Benefits of Exercise for Chronic Illnesses and Comorbidities        

Dealing with a chronic condition is a common thing in our world today. Many people suffer from illnesses like heart disease, arthritis, cancer, diabetes or asthma, all of which can make living an active life more difficult than it would be without these conditions. Unfortunately, nearly all chronic illnesses tend to introduce a variety of secondary issues to the mix. These comorbidities can further complicate day to day life for someone with an already tough-to-manage illness. Including daily physical activity into the routine can not only help make life easier, it can also help reduce or prolong the onset of comorbid conditions.

What is a comorbidity?

People who suffer from a chronic illness often deal with more than one health issue at a time. These concurrent conditions are referred to as comorbidities. These often long-term or chronic conditions might not always interact with each other, but may affect both physical and mental health either together or separately. This can also be referred to as having co-occurring or multiple chronic conditions.

Some common examples of comorbidities that one may have along with their primary health issue include:

  • Hypertension
  • Obesity
  • Osteoporosis
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Heart disease
  • High blood pressure
  • Respiratory disease
  • Cerebrovascular disease
  • Joint disease
  • Mental health issues like dementia or depression
  • Diabetes
  • Arthritis

Exercise benefits those with chronic illness

An important part of managing a chronic illness and its comorbidities is maintaining a routine that includes some form of physical activity or exercise. It can help sufferers manage their symptoms and improve their health.

There are 3 kinds of exercise that someone with a chronic condition might benefit from:

1. Aerobic exercise

Improving heart health and maintaining a healthy weight are the hallmark results of a routine that includes regular aerobic exercise. Adjusting intensity levels during training can help maximize results without pushing too hard for too long. This interval training is usually safe and effective for most people with chronic conditions and can be as simple as walking or cycling at different speeds.

2. Strength training

Many chronic conditions are punctuated by a decline in muscle and joint strength, either from direct effects of the actual condition, or from a forced reduction in mobility. Regular strength training activities can help to improve muscle strength, which can help to slow any disease-related declines, improve joint stability and make it easier to move around in daily life.

3. Flexibility

Reduced motion due to chronic illnesses and their comorbidities can lead to a reduction in joint flexibility. Focusing on flexibility exercises during an exercise routine can improve balance, stability, range of motion and overall joint pain and inflammation.

A cycle trainer is the perfect exercise tool

When trying to manage a number of different chronic conditions and comorbidities it can be difficult to incorporate regular movement into daily life, especially when the conditions make this movement difficult. A cycle trainer has several features that will allow users to cater their routine to their varying needs.

Adjustable training modes – Even on days when muscles aren’t able to perform their best, the adjustable support modes can be tailored to suit the needs of the user.

Both arm and leg cycle training – When creating an exercise routine, it’s important to incorporate both upper and lower body work, in order to experience the most benefits. The MedUpV2 Cycle trainer has both an arm ergometer and a lower limb cycle option.

Spasm recognition – Many chronic physical illnesses have some level of spasticity side effects. A cycle trainer that can recognize these spasms and respond accordingly is the best way for a user to remain safe during exercise.

Exercise is an important part of chronic illness maintenance

Dealing with a chronic condition and its comorbidities is a difficult process for most people. The physical limitations that they may present can make life a struggle. Incorporating an active passive cycle trainer into an exercise routine is a safe and effective way to manage symptoms, improve health, maintain mobility and combat the likelihood of comorbidities.

Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation to Improve Mobility 

When the body is faced with an injury or illness that reduces its ability to function, it is important to adopt a musculoskeletal rehabilitation routine as soon as possible. The reduced mobility and range of motion that is inherent with an injury like this is best treated with a routine that includes therapeutic movement and exercise that pushes the patient, but not so far that the injury is exasperated.

What is musculoskeletal rehabilitation?

The term musculoskeletal refers to anything to do with the body’s muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, joints and bones.

Following a disease, injury or illness the body may struggle to regain normal function in parts of the musculoskeletal system. This is often able to be addressed through a program of rehabilitation that targets these injured parts. This doctor-supervised program uses muscle therapy and exercise to help reduce symptoms and improve the patient’s ability to function.

