DDOORN
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Requesting Help For The VERY IMMOBILE

Monday, August 27, 2007

Hello All!

I am asking for assistance, suggestions that anyone might have for a person I know who is morbidly obese with extreme osteoarthritis. She is looking to start increasing her activity level but is so VERY limited in her range of motion that I am truly stumped as to what to recommend to her. The only cardio I can think of would be water-aerobics, however funds for access to a handicapped accessible swimming pool just aren't there. So it seems like strength-building would be the place to start. However I cannot think of anything to recommend.

Any suggestions out there? All ideas, recommendations would be greatly appreciated!

D
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  • SENARA
    Sorry I haven't peeked in sooner, but here are some suggestions.
    Most of it will have to be weight training some stretching if range of motion allows.

    1. There is a table top version of bike pedals and can be typically found in some of the med supply/accessory catalogs. Very usefull little machine. Can set it on a table and work out the arms, or on the floor in front of a chair and pedal like a normal bike.

    2. Resistance bands. A must have. Might even get them free if one makes an appointment with a PT and gets a exercise program from them.

    3. Spotted stretches. Just to bend side/side, forward/back in a seated position with someone to keep an eye that one doesn't tip out of the chair. Good for keeping the spine strong and getting a bit of a core workout.

    Any good place to start though is meeting with a Physical Therapist and they will be able to develop a movement program best suited.
    4884 days ago
  • SHIELDMAIDEN96
    Here's what I had in mind:
    http://www.createspace.com
    /Store/ShowEStore.jsp?id=209583
    4901 days ago
  • SHIELDMAIDEN96
    I have heard of exercise tapes that are essentially chair aerobics; things someone like your friend can do while seated. Small hand weights and resistance bands might be helpful too. It may not seem like much but it will make a difference!
    4901 days ago

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