14 Swiss Balls and Foam Rollers

Swiss ball: a large vinyl ball, actually developed by an Italian toy manufacturer, used in physical therapy and therapeutic exercise programs

Benefits of Swiss-Ball Exercises Diversion from routine Additional challenges Can increase flexibility, strength, muscle endurance, balance, coordination, joint- and body-position awareness Open and closed chain activities Provide for a progression Can be used throughout the therapeutic exercise program

Challenges on Swiss Balls Unstable surface requires greater balance. Coordination is more difficult. Joint- and body-position awareness is challenged.

Increasing Swiss-Ball Challenges Add resistance equipment. Decrease base of support Fig 14.2. Increase lever-arm length Fig 14.3. Increase distance traveled Fig 14.4. Increase speed of movement.

Fitting a Swiss Ball Determine ball size by patient’s height (Table 14.1). When patient is sitting on ball, the hips and knees should be at 90°. Inflate ball to a level that permits this position.

Safety Factors With Swiss Balls Clothing free of objects that could puncture ball Rubber-soled shoes for traction Clothing that allows freedom of movement; sweatpants to protect knees No bouncing on ball with bending or twisting Long hair restrained if necessary

Contraindications With Swiss Balls/Foam Rollers Fear of the Swiss ball or fear of falling from ball Increased pain Dizziness Any disease or injury that contraindicates the use of specific exercises

Swiss-Ball Care Do not use outdoors. Keep away from excessive or prolonged heat sources. Keep out of direct sunlight. Inflate the ball when it is at room temperature. Avoid abrasive or chemical cleaners; use soapy water and a cloth to clean the ball.

foam roller: cylindrical therapeutic tools made of Ethafoam or polyurethane and used within rehabilitation in neurological, orthopedic, and sports medicine facilities

Benefits of Foam Rollers Improve body awareness and joint-position sense Enhance balance and proprioception Unstable surface provides challenges Diversion from routine exercises while still accomplishing same goals Inexpensive

Precautions and Contraindications – of both Vertigo Hypermobility, acute fractures Nausea, light-headedness, pallor, or shortness of breath Full-weight-bearing restrictions Osteoporosis Connective-tissue disorders Anticoagulant medication Tumors

Exercises- Lower and Upper Body pp 431-452 for both pieces Massages and Stretches Balancing Core Strengthening Squats, Alternating legs, leg curls Push-ups, Resistive band, weights Triceps Press, Ball Toss