Friday, 31 January 2014

Cystic Fibrosis

Cystic Fibrosis

         The most common fatal genetic disease in the Caucasian population is Cystic Fibrosis (CF).  It is characterized by the following traits: an increase in electrolytes suggesting a defect in cellular transport mechanisms, and pancreatic insufficiency.  This impairs growth and reduces absorption of nutrients and is the major cause of morbidity (which is impaired pulmonary mucous clearance) and subsequent infections of the respiratory tract.

       CF is an insidious disease.  Its affects on women are greater than that of men, showing a 2:1 mortality ratio in comparison.  Life expectancy past 30 years is rare and therapy concentrates on relieving pulmonary infections with antibiotics and clearance of mucous secretions through mechanical methods.

Exercise

         Exercise plays an important part in strengthening the pulmonary system and surrounding musculature to enhance elimination of mucous.  Studies in exercise and CF have looked at improvement in:
Lung function

       Adjunct therapy treatment and motivational aspects of participation in activity programs
      
       For the most part, CF patients can be aided to achieve a clearance of mucous, to increase their ventillatory capacity and can be encouraged to acquire positive attitudes about physical fitness.

       Strength coaches who come into contact with CF patient should realize that their recovery capacity is low, and resistance programs should be structured around their recovery capabilities.  Exercise that enhances the respiratory system, such as supine chest flies, abdominal crunches, side bends, overhead pulls, and hip flexion should be incorporated into routines.  Circuit training programs that have a high work to rest ratio (long rest periods) are advisable.

       Breathing exercises such as slow breaths in and out, and forced expiration may be incorporated into the post-exercise cool-down phase.  This is an important part of CF therapy, and if patients are taught to do it themselves, it will enhance their overall therapy.

       Contraindications to Exercise

         Severely impaired CF comes under the control of physicians and occupational therapists.  Most fitness professionals would not be working with this group.

       Exercise Program for Clients with Cystic Fibrosis

         Warm up:  Diaphragmatic breathing (abdominal or belly breathing) minimum of 10 to 15 slow breaths for approximately 2 minutes.  Low intensity cardiovascular work (treadmill, cycle or rowing machine), 5-8 minutes.

       Leg press – 3 sets of 10 reps at 60-75% of body weight

       Chest Press – 3 sets-8-10 repetitions

       Lat pull down to front – 3 sets 8-10 repetitions

       Abdominal crunches – 3 sets of 10 repetitions
                                                                                                                              
       Biceps curls – sets of 8-10 repetitions

       Triceps extensions – 2 sets each 8-10 repetitions

       Side Lateral raises to shoulder level – 3 sets 8-10 repetitions

       Leg extensions – 2 sets 8-10 repetitions
Leg curls – 2 sets each 8-10 repetitions

       Cool down:  A recommended program is more cardiovascular exercise (5-8 minutes) coupled with stretching and flexibility work and 10-15 repetitions of rhythmic diaphragmatic breathing exercises.

       Exercise is not a cure for clients that suffer from Cystic Fibrosis.  It is only the means to help CF patents improve their lung function and heighten their awareness about the benefits of fitness.


       While participation in programs for these individuals may not increase their life expectancy, it certainly can improve their quality of life.  Personal trainers should be aware of patient limitations as they prepare to teach this population in aerobic and strength conditioning.

Suggested By:
NEERAJ MEHTA, (Fitness Professional, Nutritionist and Inventor of BMXStrength ® Technique of exercise, Director of GFFI Fitness Academy)
Tel: +91-9811309667

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