GOLDEN STEPS TO HEAL FASTER : FROM THE PEN OF A PHYSICAL THERAPIST

EXERCISE YOUR TENSION!

As little as 30 minutes of moderate intensity activity can reduce systolic blood pressure by up to 20 mmHg, and longer bouts of up to 60 minutes have even greater effects. The effect persists for up to 24 hours after completing the activity. Flexibility and balance training component into all exercise prescription programmes is highly recommended & all major muscles groups should be stretched at least 2-3 times a day. ACSM guidelines.

TAKING PRECAUTIONS IS ALWAYS BETTER

• Patients with BP ≥200/115 mm Hg should not exercise without a full exercise testing screen and medical supervision.

• β-blockers decrease exercise capacity and inhibit normal heart rate responses during maximal and sub-maximal exercise.

• Ca2+ channel blockers, Nitrates, and α-blockers can cause post exercise hypotension, a graduated cool down component should be emphasised for patients at risk.

• Avoid exercises that result in the ‘Valsalva manoeuvre’ such as isometric exercises.

• Patients who participate in exercise programmes should be monitored at regular intervals to ensure the appropriateness of ongoing anti-hypertensive medication.

Despite most guidelines recommending a frequency of between 2 and 3 days per week, the acute affect of exercise on blood pressure suggest that shorter bouts of exercise daily is the optimal strategy for controlling hypertension.

Lower intensity exercise (refer our previous posts) has been shown to be equally effective in reducing blood pressure as higher intensity exercise. This is especially important when you have other health issues like respiratory problems & physical disabilities.

Stay tuned & don't forget to subscribe, it's absolutely FREE!

Happy Health!
YUVAAN