NEWSLETTER Your Resource for Health, Wellness & Caring For Your Body
Michelle: A Resistance to Resistance Training
Michelle had developed osteoarthritis in her hips in her mid-50s. Although the pain wasn’t severe, she found herself struggling in her job as a tour guide at the National Museum, which required her to be on her feet for long periods. Eventually, she contacted us for help managing and slowing her condition. Regular exercise is one of the best ways to manage osteoarthritis pain, but Michelle was nervous about doing anything too strenuous, including strength training. She was especially wary of anything involving heavy weights. However, strength training is an important piece of osteoarthritis management. Strong muscles stabilize and support the impacted joints, helping to relieve pressure (and symptoms). Michelle’s physiotherapist was sympathetic to her concerns, especially since low-impact exercises are generally better for people with osteoarthritis. To that end, she suggested that Michelle start with a daily swimming routine in her community pool, which would help get her used to physical activity while still building muscle strength and endurance. After a few weeks, Michelle’s physiotherapist started her on simple bodyweight
exercises that wouldn’t put too much pressure on her knee joints. They weren’t as difficult or painful as Michelle feared, and she eventually decided she wanted to add a little more resistance after all. But she didn’t go all in with heavy barbells, as Alisha had. Instead, Michelle used a blend of resistance bands and light dumbbells. We provided the necessary guidance to keep her safe, and before Michelle knew it, she was performing strength training routines twice a week. The result? Less pain and stiffness from Michelle’s arthritis meant more mobility and an easier time at work (and with her grandkids!) How Will Strength Training Benefit You? Good health means different things to different people. At Physiotherapy Center LTD, we focus on improving your overall function so you can do the things in your life that matter most. Whether you want to kickstart an intense strength training program (like Alisha) or simply ensure you’re meeting health recommendations of 2 days of muscle strength work a week (like Michelle), we’ve got you covered. Call us today to get started on your strength training journey!
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