It is hard to believe it is that time of year when parents and students are preparing to return to school. Many will leave home for the first time as college freshmen. Over the past month I have received several requests for a copy of my three part series of columns on health tips for college students. In view of this, I thought other parents preparing to send a child off to college this fall might also find this information valuable.
To fully appreciate the importance of this topic, one must keep in mind that living in a large community and sharing close quarters is the first ingredient in the development and spread of disease. College life can be very unhealthy for many reasons. Lack of sleep, poor eating habits and stress add spice to the recipe for disease. Lastly, poor hygiene added to the equation, will really get the Petri dish cooking up some nasty germs.
These are caused by viruses. While both are similar flu symptoms are typically more severe.
Cold Symptoms: coughing, sneezing, watery eyes, mild fevers
Flu Symptoms: high fever (above 102 degrees), body aches, dry cough, upset stomach or vomiting
Covid-19 Symptoms: can appear 2-14 days after exposure and can vary from mild to severe; fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea
Cold & Flu Treatment: rest, plenty of fluids, and treat symptoms. Consult your physician or college health services for the best medicines to control your symptoms. Caution should be used when taking excessive flu meds containing aspirin because an increase in complications (Reye Syndrome) are associated with the flu in college students.
Covid-19 Treatment: get tested and isolate if positive. Contact the college health services to discuss isolation and treatment protocols. If you have mild to moderate symptoms an antiviral may be recommended. Otherwise, over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be adequate with rest and fluids
Prevention: While it is not possible to prevent getting a cold or flu, you can take precautions, such as washing your hands and getting a flu shot. Get full vaccinated for Covid-19. And, depending on school protocols and infection rates, MASK UP!
Symptoms: very sore throat, pain in the ears or sinuses, persistent fever
Treatment: These symptoms require a visit to the college health services department. You may need to take antibiotics. If so, take as directed and take all of them or you may have a relapse.
Prevention: Avoid close contact with infected people – no kissing, sharing drinks or eating utensils. Wash your hands, get plenty of rest.
Meningitis is a common form of this disease that can infect the brain, spinal cord and/or blood
Symptoms: high fever, stiff neck, severe headache, a flat, pink or purple rash, nausea and vomiting, as well as sensitivity to light
Treatment: Immediate medical treatment is required. This disease is serious it can be fatal or cause permanent brain damage.
Prevention: It is strongly recommended that all teens, especially incoming freshman college students, receive a vaccine to prevent the infection of most, but not all, strains of bacteria that cause this disease.
Mono is caused by a virus and is also known as the “kissing disease.” It is very common among college students.
Symptoms: fever, sore throat, headache, swollen lymph nodes (glands) in the neck, extreme fatigue.
Treatment: If a sore throat or flu symptoms do not resolve in 7- 10 days, see your doctor for a blood test called the “monospot.” While there is nonspecific treatment, plenty of rest and a healthy diet are essential. Medication to control symptoms can also be used.
Prevention: Plenty of rest, healthy diet, good hygiene
These are very common in healthy, active college students and are rarely serious.
Symptoms: Bruises: a bump or bruise can cause the skin to turn purple, brown or red in color. Strains: are injuries to muscles or tendons from overuse or sudden overstretching. Sprains: are injuries to the ligaments which connect the bones. It can be caused by a twist or fall or awkward sudden movement.
Treatment: RICE: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation
If the pain or swelling is not improved in 1-2 days, or if you cannot bear weight on the extremity, visit the college health services dept.
Prevention: While it is important to be physically active, one must do so intelligently:
NEXT MONDAY – Read Dr. Paul J. Mackarey “Health & Exercise Forum!” Next Week: “Health Tips for College Students – Part II”
This article is not intended as a substitute for medical treatment. If you have questions related to your medical condition, please contact your family physician. For further inquires related to this topic email: drpmackarey@msn.com
Paul J. Mackarey PT, DHSc, OCS is a Doctor in Health Sciences specializing in orthopaedic and sports physical therapy. Dr. Mackarey is in private practice and is an associate professor of clinical medicine at GCSOM.
