Physical Exercise in Patients with Epilepsy

Abstract

Physical activity has significant health benefits, including the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, cancer, and dementia. In addition, physical activity has social benefits that increase social adaptation by providing opportunities to interact with various groups of people. Nevertheless, there has been controversy regarding whether patients with epilepsy can actively participate in physical activity or sports. However, accumulating studies have shown that physical activity has positive medical and psychosocial effects in patients with epilepsy. Only a small minority of patients with epilepsy actually experience physical activity-induced seizures or worsening of seizure control. Accordingly, recommendations have shifted to encourage physical activity in patients with epilepsy. In clinical practice, the type of physical activity and clinical characteristics of individual patients, including the risk of seizure occurrence and consequent injuries, should be considered to determine whether patients can participate in physical activity. We herein review previous studies on the effects of physical activity in patients with epilepsy. In addition, recent recommendations for physical activity and sports participation in patients with epilepsy or seizure disorders are discussed. Key words: Epilepsy; Physical exercise; Seizure; Sports.