Treatment Options For Muscular Dystrophy

Regular Low-Impact Exercise

Exercise is almost always necessary to good physical health, the exception being when medical conditions cause exercise intolerance. In muscular dystrophy patients, exercise is imperative to maintaining muscle mass and function, though it's important to do the right kinds of exercise. High-impact exercises like running and jumping jacks can be exhausting and damaging to the body. Thus, many health professionals recommend regular low-impact exercise for patients with muscular dystrophy. Swimming and walking cause little stress to the joints, but they can help keep muscles strong and mobile. Certain muscle strengthening exercises may also be helpful. Patients, however, should talk to their doctor before making any changes to their exercise routine. The wrong type of exercise can cause more damage than if the individual in question never exercised at all. If a certain exercise feels extremely painful or wrong, it's best to stop it and talk to a doctor.