Exercise Therapy

Exercise therapy involves the use of a regimen of physical activities specifically designed and prescribed to correct an impairment, improve musculoskeletal function, or maintain a state of well-being. It may vary from highly selected activities restricted to specific muscles or parts of the body, to general and vigorous activities that can return a convalescing patient to the peak of physical condition. Therapeutic exercise aims to accomplish the following goals:

• Enable movement
• Release contracted muscles, tendons, and fascia
• Mobilize joints
• Improve circulation
• Improve breathing
• Improve coordination
• Reduce stiffness
• Improve balance
• Promote relaxation
• Improve muscle strength
• Improve muscle endurance

The ultimate goal of rehabilitation is to achieve, whenever possible, an optimal level of physical fitness by the end of the treatment regimen.

For examples of exercise programmes for specific conditions, click on the links below:

• Exercise regime for sprained ankle
• Exercise regime for frozen shoulder

Dr Allfree is an Osteopathic, Orthopaedic and Sports Physician, and has experience in designing specific exercise programmes to supplement his treatments.