How to improve heart health in 3 steps

Heart disease affects nearly 700,000 people and is responsible for about 1 out of every 5 deaths in the United States. Taking the correct preventive measures can make the difference between life and death for many people. If you’re interested in taking precautions and protecting your heart health as best you can, here’s what you need to know from physical therapists, broken down into three key steps.

What are some of the most common conditions that indicate poor heart health?

There is no shortage of conditions that meet the qualifications for heart disease. Some of the most common heart-related conditions include:

• High blood pressure (HBP) — High blood pressure is a condition that is often referred to as hypertension. This condition occurs when the blood places too much pressure against arteries in the body. It is diagnosed when a medical professional measures a person’s blood pressure at higher than 140/90. It’s important for high blood pressure to be treated upon diagnosis. If ignored, it can lead to further health issues, like a stroke.
   
• High blood cholesterol — High blood cholesterol, also called hypercholesterolemia, occurs when there is too much cholesterol in the blood. The cholesterol can block the flow of blood and lead to more serious health conditions, like a stroke and heart attack.
   
• Heart attack — Heart attacks occur when the flow of blood that normally enters the heart has become obstructed. Obstruction of blood flow to the heart can be due to high cholesterol deposits, infections like COVID-19 and artery spasms. Heart attacks can cause significant damage to the heart and can be life threatening.
   
• Stroke — Strokes are another life-threatening condition that can occur because of poor heart health. Strokes happen when the brain lacks enough blood, either from a blockage or burst blood vessels. Poor heart health can lead to blood clots, which may cause blockages in the brain.

What are some steps you can take to improve your heart health?

If you find yourself concerned about your heart health, there are several steps you can take in the right direction. Some key ways to improve your cardiovascular function include:

• Integrate regular movement into your daily routine — One of the best things you can do for your heart health is to get daily physical exercise. Whether you go on everyday walks, swim, run or bike, movement can improve the condition of your heart and provide other benefits as well. 
   
• Reduce stress as much as possible — Stress can play a big factor in the health of your heart. One step you can take to improve it is to eliminate as many sources of stress as you can in your life. We know that reducing stress is usually easier said than done, but making efforts to lower your stress can work wonders. 
   
• Make regular visits with a physical therapist — Did you know that physical therapy can help keep your heart in good condition? It’s true. Many people visit physical therapy clinics to manage their cardiovascular health, recover from heart conditions and prevent heart disease from occurring.

How can a physical therapist help someone improve their heart health?

Physical therapists may have a reputation for rehabilitating injuries, but they can also be a really great resource for those with heart conditions. Here’s how:

• Helping patients perform guided cardiovascular exercises — Physical therapists can help patients perform exercises and techniques specifically designed to improve their cardiovascular health. Some of these include running, jumping rope, burpees and mountain climbers. 
   
• Helping patients return to activity after a heart attack or stroke — Another way that physical therapists can improve a person’s heart health is by helping them gradually return to activity. After a major heart attack or stroke, it can feel difficult to get back on track. Fortunately, physical therapists are experts in guiding patients in returning to activity.
   
• Educating patients on heart-healthy lifestyles — An additional perk is that physical therapists can improve heart health by teaching their patients how to live healthy lifestyles. Patients can learn the proper tools for healthy living, like exercise and clean eating.

Find effective and affordable care for your heart rehabilitation from an Alliance PTP partner

Physical therapy can be an effective and affordable way to care for your heart condition. You just need the right partner to provide it. 

Alliance Physical Therapy Partners has you covered. We can help you find a PT clinic near you that’s staffed with experienced and caring physical therapists. 

Reach out to us today so we can help you find the physical therapy that works best for your heart condition needs.