Best Practice Case Studies-Neurology

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In CASE 37, two study questions examine aspects related to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and its management through exercise.

<strong>Study Question #1</strong> asks which type of muscle fiber is more at risk of degenerative changes in athletes with ALS. The correct answer is <strong>Type IIb</strong> fibers. These fast glycolytic fibers are more susceptible to genetic changes associated with certain forms of ALS. For individuals with these genotypes, modified exercise routines that avoid intense, strenuous activities may be advised. This finding is supported by research from Julian et al., highlighted in <strong>EBioMedicine</strong>.

<strong>Study Question #2</strong> focuses on the types of exercise beneficial for patients with both multiple sclerosis (MS) and ALS. The correct answer is <strong>E. All of the above</strong>, which includes resistance, aerobic, balance, and flexibility training. Contrary to previous beliefs about exercise potentially worsening neurologic effects of ALS and MS, recent evidence suggests that moderate, regular exercise helps mitigate symptoms. It supports maintaining strength, endurance, and balance, with similar recommendations to those for the general population: moderate exercise for 30 minutes, three to five days a week. Additionally, engaging in such exercise provides psychological benefits by allowing patients some measure of control over their progressive diseases. This is corroborated by a systematic review and meta-analysis conducted by Rahmati and Malakoutinia in <strong>Physiotherapy</strong>.

These insights into muscle susceptibility and the positive role of exercise in neuro-degenerative conditions emphasize the importance of personalized and moderated exercise regimens for individuals with ALS and MS.

Meta Tag

Edition 3rd Edition

Related Case 3rd Edition, CASE 37

Topic Neurology

Keywords

ALS

muscle fibers

Type IIb

exercise management

multiple sclerosis

neuro-degenerative

resistance training

aerobic exercise

balance training

EBioMedicine

3rd Edition

3rd Edition, CASE 37

Neurology