I wanted to start this post with an apology. Because I don't have ALS, I was thinking of exercise not as a person with ALS. I was thinking that exercising should be in order to become stronger when in fact, after doing research from doctors, exercise should be taken as a stretching exercise to keep the body from atrophying.
Decrease in muscle strength leads to a decreased use of the corresponding joint and poor posture. Immobility initiates inflexibility, which instigates pain. Range of motion (ROM) exercises can help reduce this pain.
Benefiuts of ROM
* Reduces pain
* Helps prolong independence with movfement
* Prevents muscle contractures
* Makes daily activities easier
* Makes caregiver tasks easier
* Reduces muscle spasms
* Improves ability to breathe
Tips for ROM
* Do NOT perform a ROM exercise to the point where it increases pain.
* Do differentiate between a stretch (good) and pain (bad).
* Position or bracing may assist with ROM.
* Special caution must be used for unstable joints.
* When it is unsafe or fatiguing for someone to do the exercise independently, it is recommended that a caregiver perform the exercise.
* If a ROM activity causes the patient or caregiver discomfort, it is recommended an OT or PT instructs exercises tailored to their specific needs.
Tips for Caregivers
* Support the joints as best as possible.
* Bring the limb close to your body.
* When able use your body (weight-shifting) vs. your arms to gain motion.
* Keep good posture.
* "Listen to the patient.
* May be easy to do in conjunction with another "care giving" activity.
This information provided by: Christen King, PT/Wishard Health Services, Indianapolis, Indianapolis.
I'll try to describe the stretching exercises displayed in the paperwork I received as I was asked to not show their proprietory pictures on line.