For all of Dr. Mackarey articles visit: www.mackareyphysicaltherapy.com/forum
It is two months away from the 25th Steamtown Marathon. This column is dedicated to those dedicated runners preparing for the big day, Sunday, October 9, 2022.
Congratulations and thank you to Bill King, founder and race director, and his band of brothers, for their tireless efforts organizing and sustaining a great race that instills pride for all people of NEPA. It has inspired many people, including me, to transfer the discipline and determination required to complete a marathon by overcoming challenges one mile at a time.
Now, a little marathon history: In 490 B.C. Phedippides, ran 25 miles from Marathon to Athens to deliver an important military message and died immediately. Ironically, the first marathon of the modern Olympic Games in 1896 in Athens was won by Spiridon Louis, a humble Greek peasant, who stopped along the way for a glass of wine and told the owner of the tavern that he would win the race. He was determined to pace himself properly, as he knew the dusty, hilly path better than anyone in the field. He was greeted with jubilation and become a hero and legend.
Visit your doctor regularly and listen to your body.
NEXT MONDAY – Read Dr. Paul J. Mackarey “Health & Exercise Forum!”
This article is not intended as a substitute for medical treatment. If you have questions related to your medical condition, please contact your family physician. For further inquires related to this topic email: drpmackarey@msn.com
For all of Dr. Mackarey's articles visit: www.mackareyphysicaltherapy.com/forum
Paul J. Mackarey PT, DHSc, OCS is a Doctor in Health Sciences specializing in orthopaedic and sports physical therapy. Dr. Mackarey is in private practice and is an associate professor of clinical medicine at GCSOM.
I have a vested interest in this column…I just had a big birthday! It is a BIG birthday because it is the one before I get health care insurance from Uncle Sam! Consequently, the “aging process” is very much on my mind!
In the book, “Being Mortal,” Atul Gawande discusses the role of medical care placing emphasis on “well-being” rather than survival, especially as it relates to end-of-life care. It is a “must read” for health care providers as well as the general public. The book also describes, in great detail, the process of aging; the physiology of bone and muscle mass loss, factors affecting balance and coordination, changes in mental acuity, memory, and mood. As depressing as it sounds (many of the changes begin as early as mid to late thirties), it is also a “call to arms!”
To prepare for the inevitable aging process one must be proactive, not reactive. From an early age, challenge yourself mentally by taking classes and learning things for which you may not have an interest. Try new physical activities and sports even if you feel unable to excel. Find balance in your diet by trying to eat fruits and vegetables that you don’t find appealing. Engage in daily exercise and physical activities even if you would rather be indoors playing video games. Lastly, get professional advice on matters beyond your scope. See your physician regularly for routine care and diagnostic tests, find a mental health professional if you are not at peace, consult with a physical therapist to help you design an exercise routine appropriate for your individual needs.
While it is never too late, remember, slowing down the aging process should not begin at 60, it begins at 30!
Minor word or memory loss is a normal part of aging as the brain changes and affects how you remember things. Don’t hesitate to use technology or other tricks to assist you. For example, consider using alerts, reminders and lists on your smart phone. Also, you may want to organize certain items in a set location, use post it notes or a white board. However, these reminders are not a substitute for keeping your mind sharp. Studies show that being social, exercising regularly, eating well and learning a new skill can go a long way to maintain a healthy brain.
According to several studies on aging, unfortunately, most people gain 1-2 pounds per year (10 to 20 pounds over 10 years). The aging body does not burn calories like you used to. But there are some simple steps you can implement to offset this pattern of weight gain. Obviously, eat less (less calories) and exercise more (stimulate your metabolism). Consider fruits, vegetables, and leaner protein instead of foods high in sugar/carbs and saturated fats and don’t forget portion control. Be active and take the stairs instead of the elevator.
