The Role of Exercise in ALS Management

 ALS is a chronic disease that can be difficult to manage. As the motor neurones degenerate the patient gradually loses their ability to move. Exercise can increase strength and improve mobility for ALS and lower the risk of depression. Only exercise on advice from a healthcare professional. Here is a short guide to the benefits that exercise can have for ALS patients.

Understanding Motor Neuron Disease

Motor Neuron Diseases are a group of neurodegenerative conditions that specifically affect motor nerves, i.e. These cells control all voluntary muscles throughout the body. These voluntary muscles are responsible to performing movements at will.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease (ALS), causes muscle tissue to degenerate all over the body. It can lead to an inability for the person to move around, speak or swallow.

Exercise and ALS Patients: Benefits of Exercise

Exercise is beneficial for those with ALS despite their progressive disease. Here are the key benefits that ALS patients will receive from incorporating physical activity into their routine:

Maintains Muscle Strength -- Regular exercise tailored to each individual helps slow the decline of muscle strength.

Reduces Muscle Spasticity -- Stretches are helpful in reducing muscle spasticity. They can also relieve discomfort.

Improves Posture – Specific exercises can help people with ALS maintain a good posture. This helps to prevent the development musculoskeletal conditions.

Improves joint functionality -- Exercises focusing primarily on flexibility and mobility of joints can improve range of motion.

Supports respiration -- Exercises focusing on respiratory muscle can help maintain breathing function.

Enhances cardio-vascular health -- Walking, swimming or other low-impact aerobic exercise improves cardiovascular and overall health.

Increases mental wellbeing and health Participating in physical activity regularly can have a positive effect on mental well-being. It helps reduce stress and enhances cognitive function.

Our centres in Bangalore and Hyderabad provide a combination between physical therapy, occupational therapy, and tailored exercise programs. These routines can significantly improve the lives of individuals with ALS.

Our exercise plans are individualized to take into account each ALS patients' unique needs.

Find out more about the rehabilitation programs we offer for ALS.

Tips for Exercise Safety with ALS

All forms of exercise should be done under the supervision and guidance of a rehabilitation professional specializing in the treatment of degenerative neurological diseases. They can help you develop an exercise regimen as part the best Motor Neuron Disease therapy and monitor your progression. Here are some things to consider:

Starting small Allow your body to become accustomed to these exercises by beginning with short sessions, lasting only a couple of minutes. As you get stronger, increase the duration.

Cardio or aerobic exercises: Moderate intensity walking, cycling, and other aerobic exercise are ideal for ALS patients.

Break up the session into sets. If you want to get the most from your exercise without getting over-stimulated, split the session into segments. If you are riding a recumbent cycling, for instance, you can divide a 30-minute exercise session into segments of 10 minutes.

Stretch your muscles after a workout to avoid fatigue.

Listen carefully to your body. It is vital that you listen to the needs of your body, and do not overextend yourself. Stop exercising if your body is not feeling well. It is not a good idea to try and push through fatigue. If you start to feel muscle twitches, or even cramps, immediately stop your exercise and consult with your therapist.

Consider using assistance gear. In addition to exercising, assistive items like braces and orthotics, wheelchairs, or other devices can also increase the patient's ability to move. Consult your doctor to see if one of these is appropriate.

While exercise is not able to reverse the progression of ALS in all cases, a properly designed and supervised exercise program can greatly contribute to maintaining functional abilities, promoting psychological wellbeing, and improving quality of life.

You can contact our team if want to find out more about our exercise programs for ALS patients or if wish to consult with our highly skilled and experienced physiotherapists.

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