Maren was one of the first Medical Exercise Specialists, certified in 1995. The certification was created to “Bridge the Gap Between Healthcare and Fitness” by Michael Jones, PhD, PT, founder of the American Academy of Health, Fitness and Rehab Professionals (AAHFRP) and Medical Exercise Training Institute (METI). Dr. Jones aimed to provide fitness professionals with the knowledge and skills to develop safe and effective exercise programs for clients with musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, metabolic and neurological disorders. The curriculum reviews every aspect of clinical anatomy/pathology, medical exercise development and assessment guidelines for more than 60 medical conditions. The specialization is the most advanced and detailed education for medical exercise professionals to manage medical conditions using exercise.
In general, while Physical Therapists focus on acute medical conditions, Medical Exercise Specialists focus on more chronic conditions. Medical Exercise Specialists often build strength prior to surgeries or continue progress after discharge from PT, and can work in coordination with your physical therapist, physician, or other healthcare provider.
Some of the medical conditions covered: (Extra specialty certifications for conditions in bold)
- AC Joint Separation
- Achilles Tendon Rupture
- ACL Rupture
- Ankle Fracture
- Ankle Sprain
- Bicipital Tendinitis
- Cancer
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Central Stenosis
- Cerebrovascular Accident
- Cervical Disc Herniation
- Cervical Strain
- Diabetes
- Fibromyalgia
- Glenoid Labrum Tear
- Golfer’s Elbow
- Hypertension
- Impingement Syndrome
- IT Band Syndrome
- Knee Meniscus Tear
- Laminectomy
- Lateral Stenosis
- Lumbar Disc Herniation
- Meniscus Tear
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Osteoarthritis
- Osteoporosis
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Patella Tendon Rupture
- Patellectomy
- Patellofemoral Syndrome
- PCL Rupture
- Piriformis Syndrome
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Rotator Cuff Tear
- Scoliosis
- Shoulder Dislocation
- Spinal Fusion
- Spinal Stenosis
- Spondylolisthesis
- Tennis Elbow
- Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
- Tibial Plateau Fracture
- Total Hip Replacement
- Total Knee Replacement
- Total Shoulder Replacement