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Improving functional ability in older adults with Thera-Band
Apr 14th
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As the population continues to age, the number of functionally-impaired and disabled older adults will increase as well, leading to an increase in the need for institutionalization and associated increase in healthcare costs. Several research studies have shown that exercise is effective at improving function in older adults; however, few have examined the effects of exercise in functionally limited adults.
Researchers wanted to know if a progressive resistance training program using Thera-Band® elastic bands was effective at improving strength and function in a group of independent-living older adults with functional limitations. They recruited 87 subjects averaging 75 years old with functional limitations measured by the SF-36 test. They were randomly assigned to either an exercise group or a non-exercising control group.
The exercise participants performed 13 progressive Thera-Band exercises once per week in a group setting. Because they were using elastic resistance, the participants were instructed to perform the same exercises as home twice per week as well. All subjects were evaluated before, during, and after the 16 week program. Download the Thera-Band exercise program here.
By 9 weeks, nearly all had progressed in Thera-Band More >
Thera-Band® Neck Pain Exercise Video Available
Apr 12th
A few months ago, I posted a blog about a new study by Dr. Lars Andersen in Denmark, which showed that a simple Thera-Band® elastic tubing exercise significantly reduced neck and shoulder pain in office workers. We now have a short 1-minute video that demonstrates the neck pain exercise for workers and companies that might be interested in improving productivity and reducing insurance costs. Click on the image below to view the Thera-Band elastic tubing exercise video or link to it here.
In addition, I’ve created a web page with a review of the study, as well as links to the research paper and the video at http://info.thera-bandacademy.com/neckpainexercise. At the bottom of the page, you can also see links to the media coverage in Denmark. Please feel free to share the outcomes of this excellent study with anyone you know who may benefit from a quick, simple, and inexpensive solution to occupational neck pain.
Stretching… implications for Massage Therapy
Apr 8th
Stretching exercises can be an important component of treatment during massage therapy. Licensed Massage Therapist Diana Thompson provided a great review of stretching exercises in Massage and Bodywork Magazine. She described the difference of effects between static and dynamic stretching with implications for massage therapists. Diana summarized the stretching research presented by Dr. David Behm when they both attended the 2010 Thera-Band Research Advisory Committee meeting. During that meeting, the research group was introduced to the new Thera-Band Stretch Strap which facilitates a number of stretching techniques.
Most of the controversy behind stretching is based on a misunderstanding of the literature. Different types of stretching (static, dynamic, contract-relax) produce different effects based on the activity performed and population tested. For example, static stretching immediately before a jumping event will decrease jump performance, whereas static stretching may increase flexibility in an older adult performing activities of daily living. It’s important not to make your clinical judgments about interventions based on media reports of research. A recent article in the Scandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports provides an excellent review of the literature on stretching. Practical summaries of the literature, as Diana provided, can be a less time-consuming method of interpreting the literature to improve clinical More >
“No Excuses” Workout using Thera-Band® elastic bands
Apr 5th
The importance of regular exercise is well-established for good health. According to the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), adults should include strengthening exercises into their regular exercise program at least two to three days per week. Dr. Mary Sanders, a certified Exercise Physiologist and Fellow of the ACSM, recently published an article on incorporating stretching and strengthening exercise with Thera-Band® elastic bands. Dr. Sanders noted a recent survey of personal trainer members from the IDEA organization that reported resistance bands as the second most frequently used piece of equipment by 97% of respondents.
In her article, Dr. Sanders provided a “no excuses” approach to exercise. Workouts at home or in the office can provide flexibility and strength training, eliminating the need for a gym or expensive equipment. Download and read her article here.
REFERENCE : Sanders, M. Muscle up and stretch out! ACSM’s Health and Fitness Journal. 15(2):33-39.
Visit the Thera-Band Elastic Resistance Learning Portal Here
Two exercises you need in every program…
Mar 29th
Mike Reinold, PT, ATC, head athletic trainer of the Boston Red Sox, has a great blog with a lot of helpful hints on exercise and rehabilitation. He’s also a big fan of Thera-Band! His latest post features Thera-Band tubing with handles and band loops for two exercises that should be included in all exercise programs: shoulder and hip external rotation.
