Fit to Fight: The Positive Impact of Exercise on Leukemia Patients

Posted on September 30th, 2024 by Andries Lodder

Leukemia is a type of cancer that affects the tissues of the body that produce blood cells such as your bone marrow, lymph nodes and spleen. Leukemia mainly affects the white blood which are an important part of the immune system. The bone marrow will produce abnormal white blood cells that do not functional properly. Individual with leukaemia can benefit from exercise in their recovery journey.

How leukaemia could develop?

Leukemia develops from genetic mutations in a single blood cell in the bone marrow, leading to the uncontrolled growth of abnormal white blood cells. These mutations can be triggered by factors like radiation, chemical exposure, or viral infections. As the mutated cell multiplies, it crowds out normal cells, disrupting blood production and immune function. This results in symptoms like anemia, infections, and bleeding disorders. In advanced stages, leukemia cells can spread to other organs and evade the immune system, leading to the progression of the disease, which can be acute and aggressive or chronic and slow developing.

Types of Leukemia:

Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL): Most common in children, but can also occur in adults. It progresses rapidly and affects lymphoid cells.
Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML): Common in adults but can also affect children. It progresses quickly and affects myeloid (bone marrow) cells.
Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL): Generally affects older adults and progresses more slowly. It impacts lymphoid cells.
Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML): Also more common in adults and progresses slowly. It affects myeloid cells.

People with leaukemia may present with the following symptoms:

Fatigue: Due to anemia caused by a lack of red blood cells.
Frequent Infections: Due to the malfunctioning of white blood cells.
Bruising or Bleeding Easily: Resulting from low platelet counts.
Swollen Lymph Nodes: Often painless, appearing under the armpits, neck, or groin.
Bone or Joint Pain: Due to the buildup of leukemia cells in the bone marrow.

Exercise can play a beneficial role in the management and recovery of leukemia, offering both physical and psychological benefits. Here’s how:

Boosts Physical Strength: Helps rebuild strength and endurance weakened by leukemia and its treatments.
Reduces Fatigue: Regular exercise alleviates cancer-related fatigue and improves sleep.
Enhances Immune Function: Supports the immune system in fighting infections and recovering from treatments.
Improves Mood: Releases endorphins, reducing stress, anxiety, and depression.
Maintains Healthy Weight: Assists in managing weight changes caused by treatment.
Enhances Quality of Life: Increases physical function, reduces treatment side effects, and promotes overall well-being.
Supports Recovery: Aids in regaining muscle mass, bone density, and overall physical function post-treatment.

It is important to consult a health care professional such as your physician or a Biokineticist before doing exercise.

Please feel free to contact us on social media or on our website.

Legg-Calves-Perthes disease (LCPD)

Posted on September 10th, 2024 by Andries Lodder

By: Gcina Gumede

Legg-Calves-Perthes disease (LCPD) is when the blood supply of the femoral epiphysis of the femoral head (the “ball” of the ball-and-socket hip joint) is interrupted. The disease involves a temporary interruption of blood supply to the femoral head, which leads to the death of bone tissue in the femoral head.

Etiology of LCPD

The exact cause of Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic factors and vascular factors that affect the blood supply to the hip. Symptoms can include limping, pain in the hip or groin area, and limited range of motion in the hip joint. Over time, as the bone tissue heals and regrows and the body reabsorbs the dead bone tissue, the femoral head may become deformed and lead to arthritis in adulthood. This arthritis is caused by the remodelled femoral head being enlarged or flattened. It could take an individual 2 to 4 years to fully recover from this condition.

Treatment

Treatment options vary based on the child’s age, the stage of the disease, and the degree of hip involvement. Here are common treatments for LCPD:

Rest and Activity Modification: Limiting weight-bearing activities to reduce stress on the hip joint.
Physical Therapy/Biokinetics: Exercises to maintain hip motion and strengthen the muscles around the hip.
Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
Bracing or Casting: Using braces or casts to keep the femoral head within the hip socket, promoting proper healing.
Surgical Interventions:
- Osteotomy: Realigning the femur or pelvis to improve the fit of the femoral head in the hip socket.
- Hip Distraction: Using an external fixator to allow the hip joint to heal by temporarily relieving pressure.
Observation: Regular follow-ups with imaging to monitor the progression of the disease.

