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Even when a bedridden patient is comfortable and constantly repositioned with a bariatric mattress, working with them to apply ROM, or “range of motion “ exercises, can increase their comfort level even further as well as helping to improve circulation and keep joints flexible. ROM exercises can be done at home by a caregiver once they have been properly instructed in the technique, or by a trained therapist who comes to your home.
ROM exercises are generally referred to as either active or passive. Totally immobile patients, who face the threat of pressure sores, will be in need of passive ROMs, meaning they are unable to perform the exercises themselves. In less severe cases, where there is still some mobility, the exercises are more active-assisted, meaning the patient and a caregiver work at them together. Consultation between the patient, caretaker, and health care professional are vital to creating the best possible program for each individual.
For those caring for bedridden patients, the idea of performing a therapeutic exercise routine can seem overwhelming and frightening. With the proper training, however, it can become a very positive and rewarding experience for both caregiver and patient. Here are a few hints to help you get started.
• Learn how to do the exercises from a qualified professional, and practice on them before doing the exercises with your patient.
• Position the bed height so it is comfortable for you without straining your back, arms or other muscles. Stand or sit as straight as possible and pay attention to your breathing, keeping it deep and steady. Keep your hips in a straight line under your shoulders and try to keep your stomach muscles tight.
• Be sure to lock the wheels of the bed or wheelchair in place to avoid accident or injury.
• Begin slowly and work the muscles and joints gently. Pay attention to your patient’s comfort to avoid pain by forcing or jerking muscles and joints. Stop if you sense that the exercises are causing pain.
• Move the joint only to the point of no resistance, that is, to the point where you can’t bend it any further.
• Try to make the exercise a part of the daily routine, and at a time that is convenient and unhurried for both of you.
• Start the exercises at the top of the head and work down to the toes. When you are finished the entire body will be relaxed and comfortable.
• Doing the exercises in the same order every day will help make the regime easier to remember and make the routine flow more smoothly.
• Always follow the exercise program that has been set out by your doctor or health care professional. Changing or eliminating parts of the program could result in the loss of effectiveness and leave your loved one vulnerable to pain, discomfort and injury.
• Keep a positive attitude during the routine and be as encouraging and supportive as possible.
• When the exercise routine is over be sure to leave the individual in a comfortable and relaxed position.
If you liked this article, tell all your friends about it. They’ll thank you for it. If you have a blog or website, you can link to it or even post it to your own site (don’t forget to mention our Pressure Mattress website as the original source).
Rachel Clarkson
Rachel Clarkson is a bed sores specialist and a big fan and promoter of “The Volkner Turning Mattress”: http://www.Volkner.com
ROM exercises are generally referred to as either active or passive. Totally immobile patients, who face the threat of pressure sores, will be in need of passive ROMs, meaning they are unable to perform the exercises themselves. In less severe cases, where there is still some mobility, the exercises are more active-assisted, meaning the patient and a caregiver work at them together. Consultation between the patient, caretaker, and health care professional are vital to creating the best possible program for each individual.
For those caring for bedridden patients, the idea of performing a therapeutic exercise routine can seem overwhelming and frightening. With the proper training, however, it can become a very positive and rewarding experience for both caregiver and patient. Here are a few hints to help you get started.
• Learn how to do the exercises from a qualified professional, and practice on them before doing the exercises with your patient.
• Position the bed height so it is comfortable for you without straining your back, arms or other muscles. Stand or sit as straight as possible and pay attention to your breathing, keeping it deep and steady. Keep your hips in a straight line under your shoulders and try to keep your stomach muscles tight.
• Be sure to lock the wheels of the bed or wheelchair in place to avoid accident or injury.
• Begin slowly and work the muscles and joints gently. Pay attention to your patient’s comfort to avoid pain by forcing or jerking muscles and joints. Stop if you sense that the exercises are causing pain.
• Move the joint only to the point of no resistance, that is, to the point where you can’t bend it any further.
• Try to make the exercise a part of the daily routine, and at a time that is convenient and unhurried for both of you.
• Start the exercises at the top of the head and work down to the toes. When you are finished the entire body will be relaxed and comfortable.
• Doing the exercises in the same order every day will help make the regime easier to remember and make the routine flow more smoothly.
• Always follow the exercise program that has been set out by your doctor or health care professional. Changing or eliminating parts of the program could result in the loss of effectiveness and leave your loved one vulnerable to pain, discomfort and injury.
• Keep a positive attitude during the routine and be as encouraging and supportive as possible.
• When the exercise routine is over be sure to leave the individual in a comfortable and relaxed position.
If you liked this article, tell all your friends about it. They’ll thank you for it. If you have a blog or website, you can link to it or even post it to your own site (don’t forget to mention our Pressure Mattress website as the original source).
Rachel Clarkson
Rachel Clarkson is a bed sores specialist and a big fan and promoter of “The Volkner Turning Mattress”: http://www.Volkner.com