Exercise for Health Conditions

Life with chronic pain, diseases, and other medical problems can be a real challenge, but exercise for health conditions can make many conditions more manageable. When well-chosen and medically supervised, exercise can greatly improve your quality of life by elevating mood, boosting energy, decreasing pain, and improving mobility.

Before Beginning Exercise for Health Conditions

It is important that you check with your physician before you begin any exercise program, especially if you have a disease or medical condition. Only your doctor really knows the extent of your problem. After your doctor has reviewed your overall health and given you the medical go ahead, then you are ready to start researching the proper workout for your particular circumstances.

Some Conditions Improved By Exercise

Although each patient is different and results vary depending on age, overall health, and severity of the problem, many people find relief of symptoms-- though not always a cure-- of the following through exercise:

• Bulging discs
• Thyroid disease
• Menopause
• Carpal tunnel
• Back problems
• Diabetes
• Sciatic nerve pain
• Multiple sclerosis
• Alzheimer's
• Heart disease
• Hypertension
• Crohn's disease

Please note that the exercises recommended vary by condition. Don't start just any exercise program; select a program that is designed specifically for those with your health concerns. An ill-chosen workout regime may actually worsen your symptoms.

Exercise for Mood Disorders

In addition to physical disorders, emotional and mental issues can often be improved by exercise as well. Exercise releases endorphins and serotonin, the body's natural feel good neurotransmitters, which naturally improve mood and mental clarity.