October is National Physical Therapy Month, an opportunity to recognize the role physical therapy plays in helping people improve movement, strength, mobility, and quality of life.
For people living with kidney disease, staying physically active can also be an important part of managing overall health.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) can affect more than kidney function. It can influence energy levels, cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and the ability to carry out everyday activities. The good news is that appropriate physical activity can support several areas of health at the same time.
How Physical Activity Supports Kidney Health
Being physically active does not directly "cure" kidney disease, but it can support many of the factors that are important in managing CKD.
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), physical activity can help people with CKD manage their weight, blood pressure, and blood glucose levels. These are particularly important because high blood pressure and diabetes are major risk factors for kidney disease.
Regular activity may also support cardiovascular health. This matters because kidney disease and cardiovascular disease are closely connected.
You Don't Have to Be an Athlete
When people hear "physical activity," they may imagine intense workouts at a gym.
That is not necessarily what kidney health requires.
Movement can take many forms, including:
- Walking
- Light cycling
- Swimming
- Gardening
- Stretching
- Strength exercises
- Chair-based exercises
- Everyday activities that keep you moving
For people with kidney disease, the appropriate level of activity depends on their overall health, kidney function, fitness level, and other medical conditions.
The CDC notes that physical activity can be beneficial for people with mild, moderate, or severe CKD, although people with more advanced kidney disease may become tired more quickly and should discuss appropriate activity with their healthcare team.
Movement Can Help Manage Blood Pressure
Blood pressure is particularly important for kidney health.
High blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, while kidney disease can also contribute to difficulty controlling blood pressure. This creates a relationship in which managing blood pressure can be an important part of protecting kidney function.
Regular physical activity can help support blood pressure management.
NIDDK recommends regular activity as part of a healthy lifestyle and notes that people with high blood pressure may benefit from activities such as walking, swimming, cycling, and other moderate-intensity exercise.
Physical Activity Can Support Heart Health Too
Kidney and heart health are closely connected.
People with CKD have an increased risk of cardiovascular problems, making cardiovascular health an important part of kidney care.
Physical activity can help support heart function, blood pressure, blood sugar management, and overall physical fitness. The National Kidney Foundation also notes benefits such as improved heart function, better blood pressure management, improved strength, and increased energy for people with kidney disease.
Start Where You Are
If you are not currently active, you do not need to make major changes overnight.
Start with activities that are comfortable and realistic for you.
For example, you might begin with a short walk and gradually increase the duration as your fitness improves. You can also break activity into smaller periods throughout the day.
The goal is to build a sustainable routine rather than push yourself beyond what your body can safely handle.
When Should You Talk With Your Healthcare Team?
Before starting a new exercise routine, talk with your healthcare provider if you have CKD or other health conditions.
This is particularly important if you:
- Have advanced kidney disease
- Are receiving dialysis
- Have heart disease
- Have uncontrolled blood pressure
- Have significant fatigue or weakness
- Have recently undergone a medical procedure
- Have other conditions that affect your ability to exercise
Your healthcare team can help determine what types and amounts of activity are appropriate for you.
Kidney Care Is About Your Whole Health
Managing kidney disease involves more than monitoring kidney function.
Blood pressure, blood sugar, weight, cardiovascular health, nutrition, medication management, sleep, and physical activity can all play a role in your overall health.
This National Physical Therapy Month, take a moment to think about how movement fits into your kidney-health plan.
A little more movement, when appropriate for you, can be another step toward protecting your overall health.
If you have questions about your kidney health or need ongoing nephrology care, speak with your healthcare provider about the right approach for you.
Blanchard Nephrology
655 Fox Run Rd, Suite C
Findlay, OH 45840
567-525-3163