Get UP and Go Nova Scotia – Family Doctors
Revolutionizing Rehabilitation and Wellness:
The Power of Walking with Activator® and Urban Poles
Doctors have long recognized the significant health benefits of physical activity. Regular physical activity leads to improvements in mental health and cognitive function, helps control weight, reduces the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, dementia, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers, and improves mental health and mood. One of the simplest and most accessible forms of exercise is walking, and adding specialized walking poles greatly increases the benefits by turning walking into a full-body exercise.
Urban Poling’s evidence-based Activator® poles and Urban poles were designed by an occupational therapist and gerontologist specifically for rehabilitation and long-term conditions. This patented design enhances strengthening, stability, and off-loading with patients’ safety in mind. Activator® poles may be beneficial for pre- and post-hip and knee surgery, soft tissue injuries, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, multiple sclerosis, chronic pain, cancer rehabilitation, spinal conditions, and older adults. Both Activator® and Urban poles have been shown to reduce impact on knee joints; increase exercise tolerance; improve posture, balance, and stability; manage weight and pain; and increase walking speed. They are also prescribed as an effective alternative to traditional passive mobility devices such as canes and to reduce or delay the use of walkers when appropriate.
Integrating Mobility and Wellness:
Activator® Training for Family Physicians
The Activator Program, designed by an occupational therapist, is a comprehensive approach that equips family doctors with evidence-based tools to support patients in rehabilitation and managing chronic conditions. The Activator Course provides in-depth training on using Activator® Poles, which are proven to improve balance, stability, and overall mobility. Family doctors will learn how to incorporate these poles into treatment plans for patients with conditions like Parkinson’s, arthritis, and post-operative recovery, offering a safe and effective alternative to traditional mobility aids.
From observational studies
300 Studies on Nordic Walking and 19 Studies
on Activator® and Urban Poles CAD, UK, ISR 2021
Discover the latest insights into the benefits of Nordic Walking and Activator® Poles with over 300 studies conducted across Canada, the United Kingdom, and Israel. Explore the extensive research findings on how these innovative exercise techniques positively impact physical health, mental well-being, and overall quality of life. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, healthcare professional, or simply curious about optimal wellness practices, delve into the wealth of knowledge derived from 19 specific studies focused on the efficacy of Activator® Poles and Urban Poles in diverse urban settings.
Testimonials:
I opened Zoomers Physiotherapy and Health Solutions in 2018 in the hopes of bringing a sports medicine approach to adult health and wellness. As a physiotherapist, I believe my role is to be a resource for clients to build comfort, confidence and competence in movement. When I came across the training content about the poles available from Urban Poling, I knew I had found tools that many of my clients would find beneficial. Many clients have benefitted from training with the Nordic-Style poles to increase the fitness benefits of their walking programs. The Activators have also given so many of our clients more independence, ability and comfort. We have seen success with the joint off-loading benefits of the Activators for clients with conditions like hip and knee osteoarthritis. Additionally, the stability provided by the Activator poles has helped our clients with conditions like Parkinson’s Disease walk more safely and with better control. Our clinicians and clients love the poles! They are definitely helping us help our clients live the life they love!
Laura Lundquist
Where to by Urban and Activator® Poles
Partnership:
“I learned about the benefits of Nordic Walking using Urban poles from a patient in my practice, who used them daily. As he aged, I observed that his posture, balance & mobility was better than his peers. Despite an acute knee injury, he completed an arduous walking pilgrimage with the poles! I researched the evidence about their effectiveness and started to recommend them to my patients. Urban poles assist with core activation, bone health and weight loss. Activator poles have assisted patients with health conditions like diabetes, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, cardiovascular disease and kyphosis. This inspired the Get up and Go project in Nova Scotia. The grant from the Family Doctor Council of DoctorsNS brought together Zoomers Physiotherapy & Health Solutions, Urban Poling and my clinic Coral Shared-Care Health Center to make this venture possible.”
Dr. AJ - Ajantha Jayabarathan Family Doctor