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for better outcomes in LCPD. Consulting a paediatric orthopaedic specialist is essential for a tailored treatment plan.

Benefits of exercise Rehabilitation in LCPD

Maintains Joint Mobility:

Stretching and Range-of-Motion Exercises: These exercises help maintain and improve the range of motion in the hip joint, preventing stiffness and promoting better joint function.

Strengthens Muscles:

Strengthening Exercises: Strengthening the muscles around the hip can provide better support for the joint, reducing pain and improving mobility. Strong muscles also help distribute the weight more evenly across the hip joint.

Reduces Pain and Inflammation:

Low-Impact Activities: Activities like swimming or cycling can enhance blood circulation, reduce inflammation, and decrease pain without putting too much stress on the hip joint.

Prevents Muscle Atrophy:

Regular Exercise Routine: Ensuring that the muscles remain active prevents atrophy (muscle wasting), which is essential during the recovery phase of LCPD.

Improves Overall Physical Health:

General Fitness: Maintaining overall physical health through exercise helps in faster recovery and better management of the condition. It also promotes cardiovascular health, which can be beneficial for the overall healing process

A Biokineticist can design a personalised exercise program tailored to the individual’s specific condition and progression of LCPD. They can ensure exercises are done correctly and adjust the regimen as needed.

Please feel free to contact us on social media or on our website.

Hypertension‘s Silver Lining is Exercise: A Path to Healthier Living

Posted on August 6th, 2024 by Andries Lodder

by Jana van Jaarsveld

Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a chronic medical condition where the force of the blood against the artery walls is consistently too high. This condition affects millions globally and is a significant risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and other health problems. One of the most effective ways to manage and prevent hypertension is through regular exercise.

Understanding Hypertension

Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and recorded as two numbers: systolic pressure (the pressure when the heart beats) over diastolic pressure (the pressure when the heart rests between beats). Normal blood pressure is usually around 120/80 mmHg. Hypertension is defined as having a consistent reading of 130/80 mmHg or higher.

The Role of Exercise in Managing Hypertension

Regular physical activity is one of the most effective non-pharmacological strategies to lower blood pressure. Exercise helps improve heart health, making it stronger and more efficient at pumping blood, which reduces the force on arteries. Here’s how different types of exercise can benefit individuals with hypertension:

Aerobic Exercise: Activities like walking, jogging, cycling, and swimming are highly effective in lowering blood pressure. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of high-intensity aerobic exercise per week.
Resistance Training: Strength training exercises, such as lifting weights, can also help reduce blood pressure. Incorporate resistance training exercises at least two days a week.
Flexibility and Balance Exercises: While these exercises, such as yoga and stretching, do not directly lower blood pressure, they improve overall physical fitness and can reduce stress levels, which indirectly helps manage hypertension.

Mechanisms Behind Exercise Benefits

Exercise helps in multiple ways:

Weight Management: Physical activity aids in maintaining a healthy weight, reducing the strain on the heart and blood vessels.
Improved Blood Vessel Function: Exercise improves the elasticity of blood vessels, allowing them to expand and contract more easily, which helps lower blood pressure.
Stress Reduction: Regular physical activity reduces stress hormones, such as cortisol, which can contribute to high blood pressure.
Enhanced Kidney Function: Exercise helps kidneys better regulate sodium and fluid balance, contributing to lower blood pressure.

Getting Started

For those with hypertension, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting a new exercise regimen. Thereafter, it is important to consult with a Biokineticist to guide you on the correct exercise and they will help you to gradually increase the intensity and duration of exercise. Consistency is key, and incorporating a variety of activities can keep the routine enjoyable and sustainable.

