Exercises for Cirrhosis of the Liver

Cirrhosis is a condition in which the liver begins to malfunction and deteriorate due to chronic injury. Healthy liver tissues are replaced by scar tissue, which blocks the flow of blood through the liver. This prevents the liver's ability to remove toxins and bacteria from your blood, control infections and process nutrients. A variety of health problems can result in cirrhosis of the liver, including cancers, high levels of blood toxins and increased infections. It's essential to do your exercises in the morning, because your body begins to wear down as the day goes on.

Yoga

• Yoga is an effective treatment for cirrhosis of the liver, because the poses are helpful in recovering from liver damage. The breathing involved in this type of exercise helps keep your organs healthy on the inside and out. Yoga exercises replenish your emotional and physical well being, and help decrease everyday stress. Yoga not only makes you feel better, but also helps you respond more favorably to treatment.

Aerobic Exercise

• If you are suffering from cirrhosis of the liver, it's important to avoid remaining sedentary, because it may worsen your condition. While you should avoid strenuous exercises, you can still participate in activities that match your energy level. At the very least, you should go out for long walk every day or step on a treadmill for 30 minutes. It may be beneficial to walk up and down the block, in case a bout of fatigue suddenly occurs, so you can get home right away.

Weight-Bearing Exercises

• Weight-bearing exercise strengthens muscles and bones, and is important for individuals suffering from liver diseases such as cirrhosis. Weight-bearing exercises are important for strengthening bones to prevent osteoporosis, which can be caused by diseases in the liver. As cirrhosis begins to advance, the body uses muscles as a source of energy. Working out can prevent you from suffering diminished strength, which prevents the complications of this condition from developing. Begin by performing simple exercises with light dumbbells, such as chest presses, squats, lunges, bicep curls and shoulder presses.