Aging can also affect sexual performance. According to the Mayo Clinic, lower testosterone levels in men can lead to erectile dysfunction and hormonal changes in women can cause vaginal dryness. Stiff and painful joints add to the challenge. However, with a little effort, most healthy people can continue to be sexually active well into their 70’s and 80’s. Communication with your partner is important. Try new positions. Discuss hormone supplements and ED medications with your doctor. Try over-the-counter lubricants. Remember, exercise improves blood flow and stimulates sex hormones!
Like the other muscles in your body, pelvic and bladder muscles also weaken with age. This problem can be worsened for men by an enlarged prostate and for women following multiple births. However, the muscles can be strengthened by performing specific exercises that target the area called Kegel exercises. These exercises involve squeezing the muscles that control urine flow. For example, while urinating try to stop midstream and hold your urine flow for a few seconds. Repeat 10 times and do this 3-5 times a day. Other recommendations include eating foods high in fiber, avoiding carbonated drinks and limiting caffeine.
People often fall into a rigid routine with age. While this predictable pattern often provides comfort, it can also lead to boredom. Try changing your routine or schedule. Learn a new skill (baking, painting, golf) or visit a new place (museums, libraries, community centers). Getting a part-time job or volunteering can be rewarding and stimulating.
There are a number of reasons for one to feel lonely with age…children relocate, loss of a spouse, divorce. Experts say that it is important to take control by initiating contact with others. Call upon neighbors, friends, relatives, and former coworkers to chat or get together. Volunteer for a charity; join a book club or fitness group. Take classes at a local college and consider getting a pet.
Most health problems associated with aging can be treated. Regular checkups and routine diagnostic tests (blood work, colonoscopy, cardiac tests) will assure that health issues do not get out of control. Be sure to organize your medications and take them as directed. Keep a health journal or use and app on your phone to list meds, allergies and record tests and doctor visits.
SOURCES: National Institutes of Health; Mayo Clinic, WebMD
NEXT MONDAY – Read Dr. Paul J. Mackarey “Health & Exercise Forum!” This article is not intended as a substitute for medical treatment. If you have questions related to your medical condition, please contact your family physician.
For further inquires related to this topic email: drpmackarey@msn.com
For all of Dr. Mackarey's articles visit: www.mackareyphysicaltherapy.com/forum
Paul J. Mackarey PT, DHSc, OCS is a Doctor in Health Sciences specializing in orthopaedic and sports physical therapy. Dr. Mackarey is in private practice and is an associate professor of clinical medicine at GCSOM.
I have a vested interest in this column…I just had a big birthday! It is a BIG birthday because it is the one before I get health care insurance from Uncle Sam! Consequently, the “aging process” is very much on my mind!
In the book, “Being Mortal,” Atul Gawande discusses the role of medical care placing emphasis on “well-being” rather than survival, especially as it relates to end-of-life care. It is a “must read” for health care providers as well as the general public. The book also describes, in great detail, the process of aging; the physiology of bone and muscle mass loss, factors affecting balance and coordination, changes in mental acuity, memory, and mood. As depressing as it sounds (many of the changes begin as early as mid to late thirties), it is also a “call to arms!”
To prepare for the inevitable aging process one must be proactive, not reactive. From an early age, challenge yourself mentally by taking classes and learning things for which you may not have an interest. Try new physical activities and sports even if you feel unable to excel. Find balance in your diet by trying to eat fruits and vegetables that you don’t find appealing. Engage in daily exercise and physical activities even if you would rather be indoors playing video games. Lastly, get professional advice on matters beyond your scope. See your physician regularly for routine care and diagnostic tests, find a mental health professional if you are not at peace, consult with a physical therapist to help you design an exercise routine appropriate for your individual needs.
While it is never too late, remember, slowing down the aging process should not begin at 60, it begins at 30!
While aching joints are expected with age, inactivity is not the cure. Controlled movement, exercise and sport modification, supportive devices, and non-prescription supplements and medicines can go a long way.
