Health and happiness are just a move away
The Yuhr Move! Program physical therapist assistant Kevin Espenschied and physical therapist Nicholas Immel. These two are vital to the program and strive to improve the lives of their patients.
A beacon of hope and health has been steadily glowing for more than a decade at Union Hospital’s Healthplex. The YUHR MOVE! program has been a lifeline for individuals, offering specialized exercise classes aimed at enhancing flexibility, endurance, balance, and strength.
YUHR MOVE! is an exercise initiative designed specifically for those grappling with movement disorders. Participation may also benefit family members of individuals with movement disorders by providing respite, reducing caregiving burdens, and offering peace of mind knowing their loved ones are engaging in activities that promote better health and overall well-being.
The program's mission is simple yet profound: to improve the quality of life for participants by focusing on physical health and well-being. These classes are not just exercise sessions; they are led by experienced physical therapy professionals like Nick Immel, a physical therapist, and Kevin Espenshied, a physical therapist assistant, who understand the unique challenges faced by participants.
Movement disorders encompass a range of neurological conditions that disrupt the ability to move smoothly and efficiently. Some common types include:
- Dystonia: Involuntary muscle contractions causing repetitive movements.
- Ataxia: Lack of control over voluntary movements.
- Parkinson’s disease: Progressive disorder affecting movement and coordination.
- Cerebrovascular accident (stroke): Interruption of blood flow to the brain, leading to various movement impairments.
- Multiple sclerosis (MS): Disease affecting the central nervous system, disrupting communication between the brain and body.
- Tremor: Involuntary shaking, typically in the hands.
Each condition presents its own set of challenges, and the YUHR MOVE! program is tailored to address these with specific exercises aimed at improving participants' physical capabilities.
The lifeblood of the YUHR MOVE! program is the generous support from Movers and Shakers Against Parkinson’s of Tuscarawas County. This organization ensures classes remain accessible and free to all participants through private donations. Their dedication reflects the spirit that defines the community, ensuring those in need have the resources to live healthier, more active lives, which is especially crucial in today’s increasingly expensive healthcare environment.
For individuals with movement disorders, exercise is not merely a suggestion but a vital component of their treatment. Research indicates that regular physical activity can slow the progression of certain movement disorders. Benefits include:
- Improved balance: Reducing the risk of falls and associated complications.
- Increased strength: Enhancing overall muscle function and mobility.
- Enhanced mood: Exercise releases endorphins, which can elevate one’s spirits and improve overall well-being.
Participation in YUHR MOVE! does more than build physical strength; it fosters a sense of community by providing a support network for those navigating similar challenges. Classes combine stretching, strengthening, postural training, walking, and balance activities into 45-minute sessions offered twice a week. Participants are encouraged to arrive early or stay late to use stationary bicycles or treadmills to improve their cardiovascular health. Exercises are typically performed seated or standing, but most can be easily modified to meet each participant's capabilities.
The YUHR MOVE! program embodies what makes our healthcare community special: support, unity, and a commitment to health and happiness. Whether you or a loved one is affected by a movement disorder, the doors at Union Hospital Healthplex are open, ready to embrace you in a nurturing and empowering environment.
Getting started with YUHR MOVE! is straightforward and welcoming. If you are interested in joining the program, simply call the Cleveland Clinic Union Hospital Healthplex at 330-602-0719 (option 2) and express your interest. On your first day, there will be paperwork to complete to ensure everything is tailored to your specific needs within the program.
YUHR MOVE! classes take place twice a week, offering flexible timings to accommodate various schedules. Sessions are held:
- Every Tuesday and Thursday at 11:30 a.m. and 4:15 p.m.
Classes are conducted at the Union Hospital Healthplex, located at 500 Medical Park Drive in Dover, directly behind Union Hospital.
Join the YUHR MOVE! program today and embark on a journey of improved well-being. Remember, health and happiness are just a move away.