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Lou Gehrig's Disease & Physical Therapy

Lou Gehrig's disease is the more commonly used term for a condition referred to in the medical profession as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The debilitating disease slowly destroys nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord which are responsible for signaling the body's muscles to move. People in the more advanced stages of the disease may have such extensive nerve damage that all muscle control and movement is lost. As with other medical conditions, those with Lou Gehrig's disease fall under varying levels of progression of the disease. It affects people differently, progressing slowly in some patients and more quickly in others. Physical therapy can provide valuable relief and rehabilitation for those afflicted with the disease.

  1. Importance of Physical Therapy

    • Because the motor neurons are affected in Lou Gehrig's disease, it is critical that a person seek physical therapy as soon as a diagnosis is made. Any strengthening and conditioning of the muscles at an early stage may slow down the effects of muscle atrophy (thinning of the muscles) as the disease progresses. As the nerve cells become destroyed, the muscles become weaker and weaker. The more movement and constant use that can be applied to the muscles throughout the body, the better chance the patient has of maintaining some level of independence for a longer period of time.

    Low-Impact Exercises

    • Physical therapy may include swimming, walking or exercising on a stationary bike. These simple exercises help strengthen the weakening muscles, keep the patient physically healthy and maintain a positive attitude. These exercises also strengthen the muscles that are not yet affected by the disease.

    Stretching Exercises

    • Various stretching exercises are beneficial for people with Lou Gehrig's disease to help lessen the occurrence of painful muscle cramps or uncomfortable spasms. If the muscles can remain stretched and warmed up, the ability for the patient to maintain a relatively normal range of motion may be possible for a longer period of time.

    Medical Equipment

    • Physical therapists keep a record of the improvement or worsening of a patient's physical movement and bodily function. Because of their knowledge of the patient's current condition, physical therapists can recommend the use of assistive equipment that they believe are necessary to provide the patient with a better quality of life. Assistive medical devices may include the use of a wheelchair, splints, neck supports and other equipment.

    Home Therapy

    • Once the disease has progressed radically and the patient is reduced to at-home care, it is important for the caregivers to learn some simple exercises from a physical therapist that can be done at home. A physical therapist can teach the caregiver exactly what to do to relieve any pain that may occur, keep the joints in motion and provide safe, quality at-home care and assistance with daily activities.

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