There is good evidence that exercise can help slow and even reverse the loss of function caused by FSHD. Exercise is also essential for your overall fitness and health. While exercise probably does not reverse the disease process itself, it helps strengthen muscles that are still healthy. A physical or occupational therapist can guide you in figuring out targeted exercises, stretches, etc. to support the healthy muscles and develop ways of moving and carrying out daily functions that avoid causing muscle strain and pain. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, however. It takes research, persistence, and creativity to find a regimen that works for you and your body.
Resources
- Physical Therapy and Exercise for FSHD (pdf) was written by leading experts to help you and your physical therapist work as a team.
- Feeling Fit with FSHD Zooms meet twice a month on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays at noon. Register to get the link.
- Frank Hanley's Tai Chi resource page.
Scroll down to browse our videos and articles on Physical Therapy and Exercise.
Physical therapy and exercise blog posts
FSHD Warrior Pose [VIDEO]
by Faye Flatt, Ontario, Canada Yoga has always looked effortless to me and I enjoy watching the gentle movements from one pose and smooth transition to another. In my head… Read More »
Self-healing from muscular dystrophy
BY BEATRIZ NASCIMENTO, SAO PAOLO, BRAZIL I had some mild muscle weakness since childhood, but in my 20s everything was getting harder. I was constantly fatigued and stressed. By my… Read More »
Medicare coverage for ongoing maintenance physical therapy
Article adapted with permission from Melissa Fox, PT, DPT, University of Virginia Health System. There are times when a short course of physical therapy (PT) can meet your current needs,… Read More »
Muscle activation strategies for FSH muscular dystrophy
Our Dallas support group meeting on January 19th featured outstanding presentations and hands-on demonstrations of muscle activation and the Rolf method, which one of our new Dallas-area members has found… Read More »
High-intensity exercise training in FSHD
by Amanda Hill If you or a loved one is affected by FSHD, or any muscular dystrophy for that matter, chances are that you’ve heard it’s best not to exercise,… Read More »
Rochester FSHD Family Day videos
Watch the videos here. The University of Rochester Fields Center for FSHD Research has posted a summary and videos from the 6th annual FSHD Family Day Conference held on April… Read More »