Chronic diseases are a collection of conditions that include inflammatory, autoimmune, degenerative diseases, and mental health issues, among others. Among the most well-known and prevalent inflammatory diseases are arthritis, bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease, spondyloarthropathy, and juvenile idiopathic arthritis.
The problem with these diseases is the presence in the blood of inflammatory molecules which will cause damage to the tissues and organs of the human body. It’s a bit like fire that will damage the walls of your house if you let it go.
Several scientific statements (New window) have dealt with the anti-inflammatory properties of physical activity and its benefits for people suffering from chronic and inflammatory diseases.
The exercise would allow in particular to decrease the visceral fat, that which accumulates around the organs. In the case of a person suffering from obesity, which is an inflammatory condition, reducing this bad fat will lower the inflammation.
Physical exercise will release molecules into the blood which will fight inflammation and reduce certain pro-inflammatory cells and components in the blood. In summary, exercise, when done in healthy proportions, will tip the scales on the non-inflammatory side.
, underlines Dr. Ouellet.
Physical activity is also recommended for people who have chronic joint problems, such as osteoarthritis or arthritis.
For example, if the inside of the knee, or any other joint, is deteriorating, it is better to strengthen the outside and the muscles around it in order to reduce the stress on the inside by doing so. sending on structures outside which are able to take it
, mentions Jérôme Ouellet.
A statement of principle also advances (New window) that sport would be particularly beneficial for children with chronic illnesses such as juvenile arthritis, hemophilia, asthma or cystic fibrosis.
The evidence clearly shows that, despite the devastating and limiting effects of these diseases, regular physical activity will not only improve the general health of these children, but in addition, we will improve the control of these chronic diseases.
, adds the pediatrician.
In juvenile arthritis, physical activity will improve bone and cartilage health and improve range of motion. The child will also have more energy and less pain.
An asthmatic will develop a better aerobic capacity and we will see a decrease in the hyperreactivity of the bronchi.
For someone with cystic fibrosis, exercise is a very effective form of respiratory physiotherapy, which is the cornerstone of their chronic treatment. In addition, it increases the strength of their respiratory muscles.
, explains the pediatrician.
Elderly couple play sports.
Photo : EvantoElements / ANDOR BUJDOSO
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Numerous studies have shown (New window) that regular physical activity will have a significant impact on people with osteoporosis. Combined with a good intake of calcium and vitamin D, sport will restore the imbalance created by the disease.
The body reacts when it is given some kind of shock. By practicing exercises involving impacts, such as running or jumping, the body will benefit from the vibrations by adapting and creating bone mass that will help fight osteoporosis.
, explains Julie Graham, kinesiologist and owner of Kinik.
Where to start and, above all, how to ensure that you are exercising safely? It is always best to be guided when starting a new workout, and coaching is especially essential for a person with a chronic illness in order to decrease the risk of injury and a worsening of the condition.
The ideal is to have a multidisciplinary team, including a family doctor, a specialist doctor, a nutritionist, an occupational therapist or a physiotherapist and a kinesiologist. You have to be able to adapt to the disease, not the other way around.
Strength training will help maintain the gains so that the person is functional at home. It is also necessary to take into account the periods of crisis in these diseases which are often cyclical
, says Julie Graham.
In the phases when the person is in better shape, we will try to keep a relatively regular rhythm. And even if she then has to slow down, she will be able to maintain her abilities. The goal remains that the person can maintain his autonomy
, she adds.
There is no question here of performance. The idea is above all to prevent the stagnation of these people who often find themselves inactive due to their fatigue and pain. Exercise and movement are really the cornerstone of their recovery process.
Physical activity will not magically make the disease disappear, but it improves quality of life and decreases the intensity of symptoms.
, advises Julie Graham.
Exercise is good for your health, just like drinking water, going to bed early, and eating healthy. For these people suffering from chronic diseases, physical activity will help to manage the pain, to regain autonomy and to free the mind a little.
, adds Dr. Ouellet.
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