Therapeutic exercise is increasingly being incorporated into the comprehensive care of patients with chronic conditions and other health challenges. While its application remains limited outside specific contexts like cardiac rehabilitation, its integration into clinical care represents a promising step toward personalized treatments.
A recent meta-analysis (Niemeijer et al., 2019; Br J Sports Med) evaluated the safety of therapeutic exercise compared to standard care without physical activity. The study analyzed 773 investigations involving over 38,000 patients, examining both serious adverse events (e.g., death, hospitalization, strokes, hip fractures) and non-serious events (e.g., pain, fatigue, bursitis, edema).
Safety of Therapeutic Exercise
The analysis concluded that therapeutic exercise does not increase the risk of serious adverse events compared to not exercising. However, a higher frequency of non-serious adverse effects, such as muscle pain or fatigue, was observed in patients who participated in exercise programs. These effects are typically manageable and do not compromise the overall safety of the intervention.
One in six patients experienced a non-serious adverse event during exercise interventions, underscoring the importance of having trained professionals to manage these events. Proper supervision is essential to ensure safety, maximizing the benefits of therapeutic exercise while minimizing risks.
The Role of Technology in Ensuring Safety
Innovative solutions like TRAK are transforming the practice of therapeutic exercise. With pose estimation technology, TRAK allows patients to receive real-time corrections while performing exercises at home.
Using this tool, a mobile device or laptop with a camera is sufficient to ensure movements are performed correctly. This not only reduces the likelihood of adverse events but also:
- Enhances safety through remote monitoring of exercises.
- Encourages treatment adherence by enabling exercises from the comfort of home.
- Optimizes therapeutic outcomes, improving the management of musculoskeletal conditions, chronic pain, and other health issues.
The Importance of Skilled Professionals and Innovative Technology
The success of therapeutic exercise relies on both the expertise of healthcare professionals and the tools they use. With solutions like TRAK, patients not only receive expert guidance but also benefit from technologies that enhance the safety and effectiveness of their treatment.
By integrating innovative technologies and personalized strategies, therapeutic exercise can become a safe, accessible, and effective intervention for managing a wide range of conditions, ultimately promoting a better quality of life for patients.
To learn more about how TRAK implements therapeutic exercise safely and effectively, visit TRAK Physio and discover how to transform personal care and quality of life from the comfort of your home.