By Damaris Maisie, Physical Therapist Assistant, RWJBarnabas Health Ambulatory Care Center
Our bodies have many systems that work interchangeably with each other to help us move better and more efficiently. When one or more of these systems do not work well, this can result in movement impairments or functional limitations.
Examples of conditions that may result from a dysfunction of these systems are:
- MS: Central nervous system and other systems
- Parkinson Disease: Nervous system and other systems
- Stroke: Nervous system and other systems
- Sprains/Strains/Fractures: Muscular and skeletal
- Cardiovascular Conditions: Cardiovascular and other systems
- Lymphedema: Lymphatic systems and others
However, there’s good news!
Many of these and other conditions can be managed with daily exercise. Exercise actually can be done in most places, whether you are sitting, standing or lying down. This allows us all to have a share in physical activity according to our individual tolerance level.
Physical Benefits of Exercise:
- Mobility and Joint Lubrication
- Maintains Muscle Function and Health
- Cardiovascular Health
- Energy Level
- Sleep
- Circulation
Mental Benefits of Exercise:
- Mood
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Depression
Other Benefits:
- Neurogenesis: Growth of neurons which enhances the brains connection to other neurons and this improves physical and mental performance.
- Neuroplasticity: The brains ability to rewire itself by strengthening connections between neurons that are undamaged in the brain to perform certain tasks that the damaged parts may not be able to complete.
Movement Resources:
*Please consult your MD, OT or PT prior to initiating a new exercise program. Below are generalized resources, some are diagnosis specific and some are general, that could be used as an adjunct to your programs
- Can Do MS: Exercise Programs and Educational Resources
- MS Society Stretching Program: 28-page PDF of stretches
- Parkinsons NSW: Flexibility Exercises
- American Parkinson Disease Association | APDA: Education, Resources, Exercises
- Post-Stroke Exercise Videos | American Stroke Association: Post Stroke Exercise Videos
- YouTube:
- Chair Yoga Stretch & Strength and Inpatient In-Bed Exercises (Jefferson Health | April 17, 2020)
- Seated Exercises for Adults (Dartmouth Health)
- Standing exercises for Adults (Dartmouth Health)
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The experienced and compassionate staff at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center Rehabilitation centers, with locations in West Orange and Livingston, offers adults and children the specialized care they need to resume an active life after surgery, injury or illness. Staff is committed to providing patients with the most advanced services in a safe, caring and soothing environment. For high-risk patients who are unable to visit in person, telehealth is an option. Patients do not need a prescription for physical therapy services.
For more information, or to schedule an appointment, call 973-322-7500.
Damaris Ababio, PTA, MSCS, is a Physical Therapist Assistant at the Barnabas Health Ambulatory Care Center. She treats patients with neurological and orthopedic conditions as well as balance and gait deficits. Damaris completed her education at Essex County Community College in May 2011 and has been working at the ACC since October 2011. Damaris is currently a Multiple Sclerosis Certified Specialist (2018) and an LSVT BIG certified therapist (2020). She also serves as a member of the International Organization of Multiple Sclerosis Rehabilitation Professionals and the American Physical Therapy Association. When she’s not working, Damaris enjoys spending time with her family, participating in philanthropic work or carrying out DIY projects.