Physical Therapy & Fitness After 50!

As we age, we progress through different stages: childhood, adolescence, adulthood and late adulthood.  As we move into our “senior” years it more important to adopt a healthy lifestyle.  As we age there are changes in all our body systems, including the cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems. Some common conditions and illnesses include: osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, heart disease and diabetes.

Improving overall health, and addressing risk factors, make it possible to maintain and enhance the quality of life as we age.  Improving our eating habits and increasing physical activity will reduce or even prevent common diseases.

Physical therapists can help you improve your health and wellness with a well-balanced exercise and injury prevention program.  Progressive exercise can increase strength, improve flexibility and boost quality of life for individuals of all ages.  Your physical therapist will evaluate your current capabilities and take medical conditions into consideration to help you achieve your new goals.

Here are some tips for improving your mobility and decreasing your pain:

• Invest in comfortable footwear. This will encourage you to walk, exercise more and reduce the risk of injuries to the joints.

• Making a conscious effort to walk (or be more active) around the house and at work.

• Identify those exercises that you enjoy and do them as often as possible. Some soreness for a day or two is ok, but make sure to contact your physical therapist if you feel any sharp pain that gets worse.

• Consistency in your progressive exercise program consisting of isometric or isotonic exercises prescribed by your physical therapist.

The sooner you start the better!  If you, or someone you know, is approaching or over the age of 50 advise them to take steps to be proactive about their health.  Click HERE to start your process with a physical therapist.

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Andrew Vertson

Andrew received his Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Science from California State University, Fresno in 1991. He then earned his Master’s degree of Physical Therapy in 1996 and his Doctorate degree of Physical Therapy in 2002 from Loma Linda University. In 1996 he also earned his Certification as an Athletic Trainer. He has also completed extensive post-graduate course work in orthopedic manual therapy through Kaiser-West Los Angeles and the Ola Grimsby Institute.

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