Therabands are often used by physiotherapists to aid recovery from injury. They are used to help strengthen the muscles, and they have varying levels of resistance. You can carry out Theraband exercises with a wheelchair to provide an effective upper and lower body workout.
Crunches
You can carry out what is called a seated crunch; it strengthens and tones the core muscles; which are the back and abdominal muscles. Stay seated in the wheelchair. Place the band around the back of the chair, and attach it to a sturdy door handle. Keep your feet shoulder width apart and firmly planted on the floor. Make sure your back is straight, and bring your upper body forward, with your hands on your knees. Try to tighten your abdominal muscles. Do this for 20 repetitions.
Trunk Twist
The trunk twist is great for your arms and stomach. Attach one side of the band to a stair rail, and the other end should be around your waist. You should be sitting comfortably in the chair. Put your hands on your navel. Twist your upper body to the left slowly, and remember to breathe. Repeat this same motion to the right. Do this 12 to 15 times, remembering to keep the bottom half of your body as still as you possibly can.
Leg Press
The leg press is not only great for your ham strings and quad muscles, it is also good for strengthening the core muscles as well. With this exercise you must make sure your wheelchair has the brakes engaged. Hold the Theraband at the handles. Put your right foot in the middle of the band and pull until it stretches. Do not lock your knee, keep it loose. Try to keep your back as straight as possible and your stomach pulled in. Push your leg forward into the band until your leg is straight. Do eight repetitions on both legs.
Caution
These exercises should be carried out with a partner who has been fully informed by a professional physiotherapist. Better still, they are best carried out under the supervision of a qualified physical therapist. Always talk to your therapist before you carry out these exercises at home.
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