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
Ask the Physical Therapist: Myofascial Release and Paraspinal Exercises
The following is a partial transcript of a question-and-answer session, conducted over the FSH Society’s Facebook page, with Julie Hershberg, PT, DPT, NCS. Hershberg is a physical therapist who is… Read More »
Ask the Physical Therapist: Asymmetrical Wasting and Braces
The following is part of the transcript of a question-and-answer session, conducted over the FSH Society’s Facebook page, with Julie Hershberg, PT, DPT, NCS. Hershberg is a physical therapist who… Read More »
Ask the Physical Therapist: What are the best exercises for different muscles?
The following is part of the transcript of a question-and-answer session, conducted over the FSH Society’s Facebook page, with Julie Hershberg, PT, DPT, NCS. Hershberg is a physical therapist who… Read More »
Waking up your muscles with Lynnette Rasmussen
by Amy Tesolin-Gee, Midland, Michigan Several FSHD patients, family members, and FSHD-experienced clinicians came together in Ann Arbor on June 4, 2016, for an educational meeting including lots of helpful, informal… Read More »
Ask the Physical Therapist: Shoulder blades and high arches
From the FSH Society’s Facebook Q&A session with Julie Hershberg, PT, DPT, NCS. Hershberg is a Board Certified Neurologic Specialist. She practices at [re+active] physical therapy & wellness and is an instructor in Doctor… Read More »
Ask the Physical Therapist: Can braces or taping assist weak muscles?
The following is from the transcript to a session conducted on Friday, November 13, 2015, over the FSH Society’s Facebook page with Julie Hershberg PT, DPT, NCS. Hershberg is a physical… Read More »