercises that can be recommended for an individual suffering from Alzheimer’s disease.

Exercising helps in the maintenance of Motor skills, Communication skills, balance, strength, and Physical functioning.

Sideway Walking:

  • Stand with the feet together and knees slightly bent.
  • Step sideways in a controlled manner and move one foot to the side first.
  • Then move the other foot to join it.
  • Avoid dropping the hips while stepping.
  • Perform 10 steps from each side of the room to the other.

 

Cross Leg Walking:

  • Cross the right foot over the left.
  • Bring the left foot to join it.
  • Attempt 5 cross-steps on each side.
  • Place the fingers against a wall for stability.
  • The smaller the step, the more the patient can work on the balance.

 

Heel-to-Toe Walk:

  • Stand upright and place the right heel on the floor directly in front of the left toe.
  • Then repeat the same with the left heel.
  • Make sure and keep looking forward at all times.
  • Place the fingers against a wall for stability.
  • Try to perform at least 5 steps.
  • As the patient progresses, move away from the wall.

 

Retracing the Steps:

  • Just before sleeping, the patient recalls everything, what he/she did that day from the moment he/she woke up.
  • If necessary the other person can help him/her remember but should be asked to repeat what he/she said and ask him/her questions related to the same, like, what color clothes he/she was wearing? Who came to visit him/her? What did he/she eat?
  • The exercises should be preferably carried out in chronological order and in as much detail as possible.


    Using the opposite hand:
    Encourage the patient to use his/her less dominant hand more frequently, e.g. if he/she is right-handed, ask him/her to brush the teeth, brush the hair, pick up cutlery, or hold an object with the left hand. These exercises will stimulate the opposite side of the brain, which can result in rapid expansion in the parts of the cerebral cortex that are responsible for processing tactile information, and thus can improve mental health.

 

Ride a Stationary Bike:

Simple and repetitive movements are ideal for people with Alzheimer’s disease. In addition to improving movement, riding on a stationary bike also improves cardiovascular fitness.

 

Lifting Weights:

Strengthening training is an important exercise to include in a regular routine as lifting weights has also been found to be beneficial for cognitive improvements. Individuals with Alzheimer’s disease should lift weights only under the supervision of a physiotherapist.

 

Touching and Recognizing:

Our sense of touch passes above certain processes in the brain, triggering feelings and memories. Put some objects in a bag and ask the patient to touch and identify the objects without looking at them. Our brain usually needs to see the object so that it can distinguish between them, using touch to identify subtle differences increases stimulation in areas of the brain that process tactile information, strengthening synapses in the brain.

 

Scrabble:

  • Engage the mind in framing a new word every time the opponent sets a new target.
  • Scrabble requires logical thinking.
  • Demands the right strategy on putting a new word and where to put it for more points.
  • So, Scrabble is an awesome brain exercise for Alzheimer's patients.

Chess:

  • Chess is effective for cognitive functioning
  • It is one of the best brain exercises for mental exercise.
  • Playing chess with someone can also help people with Alzheimer's disease.

 

Physiotherapy can’t reverse the effects of Alzheimer’s disease, but it can help slow its onset. Physiotherapists are experts who work to ensure that the patient can continue to live an active life for as long as possible.

Saturday, 10 September 2022


 

Top 10 Weight Loss Exercises to Burn Your Fat