Treating Dysautonomia with Redcord

Written by:
Dr. Kelly Jones
August 22, 2024

Specialized physical therapy techniques like Redcord, GYROTONIC®, and Hypopressives can help individuals with dysautonomia address specific aspects of their condition. Over the next 3 blogs, I will explain each movement system in detail. So let's get started with how the Redcord suspension system has been a game changer for me.

Redcord is suspension based physical therapy that utilizes ropes, slings and bungee cords to support the weight of your body while targeting stabilizing muscle groups. By working in a "zero gravity" suspended environment, Redcord allows for precise neuromuscular strengthening and joint stabilization without interference of pain or compensation. It's sort of like how a mechanic lifts your car to balance the tires and alignment.

Here's how people with dysautonomia can benefit:

   - Improved Postural Control: Redcord exercises focus on strengthening core muscles and improving balance, which can help individuals with dysautonomia maintain better postural stability and reduce the risk of orthostatic intolerance symptoms such as dizziness or fainting upon standing.

   

   - Enhanced Core Stability: By targeting deep core muscles, Redcord exercises promote better spinal alignment and pelvic stability, contributing to overall improved posture and movement control.

   

   - Gradual Exercise Progressions: Redcord offers a customizable approach to exercise, allowing for gradual progression and adaptation to individual needs and abilities, making it safe and suitable for individuals with dysautonomia who may have varying levels of function and mobility.

One key exercise I'd like to highlight is called the Supine Pelvic Lift. It involves lying on your back with your feet in the Redcord slings and lifting your pelvis upward (with assistance from the bungee cords) to gently engage the core and gluteal muscles. The suspension system adds an element of instability, which enhances muscle activation and improves neuromuscular coordination.

For people with dysautonomia, this exercise helps to strengthen the core muscles and improve circulation without the strain that traditional exercises might cause. Additionally, it can be performed at a controlled pace, allowing for gradual increases in intensity and helping to manage symptoms like dizziness or lightheadedness. By promoting muscle strength and stability, the supine pelvic lift on the Redcord suspension system contributes to overall functional improvement and better management of dysautonomia symptoms.

If you'd like to experience all that Redcord can offer, please contact me at Activcore in Johns Creek, Georgia to schedule a consultation.

Disclaimer:  The views expressed in this post are based on the opinion of the author, unless otherwise noted, and should not be taken as personal medical advice. The information provided is intended to help readers make their own informed health and wellness decisions.

Dr. Kelly Jones

Physical Therapist
Kelly Jones is a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) specializing in orthopedic conditions with a special interest in soccer. She works at Activcore in Atlanta, Georgia, located just 2 miles from Emory University. She also works at Activcore in Johns Creek, GA located inside the Medical Fitness and Wellness Group.
FULL PROFILE

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