Exercise and Stroke Correlation
One of the main risk factors for having a
stroke is having unmanaged high blood pressure. One of the benefits of being physically active (at least 150 minutes per week) on a regular basis is lowering blood pressure. There is
a correlation between staying active and reducing your risk of a stroke.
Regular exercise helps keep
arteries elastic (flexible), even in older people. This, in turn, ensures good
blood flow and normal blood pressure. Sedentary people (those who do not engage in regular physical activity) have a 35% greater risk
of developing high blood pressure than those who are physically active.
When people suffer from a stroke, it is
usually recommended to take part in a rehabilitation program involving regular
exercise sessions. This helps in recovery and can help prevent another stroke from happening.
Activity such as walking, bending and
stretching are forms of exercise that can help strengthen your body and keep it
flexible. Mild exercise, which should be done every day, can take the
form of a short walk or a simple activity like sweeping the floor. Stretching
exercises, such as extending the arms or bending the torso, should be done
regularly. Moving weakened or paralyzed body parts can be done while seated or
lying down. Swimming is another beneficial exercise if the pool is accessible
and a helper is available.
Fatigue while exercising is to be expected. You can modify these programs
to accommodate for fatigue or other conditions. Avoid overexertion and pain.
Simple stretching routines can be very
effective in post stroke rehabilitation in order to improve range of motion. Regular strength and balance exercises help with bone strength and health are very beneficial. Keeping a strong core is important in order
to maintain balance and promote an upright posture.
If you are not exercising regularly you
should consider getting started. Any amount of increased activity is a positive
change and will start providing health
benefits immediately.