Conclusion

Exercise is a powerful tool in the fight against hypertension. Regular physical activity can help lower blood pressure, improve heart health, and enhance overall well-being. By making exercise a regular part of daily life, individuals can take significant steps toward managing their blood pressure and leading healthier, longer lives.

Obesity and Exercise

Posted on August 6th, 2024 by Andries Lodder

By: Gcina Gumede

Obesity is excesses weight or body fat that generally associated with negative health consequences. It is defined by the body mass index (BMI) scale which can classify if someone is underweight, at the normal weight, overweight or obese in relation to their height. Obesity is increasingly becoming more common in modern society, and it is having adverse health affects to the general population.

Classification

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a widely used measure to classify individuals into categories of underweight, normal weight, overweight, and obesity. It is calculated using the following formula: BMI= weight (kg)/height (m)².

Underweight: BMI less than 18.5
Normal weight: BMI between 18.5 and 24.9
Overweight: BMI between 25 and 29.9
Obesity:

Class I (Moderate): BMI between 30 and 34.9
Class II (Severe): BMI between 35 and 39.9
Class III (Very severe or morbid obesity): BMI 40 or greater

These classifications are based on the correlation between BMI and body fat, which varies by age, sex, and other factors. However, BMI does not directly measure body fat percentage and may not be accurate for athletes, pregnant women, the elderly, and those with significant muscle mass. Therefore, while BMI is a useful screening tool, it should be interpreted alongside other measurements and clinical assessments for a comprehensive evaluation of health status.

Obesity comes with several health risk which in turn increase your chances of mortality. A person with obesity may experience:

Cardiovascular Health: Obesity increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. Excess weight leads to high blood pressure, atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), and other cardiovascular problems.
Type 2 Diabetes: Obesity is a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes. It can lead to insulin resistance, where the body’s cells do not respond properly to insulin, resulting in high blood sugar levels.
Respiratory Issues: Breathing problems such as sleep apnea and asthma can be exacerbated by obesity. Fat accumulation around the neck can also obstruct the airways.
Joint Problems: Excess weight puts additional stress on joints, particularly in the knees and hips, leading to osteoarthritis.
Cancer: Obesity increases the risk of several types of cancer, including colorectal, breast (postmenopausal), endometrial, and kidney cancers.
Liver Disease: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is more common in obese individuals and can progress to liver inflammation and cirrhosis.
Psychological and Social Effects: Obesity can lead to depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. It may also result in social stigmatization and discrimination.
Reproductive Issues: In women, obesity can lead to infertility, irregular menstrual cycles, and complications during pregnancy. In men, it can reduce fertility and sexual function.
Gastrointestinal Problems: Gallbladder disease and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are more prevalent in obese individuals.

Managing Obesity with exercise

To effectively manage obesity through exercise, it’s recommended to aim for a combination of aerobic exercise (like brisk walking, jogging, or cycling) and strength training (using weights or body weight exercises) on a regular basis. The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week, along with muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days per week.

However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider or a qualified fitness professional before starting an exercise program, especially if there are pre-existing health conditions or concerns related to obesity. A personalized approach that combines exercise with dietary changes and other lifestyle modifications is often the most effective strategy for managing and reducing obesity.

Please feel free to contact us on social media or on our website.

How Exercise Helps the Management of Diabetes

Posted on August 6th, 2024 by Andries Lodder

By Kiara Fitzhenry

Introduction

Diabetes Mellitus is a condition whereby your blood glucose (blood sugar) levels are chronically too high. This may occur when either your body does not produce insulin (Type I Diabetes Mellitus), or when your cells are no longer sensitive to insulin, or you do not produce enough insulin (Type II Diabetes Mellitus).

Insulin is responsible for stimulating the cells in your body to take up glucose from the blood, thus regulating blood glucose levels. Therefore, when there is not sufficient insulin, or when your cells are no longer sensitive to insulin, it causes an increase in blood glucose concentrations which can give rise to a number of symptoms.

