Exercise

Low-impact mindfully planned exercise routines can be beneficial for patients with any kind of dystonia. Pillars of the body like balance, strength, and stamina are affected by dystonia in different ways. While exercise does not directly treat dystonia, controlled physical exertion may help reduce dystonic symptoms, slow deterioration, and maintain skills.

The repetitive nature of associated dystonic spasms has the same impact on a person’s muscles as other, more common, repetitive movements like jumping rope or hitting a speed bag, in that they can drain a person’s energy quickly. A boxer can lower his gloves and a cyclist can hit the brakes. People with dystonia often cannot control their movements, and sometimes suffer painful physical consequences as a result. With the care and oversight of medical and/or fitness professionals, exercise routines designed to build cardiovascular or muscular strength can be beneficial.

Exercise also aids in cases of poor circulation, another secondary issue seen in localized dystonia cases. Simple movement routines including yoga, swimming, walking, and stretching can help people with dystonia avoid cramping and general soreness or stiffness in affected body parts.

Beyond the clear physical benefits, regular exercise can help reduce stress, aid sleep, and promote self-confidence for anyone, not just people living with dystonia.

Sources:

Physical Activity and Health | U.S. Department of Health & Human Services

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Down with Dystonia Disclaimer

The medical information contained in this article is for general information only. It is not intended to provide instruction and you should not rely on this information to determine diagnosis, prognosis or a course of treatment. It is crucial that care and treatment decisions related to Dystonia and any other medical condition be made in consultation with a physician or other qualified medical professional.

Down with Dystonia is not responsible for the consequences of your decisions resulting from the use of this information, including, but not limited to, your choosing to seek or not to seek professional medical care, or from choosing or not choosing specific treatment based on the information. You should not disregard the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider because of any information you receive from us. If you have any health care questions, please consult the relevant medical practitioner.

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