Aspects of Physical Function: Essential Terms Defined

The ability to function independently in various settings such as home, work, community, and leisure activities relies on both physical and psychological well-being. Physical function encompasses several interconnected areas, each with its own characteristics:

1. Balance: Maintaining body alignment against gravity to prevent falling and moving the body in equilibrium using sensory and motor systems.
2. Cardiopulmonary fitness: The capability to perform prolonged, low-intensity activities like walking or cycling, also known as endurance.
3. Coordination: Proper timing and sequence of muscle activation for smooth and accurate movement.
4. Flexibility: The freedom of movement without restrictions, often used interchangeably with mobility.
5. Mobility: The ability of body structures to move for functional activities, which relies on both passive tissue flexibility and active neuromuscular activation.
6. Muscle performance: The capacity of muscles to generate tension and perform physical work, including strength, power, and endurance.
7. Neuromuscular control: The interaction between sensory and motor systems for coordinated movement in response to proprioceptive and kinesthetic information.
8. Postural control and stability: Maintaining body position during static or dynamic activities, with joint stability ensuring proper alignment through passive and dynamic components.

These aspects of physical function are influenced by various forces and stresses, such as gravity and routine physical activities. While appropriate forces maintain strength, fitness, and mobility, excessive ones can lead to injuries or chronic conditions. Prolonged inactivity, like bed rest, can weaken muscles and bones and decrease circulatory and pulmonary efficiency.

Any impairment in these body systems or physical functions can result in functional limitations and disability. Therapeutic exercise interventions aim to reduce impairments and improve function by applying controlled and progressive physical stresses to impaired body systems, tissues, or structures.

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