Managing diabetes involves a comprehensive approach that includes diet, medication, and importantly, regular physical activity. Exercise plays a crucial role in controlling blood sugar levels and improving overall health for individuals with diabetes.

Here are some ways exercise helps with diabetes:

Improves Insulin Sensitivity:

Regular physical activity makes the body’s cells more responsive to insulin, allowing glucose to be used more effectively for energy. This helps in lowering blood sugar levels.

Helps Control Weight:

Exercise helps in burning calories and reducing body fat, which is crucial as obesity is a major risk factor for Type 2 diabetes. Maintaining a healthy weight can improve insulin sensitivity and glucose control.

Lowers Blood Sugar Levels:

Physical activity helps muscles absorb glucose, even without insulin. This effect can last for several hours after exercising, which aids in keeping blood sugar levels in check.

Improves Cardiovascular Health:

Diabetes increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Regular exercise strengthens the heart and improves circulation, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Boosts Mental Health:

Exercise reduces stress, anxiety, and depression, which can be higher in people with diabetes. Reduced stress levels can help in better blood sugar control.

Enhances Sleep Quality:

Good sleep is important for diabetes management. Regular physical activity can improve sleep patterns, contributing to overall health and well-being.

Improves Cholesterol and Blood Pressure:

Regular exercise can help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and raise good cholesterol (HDL), as well as reduce blood pressure, which are important factors in managing diabetes and reducing cardiovascular risks.

Types of Exercise Recommended:

Aerobic Exercise: Activities like walking, jogging, swimming, and cycling improve cardiovascular health and help control blood sugar levels.

Strength Training: Weight lifting or resistance exercises improve muscle mass and insulin sensitivity.

Exercise Tips for People with Diabetes:

Consult Healthcare Provider and Biokineticist: Before starting any exercise program, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider, especially if there are other health concerns. Seeking a Biokineticist’s professional advice can ensure you establish an exercise program that is suitable to your needs and abilities.

Monitor Blood Sugar Levels: Regularly check blood sugar levels before, during, and after exercise to understand how your body responds to physical activity and to prevent your blood glucose levels from dropping too low.

Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can affect blood sugar levels, so it’s important to drink plenty of water.

Wear Proper Footwear: Proper shoes help prevent foot injuries, which can be a concern for people with diabetes.

Carry Carbohydrates: In case of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), carry a quick source of carbohydrates like glucose tablets or juice to ensure you can safely manage your blood glucose levels.

Conclusion:

Incorporating regular exercise into your diabetes management plan can lead to significant improvements in your health and well-being. Embrace an active lifestyle and experience the vast number of benefits it brings to managing diabetes. Please feel free to contact us should you have any questions!

Stay active, stay healthy!

How Exercise Can Help with Dystonia Symptoms

Posted on July 1st, 2024 by Andries Lodder

by Kiara Fitzhenry

Dystonia is a neurological movement disorder characterized by involuntary muscle contractions, which can cause twisting, repetitive movements, and abnormal postures. These involuntary movements can affect various parts of the body, including the neck, face, arms, and legs – leading to pain, tremors, discomfort, and functional limitations which may interfere with daily activities.

Living with dystonia can present unique challenges, from involuntary muscle contractions to difficulties with movement and coordination. While medication and other treatments are often used to manage symptoms, there is growing evidence to suggest that exercise can also play a valuable role in improving quality of life for individuals with dystonia.

