Need some motivation to exercise after a spinal cord injury? There are six very good reasons to participate in a wheelchair sport or other forms of exercise.
Once you’ve initially recovered from your spinal cord injury and have a daily routine, you may want to start an exercise program to keep you healthy and engaged while also managing your weight. Before embarking on any new activity, it’s always a good idea to have a clear idea of the benefits so that you can be motivated and energized.
Key benefits of exercise after a spinal cord injury
There are many major advantages to playing a wheelchair sport or taking on a new form of exercise. Here are a few of the top benefits:
· Reduces stress on several levels: A consistent exercise program can help keep joints loose and flexible, reducing stress. When you use a wheelchair, research shows a higher risk of shoulder pain, joint deterioration, and even painful rotator cuff tears because of the pressure on arms. Therefore, it’s important to reduce stress in those areas. You’ll also have more restful sleep, and your overall mood may improve too
· Prevents secondary conditions: Regular exercise may be able to help you avoid medical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, pressure injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome, obstructive pulmonary disease, hypertension, urinary tract infections, and respiratory disease. For instance, staying physically active helps improve circulation in the skin, preventing skin injuries like pressure ulcers
· Helps your body work better: Research also shows that aerobic exercise results in better cardiovascular, bladder, and bowel function, along with less depression and fatigue. From a mental perspective, you may also feel happier and—depending on the type of sport or activity — increase your social activity. Hence, you feel more engaged and part of the local community
· Gives your brain a boost: It may surprise you to learn that exercise can help you stay smart, and it keeps your brain active and healthy. Neuroscience studies show that exercise enhances brain cell proliferation, fights degenerative disease, and improves memory. Other studies show that exercise increases alertness and helps people think more clearly. When you exercise consistently, it also gives you a sense of achievement for a boost in self-confidence
· Helps manage your weight: After a spinal cord injury, you may be more prone to excess weight due to altered metabolism and decreased muscle mass. Lack of activity can also cause a few added pounds. By gaining weight, you may elevate the risk of pressure sores around skin folds, lose trunk control, and be less efficient in breathing. With regular exercise, you can help avoid these issues and keep your weight at an optimum level
· Reduces painful spasticity: Many people with spinal cord injuries or certain diseases (such as multiple sclerosis) have problems with uncontrolled spasms of their arms or legs. Minor spasms can help to maintain muscle tone and increase blood circulation to the legs. However, moderate or major spasms can be painful and make daily living activities difficult. Spastic activity may decrease if you are physically active on a regular schedule.
Make exercise part of your lifestyle
We all know that exercise is good for the mind and body, and almost anyone can do some form of physical activity, regardless of functional capabilities. Whatever sports or activities you choose to participate in after your spinal cord injury, make them a normal part of your routine and lifestyle to experience all these benefits and more.
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