As soon as possible following a disease, injury or illness a patient should be introduced to a musculoskeletal rehabilitation routine in order to help reduce the effects of immobilization and inactivity.

What conditions may benefit from musculoskeletal rehab?

There are a number of conditions that can benefit from musculoskeletal rehabilitation. While this list isn’t exhaustive, it gives a good idea of what kinds of injuries are included in this category.  

  • Repetitive stress injuries like carpal tunnel or tendonitis
  • Tendon tears (such as in the Achilles tendon or rotator cuff)
  • Sprains, strains, fractures and dislocations
  • Back pain and injury
  • Arthritis or osteoporosis
  • Amputation
  • Joint replacement or injury

How does a cycle trainer support musculoskeletal rehabilitation?

An advanced cycle trainer provides significant support for a variety of different musculoskeletal injuries. The portability of the unit means that anyone is able to use it to help improve their mobility, whether at home or on site at a rehab facility. Whether the injury is upper or lower body, the adaptability of the MedUp V2 cycle trainer is sure to provide the user with some relief from their symptoms.

Using a cycle trainer for the doctor recommended time each day can improve range of motion and flexibility, prevent muscle spasms and stiffness and improve muscle strength. With adjustable resistance and multiple training modes, the user is able to create a routine that works within their abilities.

Benefits of including a cycle trainer

There are a number of benefits that come with incorporating an at-home cycle trainer in a musculoskeletal rehabilitation routine, including:

Adjustable to the user

The MedUp V2 comes with 4 training modes that allow the user to adjust the resistance of the cycle. With multiple options for fully motor driven to no motor support at all, the user is encouraged to push their limits during rehab, without causing themselves more stress and harm.

Great for at home rehabilitation

Designed to be used in a variety of settings, the MedUp V2 is perfect for both home and clinical use. The maneuverable unit means it can be rolled out of the way when not in use, making it ideal to use at home. 

Customized rehab plan

With a variety of training modes, the user is able to customize their rehab plan to suit their needs each day. As recovery progresses the patient is able to adjust the training modes to target their specific needs.

Target specific muscle groups

Thanks to both upper and lower body cycle trainers being available on the MedUp V2, the user can focus their rehab plan on the muscles and joints that need the work.

Musculoskeletal rehabilitation is important

After any kind of injury, disease or illness that affects a person’s muscles, joints, bones or tendons, it is essential to do the work in order to regain function and mobility. Without a strong rehabilitation routine, the patient may struggle to fully regain their function and mobility, and they may have to deal with symptoms for longer than they should.

Incorporating a cycle trainer into a musculoskeletal rehab plan is a great way to reduce symptoms and improve movement, without stressing the system too much.

Spinal Cord Injury Therapy – Rehabilitation to Achieve Breakthroughs in Mobility   

Following a spinal cord injury, patients will undergo rehabilitation therapy in order to regain some mobility and adapt to their new way of life. Although the level of independence that can be reached will depend on the severity of the injury, regaining some level of mobility will be key in optimizing the recovery process and in creating a better quality of life. Using recovery aids throughout rehabilitation can help make the process easier on both the patient and their caregivers.

Improving mobility helps to mitigate risks

For those with a spinal cord injury, there are a number of risks that can make day to day life more difficult and even dangerous. Urinary tract infections, bowel issues, respiratory infections, pressure sores, and muscle spasticity are all common occurrences for someone with a spinal cord injury. While the level of mobility will vary from one patient to the next, rehabilitation that includes an attempt to improve mobility can help reduce and treat some of these potential concerns.

A rehabilitation routine can also help maintain lung and heart function, two processes that are often vulnerable when the body doesn’t move enough. Without daily movement muscles and organs are inclined to experience reduced function, which can lead to even more struggles for a spinal cord injury patient.

Cycle training part of a great rehabilitation routine

Spinal Cord Injury Therapy with Medup V2 Cycle Trainer

Using a cycle trainer to stimulate both upper and lower body movement can have significant positive effects on the rehabilitation routine following a spinal cord injury. With several modes that provide different levels of motor-assisted support, a cycle trainer can be used in most rehabilitation plans, including those where the patient will be working on their progress independently.  

