"Cynicism is a self-imposed blindness, a rejection of the world because we are afraid it will hurt us or be disappointed in us. Cynics always say no ... for as long as you have the strength to, say yes.“
(Stephen Colbert, 2006- Knox College Commencement)
Exercise Program/Philosophy
This is a controversial area. In my experience, I was told no special exercising. However through research I found many positive thoughts toward ALS and light exercise. I found light exercise, stretching and pool work seemed to help me. However, DO NOT OVER DO OR PUSH HARD! The idea is to slow progression. DO NOT TAX MUSCLES! It's the worst thing you could do. Your muscle will recover much more slowly; if at all. You don't want to do more damage. REMEMBER: do not do anything without talking first to a neurologist!
Light Walking Program
A light walking program to maintain/slow loss of leg and core muscles. Also helps maintain balance and cardiovascular. Don't over do. BE AWARE: sooner or later, you're going to become less stable. You may start tripping, feel weak legs and get "drop foot". Happens to most. Again, be aware! The worst thing you can do is trip! Your arms can't catch you like they used to either.
Light Exercise Equipment
There are strength maintaining exercises you can do too! AGAIN, TALK TO YOUR NEUROLOGIST FIRST! A combination of 1 & 2 pound weights, resistence stretch bands and theraputic putty helped me. Again the OT/PT will give instruction, and know and supply what you'll need.
Stretching and Yoga
Light stretching and a light yoga routine probably helped me the most. Your PT and OT should set you up, I still do a lot of light stretching through visiting OT/PT and home health aids. Remember, I can't move a limb, but they can! STRETCHING HELPS PREVENT LOCKING JOINTS AND SHORTEHING OF MUSCLES. Yoga can be a full body stretching program that is light and very beneficial! And you don't have to athletic to do it.
Aqua Therapy
The water in the pool helped with standing, due to boyancey and provided light resistance to exercise. I didn't swim, but rather stretched and did light resistance exercises. The heated pool (88dg.) helped loosen muscles for good range of motion stretching. Plus, it felt good. The pool had a built into the floor treadmill. So I was able to walk in the pool, with a waist float, grab bars and light resistence, even when I couldn't walk on land.
The only problems I had were when I could no longer transfer from my wheelchair to the pool and the heighth of the pool water. As my diaphragm weakened the pressure of the water against my chest restricted my breathing. So we lowered the pool to just above my waist. Worked great!
Now I never went into the pool with my 24/7 bipap or feeding tube and trache. As I grew weaker I had to stop. Did it help? I believe so. But if nothing else it sure felt good!
