Exercise can be helpful in managing quadriplegia, a condition that involves paralysis or weakness in all four limbs and the torso. While the nature and extent of exercise may vary based on an individual's specific condition
1.Neck Rotation Stretch
Sit in your wheelchair with your feet resting on the footrests, and ensure the brakes are applied. If possible sit upright and pull your shoulders back with your neck long. When ready, turn your head to look over your shoulder, keeping your trunk facing forwards. Use your other hand to push your head a little further around. Hold this position for the duration as instructed by your therapist.
2.Hip Internal Rotators/adductors Stretch
Lie on your back with your legs straight out in front of you. Ask your assistant to place one hand under your knee and the other under your ankle. Your assistant should then bend your leg up and rest your ankle just below the other knee. Allow your knee to drop outwards, creating a stretch in your buttock. Hold this position.
3.Pectoralis Stretch
Lie on your back with an assistant standing by your side. Ask your assistant to gently lift your arm out to the side with your palm facing up. Ensure that your arm is moved slowly and is supported at all times. As you start to feel a stretch across your chest, hold this position.
4.Gastrocnemius Stretch
Lie on your back with your legs stretched out in front of you. Ask your assistant to place a hand underneath your knee to support it. Their other hand should be placed under the sole of your foot. Using their body weight, ask them to pull your ankle up towards you. You should feel a stretch in your calf muscle. Hold this position as directed, and then relax the ankle back to the resting position.
5.Wrist/finger Extensors Stretch
Sit upright on a stable chair or wheelchair with your back supported with a table in front of you at elbow height Your assistant can help you to place your forearm and hand onto the table, thumb uppermost. Your assistant should support your forearm on the table. Ensure your wrist is as straight as possible. The assistant can then place their hand over the back of your hand, thumb-to-thumb and finger-to-finger. The assistant should firmly support your hand whilst gently drawing your forearm away from the wrist in a small movement. The wrist can then be slowly bent forward with the fingers curling down into a fist as far as is comfortable. Ensure the wrist does not twist. Do not force the wrist.
Exercises Help But Always Better To Consult A Doctor / Physiotherapist Before Starting Exercise Pogram.
By incorporating these exercises into your daily routine, along with maintaining good posture and being mindful of your movements, you can help alleviate pain and improve your overall condition. Remember to always consult with a physiotherapist before starting any new exercise regimen, particularly if you have a specific injury or condition.
Personalized Exercise Program By CB Specialists.
If you're looking for personalized exercises for a Quadriplegia, be sure to connect with CB Physiotherapy. Our team of expert physiotherapists will work with you to develop a customized exercise plan that addresses your specific needs and goals. Don't let your pain hold you back any longer, contact CB Physiotherapy today and start on the path to feeling better.