A healthcare system trapped in reaction mode
Our healthcare system is trapped in reaction mode right now. The unhealthy food we eat and less active lifestyles we live have made so many people sick that most of our medical resources are devoted to addressing those issues, rather than planning how to prevent them from happening in the first place.
It is estimated that as much as 80% of all healthcare dollars are spent on treatment of chronic conditions that are preventable. Many chronic diseases and pain episodes that go through the health care system are avoidable with simple actions like regular movement. I believe that movement is at the core of wellness. Our bodies are built for movement and, no matter what state your body is in, you can improve your health by moving more and moving better.
There is so much advice about health and movement, and it is easy to get overwhelmed by the amount of information out there. This column is meant to be a resource for you. On a quarterly basis, I will be answering any questions you may have about movement, restrictions or pain you experience, prevention and wellness, etc. so that you can have a reliable source of information in an easily obtainable format. It is my hope that this column can help you shift your perspective and get you on a path to future wellness now. Let’s get started!
If you can’t stand the idea of working out at the gym.
Sometimes maintaining a “workout routine” may be a big challenge but there are ways to stay healthy without ever going to the gym. Exercise is not necessary to be healthy, activity is. Find something you enjoy doing and do it often. This may be walking your dog, hiking with your kids, skiing or riding your bike. Let your sense of fun be your motivation, rather than the obligation to work out. Remove the word “exercise” from your vocabulary and start thinking about “activities.” If it’s not fun, don’t do it!
Preventing feeling stiff in the morning
Like many of our body structures and systems, our joints degenerate with time. This process is inevitable but we can certainly slow it down! The key is promoting mobility in all our joints by performing regular stretching before and after activity. For many of us the concept of stretching before we move or play a sport is normal, but few people think to stretch after a casual hike, walking the dog, or riding a bike. It may seem unnecessary after basic activities, but regular static stretching, muscle strengthening, and joint mobility will help you feel much better when you wake up each morning.
Don’t stop healthy habits
My grandfather passed away in his early 80s but seemed quite healthy before he stopped walking his dog daily. There is truth to the concept that you die when you stop moving. So much in fact, that research has shown that inactivity is the 4th leading cause of death worldwide! When we stop moving our heart and other vital organs do not get the necessary input they need to function well. Inactivity is also a large contributor to diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and obesity. It has been said that you stop moving when you get older, but – in reality – you get older when you stop moving!
Dr. Chris Leck is a licensed physical therapist holding advanced certifications that accompany his 12 years of clinical experience. In addition to holding a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree, he is a Board Certified Sports Specialist, Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, and CEO of PTA Physical Therapy. Health, wellness, and movement is what Chris knows well. “Dr. Movement” aims to help you move better, feel better, and live longer! Please submit your questions to drmovement@ptflathead.com!