Regardless of age, exercise is very important and is vital for the body to function properly. Regular exercise has become very fashionable in recent years, as can be seen by the large number of people running outdoors or working out in the gym. Why is physical activity so important for seniors and how to overcome back pain?
What are the possible consequences of lack of exercise in older people?
Older people have an increasing back pain, muscles and joint pains, which can be caused by neurological conditions, or cardiovascular disease and as a result of osteoporosis. Lack of adequate exercise in seniors can be very dangerous. It can lead to the weakening of muscles, bones and joints, which promotes the formation of degenerative changes throughout the body. Its negative effects are a decrease in independence and a weakened metabolism. Lack of physical activity in the elderly increases the risk of multiple diseases, injuries and heart problems. Consequences can include feelings of lethargy, fatigue, apathy and weakness. For people struggling with chronic diseases, lack of adequate exercise worsens their current state of health.
What should training look like for seniors?
Exercises for seniors are selected according to their age and physical fitness. Each set of exercises is individually prepared by a specialist who takes into account contraindications and limitations of the patient. For some seniors, a longer walk or Nordic walking can be an exhausting experience. You can also opt for cycling, swimming or water aerobics, tennis, fitness dancing - it all depends on the requirements, needs and abilities of older people. It should be noted that when training with seniors, the most important thing is patience and regularity, because only then will the exercises have the desired effect.
Back pain - what exercises for seniors?
There may be some limitations in old age. Therefore, care should be taken to ensure that physical activity is adapted to seniors' abilities and age:
- Nordic walking - is a workout with poles, during which as many as 90% of body muscles are worked. It can be practised all year round regardless of the weather conditions.
- Cycling - is for everyone. You can burn as many as 500 calories during a ride and regular rides contribute to a drop in cholesterol.
- Swimming - this is a form of exercise that particularly helps people with high blood pressure and has a positive effect on vascular function.
- Stretching - this activity can be done safely at home. Regular stretching exercises help to get rid of back pain, muscle pain and joints.
- Strength training - helps build the muscle mass you need for everyday activities such as walking up stairs or carrying shopping.
It is a good idea to start doing all the exercises under the guidance of a specialist, trainer or physiotherapist, and then only move on to training on your own.
Lack of exercise and back pain in seniors
Spinal pain is one of the most common complaints faced by senior citizens. One of the main factors contributing to these problems is a lack of adequate physical activity. As we age, our physical fitness naturally declines and our muscles and joints become weaker. Lack of exercise leads to a weakening of the muscles that support the spine, resulting in spinal overload and pain. Prolonged inactivity can also cause joint stiffness, restricted mobility and reduced flexibility of the spine, which only exacerbates postural and balance problems. Consequently, spinal pain can lead to difficulties in carrying out daily activities and even increase the risk of falls and injuries. Regular physical activity, even in a mild form, is key to maintaining spinal health and overall fitness in older people.
Modern therapies for back pain
Modern therapies for the treatment of back pain in seniors, available in MTS Holistic TherapyThey are based on a holistic approach. It combines the effectiveness of traditional methods with innovative technologies. One such therapy is the shock wave, which is excellent for reducing pain and improving spinal mobility. Shockwave works by sending out acoustic waves that stimulate tissues, relieve muscle tension and promote recovery. Another method is manual therapy, which helps to correct posture and relax tense muscles and joints. This in turn helps to reduce pain and improve movement comfort. For seniors dealing with chronic pain, the following are also offered individually tailored rehabilitation programmeswhich take into account the specific needs of older people. The aim of these therapies is not only to reduce pain, but also to improve quality of life and restore the patient's full mobility.
