This article is one of a series covering exercise & fitness — causes, symptoms, and the treatments we use at Back and Body Medical in Midtown Manhattan. For the complete overview, see the full guide:
→ Exercise, Fitness & Injury Prevention in New York City — The Complete Guide
Did you know that there is one prescription that could reduce the severity and prevent many diseases like diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, stroke, obesity, osteoporosis, certain cancers, depression, and dementia. There is also a very low risk for adverse side effects. What if we told you that this “prescription” is exercise!
Adults who exercise have a lessened risk for poor mental health, better balance for joint mobility, and better cardiovascular and metabolic health. Exercise brings nutrients to cartilaginous tissues; this keeps joints healthy and reduces symptoms in arthritis patients. This means that working age adults would be able to carry out daily tasks and even help seniors stay independent. Exercise allows for better cognitive health, reduced risk for comorbidities, and a lower risk for serious falls.
Young adults can benefit from exercise by improving their ability to manage stress and work better in school and the workplace. Some studies have shown that children who are active perform better academically. Teens are more likely to become active adults if implemented into their lives, leading to a lifetime of good health.
According to the CDC, only about half of adults meet the federal guidelines of 150 minutes of moderate intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity physical activity per week. About one in two adults live with chronic disease and half of this group has more than just one illness. By meeting these guidelines, 1 in 10 premature deaths, 1 in 8 cases of breast cancer and colorectal cancer, 1 in 12 cases of diabetes, and 1 in 15 cases of heart disease could be avoided.
Exercise is so important to replace prolonged periods of sedentary behavior. Studies show that this can lead to many poor health outcomes.
If you are active, make sure to keep up the good work, and if you’re out of shape, it’s never too late to get started. Experiment with different types of exercise to see what you prefer to do, and if pain is getting in the way, come see your chiropractor to relieve your aches.
If you are suffering in pain, we can help. Through chiropractic, physical therapy and other treatment options, we have many options to help you. Schedule an appointment today or call us (212) 371-2000
Dr Shan Sivendra MD is the founder and medical director of Back and Body Medical in Midtown Manhattan. A board-certified medical doctor, certified acupuncturist, and Director of House Physicians at St. Barnabas Medical Center, Dr Sivendra has been practicing in New York since 1995.
He completed his residency in Internal Medicine at Saint Barnabas Medical Center (affiliated with Mount Sinai School of Medicine) and received the Resident Research Award for three consecutive years.
Dr Sivendra has a background spanning internal medicine, pain management, and conservative spine rehabilitation, and was licensed in both the US and the UK.
At Back and Body Medical, he leads a multidisciplinary team of chiropractors, physical therapists, and acupuncturists dedicated to helping patients recover from pain without surgery or unnecessary medication.