Definition

Purpose

Exercise is useful in preventing or treating coronary heart disease, osteoporosis, weakness, diabetes, obesity, and depression. Range of motion is one aspect of exercise important for increasing or maintaining joint function. Strengthening exercises provide appropriate resistance to the muscles to increase endurance and strength. Cardiac rehabilitation exercises are developed and individualized to improve the cardiovascular system for prevention and rehabilitation of cardiac disorders and diseases. A well-balanced exercise program can improve general health, build endurance, and delay many of the effects of aging. The benefits of exercise not only improve physical health, but also enhance emotional well-being.

Indications

• Sports injuries
• Post-traumatic disabilities
• Postural re-education
• Orthopaedic conditions, e.g. Frozen Shoulder
• Neurological disorders , e.g. Stoke, Cerebral Palsy
• Cardiorespiratory problems, etc.

Modes of Exercise Therapy

• Individual exercises
• Group exercises
• Facilitation, e.g. PNF, NDT
• Weight training
• Isokinetic exercise
• Functional / work-hardening equipment
• Patented” techniques, e.g. Pilates, McKenzie

Types of exercises

• Stretching exercise
• Strengthening exercise
• Aerobic exercises, endurance training & cardiovascular training
• Balance & proprioceptive training
• Co-ordination training
• Functional exercises / Skill training
• Plyometrics
• Interval training
• Hydrotherapy
• Facilitation
• Games
• Power drills
• Skill drills