You know when doctors tell you that your condition would be improved if you would just exercise? And you nod your head and think, boy that’s a novel idea. I never would have thought to build up my muscle strength in order not to feel sick and weak. You’re a genius. Here’s my co-pay!
It is nothing but frustrating to hear the age-old advice of “just work out more.” The problem in particular for patients with chronic illnesses is that they often just don’t feel well enough to work out every day or even every week.
Often when these patients do exercise they don’t get the natural energy high that others do and can feel sore and weaker the next day.
So how are patients with chronic illnesses supposed to build muscle strength and stamina?
The first step is to avoid working out—the wrong way. Particularly in situations when patients are already highly deconditioned with diseases like Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome or Fibromyalgia, they can have an adverse reaction to the wrong work out. Be it strained muscles or the complete inability to move the day after, it’s important to put yourself in a situation where your instructor knows what they’re doing.
For POTS patients, a great way to dive back into the fitness scene is through a program called Cardiac Rehab. Though usually meant for those coping from a recent heart attack, cardiac rehab can be an excellent resource for patients with low cardiovascular fitness levels no matter what the underlying cause.
What is Cardiac Rehab?
Cardiac rehabilitation (rehab) is a medically supervised program that helps improve the health and well-being of people who have heart problems. Rehab programs include exercise training, education on heart healthy living, and counseling to reduce stress and help you return to an active life.
To combat faintness and weakness, patients start by exercising on recumbent bikes, supervised by nurses and while wearing monitoring equipment. This is safe, progressive rehabilitation program that can help those with severe deconditioning get back on track.
What exercise is safe for fibromyalgia patients?
Studies have shown that Tai Chi may be a useful treatment for fibromyalgia patients. Like other low-level aerobic and resistance exercise, Tai Chi can help strengthen the immune system, as well as improve the cardiovascular system.
Tai chi is an ancient Chinese tradition that, today, is practiced as a graceful form of exercise. It involves a series of movements performed in a slow, focused manner and accompanied by deep breathing.
Check out this video to learn more:
Have specific questions on chronic illness and exercise? Leave a comment below.
