What are some recommendations for physical activity for patients with ALS?
Answer
Special equipment can enhance patients' independence and safety throughout the course of ALS. For the acute phase, gentle low-impact aerobic exercise such as walking, swimming, and stationary bicycling can strengthen unaffected muscles, improve cardiovascular health and help patients fight fatigue and depression. For the middle phase, ROM and stretching exercises can help prevent spasticity and contracture of muscles. For the middle and advanced phase, devices such as splints, ramps, braces, walkers, and wheelchairs that help patients conserve energy and remain mobile are important.
Jennifaye V. Brown, PT, MSPT, PhD, NCS, CAPS
Jennifaye V. Brown, PT, MSPT, PhD, NCS, CAPS, has a BA-Psychology (Emory University), a MS-Physical Therapy (University of Miami-FL), and a PhD-Exercise Science (University of South Carolina). Dr. Brown has over 30 years of clinical experience focused in neurorehabilitation across the continuum of care and has presented numerous continuing education courses on adult neurologic assessment and treatment intervention for acquired brain injury, particularly stroke. Her research agenda explores the perceptions of individuals with stroke regarding their experiences with AFO fabrication, modification and maintenance. As an Advanced Credentialed Clinical Instructor by the Clinical Instructor Education Board and a three 10-year term board certified neurologic clinical specialist by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS) of the APTA, Dr. Brown has taught at six PT and two PTA programs. She is a Certified Aging in Place Specialist and member of the APTA, Neurology Section of the APTA, SC Chapter of the APTA, Aerobics & Fitness Association of America, the Neuro-Developmental Treatment Association and a 2020 graduate of the prestigious APTA Fellowship in Education Leadership.
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