Research and News
Research Updates
Stroke survivors benefit from exercise
Jan 13th
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Survivors of cerebrovascular accidents (also known as ‘strokes’) are often left with residual weakness and disability. Exercise training after stroke is gaining acceptance as a standard of care as more research supports its safety and efficacy. This pattern resembles what we observed after cardiac rehabilitation became popular following heart attacks: exercise is an essential part of recovery.
British researchers wanted to determine if a fall prevention program using Thera-Band® resistance products (Dyer et al. 2004) would be beneficial for stroke survivors as well. 243 stroke survivors (at least 3 months post stroke) were randomized into either a standard care control group or an 8-week, twice weekly group program including exercise and education. The exercises consisted of functional activities and resistance training using weights and Thera-Band resistance bands. The participants in the exercise group significantly increased their quality of life to a greater extent than the control group; this difference was maintained one year after the program as well. Thera-Band resistance bands can be safely used as part of a well-rounded exercise program for stroke survivors.
REFERENCE: Harrington R, Taylor G, Hollinghurst S, Reed M, More >
Exercises for stroke survivors improve strength and function
Jan 7th
Cerebrovascular accidents (CVA) often lead to disability and sometimes death due to lack of oxygen to different parts of the brain. These are also known more commonly as a “stroke,” and can cause weakness of the trunk and extremities, usually on the side opposite the brain damage. For example, a stroke affecting the left side of the brain will result in weakness to the right arm and leg.
Historically, resistance exercise was rarely used in stroke patients for fear of increasing muscle spasticity. Instead, rehabilitation focused on assisting with functional tasks and maintaining muscle range of motion. With the advances in stroke recognition and treatment, and the subsequent increase in those surviving a stroke, stroke survivors (estimated at 6 million survivors) are often left with residual weakness and functional disability. Therefore, strength training is now recommended for ambulatory stroke survivors.
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Thera-Band Exercise Station Study Now Available
Dec 24th
Several months ago, I wrote an entry about a study on the Thera-Band® Exercise Station by Dr. Juan Colado from University of Valencia in Spain, titled, Young women can gain as much strength using the Thera-Band® Exercise Station as training with free weights.
At the time, the article was only published on-line; it’s now available in print in the November issue of the International Journal of Sports Medicine. I wanted to share the exercise protocol with you in the spirit of ‘translating research into practice.’ Download the Thera-Band Exercise Station exercise program here.
REFERENCE: Colado JC, et al. A comparison of elastic tubing and isotonic resistance exercises. Int J Sports Med. 2010 Nov;31(11):810-7.
Visit the Thera-Band Academy Exercise Station Resource Center Here
Thera-Band® exercises improve posture and strength in women with excessive kyphosis
Dec 22nd
NOTE: In the Academy Blog, I like to report on the most current research; however, I periodically come across references from years ago that are significant contributions to practice; and thus, “blog-worthy.” I’ve come across a few of these recently, so you might see a couple of ‘older’ references…but I’m sure it will be valuable information! Today’s blog is from Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation in 2007.
Thoracic kyphosis is a postural deformity characterized by an excessive curvature of the upper back (thoracic spine). This kyphosis is characteristic of osteoporosis and is commonly seen in older females. A recent study featured in the Academy blog showed that exercises utilizing Thera-Band products can help improve kyphotic posture.
A study conducted by researchers at the University of California in San Francisco supported that finding. In their research, they targeted females over 65 years old with increased kyphosis over 50 degrees. The women participated in a twice-a-week group exercise program for 12 weeks led by a physical therapist. Download the Thoracic Kyphosis Exercise Protcol here. The exercises included Thera-Band resistance band exercises, a stretch strap, ankle and wrist cuff weights, and a foam roll. The resistance band exercises were similar to those recommended by Sara Meeks More >
Can exercise improve scapular posture?
Dec 21st
Scapular position plays an important role in posture and movement, and is often thought to have a role in shoulder pain. A paper published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research reviewed the literature on determining scapular position, strength and flexibility. Exercise studies on improving scapular position were reviewed as well. The author of the review reported on 3 prospective intervention studies, 2 of which incorporated elastic resistance training and shoulder stretches. While 2 of the studies found improvements in scapular position, all studies had validity and reliability limitations. Thera-Band resistance products may help improve scapular position, but likely should be coupled with pectoralis minor stretching. More research is needed to establish the effectiveness of exercise programs for scapular position.
REFERENCE: Hrysomallis C. Effectiveness of strengthening and stretching exercises for the postural correction of abducted scapulae: a review. J Strength Cond Res. 2010 Feb;24(2):567-74.
