Introduction:
Recovery of critically ill patients admitted to the intensive care unit for severe illness or major surgical procedures is a complex process that includes psychological, functional, and physical rehabilitation techniques. A very important aspect of the recovery process in patients admitted to the critical care unit is the role of exercise. Exercise and physical activity give various benefits for patients to recover from the critical care units. It helps in improving psychological well-being and physical function and gives a decreased risk of complications. Incorporating exercise in the recovery process in patients admitted to critical care can help in improving muscle strength and function, cardiorespiratory fitness, pulmonary function, psychological well-being, bone health, and cognitive function.
What Is the Influence of Exercise on Muscle Recovery and Rehabilitation?
Rehabilitation and muscular recovery are very important in restoring the functions of the muscle and improving the overall physical well-being after surgery or injury. With the help of exercise, the healing process of the tissue can be improved by decreasing inflammation and improving the flexibility and strength of the muscle, thereby preventing further damage.
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Proper rest is needed for the recovery of the muscle. It will help in repairing the damaged tissues present in the body. Adequate sleep, along with proper rest, helps in improving the healing process.
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A proper diet is needed for the recovery of muscle. Protein helps in improving the repair of the tissues and helps in promoting muscle growth. Consumption of nutrient-rich food gives essential minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants, which help in improving the healing process and decrease inflammation.
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Physical therapy helps in improving strength, flexibility, motion, and proprioception and reduces the risk of re-injury.
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Range of motion exercises and gentle stretching exercise help in reducing the stiffness of the muscle and improve flexibility. It helps in improving blood flow, tissue healing, and reducing scar tissue formation.
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Progressive resistance training helps in rebuilding the strength of the muscles, thereby giving endurance and power. This is done by gradually increasing the resistance and load on the muscle. Some of the progressive resistance training exercises include resistance band training, body weight exercise, or weight lifting.
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The application of cold or heat to the muscles helps in improving the recovery process. Massaging techniques like trigger point therapy, deep tissue massage, and myofascial release can help in the relaxation of the muscles and improve the blood flow through the muscles, which helps in decreasing the muscle tension. Gradual returning to normal activities or sports under professional guidance help in reducing the risk of re-injury.
What Is the Influence of Exercise on Cardiovascular Rehabilitation?
Cardiovascular rehabilitation helps in improving the health and overall well-being of the cardiovascular system in patients who have underground surgeries or cardiac procedures. It includes multidisciplinary approaches like education, counseling, exercise, training, and management of the risk factor. Exercise and physical activity are important in the rehabilitation of the cardiovascular system. It includes aerobic exercise like cycling, swimming, or walking. Strength training exercises help in increasing muscular strength, cardiovascular endurance, and overall fitness. Cardiovascular rehabilitation helps in reducing the risk factors associated with heart disease. Along with exercises, a healthy diet, management of stress, achieving a healthy body weight, and avoiding smoking are needed. Controlling and monitoring the cholesterol level, blood sugar level and blood pressure are important.
What Is the Influence of Exercise on Respiratory Rehabilitation?
Respiratory or pulmonary rehabilitation helps in increasing the function of the respiratory system by reducing the various symptoms and improving the overall health of patients having chronic respiratory conditions. It includes a multi-disciplinary approach like breathing techniques, psychosocial support, education, and exercise training, which help improve lung function by improving lung capacity. Exercise and physical activity help in improving the capacity of the lungs. It includes aerobic exercises, breathing exercises, and various strength training programs which help in improving the endurance, strength, and overall fitness of the respiratory muscle. Breathing techniques like diaphragmatic breathing and deep breathing exercise can help in optimizing the breathing pattern and thereby decreasing the shortness of breath.
What Is the Influence of Exercise on Psychological Well-Being and Mental Health?
Psychological well-being and mental health play a major role in determining the quality of life. It includes psychological and emotional balance by reducing anxiety, stress, and depression and maintaining a positive and healthy relationship. Patients admitted to the critical care unit have stressful situations. Exercise and physical activities help in improving the mental health of the patients by reducing the symptoms of stress and depression. With the help of physical activities and exercise, endorphins are released, which help in enhancing the mood and overall well-being.
What Is the Influence of Exercise on Bone Health and Osteoporosis Prevention?
Bone health is important in maintaining the mobility and overall well-being of the patient. It helps in preventing osteoporosis which is characterized by lower density of the bone and high susceptibility to fractures. Calcium vitamin D, a balanced diet, and regular exercise can help in preventing osteoporosis. Prolonged mobilization or extended bed rest during critical illness can result in bone loss and a high chance of fractures. Some weight-bearing exercises like resistance training or walking can help in improving the mineral density of the bone and can have a decreased risk of developing osteoporosis.
What Is the Role of Exercise in Cognitive Rehabilitation?
Cognitive rehabilitation helps in improving cognitive functions by addressing the deficits and helps in improving the overall cognitive skills of patients having cognitive impairment. It is used during the rehabilitation of patients having neurodegenerative disease, acquired brain injury, stroke, and various other neurological conditions. Various critical illnesses and staying in the intensive care unit can sometimes cause cognitive impairment like difficulty in concentration and various memory problems. Exercise helps in improving cognitive function and helps in improving memory, concentration, attention, etc.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, exercise is considered to be an important aspect of the recovery process in patients admitted to the critical care unit. It gives various benefits and advantages, like improving psychological well-being, physical functions, and decreasing complications. Incorporating physical exercise during the rehabilitation process in patients can help in enhancing the recovery journey and also help in improving the overall quality of life.
