In 2007 the Australian Physiotherapy Association commissioned a significant study of published scientific reviews to find out according to the research just how much therapeutic exercise can help which people. It found:

•    Exercise prescribed by a physiotherapist could reduce pain and improve activity and reduce sick leave in people with sub-acute and chronic low back pain

•    Therapeutic exercise could reduce pain and improve activity levels in people with arthritis and shoulder pain.

•    Aerobic and strength training exercise performed for more than a year was effective on slowing bone density loss in the spine of postmenopausal women.

•    Exercise prescribed by a physiotherapist was effective in improving the exercise capacity and lessening symptoms of shortness of breath in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

•    Exercise programs may help headache pain and intensity, as well as acute whiplash

•    Quadriceps exercise can reduce knee pain and can improve activity in people with patellofemoral pain syndrome

•    Balance training in the first few days after ankle sprain can help reduce pain and swelling and might mean a faster return to work and reduced rates of re-injury.

•    For those with multiple sclerosis exercise improved muscle performance and mobility, walking cadence and balance

So there you have it! The research shows just how good the appropriate exercise may help with your problem or injury.

As physios we are skilled at prescribing exercise for many different types of problems.

If you are unsure call us at Clovelly Road Physiotherapy and ask us how we can help your specific concern.