Controlled movement may include lifting lighter weights or doing squats at ½ or ¾ through your available range of motion. Sport modification includes playing pickle ball instead of tennis or brisk walking or biking instead of running. Supportive devices can be wrist or knee supports or enlarging your racket or golf club grips to lessen the impact on your hands. Over-the-counter treatments include; hot and cold packs, paraffin wax, topical ointments or medications, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). When all else fails, see a physical therapist for professional advice and treatment and discuss other more aggressive options with your family physician.
Unfortunately, your skin also suffers from the aging process by getting thinner, drier, and less elastic. Avoid the things that can make them worse such as; smoking and ultraviolet rays from the sun or a tanning bed. Protect your skin from the sun, and if you smoke, quit. Consider skin products like moisturizers or prescription retinoids that might make wrinkles less noticeable over time. However, if it is really an issue for you, see a dermatologist.
Aging also makes your skin more vulnerable to drying but there are some things you can do. Use sun screen and wear sun resistant clothing and quitting smoking will go a long way. Drink alcohol in moderation because it can dehydrate you. Also, keep showers or baths to less than 10 minutes and use warm water instead of hot followed by applying oil-based moisturizer.
Loss of strength and endurance is common in seniors. The loss of bone density in women (and men) is also expected. The aging process is only partially responsible. Lack of exercise and activity can also contribute to the problem. Make time to exercise daily (or every other day). Weight training for your arms and legs can be easily performed using light to medium dumbbells or resistance bands. Aerobic exercise can include biking, walking, or swimming, gardening, or swimming for at least 30 minutes a day (or 15-minutes twice a day).
The loss of balance and coordination with age is a serious matter because it can lead to falls that impact long term health and independence. Studies show that those who continue to challenge themselves by riding a bike, dancing, or engage in traditional exercise are much less likely to suffer from early balance problems and are less likely to fall…so get to it! If you can’t do these activities safely, try holding onto your countertop and walk forwards, backwards and sideways, preferably when someone is home with you. See your doctor to be sure that you don’t have a medical condition or taking a medication that contributes to this problem.
Sleep problems are part of aging in many ways; difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, lack of deep sleep, waking up and not being able to return to sleep, etc. Sleep deprivation can have a negative impact on physical and mental performance. There are some things you can do to improve your sleep such as avoiding coffee and alcohol. Also, try to avoid napping during the day. Talk to your doctor to keep problems that can impact sleeping like high blood pressure or GERD, under control and ask about melatonin supplements.
SOURCES: National Institutes of Health; Mayo Clinic, WebMD
NEXT MONDAY – Read Dr. Paul J. Mackarey “Health & Exercise Forum!” Next Week: Part 2 of 2 on Slowing the Aging Process. This article is not intended as a substitute for medical treatment. If you have questions related to your medical condition, please contact your family physician.
For further inquires related to this topic email: drpmackarey@msn.com
For all of Dr. Mackarey's articles visit: http://www.mackareyphysicaltherapy.com/forum
Paul J. Mackarey PT, DHSc, OCS is a Doctor in Health Sciences specializing in orthopaedic and sports physical therapy. Dr. Mackarey is in private practice and is an associate professor of clinical medicine at GCSOM.
Like many of you, I have always enjoyed the outdoors...walking, running, biking, hiking etc. However, recently, I have been more concerned about my safety, (getting older and more cautious) when doing these activities on the side of the road.
Almost 15 percent of all motor vehicle injuries to people happened to those not in cars but while walking, running or hiking. In fact, over 4,000 walkers or runners were fatally hit by a motor vehicle according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). These statistics continue to increase as the number of distractions to drivers increases (phone calls, texts, etc). Consequently, walkers, runners and cyclists must be more aware than ever to prevent injury from motor vehicles.
Source: http://www.runnersworld.com
Visit your doctor regularly and listen to your body.
NEXT MONDAY – Read Dr. Paul J. Mackarey “Health & Exercise Forum!”
This article is not intended as a substitute for medical treatment. If you have questions related to your medical condition, please contact your family physician.