The MedUp V2 cycle trainer allows the user to maintain movement, even when their muscles aren’t able to perform the motion on their own. The simple cycle motion is beneficial for both arms and legs as it encourages the heart to continue pushing blood to the extremities, and helps to maintain muscle mass.

Features of the MedUp V2

At-home cycle trainers like the MedUp V2 come with a number of relevant and helpful features that are beneficial for a variety of different recovery plans, including in spinal cord injury recovery. Whether rehabilitation needs to happen in a facility or can be done at home, this cycle trainer offers an adaptable option.

Some of the top features of the MedUp V2 include:

Four training modes – Depending on the level of support needed, a user can choose the amount of motor-driven support they want. Modes include passive (completely motor driven), assisted (partially motor driven), active (entirely user driven) and isokinetic (user driven with varying resistance levels).

Hand securing mitts – Ensures that the hands are securely positioned on the handlebars for both safety and functionality.

Spasticity detection – Muscles that contract suddenly can be extremely painful, and dangerous if it happens while using a cycle trainer. The MedUp V2 is equipped with technology that detects a spasm and pauses the function in order to avoid injury.

Symmetrical training – Ability to adjust resistance levels to build muscles symmetrically on both sides of the body, depending on the development of each side.

Encourages independence – Users in a wheelchair are able to roll up to the base and begin training, without the need for someone to transfer them.

Stable base – An important safety feature for independent use, a stable base helps ensure that users won’t be at risk of the unit tipping over while being used.

Readily movable – Wheels on the base allow the MedUp V2 to be easily moved for storage and ease of use.

Rehabilitation provides breakthroughs in mobility

After many life-altering health events, rehabilitation is an essential part of the recovery process, and a spinal cord injury is no different. Incorporating a tool like an at-home cycle trainer is a great way to facilitate rehabilitation and potentially improve mobility in anyone dealing with a spinal cord injury.

Parkinson’s Disease and Benefits of Exercise Therapy

Parkinson's Disease

While exercise is an important part of a healthy lifestyle, it’s even more important for people struggling with a degenerative disease like Parkinson’s. The physical effects of this brain disorder can be quite disruptive but studies have shown that incorporating regular exercise into a patient’s routine can help mitigate some of these symptoms, as well as offer a number of other benefits as their disease progresses.

Benefits of exercise for Parkinson’s patients

Incorporating regular exercise into a daily routine can help those with Parkinson’s disease in a number of different ways, both physically and mentally. Although it might be difficult to include physical activity on a daily basis, there is good reason to encourage a short walk, some time on a treadmill or the use of an active passive trainer.

Some of the top benefits of regular exercise for Parkinson’s patients may include:

  • Reduced motor symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, weakness and fatigue
  • Improves balance issues and slowed movement
  • Improves endurance
  • Cognitive function may be maintained or improved
  • Gait problems can be reduced
  • Can maintain or improve cardiac health

Incorporating an active-passive trainer

As long as a patient with Parkinson’s is able to take on physical activity of their own volition it’s ideal for them to participate in some sort of activity daily. However, as the disease progresses it becomes much more difficult for them to maintain any sort of regular activity. At this point, the use of an active-passive trainer can be the preferred solution.

An active passive trainer uses a motor to help offset the muscle strength of the user allowing them to use as much of their strength as they are able to, without pushing so far as to cause injury. With built-in passive and active assist modes the user is able to fully benefit from range of motion exercises, even if their strength only allows for partial movement completion.

Helps perform all basic exercise types

A passive-active trainer incorporates all basic exercise types in one portable and easy to use unit. The sturdy base and multi-mode interface make it simple and safe to use, even without supervision. Four training modes allow the user to work on improving their balance, strength, endurance and flexibility, all important parts of a beneficial exercise routine.

As the disease progresses or when the patient has more bad days, they may find that they struggle with completing the cycling motions. The ability to automatically switch between training modes to offer more or less assistance can help the user to keep up with their exercise, without making them feel like they’re experiencing setbacks.

Consistent training is important

As with many situations that involve physical activity, the results may not be seen immediately. However, maintaining an exercise routine for an extended period of time can result in significant benefits for most Parkinson’s patients. Studies have shown that patients who adopt a routine that includes low intensity stretching, training and resistance exercises for 6 months or more are more apt to improve their gait speed and quality, cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength and motor skills.

