• Treating & Managing Bleeds
• Joint Disease
• Pain Management
• Comprehensive Care
• Fitness & Exercise

1. R&D
2. PAAB

Fitness & Exercise

Decades ago, healthcare professionals strictly forbade physical activities for people with hemophilia. They were afraid that the slightest move would cause serious harm and uncontrolled bleeding. Now, however, medical professionals know that keeping physically active can provide many benefits to people with hemophilia.

The Benefits of Physical Activity

Staying active keeps muscles strong, and stronger muscles are better at protecting the major joints, which reduces the risk of joint bleeds. Physical activity also helps people maintain a healthy weight, reducing extra strain on the joints. The following table outlines the benefits of regular exercise in more detail:

Stronger muscles

Stronger muscles and joints are better able to withstand stress and strain, which can help reduce the risk of bleeds.

Improved flexibility

Better flexibility means better range of movement in joints, so they are less likely to be forced to their limit, which can cause bleeds.

Improved endurance

Better cardiovascular endurance means more energy, so joints and muscles won't tire so quickly.

Tension and stress relief

Participating in sports and other physical activities can provide an outlet to release tension and stress.

Healthy weight maintenance

Being overweight can place extra stress and strain on joints and muscles, so keeping weight under control takes that strain off.

Improved coordination

Improved balance and coordination helps joints and muscles work better together, which in turn protects them from bleeds.

Improved mental health

Being active and playing sports boost self-confidence, can give people the confidence to try new things, and provides a community and team to connect with.

Choosing Activities Wisely

While exercise and sports have a wealth of benefits for people with hemophilia, it's important to choose activities wisely. Some high-impact activities are still considered too risky because of the high chances of causing serious bleeding. Be sure to talk to your doctor and care team about what activities are best for you or your loved one. A physiotherapist experienced in working with hemophilia can also help develop an appropriate exercise program.

To give you an idea of what some healthcare professionals consider as more and less risky activities, take a look at the list below. It was put together for the World Federation of Hemophilia by interviewing doctors who treat patients with severe hemophilia A or B and asking them to evaluate a list of 69 sports for risk level.

Reference : Growing up with Haemophilia: Four Articles on Childhood; World Hemophilia Federation, Dr Peter Jones, 1994.