For further inquires related to this topic email: drpmackarey@msn.com
For all of Dr. Mackarey's articles visit: http://mackareyphysicaltherapy.com/form
Since 1949 May has been designated as National Mental Health Month for the purpose of eliminating the stigma associated with mental illness by raising awareness. One of the most common mental health conditions is depression. New research from Boston University School of Public Health has found that depression has been increasing in the United States and life with COVID for more than two years has accelerated it rapidly. In 2021 the number of people suffering from depression increased more than 32 percent, affecting 1 in every 3 American adults. However, research also has good news to offer: one of the most understated benefits of exercise is mental health! Specifically, aerobic exercise (exercise that increases your heart rate for 30 minutes or more) such as walking, biking, running, swimming, hiking, elliptical & stepper machines to name a few, is the secret to “runner’s high.” This exercise euphoria is not limited to runners alone, but all who engage in aerobic exercise are more likely to experience high energy, positive attitude, and mental wellness.
Physical activity, specifically aerobic exercise, is a scientifically proven useful tool for preventing and easing depression symptoms. Studies in the British Journal of Medicine and the Journal of Exercise and Sports Science found that depression scores were significantly reduced in groups that engaged in aerobic running, jogging or walking programs, 30-45 minutes 3-5 days per week for 10-12 weeks when compared to a control group and a psychotherapy counseling group.
Depression is the most common mental disorder and is twice as common among women as in men. Symptoms include: fatigue, sleeplessness, decreased appetite, decreased sexual interest, weight change, and constipation. Many of these symptoms are likely to bring an individual to their family physician.
According to research, exercise reduces depression in two ways, psychologically (mentally) and physiological (physically).
Psychological or Mental Benefits of Exercise on Depression:
Physiological or Physical Benefits of Exercise on Depression:
Work hard to recognize and overcome these symptoms to begin an exercise program. An aerobic exercise routine should eventually lessen these symptoms.
Despite a recent surge in Covid cases from the new variant, more than 70 percent of Americans anticipate high levels of enthusiasm for travel this summer. Moreover, travel abroad in 2022 is expected to exceed pre-pandemic levels, as isolation weary Americans take to the air!
Confession; I recently was on a long trip that required sitting on an airplane for more than six hours…and I wore compression stockings … guess I’m getting older (and wiser)!
Have you noticed that being in a car or on an airplane for more than three hours leads to neck and back pain? Soreness, stiffness and swelling in your legs? With a little planning preventing or limiting these problems on long trips, is possible. Also, as people age and/or develop other health problems, they are more vulnerable to develop a more serious problem associated with long trips; deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or blood clots. But problems from long-distance travel can be avoided. The following tips, based research and personal experience, can prevent neck, back and leg pain and stiffness and DVT.
A DVT is a blood clot that forms in a deep vein. The deep veins pass through the muscles and cannot be seen like the veins just under your skin. While it may occur in your arms, it is much more common in the legs, especially the calf muscle when traveling. When a blood clot forms in a leg vein it usually sticks to the vein wall. Often, pain and swelling lead you to the doctor and treatment is rendered before serious complications develop. However, there are two possible complications. One, a pulmonary embolus, occurs when a part of the clot logged in your deep vein of the calf breaks off and gets lodged in the lung. This is a very serious problem that can be fatal. Two, post-thrombotic syndrome, occurs when you have pain and swelling in the calf after a DVT.
The following risk factors for DVT significantly increase the potential for problems when traveling on long trips by air more than 5 hours. Trains, cars and buses also create a risk, but air travel creates a greater risk for the following reasons: reduced cabin pressure, reduced cabin oxygen levels, dehydration and alcoholic drinks, which may increase dehydration and immobility.
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Airplane seats are “C” shaped and force you to round your neck and back forwards. These exercises are designed to stretch and extend your back in the opposite direction. Please perform slowly, hold for 3-5 seconds and repeat 10 times each hour.
When sitting in an airplane seat, take the neck pillow in the overhead compartment and place it in the small of your lower back. While sitting or standing up, perform postural exercises every 30-45 minutes.
NEXT MONDAY – Read Dr. Paul J. Mackarey “Health & Exercise Forum!”
