Energy Conservation Techniques

Duke University’s Department of Physical Therapy sums up energy conservation, “Energy conservation is the way activities are done to minimize muscle fatigue, joint stress, and pain. By using your body efficiently and doing things in a sequential way, you can save your energy, remain independent, and be less frustrated by your illness when the energy you have lasts throughout the day (2017).”

There are many energy conservation techniques that a physical therapist and/or occupational therapist can teach you. A physical therapist or occupational therapist may work on the following energy conservation techniques with you.

• Planning & Prioritizing - Plan ahead to avoid extra trips. If you feel your daily schedule is busy, begin with the most important activity to make sure it gets done. Hold off on tasks that can be saved for a later date. Alternate light and heavy tasks to avoid injury and fatigue. Save heavier tasks for when you have more energy.

• Pace - listen to your body and rest before you feel tired. Maintain a slow pace and try not to rush. Rushing can lead to a greater chance of falls due to increased fatigue. If you need help with some of your tasks don't hesitate to ask a friend or family member. 

• Position & Posture - Always maintain an upright posture when sitting or standing. Fatigue can happen due to constricted blood flow caused by bad posture. To get the proper blood flow, your body needs to be in perfect alignment.

• Use assistive devices - Assistive devices such as a wheelchair, cane, walker, reacher tool, sock aid, and much more can help save energy and be easier on your body to avoid fatigue and shortness of breath.

Conserving energy helps complete tasks that you want to get done so it's important to get moving, but move smarter! If you feel like you or a loved one may benefit from energy conservation techniques, call our office today to learn more or schedule an appointment.

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Sources: Duke.edu, AdvancedPTSM, StJoes

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Written by:

Dr. Vinod Somareddy, PT, DPT

President

Reddy Care Physical Therapy

Reddy Care Occupational Therapy

Reddy Care Aquatic Therapy

Author

Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy is an outstanding specialty service providing exceptional care and state-of-the-art treatments for the residents of Farmingdale and Great Neck, New York. The combination of innovative exercise programs, manual therapy, and technology together with the expertise of every member of the team enables Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy to provide services that ensure superior clinical outcomes and consistently high patient satisfaction.