February Is Heart Health Month: How Physical Therapy Supports a Stronger, Healthier Heart
By: Amanda Boyle, PT, DPT, CMTPT
February is Heart Health Month—a time to focus on habits that support a healthier heart at every stage of life. While many people associate heart health with cardiology or cardiac rehab, physical therapy plays an important role in improving overall heart health, especially for adults dealing with deconditioning, chronic conditions, or age-related changes.
At our physical therapy clinics in Severna Park and Annapolis, MD, we work with patients of all ages to build strength, improve endurance, and create safe movement routines that support long-term health—including heart health.
Why Movement Matters for Heart Health
Regular physical activity helps:
Improve circulation
Support healthy blood pressure
Increase stamina and endurance
Reduce fatigue from inactivity
Improve balance and confidence with movement
For many people—especially older adults or those managing chronic conditions—starting or returning to exercise can feel overwhelming. That’s where physical therapy comes in.
How Physical Therapy Supports Heart Health
Even though we don’t provide specialized cardiac rehab, physical therapy is often ideal for people who:
Feel deconditioned after illness, injury, or inactivity
Have chronic conditions that limit endurance
Want to move more safely and confidently
Are unsure how to begin exercising again
A physical therapist helps you move at the right pace, with exercises tailored to your abilities and goals—so you’re improving fitness without overdoing it.
The Role of Strength Training — Especially for Older Adults
Strength training isn’t just about muscles — it supports heart health too.
As we age, muscle loss and decreased activity can make everyday tasks more tiring. Building strength helps:
Make walking and daily movement more efficient
Reduce overall strain on the body
Support better posture and breathing
Improve independence and confidence
Heart-Healthy Movement Looks Different for Everyone
Not all heart-healthy exercise involves intense workouts. Physical therapy may include:
Gentle strengthening
Walking and endurance training
Balance and functional movement
Education on safe activity levels
Gradual progression to avoid burnout or injury
This individualized approach is especially helpful for people who want to be active but aren’t sure what’s safe for them.
Why Choose Physical Therapy in Severna Park or Annapolis, MD?
Working with a local physical therapy team means:
Personalized care in a supportive environment
Exercises designed for your lifestyle
Guidance from trained professionals
A plan that builds long-term habits—not quick fixes
Whether your goal is to feel less tired, move more comfortably, or stay active as you age, physical therapy can be a powerful part of your heart-healthy routine.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can physical therapy help with heart health?
Yes. Physical therapy supports heart health by improving endurance, strength, and overall activity levels—especially for people who feel deconditioned or limited by chronic conditions.
Is physical therapy good for older adults?
Absolutely. Physical therapy is ideal for older adults looking to improve strength, balance, and stamina safely.
Do I need a heart condition to benefit from PT during Heart Health Month?
Not at all. Anyone who wants to move more, feel stronger, and build healthier habits can benefit from physical therapy.
February is a great time to invest in your health. If you’re ready to move more confidently and build strength safely, our physical therapy team in Severna Park and Annapolis, MD is here to help.
Start today, reach out. Call us: 443.906.1510