This article is not intended as a substitute for medical treatment. If you have questions related to your medical condition, please contact your family physician. For further inquires related to this topic email: drpmackarey@msn.com
Paul J. Mackarey PT, DHSc, OCS is a Doctor in Health Sciences specializing in orthopaedic and sports physical therapy. Dr. Mackarey is in private practice and is an associate professor of clinical medicine at GCSOM.
May is National Bike Month! In fact, Saturday, May 7, 2022 Lackawanna Heritage Valley’s Heritage Explorer Bike Tour is returning in person for the first time since 2019. For those who have a bike, now might be a good time to dust it off and enjoy the many beautiful and well-maintained trails that are available at the Countryside Conservancy at Lackawanna State Park, other locations in the Abingtons or the Lackawanna Heritage Valley Authority. For those who don’t have a bike, it might be a good time to get one!
There are many obvious reasons to bike…cardiovascular fitness, burn calories, improve leg strength and others. But, the real question is, “what are the advantages of biking over other forms of exercise?” Glad you asked…
Prevention is the best management of musculoskeletal problems associated with biking. First, many of the problems associated with biking such as knee pain, buttock soreness, and tendonitis can be prevented through proper fitting. Furthermore, it is important that your equipment be in good working order such as tires, chain, brakes and pedals. Next, be sure to maintain a fairly good fitness level in order to bike safely. If you are a beginner, start slowly. Warm up and slowly bike for 10 to 15 minutes and build up over time. Practice the coordination of stopping, starting, shifting and braking. Work on good strength and flexibility of the hamstrings, quadriceps, calves and gluteal muscles. All of these muscles are necessary to generate pedal force. Balance is also important to safety and can be practiced on and off the bike. Be aware that adaptive equipment can modify your bike for added comfort and safety such as soft handlebar tape, seat post and front fork shock absorbers, padded biking shorts, c-out and gel pad saddle seats, and wider tires.
Be careful not to progress too quickly because inactivity to over activity in a short period of time can create problems. Overuse injuries such as tendonitis, can be avoided by cross training. Bike every other day and walk, run or swim on off days. Make sure to take time off to recover after a long ride. Use ice and massage to sore muscles and joints after riding.
Remember, cycling should be fun! Pain from improperly fitted and poorly maintained equipment is preventable. Excessive workouts and training rides should be kept to a minimum and consider cross-training in between.
EQUIPMENT: Helmets are a must! Also, keep your bike in good condition. Road bikes should have mirrors and reflectors. Use hand signals and obey traffic rules. Dress for weather and visibility. Have a first aid and tire patch kit, tire pump and tools. Seat comfort can be improved with gel cushion or split seat.
BE ALERT: for traffic, parked cars, pedestrians loose gravel and cracks in the road.
SOURCES: American Physical Therapy Association
The last two columns in “Health & Exercise Forum” have been dedicated to the health benefits of exercise for Parkinson’s disease. Specifically, the use of dance was featured as a method to promote strength, balance, coordination and agility in this population. However, dance as a form of exercise and for the promotion of balance, coordination and agility, is not limited to those with neurological conditions…it is beneficial for everyone! In fact, my wife, Esther and I, have always enjoyed our dance classes with Vince Brust!
Like most forms of exercise, if done regularly, dance can have multiple health benefits. If dance is your only form of exercise, make it your goal to sustain the activity for about 30 minutes a day, 3-4 days per week for the most value.
If you have any doubt or reservations about the ability of dance to improve your health and wellness, take notice of the muscle tone, flexibility, agility and coordination of a professional dancer...ballet, modern, hip hop, jazz, etc. They are incredible athletes and artists!
It is common to lose agility and flexibility with age especially if you regularly perform the same limited movements throughout your day and lifetime. This will lead to stiffness and lack of flexibility, especially for new or season activities which can make you more vulnerable for injury and pain. Lower back pain and calf or hamstring strains are most common. Research suggests that dance can help.
For example, in one study it was found that cross-country skiers who received months of dance training showed improvements in joint mobility and muscle flexibility of the spine, as well as their speed and agility.