Exercise therapy is an essential part of the process

Anytime someone is diagnosed with a life-altering illness or disease, the natural response is to look into ways to help them throughout their process. Luckily, when it comes to Parkinson’s disease, many studies have shown that a low intensity exercise routine can have noticeable benefits for most patients. This knowledge combined with the convenience of an active-passive cycle trainer can help patients and their loved ones make a plan for how to handle their new circumstances.

While it’s always suggested to consult with a doctor before beginning a new exercise routine, many doctors and physical therapists will support the use of an active-passive cycle trainer at home. Built-in safety features and a stable base make the MedUpV2 a top choice for an in-home trainer and the perfect tool for someone going through Parkinson’s disease.

Inpatient Inactivity Delays Recovery – Active-Passive Therapy Helps

Recovering from an inpatient procedure or surgery can be a difficult and strenuous process. The inactivity that is often inherent with a hospital stay just serves to delay and complicate a patient’s recovery, so early mobility is often essential. While movement can be a struggle, especially depending on the procedure or surgery that was performed, making the effort to begin movement as soon as possible and maintain it throughout the stay can help improve outcomes and decrease recovery time. Using active-passive therapy can be a significant help in these situations.

Many negative effects of inactivity

Even in healthy individuals, inactivity can have some significant negative effects. These are often compounded in someone that is recovering from a procedure as an inpatient. Maintaining a level of activity that works inactive muscle groups effectively without pushing the patient too hard can be a balancing act, however a necessary one. Not just reserved for those recovering as an inpatient, there are many negative effects of inactivity.

  • Aerobic fitness has been shown to decline after just a few days of inactivity
  • Muscle loss can begin within a week
  • The body’s circulatory system is hindered, leading to an increased chance of blood clots and deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
  • Longer recovery period
  • Reduced sleep quality
  • Increased feelings of anxiety and helplessness
  • Bone weakening
  • Potential for weight gain
  • Reduced cardiac health

Early mobilization is a key to recovery

When recovering from an inpatient procedure or surgery, early mobilization is often the key to a good recovery process. Having the patient begin movement even within the first 24 hours after completion can reduce the length of the stay, make for a smoother rehabilitation path and lead to better patient outcomes. Once early mobilisation has been achieved, the patient is able to transition to a routine of daily mobility.

Active-passive therapy helps improve recovery

Using an active-passive trainer like the MedUp V2 as early in the recovery process as possible can help reduce the risk of complications while improving patient outcomes and recovery times. An active-passive trainer allows the patient to mobilize their arms and/or legs, even if they don’t have the muscle tone necessary for active mobility, or they are unable to get out of bed.

Cycle therapy greatly improves recovery and increases mobility

An active-passive trainer excels because it promotes improving both mobility and strength, both of which play a significant role in recovery. Using the built-in training modes users are able to customize their training plan for their needs. Whether they are able to operate the cycle completely independently or need significant support, the MedUp V2 will adjust to the needs of the user.

Passive mode: Ideal for those who aren’t able to use any of their own muscle strength, the passive mode is completely controlled by the built-in motor. Used primarily during early rehabilitation, this mode can help inpatients begin to increase range of motion and reduce initial muscle loss.

Assisted mode: As patients improve and the effects of inactivity subside, the assisted mode starts to play a role in recovery. Designed to offer partial assistance to the patient, the motor kicks in when they are unable to complete the movements on their own. This allows them to use what muscles they have built without stressing out their body.

Active mode: Once muscles have improved enough active mode is essential for the rehabilitation process. In this mode movement of the cycle is completely user-driven and resistance can be adjusted as the patient’s strength reaches levels that support more strenuous activity.

Reducing inactivity is essential for inpatient recovery

While recovering from a surgery or procedure, maintaining physical activity can feel like a nearly impossible task. However, inactivity can have many negative consequences for a patient. Using an active-passive trainer can help them to get moving as soon as possible during a hospital stay, without pushing the limits of their capability. This activity can lead to a better recovery and improved results, even if they aren’t able to use the cycle trainer on their own.