About Thera-Band Exercises

• The Thera-Band is a convenient piece of equipment that can be used in the comfort of your home. Exercises using Thera-Band resistance bands for cervical dystonia are designed to work in conjunction with the medications that your doctor prescribes for pain, and allow for the condition's involuntary muscle contractions. Perform these exercises three days per week along with moderate aerobic exercise in order to best alleviate your pain and spasms.
  
  

Upper Body Exercises

• In the external shoulder rotation exercise, grab the Thera-Band with both hands facing up and about shoulder-width apart. Keep your arms bent at a 90-degree angle. Slowly pull outward by moving only your forearms while keeping your upper arms held close against your side. Stretch the band as far as you can using the strength of your shoulders, then move both forearms back to the starting position. Do 10 to 15 repetitions, then relax. Perform the exercise one more round.
  
  For the Thera-Band diagonal pull, lie down on a carpet or mat with both knees up and your feet on the floor. Place a rolled-up towel behind your neck. Grab both ends of the Thera-Band. Hold your left arm by your hip with your left elbow against your side. Keep your right arm against your right shoulder. Slowly pull the band diagonally with your right hand until your right arm is fully extended above your head, then bring your arm back down. Do two sets of 10 to 15 repetitions.
  
  

Lower Body Exercises

• For the squat exercise, place both feet on the band while holding each end of it in front of your shoulders. Inhale as you slowly squat down as if you are sitting in an imaginary chair, then exhale as you push yourself back up to an erect position. Do eight to 10 repetitions, and gradually work your way up to 10 to 15 repetitions. Squats work the legs, arms, buttocks, shoulders and back and also require more endurance than most exercises.
  
  

Thera-Band Exercise and Blood Flow

• Though there is no known cure for cervical dystonia, exercising with the Thera-Band will increase blood flow to the nerves and muscles in your neck, arms, shoulders and other areas of your body. This accelerated blood circulation carries oxygen and nutrients essential for healing. However, never perform any particular exercise if it causes you more pain; ease off immediately.