The Role of Exercise In Helping Dystonia:

While exercise may not directly address the underlying neurological causes of dystonia, it can provide several benefits that help alleviate symptoms and improve overall functioning:

Muscle Relaxation: Certain types of exercise, such as stretching, yoga and Pilates-based activities, promote muscle relaxation and flexibility, which can help reduce the severity and frequency of muscle spasms and contractions associated with dystonia.
Improved Coordination and Balance: Exercise programs that focus on balance training and coordination drills can help individuals with dystonia improve their motor skills and movement control, reducing the risk of falls and enhancing mobility.
Pain Management: Regular exercise releases endorphins, which are natural pain relievers, helping to alleviate the discomfort and pain often experienced by individuals with dystonia. Additionally, strengthening exercises can improve muscle support around affected joints, reducing strain and discomfort.
Enhanced Mental Well-Being: Engaging in physical activity has been shown to have positive effects on mental health, reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. For individuals living with dystonia, exercise can provide a valuable outlet for stress relief and emotional well-being.

Choosing the Right Exercises for Dystonia:

When incorporating exercise into your routine to manage dystonia, it’s essential to choose activities that are safe, enjoyable, and tailored to your individual needs and abilities. Here are some considerations:

Low-Impact Activities: Low-impact exercises, such as swimming, cycling, or walking, are gentle on the joints and muscles, however they still provide cardiovascular benefits.
Flexibility and Stretching: Stretching exercises improve flexibility and range of motion. It is important to focus on areas of the body most affected by dystonia.
Balance and Coordination Training: Balance exercises and coordination drills improve stability and movement control, reducing the risk of falls and enhancing functional independence.
Functional training: Functional activities help improve one’s ability to perform daily tasks with more ease and efficiency, leading to better quality of life and greater independence.

Consulting with a Biokineticist:

Before starting any new exercise program, it’s important to consult with your healthcare team, including your neurologist and a Biokineticist. They can provide guidance on safe and appropriate exercises, as well as modifications to accommodate your specific needs and limitations.

Conclusion:

While living with dystonia presents unique challenges, incorporating regular exercise into your routine can offer significant benefits for symptom management, physical function, and overall well-being. By choosing appropriate exercises and working closely with your healthcare team, you can make use of the power of physical activity to enhance your quality of life and find relief from the symptoms of dystonia.

If you require any guidance with regards to establishing a suitable exercise program, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Unlocking Stability: The Remarkable Benefits of Exercise for Ataxia Management

Posted on July 1st, 2024 by Andries Lodder

Ataxia is a characteristic of a group of neurological disorders that affects a person’s voluntary muscle coordination, balance, and speech. It can affect various body parts, leading to symptoms such as unsteady gait, difficulty with balance and coordination, and clumsiness. Ataxia can result from damage to the cerebellum, spinal cord, or peripheral nerves, and it may be inherited or acquired through factors like trauma, stroke, or certain diseases.

Ataxia is present primarily due to the dysfunction or damage to the parts of the nervous system responsible for coordinating movement, primarily the cerebellum, brainstem, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. Some forms of ataxia are the results of genetic mutations that affect these areas of the nervous system.

Acquired ataxia can stem from various causes such as stroke, brain injury, multiple sclerosis, tumours, infections, or toxic exposure, which disrupt the normal functioning of these neural structures.

Signs and symptoms

The physical showings of ataxia are related to the location of the damage in the cerebellum or further down in the nervous system.

A person who is ataxic can present with the following abnormalities:

Gait abnormalities: Difficulty walking steadily, often described as a wide-based, unsteady, or staggering gait. Individuals with ataxia may appear clumsy or have trouble coordinating their movements.
Poor coordination: Difficulty with fine motor tasks such as writing, buttoning clothes, or using utensils. Actions may appear jerky or imprecise.
Speech difficulties: Slurred speech (dysarthria), difficulty articulating words, or changes in voice pitch and rhythm.
Nystagmus: Involuntary, rapid eye movements that may cause visual disturbances and affect balance.
Tremors: Some individuals with ataxia may experience tremors, which are involuntary shaking movements, especially during attempts to perform tasks requiring coordination.
Muscle stiffness or weakness: Weakness or stiffness in the limbs or trunk muscles, which can contribute to difficulties with movement and coordination.
Loss of balance: Difficulty maintaining balance, particularly when standing or walking, leading to frequent falls or stumbles.
Fatigue: Ataxia can be physically exhausting due to the increased effort required to coordinate movements, leading to fatigue even with minimal activity.
Difficulty with fine motor skills: Challenges with tasks that require precise movements, such as picking up small objects, tying shoelaces, or manipulating objects with the hands.

