Loss of muscle mass and strength is a problem for those with the autoimmune disease rheumatoid arthritis. Sore, swollen joints mean that exercising can be painful, so many sufferers will avoid it, growing weaker and less fit as a result, and gradually experiencing a decline in what they are capable of doing.
To maintain their quality of life, people with this debilitating condition need a form of physical activity that improves strength and mobility without aggravating painful joints.
Hunter Bennett, a lecturer in exercise and sport science at the University of South Australia, is hoping Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) training may provide a solution.
In the technique, people wear pressurised bands around the top of a limb - much like blood pressure cuffs while they are training. The cuff allows blood flow into the limb but slows its exit, which helps build muscle without the need to lift heavy weights. The technique originated in Japan in the 1960s and was originally known as Kaatsu training.
"It is often used in rehabilitation scenarios," says Bennett. "If you are coming back from an injury and can't lift heavy weights because there is a risk of re-injuring the muscle tissue or joint, then this is a light, low-risk exercise that still causes a positive response. Athletes might also use it in the run-up to a competition so they can train without inducing fatigue that may affect their performance."
BFR training has already helped people with osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, which is caused by the wearing away of the smooth cartilage surface of the joint.
This story is from the January 27 - February 02, 2024 edition of New Zealand Listener.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the January 27 - February 02, 2024 edition of New Zealand Listener.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
First-world problem
Harrowing tales of migrants attempting to enter the US highlight the political failure to fully tackle the problem.
Applying intelligence to AI
I call it the 'Terminator Effect', based on the premise that thinking machines took over the world.
Nazism rears its head
Smirky Höcke, with his penchant for waving with a suspiciously straight elbow and an open palm, won't get to be boss of either state.
Staying ahead of the game
Will the brave new world of bipartisanship that seems to be on offer with an Infrastructure Commission come to fruition?
Grasping the nettle
Broccoli is horrible. It smells, when being cooked, like cat pee.
Hangry? Eat breakfast
People who don't break their fast first thing in the morning report the least life satisfaction.
Chemical reaction
Nitrates in processed meats are well known to cause harm, but consumed from plant sources, their effect is quite different.
Me and my guitar
Australian guitarist Karin Schaupp sticks to the familiar for her Dunedin concerts.
Time is on my side
Age does not weary some of our much-loved musicians but what keeps them on the road?
The kids are not alright
Nuanced account details how China's blessed generation has been replaced by one consumed by fear and hopelessness.