Physical Therapy

There's no argument with the fact that physical and mental well-being are increased through physical activity. Health Education Authority research has shown that physically disabled people tend to have lower levels of fitness than the able-bodied population, despite the proven health benefits.

Click here for the HEA's list of benefits associated with improved physical fitness

Wheelchair-based exercise options - the VitaGlide™ accessible fitness machine from EPC Wheelchairs (left), uses linear push-pull technology to work more muscle groups with an increased range of motion, giving an effective workout. Gym equipment includes accessible fixed weight machines and wheelchair treadmills (shown right).

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A walking or 'gait' trainer helps improve weight bearing, for increased bone density and muscle bulk. The Dynamico from Rainbow Mobility, shown left, can be used to practice the actions of walking, or as a permanent means of moving around.

Adapted trikes (right) can make cycling possible for many people who can't manage a traditional bicycle.

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Smaller pieces of equipment - wobble boards, wedges, mats, gym balls and resistance bands - are easily portable and versatile enough to be used in a range of activities to suit the needs of many different clients.

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According to the HEA, these are the ways in which increased levels of physical fitness can help:

• Reducing the risk of death through coronary heart disease
• Lowering the risk of developing high blood pressure
• Helping reduce blood pressure in some people who already have hypertension
• Lowering the risk of developing colon cancer
• Lowering the risk of developing osteoporosis
• Lowering the risk of developing diabetes
• Helping people with chronic, disabling condition improve their stamina and muscle strength
• Reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression
• Promoting a general feeling of well-being and improving mood
• Helping to control joint swelling and pain associated with arthritis
• Improving muscle tone and circulation
• Maintaining flexibility of muscles and tendons
• Nourishing joints
• Relieving pain and stiffness
• Improving control and function of bladder and bowels

For residents in nursing and care homes, it is just as important to have access to a range of physical therapy products that can produce all these positive benefits.

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