Evaluation and Exercise treatment

It is important to understand what an individual struggles with on a day to day basis in order to prescribe exercise that will be most beneficial in improving their quality of life. Exercise plays role in managing ataxia by improving coordination, balance, strength which allows an individual to function better during their activities of daily living.

Improving coordination: Specific exercises targeting coordination and proprioception (awareness of body position) can help individuals with ataxia improve their ability to control movements and perform activities of daily living more effectively.
Enhancing balance: Balance exercises, such as standing on one leg, walking heel-to-toe, or using balance boards, can help strengthen the muscles involved in balance and proprioception, reducing the risk of falls and improving confidence in movement.
Increasing strength: Strengthening exercises targeting the muscles of the legs, core, and upper body can help individuals with ataxia improve their overall strength, which can contribute to better stability and mobility.
Maintaining flexibility: Stretching exercises can help maintain flexibility in muscles and joints, reducing stiffness and improving range of motion.
Promoting cardiovascular health: Aerobic exercise, such as walking, swimming, or cycling, can help improve cardiovascular fitness, endurance, and stamina, making everyday activities easier to perform.
Enhancing mood and well-being: Regular exercise can have positive effects on mood and mental well-being, reducing feelings of anxiety, depression, and stress often associated with chronic health conditions like ataxia.
Fostering social interaction: Participating in group exercise classes or activities can provide opportunities for social interaction and support, reducing feelings of isolation and promoting a sense of belonging.
Improving overall quality of life: By enhancing physical function, reducing symptoms, and improving emotional well-being, exercise can significantly improve the overall quality of life for individuals living with ataxia.

It’s essential for individuals with ataxia to work with healthcare professionals, such as physical therapists and Biokineticists, to develop a personalized exercise program tailored to their specific needs, abilities, and limitations. This ensures that exercises are safe, effective, and appropriate for their individual condition.

Please feel free to contact us on social media or on our website.

Exploring the Relationship Between Muscular Imbalances and Their Role in Lower Back Pain

Posted on May 6th, 2024 by Andries Lodder

By Kiara Fitzhenry

Lower back pain often arises from various factors, and muscle imbalance can undoubtedly be one of them. Muscular imbalances have been shown to play a significant role in the development and worsening of lower back pain. Differences in strength between muscles on opposite sides of the body may lead to poor posture, misalignment, tightness and overcompensation, reduced stability, and nerve impingement – all of which may lead to or exacerbate lower back pain.

LOWER CROSSED SYNDROME

Lower crossed syndrome is a common cause of lower back pain. This condition results due to muscle strength imbalances in the hip, lower back and pelvic regions. These muscular imbalances occur when certain muscles are constantly shortened or lengthened relative to others as a result of muscle weaknesses.

Lower crossed syndrome is characterized by a pattern of muscle weakness and tightness in the lower back and hip region. Typically, the hip flexors and lumbar (lower back) extensors are tight and overactive, whilst the glutes and abdominal muscles are weak and lengthened. The hamstring muscles are also typically tight. This imbalance involves a combination of tightness and weakness in key muscle groups, resulting in altered posture and movement patterns. These imbalances on the anterior (front) and posterior (back) sides of the body result in the forward tilting of the pelvis, flexed hips and increased arching of the lower back, which thus place extra strain onto the lower back.

