Your doctor or surgeon may have prescribed physical therapy for several reasons. It is often used as a recovery tool for a sports injury or joint replacement surgery. But did you know that there are surprising benefits of physical therapy? As a bonus to your health, physical therapy has been proven to lower blood pressure in countless patients. It also helps to motivate patients to exercise, a good habit many continue well after treatment ends. Another factor that will help keep blood pressure lower for a lifetime. Read on to learn more about these benefits.
No Longer a Rare Condition
More and more people are experiencing elevated blood pressure. Even people as young as in their 20’s are prone to the risks of high blood pressure. Because of the rising incidences, this condition is not to be taken lightly. If left unaddressed high blood pressure (HBP) can lead to grave health issues such as heart attack, stroke, or other circulatory diseases.
Causes of HBP
While the exact causes of HBP are not known, several factors play a role in its development. Some include: Smoking
- Stress
- Smoking
- Obese or overweight
- High salt intake
- Alcoholism
- History of high blood pressure in the family
- Chronic kidney disease
- Thyroid disorder
The Numbers Will Tell
What do the numbers mean? There are two components of blood pressure reading. The top number is systolic, and the bottom number is diastolic. Here is a list of what each level indicates:
- Normal – Less than 120 over 80
- Prehypertension – 120-139 over 80-89
- Stage 1 (high blood pressure) – 140-159 over 90-99
- Stage 2 (high blood pressure) – 160 and above over 100 and above
Physical Therapy Helps HBP
You may have been ordered to physical therapy by your surgeon or primary care physician. While you are treating your specific condition, the benefits of physical therapy (PT) go beyond injury recovery. Regular exercise reduces the pressure on the heart and arteries. It makes your heart stronger. A stronger heart can pump blood with less effort. If your heart works less to pump, the force on your arteries decreases. Thus, these factors can significantly reduce blood pressure.
Other Surprising Benefits of Physical Therapy
A competent physical therapist builds a healthy relationship and a good report with his or her client. One main goal is motivating patients. Physical therapists not only treat specific issues but help you create long-term health solutions. Many patients experience an increase in strength and r
How are high blood pressure and exercise connected? Regular physical activity makes your heart stronger. A stronger heart can pump more blood with less effort. If your heart can work less to pump, the force on your arteries decreases, lowering your blood pressure.
Experience the Kinetic Physical Therapy Difference
You can trust the staff at Kinetic Physical Therapy. We treat our clients like the unique individual they are. We tailor your treatment to your specific needs. Furthermore, we understand the importance of creating a bond with our patients. Once you are assigned a therapist, you will work with that person throughout your treatment. Contact us today for an evaluation and experience the Kinetic Physical Therapy difference!
