What is the purpose of using a theraband in therapy?

The purpose of using a theraband in therapy is primarily to provide resistance training to improve strength. Therabands, or resistance bands, are versatile tools that allow for a range of exercises that target different muscle groups while applying varying levels of resistance. By utilizing these bands, physical therapists can help patients build muscle strength systematically over time, which is crucial for rehabilitation, injury prevention, and enhancing overall physical function.

Resistance training with therabands can be adjusted to suit an individual's needs, allowing for progressive overload as the patient's strength improves. This adaptability and the ability to perform exercises at different angles make therabands particularly effective for tailoring therapy programs specific to the patient’s recovery goals.

In contrast, passive range of motion exercises typically do not use resistance tools as they focus more on mobility and flexibility without muscle strengthening. Enhancing cardiovascular fitness is better suited to activities like aerobics or cycling, which do not specifically involve resistance bands. Finally, relieving pain during stretching usually involves gentle movements rather than the added resistance provided by a theraband.