A number of factors can contribute to the development of lower crossed syndrome and muscular imbalances, including:

Prolonged sitting or sedentary lifestyle
Poor posture habits
Muscular imbalances resulting from repetitive movements or activities
Lack of core and hip stability

TREATING LOWER CROSSED SYNDROME AND MUSCULAR IMBALANCES

Addressing lower crossed syndrome involves a multifaceted approach tailored to each individual’s needs. In order to correct muscular imbalances which may be causing lower back pain, it is important to first establish which muscles are too tight, and which muscles are in a lengthened state. A Biokineticist can help establish these weak areas by doing a comprehensive assessment. Targeted stretching of tight muscles, particularly the hip flexors, lower back extensors, and hamstrings, helps restore flexibility and reduce muscular tension. Whilst strengthening weak muscles, such as the core, glutes and hip stabilizers, will help maintain ideal posture and alignment.

Imbalances in muscle strength, endurance, and activation, particularly in the trunk and pelvic regions, can contribute to the development and persistence of low back pain. Addressing these imbalances through targeted exercises and interventions may help alleviate low back pain and improve overall musculoskeletal health.

If you require any advice on creating a personalized exercise program to address muscular imbalances and reduce lower back pain, please do not hesitate to contact us!

Understanding Spondylolisthesis: The Role of Exercise

Posted on May 6th, 2024 by Andries Lodder

by Jana van Jaarsveld

Spondylolisthesis is a spinal condition that involves instability of the spine characterized by the forward displacement of one vertebra over the vertebra beneath it. This displacement may put pressure on a nerve and can result in pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility, impacting the quality of life for those affected. While treatment options vary depending on the severity of the condition, exercise has emerged as a crucial component in managing spondylolisthesis and improving overall spinal health.

Difference between spondylolisthesis and spondylolysis?

They are both a cause of lower back pain. However, Spondylolysis is a stress fracture or a crack in one of the vertebrae’s. Generally seen in younger athletes. Where as spondylolisthesis is where a vertebrae slips out of place. Spondylosis may cause Spondylolisthesis, when the stress fracture cause slipping

Before delving into the impact of exercise, it’s essential to understand the different types of spondylolistheses:

Degenerative Spondylolisthesis is the most common form. It is a result of aging. Over time the discs lose water, and it becomes thin so it is easy for the discs to slip
Isthmic Spondylolisthesis, is generally a result of spondylolysis and caused by a defect n the pars interarticular is, often seen in athletes who engage in repetitive hyperextension activities.
Congenital Spondylolisthesis is birth relate. The baby’s spine doesn’t form the way it should.
Traumatic Spondylolisthesis: Caused by acute fractures or traumas to the spine.

Impact of Exercise:

Exercise plays a vital role in managing spondylolisthesis by strengthening muscles, improving flexibility, and stabilizing the spine. Here’s how exercise can benefit individuals with spondylolisthesis:

1. Strengthening the muscles surrounding the spine, particularly the abdominals and back muscles, helps provide support and stability to the spine, reducing the strain on the affected vertebrae.

2. Stretching exercises target tight muscles and ligaments, relieving tension in the spine and improving range of motion. Focus on stretches that target the hamstrings, hip flexors, and lower back.

3. Engaging in activities such as swimming, walking, or cycling promotes cardiovascular health without placing excessive stress on the spine. These activities also help maintain a healthy weight, which can reduce the burden on the spine.

4. Incorporating exercises and techniques to improve posture can alleviate pressure on the spine and prevent further progression of spondylolisthesis. Emphasize proper alignment during exercises and daily activities.

5. Balance and Stability Training: Exercises that challenge balance and stability, can enhance proprioception and coordination, reducing the risk of falls and injuries.

Exercise Consideration

While exercise can be beneficial in managing spondylolisthesis, it’s essential to approach it cautiously and under the guidance of a healthcare professional, such as a Biokineticist. They will oversee the following crucial steps:

Initial Consultation: Before commencing any exercise regimen, a thorough assessment of your strength and capabilities will be conducted. This evaluation helps in determining the most suitable exercises tailored to your specific condition and limitations.
Gradual Progression: Begin with gentle exercises and incrementally increase intensity and duration over time. It’s important to steer clear of activities that may exacerbate pain or discomfort.
Proper Technique: Emphasis should be placed on maintaining proper form and technique during exercises to minimize the risk of injury. Exercises involving excessive twisting, bending, or impacting the spine should be avoided.
Listen to Your Body: If you experience heightened pain or discomfort during exercise, cease immediately and seek guidance from your healthcare provider.