It is also expected that balance and coordination are also compromised with age. It’s one of the reasons that older adults are so prone to falls. The research also supports the value of dance to offset this problem.
One particular study found that in people over the age of 80 years, social dancing helped improve balance and walking speed, as well as contributing to a more stable walking pattern.
Moderate-intensity dance, performed continuously for at least 30 minutes on a regular basis has been found to reduce the risk of death from cardiovascular disease in some studies. Moreover, it has been more effective in prevention than average-pace walking ...and is less boring!
Most activities of daily living (walking, climbing stairs) occur in a linear and forward directon. However, dance has not set direction and can move in multiple planes (forwards, backwards, and sideways with diagonal and rotational components.
These unlimited movements, not only improves agility, coordination, and balance, but also strengthens muscles that often get forgotten like your core and abdominals.
As with any cardiovascular exercise, dance is a form of aerobic exercise which burns calories. This is especially true if performed a minimum of moderate-intensity for 30 minutes or longer.
According to the American Diabetes Association, aerobic exercise can support weight loss.
Weight-bearing exercise is the cornerstone for any osteoporosis prevention program and dance is a prime example.
According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, high-impact, weight-bearing exercises, such as certain forms of dance, can help maintain bone strength and even build new bone mass. This slows the development and progression of osteoporosis. It is also well established that low-impact weight-bearing exercise (dancing with the impact of jumping etc.) is effective in bone loss prevention. Dance can be whatever intensity you want it to be, depending on your mood, energy level, and physical limitations.
Like most forms of exercise, especially aerobic, dance can improve cognitive health. In addition to releasing special hormones, it can also improve circulation and oxygenation to the brain to enhance brain health.
Some research suggests that dance can help create new connections between brain regions involved in long-term memory and improve mood, cognitive acuity and mental energy.
Physicians and physical therapists often recommend dance as a form of rehabilitation following brain injury, stroke or dementia.
One study found that out of many different types of exercise (including dance, swimming, golf, cycling, tennis, and others) dance was the only one associated with a lower risk of dementia for people in the study. Experts believe the benefit was due to a combo of social interaction and mental focus...that is not to say that the aforementioned types of exercise do not have value.
Dancing can contribute to your mental health by improving mood and reducing stress. As Morrie advised in Mitch Albom’s best-selling book, Tuesdays with Mori, “dance like nobody’s watching”...it can be very invigorating!
Dance participants ranked mood enhancement as the number one reason for participation! One study examining people’s motivation for dancing, “mood enhancement” ranked top on the list. The dancers felt that the activity is expressive and allows you to escape and “let your hair down.”
Some studies also suggest that dance therapy might also reduce depression, especially in those who have serious illnesses, such as breast cancer or Parkinson’s (read last week’s column). Researchers feel that this may be due to increased endorphins and lower cortisol levels.
The pandemic has taught most of us a valuable lesson ... some of us have a serious need to socialize and some do not. For those like me, who thrive on being among others, dance classes and dance-style workouts often take place in groups, which allows for social bonding in a fun, light and breezy environment.
Depending on your marital status and the specific style of dance you choose (salsa, tango or swing dancing), you may even be paired up with a partner every week!
While exercise on treadmill, bike or elliptical can be great exercise, it also can be boring and repetitive. Research suggests that any form of exercise can boost self-esteem.
When dancing, however, you get all the benefits of exercise, while simultaneously learning a new skill. It can be incredibly rewarding and satisfying to master the skill, especially with others such as learning the tango.
SOURCE: “Greatest” Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI
NEXT MONDAY – Read Dr. Paul J. Mackarey “Health & Exercise Forum!” This article is not intended as a substitute for medical treatment. If you have questions related to your medical condition, please contact your family physician. For further inquires related to this topic email: drpmackarey@msn.comPaul J. Mackarey PT, DHSc, OCS is a Doctor in Health Sciences specializing in orthopaedic and sports physical therapy. Dr. Mackarey is in private practice and is an associate professor of clinical medicine GCSOM.
