Far from Fremont County, WY, two NASA astronauts are beginning the challenging process of readjusting to Earth’s gravity after an unexpectedly extended mission in space.
Andrew Bosselman, PT, DPT, Physical Therapist and Teton Therapy’s Riverton Clinic Director, offers insights into the physical rehabilitation astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore may undergo after their planned ten-day mission stretched to more than nine months.
“Gravity plays a critical role in maintaining strength in our muscles and density in our bones,” Bosselman explains. “Prolonged exposure to a low or zero gravity environment removes that stimulus and causes the muscles to atrophy and the bones to weaken.” The heart and lungs also suffer, as they no longer have to work against gravity, leading to overall deconditioning. “It’s a nasty recipe for global weakness of the musculoskeletal system along with the cardiorespiratory system,” he adds.
To counteract these effects, the astronauts may engage in structured rehabilitation programs focusing on resistance training and progressive strengthening. “The body will adapt to whatever stimulus you place on it,” Bosselman notes. “By carefully increasing the demands on their muscles and bones, they can safely rebuild strength and function.” Their rehab will likely include global strengthening exercises such as squatting and lifting progressions, targeting multiple joints to rebuild coordination and endurance.
Of course, you don’t need to be a NASA astronaut to benefit from physical therapy. Whether recovering from injury, surgery or just wanting to move better, Teton Therapy can help. Visit us in Lander or Riverton to start your journey toward better health today!
Call or text to schedule a free consultation – 307-857-7074 in Riverton, 307-332-2230 in Lander.
