If you or a loved one has ever been in a skilled nursing facility, recreation therapy was probably included in your treatment plan. Recreation therapy is an excellent complementary treatment option to any rehabilitative program for patients with neuromuscular, orthopedic, and neurological diseases such as osteoporosis, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease.
Not only does it provide physical benefits for the patient, it also offers an abundance of psychological benefits as well. Here are three ways that recreation therapy can benefit those recovering from a stroke, neurological diseases, osteoporosis, or a spinal cord injury:
Improves Range-Of-Motion
Therapeutic recreational therapists often develop "warm-up" activity exercises for their patients. Because each patient differs in his or her level of physical endurance, warm-up activities are generally divided in three levels: quiet, challenging, and active. Each activity, however, aims to improve range-of-motion and mobility as tolerated by the patient.
When your range-of-motion improves, you might also notice that your level of pain diminishes as well. Improved range-of-motion also helps improve your circulation, which can promote healing and reduce morning joint stiffness, and your physician may even be able to decrease the dosage of your pain medications.
Encourages Socialization
Being in a skilled nursing facility can sometimes lead to feelings of isolation and sadness in the patient. Since recreation therapy sessions are typically conducted in groups, it encourages socialization among the patients. Engaging in physical activity and being more social helps motivate patients to take a more active role in their recovery, and when patients support each other, they are more likely to work harder to achieve their therapy goals.
Helps Improve Cognitive Function
Many patients suffering from neurological disorders also have cognitive deficits. Activities such as playing bingo, painting, ball activities, chair exercises, and reminiscing help with memory, hand-eye coordination, and motivation, all of which can help enhance cognitive function in those with certain deficits.
While therapeutic recreation may not restore cognitive function completely, it can help improve clarity, reasoning skills, and coordination skills. When reasoning skills and cognitive function becomes more acute, patients may be better equipped to follow directions and their treatment protocols during therapy sessions.
If you or a loved one suffers from a painful condition such as osteoporosis or a neurological disorder such as Parkinson's disease, talk to a recreational therapist about how therapy can help improve your mobility and decrease your pain. While existing bone damage from osteoporosis cannot be reversed, recreational, occupational, and physical therapy may be helpful in slowing the progression of future disease.
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