Question

What are considered some major risk factors of a patient with ALS? How can exercise improve the symptoms ?

Answer 1

Amyotropic lateral sclerosis is associated with flavcid muscle paralysis and weakness. Muscles of swallowing and mastication are affected. Muscles of breathing and diagphram also becomes weak. This results in risk factors like :

• Choking
• Pneumonia
• Respiratory infections
• Bed sores in bed ridden patients
• Lack of proper diet

Exercises help a great deal for the patients with ALS. Active and active assisted exersises help maintain the muscle power and mobility. It provides flexibility to the joints. Mobility exercises and gait training helps patient to maintain his walking. Balance exercises help maintain coordination and balance. Strengthening exercises help regain strength and power. Exercises help patient to carry out his ADLs smoothly