The Physical Effects of Addiction and How Physio Can Help

Posted on by Kevin Murray

Physical Therapy in Drug and Alcohol Recovery

Substance abuse takes a toll on a person’s physical health. Recovery can leave patients with physical health conditions that may also require attention. In many cases, lifestyle and circumstances while under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol does not lend to optimal physical fitness.

Because of this lack of focus on physical wellness, including Physiotherapy in a recovery program can have a huge impact on a patient’s physical recovering from addiction.

Some of the physical health problems known to be associated with substance use include:

  • A weakened immune system
  • Injuries sustained in accidents
  • Chronic pain
  • The onset of liver disease, lung disease, arthritis, dementia, and certain types of cancers

Types of Physical Therapy and Their Uses in Substance

Physiotherapists can help patients in substance recovery programs in a variety of ways.

  1. Orthopedic. Problems affecting the joints, tendons, ligaments, and bones. Therapy is designed to restore flexibility and lost functioning.
  2. Neurological. Customized programs to help people who face physical challenges related to brain injuries.
  3. Cardiopulmonary. Physiotherapy for cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases and disorders introduces patients to activities designed to improve conditioning and endurance.

If you or someone you know is recovering from substance abuse and could use a physiotherapy program to compliment the treatment plan, send us a note, we’d be more than happy to help put a plan in place!

Author: Kevin Murray

Kevin graduated from the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland with an honours degree in Physiotherapy with Clinical Distinction in 2009. He is an experienced physiotherapist who has worked in a wide variety of settings. He specializes in the assessment, treatment and rehabilitation of muscular, joint and neurological injuries. Patient safety, comfort and satisfaction are always his highest priorities.

During his time practicing, he has been fortunate to meet and work with athletes of all backgrounds, from club-level to international and Olympic standard. He is constantly striving to further himself as a physiotherapist by keeping up-to-date with emerging literature regarding evidence-based treatment and rehabilitation. During his practice, he uses a variety of treatment methods and techniques, always with the aim of providing the best outcomes for his patients in the shortest space of time.

Kevin’s great love for sports arose from years of swimming competitively at both the provincial and national level in Ireland. He nurtures his sports enthusiasm by swimming, going to the gym, practicing yoga and playing golf to continually improve his single-figure handicap. In his free time, Kevin enjoys spending time at the beach with his family and chocolate lab, Hershey.

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