Nutrition

The dictionary meaning of "nutrition" is the act or process of nourishing or being nourished. However, for many people, their way of eating does little to nourish their bodies and more to promote illness and disease. At Physiohealth we treat a number of patients who fall into this category and suffer from such conditions as cardiovascular problems, high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes and the like. Let us look at some of these conditions and how physiotherapy can help.

Cardiovascular disease – A diet high in saturated fats and sodium can contribute to heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and stroke. It would be easy to tell someone who is guilty of eating these foods to stop eating them, but habits die hard. Getting involved in a physiotherapy program tailored just for you can strengthen your heart muscles, improve circulation and blood supply and help you get rid of heart disease. Physiotherapy is often recommended to patients recovering from heart surgery to help them regain strength and endurance.

Diabetes – Physiotherapy can help you lower your blood sugar. While there are risks for diabetics during exercise, the benefits far outweigh them. Exercise helps your body regulate insulin. Some people suffer with numbness, tingling and loss of sensation in their feet. As your physiotherapist in Footscray, we will teach you how to examine your feet to make sure there are no blisters, advise on the right type of footwear and stockings to wear so you do not get blisters. Also, exercising with your physiotherapist will ensure that the necessary precautions are taken in case your blood sugar drops.

Stroke – Poor nutrition can lead to high blood pressure which in turn can lead to stroke. This is one of the many conditions that require physiotherapy. Paralysis on one side, lack of sensation, spasticity (stiffness) or flaccidity (floppiness) in the limbs may be present. A Physiotherapy program is usually geared toward the neurological deficits the patient displays. The patient may regain full or partial use of the limbs that were affected. If, as happens in some cases, very little recovery is made, the therapist will teach the patient how to compensate for his deficits so he can be as independent as possible.

Obesity – It is a known fact that poor nutrition and lack of exercise can lead to obesity, which can trigger some of the illnesses listed above. By embarking on a physiotherapy program, a person can stave off obesity and its ill effects. Exercise helps get rid of sugar cravings which are a leading cause of obesity. It increases energy and promotes better sleep which also help get rid of excess weight.

Good nutrition is vital to good health, but if it is neglected and disease occurs, physiotherapy can help to put you back on your feet and give you the tools to lead a better life. Give us a call at Physiohealth or come in and see us today.