News
5 ways to stay active without running a marathon
Sep 08, 2017
Can you name a job that helps stroke patients, knee surgery cases, chronic pain sufferers, and people with respiratory conditions?
These ailments are vastly different, but they all have something in common: these patients require care from physiotherapists.
Greenslopes Private Hospital Senior Physiotherapist, Pauline Teng, said physios can tailor education and exercise programs to an individual regardless of age and medical conditions.
“The goal for physiotherapy in the early stages after your surgery or illness is to ensure that you maintain your function and prevent deterioration and complications,” said Ms Teng.
“We also offer rehabilitation - from inpatient to day therapy - to help patients to return to their previous level of function and enhance their quality of life,” said Shan Ng, Senior Physiotherapist at Greenslopes Private Hospital.
The industry is marking World Physiotherapy Day on 8 September, with an emphasis on “physical activity for life”.
“This theme is important to note as we should all try not to lead a sedentary lifestyle,” said Ms Ng.
“Staying active does not mean running marathons. Do something you enjoy – go dancing with friends or take a 30 minute walk each day.
“You can also do incidental exercise by choosing to take the stairs instead of the lift, get off the bus a stop earlier and walk home, or cycle to work instead of drive,” said Ms Teng.
Physical activity is key to lowering the rate of mortality, heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, Type 2 diabetes, and depression.
It can lower the risk of osteoporosis, while simultaneously improving cardiorespiratory and muscular fitness.
And if that is not enough of an incentive, it will also make you feel better!