A physiotherapist should be able to advise you on a home exercise programme to keep you as active and mobile as possible; they will also discuss what kind of exercise could suit you best and will give you tips on how best to deal with the problems you may encounter from your scleroderma.
Why Exercise?
Exercise has many beneficial effects and these apply as much to you as to someone without scleroderma.
Some of the benefits are that it:
- Increases muscle strength and general fitness
- Increases or maintains flexibility and balance
- Increases sense of general well being
- Protects thinning of the bones
- Aids digestion and sleep
- Helps control weight and overcome fatigue
- Gives a sense of personal control
In other words, exercise makes you feel fitter, healthier and can lift your mood. It can increase your independence and improve your social life. It can also help to improve function and your ability to cope with everyday tasks and situations.
Download our publication full of exercises
5 Minute Hand Exercises to Beat Scleroderma Stiffness
Consultant Physiotherapist Will Gregory talks us through a quick hand stretching routine that can help to alleviate stiffness and increase range of movement.
