February is American Heart Month: Move More for a Healthier Heart

February is American Heart Month, a national observance dedicated to raising awareness about heart health and preventing cardiovascular disease. For physical therapists and other healthcare professionals, it’s a time to highlight the powerful role movement and lifestyle play in supporting a healthier heart and longer life.

Heart Disease: A Preventable Crisis

Despite being largely preventable, heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S., accounting for 1 in every 4 deaths, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Even more staggering: the CDC estimates that nearly 200,000 cardiovascular-related deaths each year could be prevented through lifestyle changes such as improved diet, regular physical activity, stress management, and smoking cessation.

Exercise is Powerful Prevention

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), fewer than 5% of adults engage in 30 minutes of physical activity each day, despite the fact that regular exercise is one of the most effective ways to prevent and manage heart disease.

Getting at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week can:

• Lower blood pressure and cholesterol
  
• Support a healthy weight
  
• Strengthen the heart muscle
  
• Improve circulation
  
• Reduce stress and anxiety
  

Even small increases in daily movement—like walking, stretching, or light strength training—can yield measurable improvements over time.

Comprehensive Lifestyle Tips for Heart Health

While physical activity is crucial, a holistic approach to heart health includes:

🥗 Heart-Healthy Nutrition

• Eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins
  
• Reduce sodium, saturated fats, trans fats, and added sugars
  
• Limit alcohol consumption
  

⚖️ Maintain a Healthy Weight

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered healthy. Excess weight increases your risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease.

🧘 Manage Stress

Chronic stress contributes to cardiovascular risk. Regular exercise helps regulate stress hormones, but mindfulness, breathing exercises, and professional support can also be effective.

🚭 Quit Smoking

Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors for heart disease. If you smoke, quitting is the single most important step you can take for your heart health.

Can’t Exercise Due to Pain or Limitations? We Can Help.

If injury, chronic pain, or mobility issues are keeping you from staying active, working with a licensed physical therapist can help you safely get moving again. At Jacobo Physical Therapy, we offer personalized care plans to help you overcome physical limitations and start building a more active, heart-healthy lifestyle.

This February, Put Your Heart First

Don’t wait for a warning sign. Use American Heart Month as your reminder to start making heart-smart choices today. Whether it’s a daily walk, healthier meals, or booking a physical therapy evaluation, every positive change adds up.

Contact Jacobo Physical Therapy to learn how we can help you move better, feel better, and protect your heart for life.