Exercise and Myasthenia Gravis: A Review of the Literature to Promote Safety, Engagement and Functioning

Abstract

Currently no exercise protocol exists to inform healthcare practitioners how to advise individuals with myasthenia gravis how to begin exercise after stabilization of symptoms, which exercises are most beneficial for improving functioning, or detailing how to progress difficulty of the exercises as improvements in physiological functioning are made. However, with improved strength and endurance, individuals with myasthenia gravis will have a more meaningful life and the ability to engage in activities that are important to them. This literature review demonstrates that with skilled supervision by a rehabilitation professional, exercise is safe for those with mild myasthenia gravis and that strength gains and improvements in physiological functioning are possible. This research supports that exercise may decrease fatigue, increase strength, and improve functional mobility in individuals with myasthenia gravis. Additional rehabilitation research needs to be conducted on the physiological effects of exercise on individuals with myasthenia gravis and which exercises have the most significant impact on function and levels of fatigue.