Chronically Ill Articles

Look around your exercise floor. Although there are no outward or telltale signs, it is likely that several of your members or clients have some form of diabetes. It is also likely that many of these people either are unaware of their condition or have difficulty managing and regulating the disorder. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 20.8 million pe...

Pilates practice is safe and effective for people with fibromyalgia and may reduce pain and improve functional status and quality of life, according to a study published in the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (2009; 90 [12], 1983–88). Researchers from the University of Uludag, in Bursa, Turkey, recruited 50 women with fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) and randomly assigned them to either a Pilates group or a home exercise group.

The effectiveness of mindfulness-based stress reduction [MBSR] in easing pain and improving quality of life and well-being varies according to the nature of the chronic-pain condition and the consistency of home meditation practice, according to data analysis from a 6-year longitudinal study published in the Journal of Psychosomatic Research (2010; 68, 29–36).

Have you ever wondered if specific races were more prone to weight gain and the development of type 2 diabetes? A study published in the August issue of Diabetes Care (2009; 32 [8], 1553–55) showed greater risk for young black and Hispanic women.

Exercise is an important component in the overall treatment plan of neuromuscular disorders. As a client becomes physically fit, his mind opens to additional challenges an...

Motivation By Michael Youssouff, MA, and Fran Sachs-Rojas, CSW Having a selection of practical communication tools and training techniques in your repetoire can help you coach this special population to success. Motivating Clients With Chronic Conditions As a personal fitness trainer, you understand the importance of following specific training guidelines and avoiding any contraindications ...

Mindful exercise programs—particularly yoga, tai chi and qigong—have played increasing roles in managing a number of chronic-disease states in recent years. By providing mindful exercise programs, wellness professionals can offer vital help in managing several chronic-disease states, including cardiovascular disease (CVD), diabetes and hypertension. “Mindful exercise” here denotes low- to moderate-level physical exercise coupled with a significant meditative/contemplative and breath work component.