Washington, D.C.: After spending an extended period in space, NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore will undergo a rigorous 45-day physiotherapy rehabilitation program to help them readjust to Earth's gravity. The reconditioning program, administered by the Astronaut Strength, Conditioning, and Rehabilitation (ASCR) specialists, focuses on restoring muscle strength, balance, and cardiovascular fitness, which are affected by prolonged exposure to microgravity.
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| Sunita Williams |
Post-Flight Rehabilitation Program
The rehabilitation program begins immediately after landing and continues for 45 days, with sessions lasting two hours per day, seven days a week. It is carefully tailored to meet the specific physical needs of returning astronauts and helps them transition from microgravity to Earth's gravitational environment.
The program is divided into three distinct phases:
- Phase 1: Emphasizes ambulation, flexibility, and muscle strengthening to restore basic movement patterns.
- Phase 2: Introduces proprioceptive exercises and cardiovascular conditioning to enhance balance, coordination, and endurance.
- Phase 3: Focuses on functional development, which is the longest phase, addressing mission-specific roles and preferred recreational activities.
The ASCR team, comprising certified strength and conditioning professionals, athletic trainers, and licensed physiotherapists, provides comprehensive care, including pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight support to astronauts. They also manage exercise hardware training, prescribe mission-specific exercises, and ensure musculoskeletal health during all mission phases.
Impact of Space on the Human Body
Extended space missions significantly impact the human body, leading to muscle atrophy, loss of bone density, and decreased cardiovascular endurance. Without targeted reconditioning, astronauts may struggle to regain their pre-flight baseline conditions. Studies show that following a structured rehabilitation program not only helps astronauts recover but often improves their overall physical fitness beyond pre-flight levels.
Sunita Williams Breaks Spacewalking Record
During this mission, Sunita Williams achieved a remarkable milestone by setting a new record for total spacewalking time by a female astronaut. Williams has now accumulated 62 hours and 6 minutes of spacewalking time across her missions, placing her fourth on the all-time spacewalk duration list.
Mission Accomplishments and Space Journey
Williams and Wilmore covered an astonishing distance of 121,347,491 miles, completing 4,576 orbits around Earth during their 286-day mission. Williams, a veteran astronaut, has now logged 608 days in space over her three missions, while Wilmore has spent 464 days in space across his three flights.
As Williams and Wilmore embark on their rehabilitation journey, NASA remains committed to ensuring that returning astronauts receive the highest standard of care to restore their physical well-being and prepare them for future missions.