Sport and Programmed Sports Therapy in Hemophiliacs
Sport and physical activity are increasingly becoming an integrated part of the treatment plan for hemophiliacs. It was not long ago that sports were almost forbidden for these patients. The possibilities for active movement were determined by the availability of effective treatment. It has also become clear that sport is not just sport but to some extent also part of the treatment – thanks to the care of experienced physiotherapists.
Key Motor Skills and Their Importance for Health
From a sports medicine perspective, these motor skills are key: strength, coordination, endurance, flexibility, and speed. Except for speed, all these qualities are very important from a physical and psychological health viewpoint and are more or less essential for musculoskeletal and cardiovascular health.
It has previously been shown that muscle strength is crucial for joint health. For example, for the quadriceps muscle, it applies that it very effectively absorbs 'stress' impulses that can damage the knee and hip. Muscle weakening then contributes to the development of arthropathy, so maintaining muscle strength is very important.
Suitability Traffic Light for Sports for Hemophiliacs
It is essential to emphasize that the selection of a suitable sport should always be consulted with a doctor or physiotherapist. In many cases, the selection is mainly influenced by the individual condition of the musculoskeletal system, such as already developed changes, severity of hemophilia, and others. For many patients, an adjustment of their prophylactic regimen may be necessary.
Even with well-established treatment, one must not forget that some sports are fundamentally unsuitable for individuals with bleeding disorders – such as boxing, rugby, and hockey, among others. Some resources classify sports into 'red' (unsuitable), 'yellow' (suitable under certain conditions), and 'green' (suitable) categories for easier identification and appropriate sport selection by the patient (2).
Sports Therapy as Part of the Treatment Plan
With close collaboration between doctors and physiotherapists, sports activities can become a real and effective part of hemophilia treatment. So-called programmed sports therapy allows very gradual setting of a training plan – supervised by an expert. It simultaneously engages and gradually develops all important motor skills.
A physically active and sporting hemophiliac, in most cases – while respecting their individual limitations – develops, strengthens, and coordinates movements, which ultimately allows them to gain numerous benefits.
(eza)
Sources:
1. Hilberg T. Programmed sports therapy (PST) in people with haemophilia (PwH). Sports therapy model for rare diseases. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2018; 13: 38, doi: 10.1186/s13023-018-0777-7.
2. Jones A., Buzzard B., Heijnen L. Go for it: guidance on physical activity and sports for people with Haemophilia and related disorders. World Federation of Hemophilia, Montreal, 1998.
Did you like this article? Would you like to comment on it? Write to us. We are interested in your opinion. We will not publish it, but we will gladly answer you.
