May is National Physical Fitness & Sports Month, and many people want to celebrate by getting active! When it comes to individuals with chronic pain and limited mobility, many are scared to get out of their comfort zone and don’t think it can get better. There are many patients who suffer with chronic pain and limited mobility that come to P&O Care to achieve a more active lifestyle. They are always amazed at how much more freedom prosthetic and orthotic solutions can give them.
At P&O Care, we believe that everyone deserves to live a healthy, happy and comfortable life, regardless of physical limitations. We provide customized care solutions to fit the needs of all patients to maximize strength and mobility. Take one of our patients, Katherine W., for example. As a stay-at-home mom of two young children, Katherine had been using a passive hand prosthesis since she was an infant. While pregnant with her second child, Katherine began looking for a more versatile prosthesis which would allow her to better keep up with her active family and take advantage of her home gym workout equipment. Now, Katherine is fully immersed in her active lifestyle, thanks to P&O Care.
An active lifestyle promotes happiness, and all of our patients deserve that. After an extended period of limited mobility or strength, it’s necessary to get active. Below are some exercises that you can do to get started.
Even Weight Bearing
Even distribution of your body weight can help correct those who tend to put all of it on their unaffected leg. Stand with your weight evenly on both legs while performing one typical daily task, such as washing the dishes. By increasing your awareness and changing this one simple habit, you can improve your overall balance.
Stationary Bike
If you have a stationary bike, get on it! You can ride a bike with your prosthesis. For further stability, utilize the foot straps if available. Pace yourself and go at a rate that feels comfortable for you.
Ball Toss
Do this exercise with a friend. If you are not using a prosthesis or are just beginning this exercise, sit while you catch the ball. If you are using a prosthesis and really want to challenge your balance, stand up to catch the ball. This exercise requires strength, coordination, balance and agility, and it’s fun!
Seated Pushup
Place a stable chair against a wall to prevent it from tipping over. While sitting in the chair, place your hands on the armrests. Push down into the armrests to raise your hips one to two inches off of the seat and then rest. To make this more difficult, lift one leg.
There are many opportunities around you to become more active, just look! With the right care, you can live a better quality of life. Don’t limit yourself by refusing care or settle for one size fits all solutions. Get the custom care you deserve at P&O Care and get back into that active lifestyle you deserve.
This article includes exercise examples courtesy of The Amputee Coalition.
