Monthly-Long Observation Focuses on the Importance of Physical Activity for Adults and Children


For the nearly 100 million Americans who are overweight or obese, physical activity must be a crucial component to weight loss and better health, which was the focus of October’s National Physical Therapy Month.

According to a recent study conducted by the Trust for America’s Health, a research group that focuses on disease prevention, obesity rates continued their climb in 31 states last year. Health officials say the latest state rankings provide evidence that the nation has a public health crisis on its hands. Last year, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention cited evidence that found that more than 22 percent of Americans did not engage in any physical activity in the previous month.

A lack of exercise is a major contributing factor to obesity rates. People who are overweight or obese should follow an appropriate exercise program that includes aerobic conditioning and avoids exercise that can lead to injury. Physical Therapists will typically recommend a low-impact form of weight training, such as exercise bands that help avoid excessive joint stress, and stretches exercises promoting flexibility and relaxation.

Physical Therapists develop fitness plans for both adults and children that promote the ability to move, reduce pain, restore function, and prevent disability. For those who are overweight or obese, Physical Therapists balance the progression of the exercise prescription with the need for joint protection and safety during exercise.

“We are no longer looking at just adults who have diseases resulting from obesity,” says Physical Therapist Susan S Deusinger, PhD, professor and director of the Program in Physical Therapy at Washington University School of Medicine. “Rather, Physical Therapists need to regard obesity as a primary concern for intervention,” she adds. Previous research** conducted by Dr Deusinger confirmed recent rising health concerns on college campuses. Her study of 300 undergrads at Washington University in St Louis found that 70 percent of the students had gained an average of 9 pounds between their freshman and sophomore years, and most were still not meeting recommended guidelines for healthy eating and exercise behavior.

“To say the least, the results of this study are cause for concern,” notes Deusinger. “People are dying from the effects of obesity, and it’s not just our parents and grandparents anymore; it’s our friends, siblings, and colleagues. No one is immune from the dual epidemics of obesity and sedentary behaviour.”

Connie Cushing, PT, MS, a 17-year-veteran Physical Therapist at Children’s Hospital in Birmingham, Alabama, is a member of a practice team that focuses on overweight and obese children and teens at the Hospital’s Center for Weight Management. Along with a psychologist, physician, nurse practitioner and nutritionist, Cushing evaluates each child individually (both before they enter and leave the Center). As a result, Cushing can determine whether the patient is at risk for joint and musculoskeletal problems, as well as implement what the collective team learns regarding other commonly seen issues such as diabetes or asthma. “Patients often have multiple, pre-existing medical conditions that can affect their ability to exercise and what specific exercises they are capable of doing,” notes Cushing.

For the younger children who are overweight and obese, it is often recommended to restrict television viewing and video game playing and encourage family games that can be played both indoors and outdoors at home. It becomes a bit more complicated with teens, as we need to factor in what their interests are, both in and out of school; if they work better in groups or individually; and if they prefer being outdoors or indoors. The ultimate goal is for these kids to make lifestyle changes. Yes, we want them to lose weight, but we also want them to eat better, sleep better, and to feel better physically and emotionally.

Consumers can find information about the fight against obesity and about National Physical Therapy Month, whose theme is “Physical Therapy: The Science of Healing. The Art of Caring,” by visiting APTA’s Consumer Web page at www.apta.org/consumer.

Physical Therapists are health care professionals who diagnose and treat individuals of all ages, from newborns to the elderly, who have medical problems or other health-related conditions that limit their abilities to move and perform functional activities in their daily lives. PTs examine each individual and develop a plan of care using treatment techniques to promote the ability to move, reduce pain, restore function, and prevent disability. Physical Therapists also work with individuals to prevent the loss of mobility by developing fitness- and wellness-oriented programs for healthier and more active lifestyles.

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