Exercise is necessary for proper digestion and elimination. Exercise will keep
your muscles toned, and promote better
circulation, especially to the heart. And research has shown that moderate
exercise at least three times a week can
increase your life span by at least two and a half years.
A muscle not used for a
short period of time will begin to lose tone
and strength. Exercise will prevent this atrophy of muscle, as well as release the body's endorphins (those
feel-good chemicals) that will put you in a
positive and pleasurable state of mind.
We've collected several exercises here
that you can do at home. However, before beginning any exercise program,
please consult with your Doctor to be certain that you've received proper instructions
on exercise for your health condition. It is best to follow
a program outlined by your Doctor of Chiropractic which allows him or her to
professionally monitor your progress.
Following are some important points to
remember:
- Wear clothes that will not impede or
restrict your movements in any direction.
- It is essential that you "warm-up"
before engaging in an exercise session by stretching first. Applying heat or hot
tub soak for five to ten minutes just
before starting can help relax tight
muscles.
- Start by doing the movements slowly
and carefully. As you gain confidence
and strength, you may increase the
speed and frequency, but
speed is not necessary. It is more important to
maintain a balanced breathing cycle
with each exercise, inhaling and exhaling in rhythm.
- Don't over-exercise, especially at the
beginning. Do only the exercises your doctor has recommended and in the order
advised.
- Floor exercises should be done on a
firm, padded surface, such as a carpeted floor. If it is difficult getting down
and up from the floor, a firm
bed might be preferred. A small pillow
under the head is sometimes more
comfortable.
Exercise Overview
Acute back pain exercises
Accident and surgery recovery exercises
Chronic pain and rehabilitation exercises
Neck range of motion and strengthening exercises
Tennis Elbow strengthening exercises
