February is American Heart Month, a time to raise awareness about cardiovascular health and encourage heart-friendly habits. While diet and regular exercise are often highlighted, physical therapy also plays a significant role in promoting heart health. Whether you’re recovering from a cardiac event or looking to boost overall wellness, physical therapy can support your cardiovascular system in ways you might not expect.
How Physical Therapy Supports Heart Health
- Improves Circulation
Physical therapy involves targeted exercises that increase blood flow throughout the body. Improved circulation reduces strain on the heart and lowers the risk of conditions like high blood pressure and vascular disease.
- Strengthens the Heart Muscle
Aerobic and resistance exercises prescribed by a physical therapist help strengthen your heart, enabling it to pump blood more efficiently. Stronger heart muscles mean better stamina, reduced fatigue, and improved overall health.
- Aids in Recovery from Cardiac Events
For individuals recovering from heart surgery, a heart attack, or other cardiac events, physical therapy is often part of cardiac rehabilitation. Therapists create safe, customized exercise programs that help rebuild strength, improve mobility, and restore confidence in physical activity.
- Reduces Risk of Chronic Conditions
Physical activity prescribed by a therapist can help prevent or manage chronic conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and hypertension, which are major risk factors for heart disease. By addressing these underlying issues, physical therapy contributes to long-term heart health.
- Teaches Proper Breathing Techniques
Breathing exercises guided by a physical therapist improve oxygen delivery throughout the body, reducing stress on the heart. These techniques are especially beneficial for individuals with conditions like COPD or asthma, which can affect cardiovascular function.
Heart-Healthy Exercises in Physical Therapy
Your physical therapist may include a variety of heart-healthy exercises in your treatment plan, such as:
- Walking or Cycling: Gentle cardio exercises to improve endurance and heart function.
- Strength Training: Targeted resistance exercises to enhance overall strength without overloading the heart.
- Stretching and Mobility Work: Reducing stiffness and improving posture can alleviate strain on the cardiovascular system.
Physical therapy is more than a tool for injury recovery; it’s also a powerful ally in maintaining a healthy heart. Whether you’re managing a chronic condition, recovering from a cardiac event, or simply looking to boost your cardiovascular fitness, our physical therapists can design a plan that meets your needs.
This Heart Month, take steps to show your heart some love by exploring how physical therapy can improve your health and quality of life. Contact us today to get started!