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Submitted by: David Cunic
Myriad veterans have been wounded while serving in Iraq and Afghanistan in the 13-year war against terror. Of these numbers, approximately 50,000 veterans have severe injuries that limit mobility. For a young man or woman, idleness and the inability to move around and perform activities of daily living can exacerbate conditions and result in additional comorbid conditions due to a lack of exercise.
The importance and benefits of exercise
As anyone with any semblance of knowledge well knows, our bodies were not made to remain idle. Exercise not only provides muscle groups with the necessary strength to perform activities of daily living, but also prevents the body from becoming weak and consequently becoming unable to fend off disease(s). In fact, exercise can additionally improve ones mood, increase the level of energy and relieve anxiety. To this end, the importance of regular exercise should not be underestimated, especially when it comes to warriors wounded in action.
Debilitating injuries
Many honorable veterans suffer from debilitating injuries as a result of their brave service to the country. Some wounded warriors are at a loss as it pertains to how to go about performing exercises that will maintain body strength and prevent comorbid conditions and disease on top of their present injuries. My heart genuinely goes out to these veterans who possess the will but nevertheless lack the know how to maintain their health through exercise.
Sit and be fit
There used to be a television program by the name Sit and Be Fit. The few times I viewed it years ago seemed somewhat ridiculous. However, as my lower back injury reminds me on a daily basis, the woman performing the exercises had a great thing going. For those who are unable to be mobile for long periods of time or who are unable to be mobile at all, the following exercises can be of great benefit to veterans.
Water exercises
For veterans who suffer from impaired mobility, water exercises can work to alleviate joint and muscle aches. Simply moving ones limbs, or if possible, swimming, provides excellent cardiovascular exercise that increases endurance. In addition, walking or moving in place in water is also beneficial for strengthening various muscle groups.
Stretching exercises
Whether you are confined to a wheelchair or have limited mobility, stretching exercises may be performed in the sitting position. Arm or leg rotations serve to work otherwise weak muscles. Do not attempt to work an injured limb without medical clearance. Rotating the torso slowly alleviates persistent back pain and is also doable from a sitting position.
Yoga
Yoga is difficult but even a disabled veteran is capable of performing these exercises under the supervision of trained professionals. Do not attempt to perform any yoga exercise without full knowledge of the risks.
Parting tips
If you are just beginning to consider exercise, begin slowly and gradually increase to your tolerance. The last thing any wounded warrior wants to do is exacerbate his or her present injuries. Exercise daily even if only for a brief period of time. Good habits take a month or so to develop so stick with it. Finally, if you see your primary care physician at the VA or another outpatient clinic, ask him or her for recommended exercises you may perform. Above all, stick with an exercise program that is right for you for the benefits of your health and overall wellbeing.
About the Author: David M. Cunic, is a successful physical therapist and personal trainer for Pazoo, Inc., a Health & Wellness company for people & pets. To learn more visit us at
pazoo.com
.
Source:
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