American Heart Month: Physical Therapy for Cardiovascular Patients

February is American Heart Month. Cardiovascular disease is still today’s number one killer in the United States. About one in three deaths are due to stroke or heart disease. Further, as we as age, the chance for complications only increases. People living with this disease face a multitude of challenges, including drastically decreased regular activity. But, there is hope. Physical therapy for cardiovascular disease is an excellent recovery tool that can even help to reverse some specific effects. In honor of American Heart Month, we would like to outline the benefits of physical therapy. Read on to learn how we can help you be healthier and live longer.

What are cardiovascular disorders?

These are ailments affecting the heart and circulatory system, including heart disease, stroke, and hypertension, among others.

Heart disease
A disease of the heart and blood vessel disease which includes numerous problems, many of which are related to a process called atherosclerosis. This is a condition that develops when a substance called plaque builds up in the walls of the arteries. The narrowing of the vessels makes it harder for blood to flow and may even result in a blockage causing a heart attack or stroke.
Hypertension
Hypertension is the medical term for high blood pressure. It is a result of the blood pushing too much force against the walls of the blood vessels. Around 75 million people in the U.S. are affected by high blood pressure. Causes include stress, but it can result from an underlying condition, such as kidney disease. When left unmanaged, it can lead to a heart attack, stroke, and other problems.
Heart Attack
A heart attack occurs due to a blockage of blood flow, usually due to a build-up of plaque. The plaque breaks away and causes a clot which creates a blockage. If this clot cuts off the blood flow completely, the part of the heart muscle supplied by that artery begins to die.
Stroke
There are two types of stroke: ischemic stroke and hemorrhagic stroke. The most common type is ischemic. It occurs when a blood vessel that feeds the brain gets blocked, usually from a blood clot. A hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel within the brain bursts. This is most often caused by uncontrolled hypertension (high blood pressure). Strokes usually cut off blood supply to the brain thus causing brain cells to die. Therefore resulting in the loss of functions such as walking or talking.

What are the Benefits of Physical Therapy for Cardiovascular Disease?

According to the World Confederation of Physical Therapy a carefully created exercise program, including aerobic conditioning and strength training, is one of the critical interventions that can prevent death and disability from cardiovascular disease. Additionally, physical therapy is beneficial for those already affected by cardiovascular disease. Physical therapists are experts in prescribing programs as part of a structured, safe, and effective program in conjunction with your physician and other healthcare providers. Physical therapists help people return to work and previous lifestyle activities and, thus, fulfilled lives.

Why Go to a Physical Therapist for Treatment?

A physical therapist will create a specific heart-healthy exercise regime for your particular needs. Movement will include exercises like jogging or brisk walking plus resistance training for the muscles. This all reduces blood pressure, hence reducing the risk of strokes and heart attacks. For stroke victims, physical therapy is a vital aspect of the recovery process, especially for those with loss of motor ability. As movement returns and improves, the treatment focuses on relearning motor skills and retraining the brain to control the arms and legs. For all therapy progresses to muscle strengthening and cardio conditioning.