Physical therapy is pivotal for night-shift workers
In peer groups of night shift workers, the circadian rhythm, a central clock system for the brain that is regulated by the suprachiasmatic nucleus of the hypothalamus, is highly altered. It causes a reduction in melatonin secretion by the pineal gland, which is responsible for the maintenance of the sleep-wake cycle in the body. Disturbances to the circadian cycle cause decreased alertness in the brain, behavioural disturbances, mood swings and neuro-degenerative disorders, including dementia in the long term.
It causes extreme sleep in the daytime, which results in a sedentary routine as the brain and body require adequate rest in the daytime. The reduction in physical activity and altered circadian cycle conjointly invites major health conditions globally, including cardiovascular diseases, Type II diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia and cerebrovascular diseases.
A recent randomized control study, which was conducted in Germany, on corporate night shift workers, suggests that performing 35 minutes of High-intensity Interval Exercise (HIIT) on a cycle ergo meter, 2 hours prior to each night shift for 12 consecutive weeks improves physical exercise capacity and arterial stiffness, which are the major predictors ofcardiovascular morbidity and mortality.
However, performing physical therapy, including breathing exercises, mild to moderate aerobics, basic stretching and strengthening exercises daily for 30-40 minutes, along with healthy eating habits, adequate exposure to sunlight, and sound sleep with gadgets aside, manages the stress due to altered sleep cycles, regulates metabolism, maintains muscle strength and flexibility and improves the overall health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in long-term, which is the costliest wealth – YOUR HEALTH.
The writer holds a Master’s degree in Physiotherapy (ortho), CMS, and MIAP
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