For all of Dr. Mackarey's articles visit www.mackareyphysicaltherapy.com/forum
“Dance like nobody’s watching!” This is one of my favorite quotes from Mitch Albom’s book, Tuesdays With Mori, because it represents interesting facts about human behavior. One, of course, is the ability to be comfortable in your own skin. The other, maybe less obvious benefit is that challenging your balance through dancing, even if it’s not pretty, is very effective in maintaining or improving quality of life for those with challenges in gait and balance, as found in Parkinson’s disease (PD). In fact, “Dance for PDR”, a new and popular treatment for PD, has recently been validated in the scientific literature as a valuable treatment tool for those with PD.
Research published in the Journal of Neural Transmission, shows that dancing is shown to help people with PD improve their ability to walk and enhances their quality of life. The program was applicable to those at various stages of PD, including those using walkers. Moreover, the results found that, in addition to physical improvements, participants also had psychological and social benefits through camaraderie, joy of movement and less isolation.
Participants, none of whom had ever engaged in a dance class before, performed a structured dance program for 16 sessions over 8 weeks. Each class was 75 minutes long with seated warm-up activities 50% of the time. Results showed: 10%improvement in overall movement, 26% improvement in walking and 18% improvement in tremor.
Parkinson’s disease is a chronic, degenerative disease that leads to slowness of movement, balance disorders, tremors, and difficulty walking. PD results from the loss of dopamine-producing nerve cells in the brain. Dopamine is critical to stimulate the nerves of the muscular system in the body. PD affects approximately 1.5 million people in the USA with 60,000 new cases each year according to the National Parkinson Foundation. Most people know someone affected by PD. PD typically affects those over 65 years of age and only 15% are under 50.
While there is no current cure for PD, exercise is well documented to relieve some of its symptoms. Specifically, exercise can help keep muscles strong, joints mobile, and tissues flexible. Exercise will not stop PD from progressing, but it will improve balance, enhance walking ability, reduce muscle weakness, and minimize joint stiffness. In 2007, a study published in the Journal of Neuroscience revealed that exercise may benefit individuals with PD because exercise encourages the remaining dopamine cells to work harder to produce more dopamine. Also, the researchers discovered that exercise decreases the rate at which dopamine is removed from the brain.
Exercise to improve strength, balance, and flexibility can be performed independently at home or supervised at a rehab or exercise facility. Supervised exercise can include physical therapy, recreational therapy, water therapy, yoga, and Tai Chi. Physical therapy can improve walking ability, enhance balance, reduce fatigue, increase strength, promote flexibility and minimize pain. Physical therapy uses movement techniques and strategies as well as various pieces of equipment to enhance an individual’s level of independence and improve his quality of life. PT can also incorporate leisure activities (e.g. golfing and ballroom dancing) to reduce the symptoms and associated limitations of PD. Tai Chi, a total mind and body workout, is a series of individual dance-like movements linked together in a continuous flowing sequence. Particular benefits for people with PD include reduced stress, increased energy, improved concentration and focus, better circulation and muscle tone, and significant improvements in balance.
According to Dance for PDR,their programoffers internationally acclaimed dance classes for people with Parkinson’s disease in Brooklyn, New York and, through a network of partners and associates, in more than 120 other communities and 16 countries. In Dance for PD classes, participants are empowered to explore movement and music in ways that are refreshing, enjoyable, stimulating and creative. For more information visit: www.danceforpd.org
So, if you like to dance, “keep on dancing!” If you don’t dance and notice some changes in balance and coordination, or if you have PD…it’s a good time to start! “Dance like nobody’s watching!”
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This article is not intended as a substitute for medical treatment. If you have questions related to your medical condition, please contact your family physician. For further inquires related to this topic email: drpmackarey@msn.com. Paul J. Mackarey PT, DHSc, OCS is a Doctor in Health Sciences specializing in orthopaedic and sports physical therapy. Dr. Mackarey is in private practice and is an associate professor of clinical medicine at GCSOM.
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