In conclusion, exercise plays a crucial role in managing spondylolisthesis by strengthening muscles, improving flexibility, and promoting overall spinal health. By incorporating appropriate exercises into your routine and following recommended guidelines, you can effectively manage spondylolisthesis and enhance your quality of life. Please feel free to contact us via our Social media and Website.

Compression Fractures

Posted on May 6th, 2024 by Andries Lodder

By: Gcina Gumede

Compression fractures refer to the collapse or compression of a vertebral body, which is a bone in the spine. They are typically found in the thoracic region of the spine which is the middle of the back. Compression fractures are commonly found in osteoporotic individuals which is a condition characterized by a decrease in bone density, making the bones more susceptible to fractures.

Although compression fractures are common in people with osteoporosis, compression fractures can also result from traumatic injuries, such as falls, accidents, or sports injuries. Aging also makes people susceptible to compression fractures. Women over the age of 50 years are the must susceptible to compression fractures. Research show that 1 in 4 women suffers from compression fractures. Bone density decreases after menopause primarily due to hormonal changes, specifically a decline in oestrogen levels. Oestrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining bone health, and its reduction significantly affects bone density. Here’s how this process occurs.

Less Oestrogen: Oestrogen helps maintain bone density. With its decrease, bone breakdown increases, leading to lower bone density.
Poor Calcium Absorption: Oestrogen helps absorb calcium, crucial for bone strength. With less oestrogen, calcium absorption drops, further weakening bones.
Vitamin D Changes: Vitamin D aids in calcium absorption. Menopause can affect its metabolism, reducing its effectiveness in maintaining bone health.
Imbalanced Bone Remodelling: Oestrogen normally balances the process of old bone being replaced with new bone. With its decline, more old bone is broken down than new bone is formed, leading to bone density loss.
Aging Factor: Menopause coincides with middle age when bones naturally weaken. Hormonal changes during menopause speed up this process.

Symptoms

Back pain: Usually relieved by laying down. It worsens when you are standing upright.
Decrease spinal mobility: You may struggle or unable to bend or twist your spine.
Stooped posture: Compression fractures may lead to an individual having a posture that is hunched over in order to put as little pressure on the vertebrae.
Decreased height: This is caused because of the collapsed vertebrae.

Test/Diagnosis of Compression Fractures

A compression fracture examination typically involves a thorough physical assessment, including evaluation of the patient’s medical history, symptoms, and any recent trauma. Diagnostic imaging such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans may be utilized to confirm the presence of a compression fracture, assess its severity, and identify any associated complications such as nerve compression or spinal instability. Neurological examination may also be conducted to assess for any neurological deficits or abnormalities.

Treatment options, including pain management, bracing, physical therapy, or surgical intervention, are then considered based on the findings of the examination and the individual patient’s needs and circumstances.

Exercise and Compression Fractures

Exercise can play a crucial role in the management and prevention of compression fractures, especially in osteoporotic individuals who are at increased risk. However, it’s essential to approach exercise with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional to prevent further injury. Low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming, or cycling can help improve bone density, strengthen muscles supporting the spine, and enhance overall balance and coordination, reducing the risk of falls and subsequent fractures.

Additionally, exercises focusing on core stability and posture can help alleviate strain on the spine and promote proper alignment, potentially reducing the likelihood of compression fractures. It’s important to avoid high-impact activities and movements that involve twisting or bending the spine excessively, as these can increase the risk of further injury. Always consult with a Biokineticist to develop a safe and appropriate exercise regimen tailored to individual needs and limitations.

Please feel free to contact us on social media or on our website.