Exercise and Fitness

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.

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