A geriatric physical therapist explains when exercise can become too much of a good thing for seniors
Fit&Well • • health
Key Points:
- Active seniors often experience persistent aches, chronic injuries, and repetitive strain despite maintaining high levels of physical activity throughout their lives.
- Repetitive stress without proper recovery is a common cause of pain in highly active older adults, leading to overuse injuries such as tendinopathies, joint degeneration, and spinal stiffness.
- Diversifying movement through a balanced exercise program—including cardiovascular conditioning, strength, balance training, and tissue restoration—can help reduce pain and prevent injury.
- Prioritizing good-quality sleep is crucial for recovery, immune function, pain management, and overall health, with sleep being considered a vital medical intervention for aging adults.
- Physical therapists play an important role not only in injury treatment but also in prevention and can
