Physiotherapy
What is exercise?
Exercise is 'systematic and planned physical movement or physical activities to prevent further damage, promote functions and enhance the level of fitness and well-being'. Exercise can be either general exercise for the whole body, like walking, swimming or aerobic exercise or it can be specific exercises for the joint or muscle which is causing problems.
Why does exercise help?
Exercise can improve muscle strength which helps to support joints and reduce symptoms.
Exercise also improves overall fitness, reducing the risk of heart disease, obesity, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and breathing problems.
Exercise can also improve mood because it triggers the release of beta endorphins which are natural pain killers and make you feel happy naturally.
Through the physiotherapist and patient working together to relieve symptoms the patient becomes aware of what triggers pain or discomfort and can take steps to avoid this and so take control of the problem and minimise the risk of recurrence.